How to Pack for a Trip to Rajasthan: India Packing List

Rajasthan unfolds in a majestic sweep of rose-colored cities, hilltop forts, mirrored palaces and desert landscapes, where camel caravans cross the dunes and centuries-old havelis glow in the late-afternoon sun. Packing for this region requires a balance of polish and practicality, with lightweight layers for warm days, modest silhouettes for temples and cultural sites, and elevated pieces for palace hotels and elegant dinners. Here, our essential packing list covers what to wear—and what to know—for a seamless journey through India’s Land of Kings.

1. The Rajasthan Uniform

Wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton, and pack layers to prepare for changing climates and excursions. Depending on the season and where you are, the temperature can change throughout the day. The sun can be strong, so it is important to carry sunglasses, sunscreen and a sun hat at all times. A light scarf is also useful for covering up.

2. Dress Code Essentials

Allow for a more conservative dress code, especially in rural areas or when visiting religious sites. Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing covering the knees and elbows is best. For evenings—the luxury hotels and palaces have an air of formality, so women may opt for resort wear (similar to attire for summer cocktails) and men may wish to bring a jacket.

3. Visiting Places of Worship

Before entering, it is normal to remove one’s shoes. Women must cover their arms and wear long skirts or slacks. In some places, such as Sikh temples, men and women must cover their heads. In Jain temples, you may not enter with any leather items, such as belts or handbags, or cigarettes.

4. Preparing for Outdoor Adventures

Pack lightweight, sweat-wicking layers (long- and short-sleeved shirts, lightweight shorts and pants, and pullovers or fleeces). Hiking or trail boots, binoculars and a backpack may also be desired.

If your itinerary includes time in the tiger reserves, be sure to pack clothing options in muted, earthy colors. From mid-November through February, the early morning and evening games drives can be very cold in the open-air jeeps. We highly recommend bringing fleeces, jackets, hats, gloves and scarves. Recommended retailers include REI, Orvis, Outdoor Research, Holland & Holland, Columbia, Beretta, ExOfficio, EagleCreek, L.L. Bean, Patagonia, Lululemon and Outdoor Voices (and get more tips in our Safari Packing Guide).

5. Indagare Intel

Bring a spare duffle (or two) rolled up in your main luggage—India is a shopping paradise (see some of our favorite shops here). There is often a shipping option for larger pieces.

• Comfortable clothing (pants, long skirts, button-downs) for touring during the day; opt for loose, breathable, flowy fabrics that do well in heat and dust (like cotton)—and it's best to dress modestly, covering shoulders and past the knees and avoiding form-fitting silhouettes
• At least one light scarf for layering and covering up
• A lightweight jacket and sweater for cooler mornings and evenings; women may also want to pack a pashmina or shawl to carry around, as the air-conditioning in hotels can be strong
• Comfortable walking shoes and/or trekking or hiking boots
• Sandals, swimsuits and cover-up for the spa and pool
• A few chic, elegant outfits for dinners; bring accessories if you feel like making it festive (though we advise against traveling with valuable jewelry, watches, etc.)
• A good bag for city touring and small backpack or sling bag for adventures
• Sun hat or cap and sunglasses (preferably polarized)
• Pajamas, socks and undergarments
• Clothing and gear for hiking or tiger reserves, if needed
• Yoga or athletic clothes and sneakers, if desired
• Strong sunblock and SPF lip balm
• Power adapter and converters: in India, the power plug sockets are of type C, D and M; the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz (we recommend bringing a universal adapter)
• Phone charger, battery packs, headphones, earplugs, eye mask, pen, notebook
• Camera, telephoto lens, charger, memory cards, etc.
• Photocopies of all important travel documents (visa, passport, itinerary)
• Cash (including small bills for tipping)
• Toiletries and any personal medicine (with documentation of prescriptions) as well as other over-the-counter essentials (Band-Aids, Ibuprofen, Sudafed, Pepto Bismol, Dramamine, Imodium)
• Masks, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, insect repellant
• An extra packable duffel for shopping