Take this classic trip, enjoying the splendour of the Mughal cities of Delhi and Agra and the majesty of Rajasthan, where we experience the spectacular history and heritage of this ‘Land of Kings’. From jeep rides through the jungle searching for the elusive Bengal Tiger to boat rides on the romantic Lake Pichola in Udaipur, you will be introduced to some wonderful secrets; Indian cooking, miniature Mughal art, gemstones, tie-dye, folk dancing and turban tying to name a few. The massive forts of Rajasthan, the opulence and splendour of Maharajah’s palaces, and colourful markets and bazaars all make for a trip full of highlights and contrasts.
Starting and finishing in Delhi, this fabulous tour takes you to some of Rajasthan’s most amazing places – the popular sites as well as undiscovered gems where you have the opportunity to meet real people and experience authentic Indian hospitality and life. Price includes all local transportation, accommodation and included sightseeing, tour escort and local guides, all breakfasts and some other meals.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Delhi
Arrival Day. No group activities today. In the evening there will be a welcome meeting before dinner.
Day 2 Delhi
A full day of sightseeing takes us to Old Delhi, and the markets and bazaars of Chandni Chowk. We also visit the Jama Masjid (the largest Mosque in India), Humayans Tomb and the impressive imperial buildings of New Delhi.
Day 3 Agra
A 2 hour train ride this morning takes us to Agra. We visit the
magnificent Red Fort and make a sunset visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal.
Day 4 Ranthambore
We start off early today in time to visit the deserted Mughal city of
Fatehpur Sikri, before catching an afternoon train to Ranthambore
National Park.
Day 5 Ranthambore
We take a morning safari into the Project Tiger national park with the chance to see tigers, deer, bears, foxes and more. You have the option of returning to the park in the afternoon for more wildlife spotting.
Day 6 Madhogarh
We drive through rural countryside to the small village of Madhogarh. A restored heritage castle, Fort Madhogarh has a history dating back centuries. We wander through the small and friendly village, where we may meet a local cobbler, bangle maker, or a dhurrie (rug) maker.
Days 7-8 Jaipur
It’s a short drive today to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ and capital of Rajasthan. Amber Fort is a splendid example of Rajput/Mughal architecture and was the old capital of Rajasthan prior to 1727. We take a wander through the markets and colourful bazaars of Jaipur and have the chance to see the splendid City Palace Museum and the wondrous Jantar Mantar. There is free time to explore some of Jaipurs many sights, or markets. We also
experience a Bollywood extravaganza at the Raj Mandir cinema.
Day 9 Roopangarh
Roopangarh Fort is a vast war fort and has been over 350 years in the making. Painstakingly restored and renovated as a heritage hotel, you will be awed by the medieval splendour that surrounds the entire fort.
Day 10 Bijaipur
At Castle Bijaipur we get to spend a night living like Maharajahs (and Maharanis). The Castle is still run by the local rulers, who take us out on a village safari to experience tribal village life Rajasthani style.
Days 11-12 Udaipur
A short journey brings us to Udaipur. Often called the romantic city, Udaipur lives up to its name with its white washed havelis and palaces lining the banks of the charming lake Pichola. We visit the City Palace complex (the largest palace complex in India) and take in a classic Rajasthani Dance show. We wander the local markets and learn how to make a sensational Indian curry. Why not try your hand at a spot of miniature painting or discover the lake on an afternoon cruise. Udaipur is a friendly and charming city just made for exploring.
Day 13 Sardar Samand
A 3-hour drive through the lush forests of southern Rajasthan,
Ranakpur is renowned for its exquisitely carved Jain temples. After lunch we head on to Sardar Samand Palace, an art deco heritage hotel built in 1933 as the Maharajah’s hunting retreat. Situated on the banks of the Sardar Samand Lake, the palatial mansion is one of the most beautiful heritage hotels in Rajasthan.
Day 14 Jodhpur
It is a short journey to Jodhpur where we spend an afternoon
wandering the palaces of the magnificent Meherangarh Fort before exploring the markets in the city below. Famous throughout the country for its special Makhani (butter) lassi’s, Jodphur is also where the pants come from.
Day 15 Delhi
We take a late afternoon flight, arriving back in Delhi in time for a
final night dinner at one of Delhi’s wonderful restaurants.
Day 16 Departure Day
There are no organised activities today. You are free to depart at
any time.