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- Red Fort visit
- Taj Mahal at sunset
- Agra Fort
- Jaipur: The Pink City
- City Palace of Jaipur
- Udaipur city palaces
The ultimate tour of arguably the most beautiful state in India - Rajasthan
This is the India of your dreams - Palaces, temples, magnificent scenery and architecture. Travel back in time on this private tour featuring Delhi, the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner and much more.Arrive Delhi
Arrive in Delhi. You will be met by a representative in the arrival area upon exiting baggage claim and then transferred to your hotel. Delhi, India’s capital and political hub is an ancient city that has something for everyone. Settled seven times over the centuries, this city has grown in a way that reflects its past, while retaining its cosmopolitan flavor. Delhi is India’s showcase, be it architecture, religion, shopping, culture – everything is available here – waiting to be discovered. It is a city of contrasts, where an elephant can overtake vehicles on the street, where colonial mansions stand next to squatter slums, and where cows are revered, but musicians are labeled 'untouchable'. The city's pace is chaotic, yet fairly relaxed, and makes it ideal for exploring. You're certain to be confronted with some strange and exotic sights. Overnight at the hotel.
Delhi
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before meeting your guide in the lobby to begin exploring Delhi. Included morning sightseeing tour of Old Delhi taking you to Jama Masjid, - the largest mosque in India. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, - a marvel in red sandstone, built on the banks of River Yamuna by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Next visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial. Old Delhi comprises a charming selection of colourful bazaars and narrow winding alleys. This afternoons included tour of New Delhi, (the city created to reflect the British Empire) is a must. New Delhi consists of tree-lined avenues, spacious parks and somber government buildings. The 12th century Qutab Minar is gracefully hand-carved for its entire height of 234 feet. Visit the mausoleum of emperor Humayun - a forerunner of the Mughal style of architecture. Drive past the India Gate, a World War I memorial, the Presidential Palace, Parliament House and the Secretariat buildings - an interesting blend of Victorian and 20th century architecture. The evening is free to visit the emporiums and markets of Delhi. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Delhi-Agra
After breakfast, drive to Agra (4 ½ hours). On arrival in Agra, check-in to your hotel. Agra is well known all over the world due to the fabulous Taj Mahal and is situated on the right bank of the river Yamuna. Agra is a city with a glorious past and has the distinction of being the capital of various ruling dynasties. Include late afternoon visit to the Agra Fort. This fort was started by Emperor Akbar in 1565. The high red stone monument stretches for around 2½ kms. The palace is a notable for its smooth blending of Hindu and central Asian architectural styles. Proceed for a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal – at sunset (closed on fridays). Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory to his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal, this is the ultimate tribute to love ever transcribed in architecture. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Agra-Fatehpur Sikri-Jaipur
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur (5 ½ hrs), visiting Fatehpur Sikri enroute. Fatehpur Sikri is situated about 40 kms/1 hr from Agra, this was the erstwhile capital of the great Mughal ruler - Emperor Akbar. This magnificent fort palace had to be abandoned after just 15 years of occupation due to lack of potable water. After visit, you will continue your drive to Jaipur. On arrival you will be checked into your hotel. Jaipur is an essential stop in any tour of Rajasthan. The old walled section of the city is known as the Pink City; it was painted red (a lucky color in Hindu culture) to welcome England’s Prince Alfred in 1853 and the fading old buildings retain their hue. Jaipur is one of India’s newer cities, founded in 1727, and was the creation of Jai Singh II, the Maharaja of the Kuchwaha Rajputs, who decided when Mogul power was on the decline to move from his outmoded hillside fortress at Amber to establish a new capital on the plains further south. The Pink City was built in only eight years. Much of it was designed by Jai himself, including the City Palace and the Jantar Mantar, a fascinating astronomical observatory with massive instruments used to predict the monsoon and identify the movements of the stars. Most impressive is a gigantic sundial that is accurate to the nearest two minutes. All seven gates into the old city remain, one of which leads into Johari Bazaar - the famous jewelers market that has the best selection of precious stones in India. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Jaipur
After breakfast at the hotel, you are off on your included sightseeing tour of the Amber Fort which is a classic, romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace, with its rugged, time-ravaged walls and fascinating palaces inside. Visit the enchanting palace gardens inside the fort palace to complete your tour. On your way back you will stop at Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds for a brief stop for photographs and as it is in the heart of Jaipur’s shopping district, so a chance to do some shopping if you wish. In the afternoon we continue with your included tour with a visit the City Palace, the former residence of the royal family, a part of which is converted into a museum. Built in the style of a fortified campus, the palace covers almost one-seventh in area of the old city. One of the major attractions in the museum is the Armory Museum housing an impressive array of weaponry. Later visit the Jantar Mantar, which is the largest stone and marble crafted observatory in the world. The observatory has 17 large instruments, many of them still in working condition. The remainder of the day is free to tour the Pink city on your own. The car remains at your disposal. Jaipur is a shoppers paradise especially for clothes, precious and semi precious jewels. Explore the Bargains on offer. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Jaipur-Pushkar
