Travelling Through Rajasthan in Cashmere

By Zeenat Wilkinson, New Zealand–based editor and founder

Rajasthan has a way of reshaping how you travel and how you dress. From the quiet cool of early mornings in Jaipur to evenings by Lake Pichola in Udaipur, it’s a destination that rewards light layers, thoughtful packing and pieces that move effortlessly between moments. For me, that piece is always cashmere.

Travelling from New Zealand, I’ve learned to be selective about what earns a place in my suitcase. Elle & Riley cashmere has become non negotiable, not for warmth alone, but for its ability to adapt, to elevate, and to feel at home in places steeped in craftsmanship and history.

Rajasthan is a reminder that luxury doesn’t need to be loud. It lives in craftsmanship, heritage, and choosing fewer things, but better ones.

Cashmere as a Way of Travelling

For me, Elle & Riley cashmere reflects that philosophy perfectly. Designed in New Zealand, worn across continents, and shaped by experience, it becomes more than something you pack. It becomes part of the journey.

Travelling through India in cashmere has taught me to dress with intention, to care for what I own, and to move through the world a little more thoughtfully, one beautiful layer at a time.

Below is my mini guide to my favourite places to visit in Jaipur and Udaipur.

Jaipur: The Pink City, Refined

Jaipur is vibrant and kinetic, but its most memorable moments happen slowly, at sunrise, at dusk, or behind palace walls.

Where to stay

The Oberoi Rajvilas remains one of my favourites. It feels serene, spiritual and grounding. Rambagh Palace offers grand, old world glamour, while Anantara Jaipur brings a contemporary lens to Rajasthani luxury.

Where to dine

Bar Palladio is a Jaipur ritual, atmospheric and perfect for an evening drink. For something more formal, Suvarna Mahal at Rambagh Palace delivers regal Rajasthani cuisine in a setting that calls for understated elegance.

Where to shop

Amrapali Jewels is essential for modern heritage jewellery, while Anokhi’s block printed textiles make for meaningful, transportable souvenirs.

Udaipur: Soft Light & Slow Evenings

Udaipur moves at a gentler pace. The city is romantic, reflective and best experienced unhurried.

Where to stay

Jagat Niwas Palace is incredibly special. Mornings wrapped in cashmere on your terrace overlooking the palace views. Taj Lake Palace is iconic, while RAAS Devigarh offers minimalist heritage just outside the city.

Where to dine

Upre by 1559 AD is ideal for candlelit dinners overlooking the City Palace. Sheesh Mahal delivers quiet luxury, while a private boat ride on Lake Pichola at sunset is non negotiable.

As the sun dips, temperatures follow and this is where a beautiful cashmere layer becomes the perfect companion.

Caring for Your Cashmere While Travelling

Cashmere is far more resilient than many people realise, but travelling with it requires a mindful approach.

I rarely overwash while on the road. Cashmere benefits from being aired, especially in Rajasthan’s dry climate. After wearing, I’ll simply let it breathe overnight.

I always fold my knits rather than hang them, both in my suitcase and in hotel wardrobes. Hanging can stretch the fibres, particularly when you’re unpacking and repacking often.

If something needs attention, I spot clean with cool water and gently blot, never rub. Full washes are saved for home, where I can lay pieces flat to dry properly.