After breakfast, drive to Pushkar (2 ½ hrs). On arrival in Pushkar, check-in at your hotel. Pushkar: On the edge of the desert lies the tiny tranquil town of Pushkar along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake. This important Hindu pilgrimage has the only temple of Lord Brahma ('The Creator' in the Hindu Trinity of Gods) in the country and one of the few in the world. Pushkar became famous due to its Camel Fair, the largest in India. November – the month of Kartik brings Pushkar alive, as it is then that cattle traders from all over Rajasthan and neighboring states converge here to buy and sell camels, horses, donkeys, bulls, etc. Pushkar boasts temples, though few are as ancient as you might expect at such an important pilgrimage site, since many were destroyed by Aurangzeb, a Mogul ruler and subsequently rebuilt. The most famous is the Brahma Temple, said to be the only temple in the world dedicated to this deity. It stands on a high plinth with the Marble steps leading up to it. A silver turtle is set on the floor facing the Sanctum-Sanctorum or Girbha-griha. Around the turtle the Marble floor is inset with hundreds of silver coins. Coins engraved with donors names are also embedded in the walls. Peacocks adorn the temple walls as they are supposed to be the vehicle of Lord Brahma's consort Saraswati. A small image of the milkmaid Gayatri, flanks the four-faced image of Lord Brahma and is called Chaumurti The sanctuary has silver doors inside a carved marble gateway. Included afternoon tour of Pushkar. The evening is then free should you wish to explore Pushkar further on your own. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pushkar-Udaipur
After breakfast, drive to Udaipur (5 hrs). On arrival in Udaipur, check in at your hotel. Udaipur was founded in 1568 as the capital of the old Mewar state; it was the only Rajput stronghold to uphold its Hindu allegiance in the face of Muslim invasion. From the late 16th century, peace brought about an era of renaissance in the arts and encouraged the building of beautiful palaces around the lake which culminated in the City Palace, one of the largest palace complexes in the world. Undoubtedly the most romantic city in Rajasthan, and perhaps the world, Udaipur is situated 200 miles from the southwest of Jaipur. The city is built around Lake Pichola and has inevitably been dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’. Two island palaces, Jagniwas and Jagmandir, sit on the lake - the former is now the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel. The majestic City Palace towers over the lake and is bedecked by balconies, turrets and cupolas. Despite the many attractions in and around the city, the real joy of Udaipur lies in soaking up its atmosphere – taking in the view from a rooftop, wandering around the relatively hassle free city, enjoying a drink on the edge of the lake, or taking a boat to Jagmandir Palace past the ghats (riverside landings) where washerwomen congregate. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Udaipur
After breakfast, proceed for your included a half day city tour of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, built in 1725, which houses the Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal - studded with glittering Belgium Mirrors, Moti Mahal and the Palace of Lord Krishna, all of which are ornately decorated. Later visit the Jagdish Temple. This temple built in 1651 is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, “The Preserver” in the Hindu Trinity of Gods. Also visit the gardens and fountains of the Sahelion Ki Bari. Afternoon is at leisure. Later in the evening enjoy your included boat ride on Lake Pichola (public boat). Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Udaipur-Jodhpur
After breakfast, drive to Jodhpur. Enroute visit the Ranakpur Jain temples that are acclaimed world-wide for their intricate and superb architectural style. These temples form one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains. Located in village of Ranakpur near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan, Ranakpur temple lies at a distance of 95kms in the north of Udaipur city. The temple is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur as regular buses are easily available. Built in the 15th century, Ranakpur temples are known for being the largest and most important temples of the Jain cult. Later drive to Jodhpur. On arrival in Jodhpur, check-in at your hotel. Jodhpur has a history of romance and valor. With its imposing Mehrangarh Fort, visible from all parts of the city, to its broad streets, its signature blue and white houses, Jodhpur encompasses a by-gone era. Umaid Bhawan Palace was built between 1929 and 1942 at the behest of Maharaja Umaid Singh during a long famine, this palace is part museum, part royal residence, and part Heritage Hotel. Perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur. In the afternoon, enjoy the included Jeep Safari to Bishnoi Village. Very near to Jodhpur, the villagers of Bishnoi are renowned for their efforts to conserve nature. Equally impressive are their traditions and life style. You will have the chance to observe the 'Opium' ceremony. Return to the hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Jodhpur-Jaisalmer
After breakfast start your included visit to the impressive Mehrangarh Fort, regally set on a sandstone hill built by Rao Jodha in 1459. From the top of the fort you have a bird’s eye view of the old city to the Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph built in 1899 for Maharajah Jaswant Singh II, and smaller memorials to other Maharajahs of Jodhpur. At the end of the tour enjoy a short walk through the local and vibrant bazaar of Jodhpur. Afternoon, drive to Jaisalmer (5 hrs). On arrival in Jaisalmer, check-in at your hotel. Jaisalmer, an important ancient trading centre because of its strategic location on the camel trade routes, is often described as the 'golden city'. The havelis, built by merchants of the 19th century, are exquisitely carved from golden-yellow sandstone and are still in a beautiful condition. The fort built by Rawal Jaisal in the 12th century, stands on the 80 metre high Trikuta hill, with beautifully carved Jain temples. The rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Jaisalmer
After breakfast at hotel, start your included tour of Jaisalmer and the Jaisalmer Fort known as Sonar Quila (of rising from the sand). The mega structure merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience and the setting sun in its most colourful shade gives it a fairy tale look. Patwon Ji Ki Haveli is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis in Jaisalmer and stands in a narrow lane. It is five storeys high and is extensively carved. It is divided into six apartments, two owned by the archaeological Survey of India, two by families who operate craft-shops and two private homes. In the evening enjoy your included camel ride at Sam sand dunes, 35 away km from Jaisalmer. This is the most popular excursion from which to view the stunning desert scenery. This desert contains a truly glorious stretch of sweeping sand dunes. It is best to be here at sunrise or sunset, many camel safaris spend a night at the dunes. The best way to see this and other sights around Jaisalmer is to take a camel safari. The standard trip lasts for 4 days and three nights, and offers the opportunity to explore the area in an authentic and leisurely fashion, with entertainment by folk performers, visits to villages, and chatter from colourful guides thrown in. However you can also day trip and go by car. Tourist arrive just before sun set. Camels can be hired easily and you may be able to snap a picture with a lone camel on a desert track and the setting sun in the backdrop. The desert festival held sometimes in February each year is a big draw and it is full of fun, colour and laughter, cultural events and competitions. Return to the hotel with the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Jaisalmer-Bikaner
After breakfast, drive to Bikaner (5 ½ hrs). On arrival in Bikaner, check-in at your hotel. Bikaner is famous for its Old Havelis. Bikaner was founded in 1486 by Bika, one of the fourteen sons of Rao Jodha. Bikaner - lying in the north of the desert state, is dotted with many sand dunes. More popularly called the camel country, Bikaner is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. The exotic camel safaris, its gorgeous forts and the worship of thousands of holy rats at the Karni Mata temple are some of the most interesting aspects of Bikaner. The camel festival at Bikaner held in the month of January is also an event worth witnessing if one wants to get the actual colour of the place. Remainder of the day is at leisure to relax at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Bikaner-Mandawa
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to your included visit to the Junagarh Fort, it is an unassailable fortress, which has never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat Start. Later visit the Sardul Museum popularly described as the best museum in the state, it displays a rich array of archaeological discoveries from prehistoric Harrapan and to the early Gupta period. There are separate sections showing: paintings, arts and craft, terracotta, pottery, carpets, coins and ancient Rajput weaponry. Later drive to Mandawa (4 ½ hrs). On arrival in Mandawa, check in at your hotel. Mandawa is small ancient city, lying in the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. It is also known as Rajasthan's 'open art gallery', as the entire region is adorned with artistically painted havelis, mansions and homes. After checking in at your hotel, enjoy an organised walk through Mandawa village. Remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore more. Overnight at the hotel.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
Mandawa-Delhi
In the morning after breakfast, take your included short tour of the city of Mandawa, later drive to Delhi (6hrs). On arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to the airport to board your flight home or onwards to your next destination.
INCLUDES : Breakfast
All prices shown represent a from price per person based on low season travel unless otherwise stated.
Availability of tour components and flights seats change continually, affecting the final price. The lead-in price given is therefore for guidance only.
To obtain a tailored quote for you and your party, please call one of our travel experts today.
Deluxe from 10th January 2024 - 12th December 2024
from £2,599pp
Luxury from 16th January 2024 - 12th December 2024
from £2,869pp
Important info
Check In & Check Out Times - Normal check in time is 14:00, normal check out time is 12:00; this may vary in high season.
Trip Terms & Conditions - The price shown is per person based on two sharing per tour.
Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff between quote date and full and final payment date are payable by the client.
We will always try our best to book hotels as per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and during local festivals, as well for late bookings, it may be necessary to offer substitutes.
Prices are subject to availability and as such are for guidance only. Demands for Indian internal domestic flights are high, with the best prices filling quickly. To help secure these prices, it is best to book as far in advance as possible.
Documentation - It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. We regret that we cannot accept liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If failure to have all necessary travel and other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.
Visa - British Passport holders usually require a Visa to enter
Vaccination - Please check with your doctor or health professional on the type of vaccinations you may require to travel to
Inclusions
Trip Includes - International return flights including all taxes - Service of an English speaking professional guide in each region/city - All ground transport in a private car with driver - Airport transfers as per the itinerary - Meal plan as per the itinerary - All entrance fees to include local government taxes and additional flights where indicated as per the itinerary.
Exclusions