Rajasthan with South India
| Trip Length | 22 Days/ 21 Nights |
|---|---|
| Travel Type | Private Trip |
| Start Point | New Delhi |
| End Point | New Delhi |
| Travel Theme | Culture |
Rajasthan with South India
For centuries, the Rajput fortresses, defensive castles, and grand havelis have stood as symbols of nobility, where hospitality is deeply ingrained in tradition. These architectural marvels, once the residences of royals, now welcome guests with a regal experience that reflects India’s rich heritage. Each heritage hotel exudes its own charm, adorned with intricate designs and traditional decor that transport visitors back in time.
India is renowned for its ancient heritage and vibrant culture, with its palaces and havelis now transformed into luxurious heritage hotels. These grand structures offer guests an opportunity to witness the splendor of royal living, providing an authentic experience of India’s majestic past. From opulent interiors to intricate frescoes, these heritage properties preserve the architectural brilliance of a bygone era.
Rajasthan, a crown jewel of Indian heritage tourism, boasts a wealth of historical monuments that have been converted into exquisite hotels. These lavish accommodations offer travelers a glimpse into the royal lifestyles of Rajput kings, blending history with modern luxury. Whether nestled in desert landscapes or perched on scenic hilltops, these heritage hotels provide an unforgettable journey into India’s glorious past.
Tour Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Delhi Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you in traditional Indian style. You will then be escorted to your pre-booked hotel, where upon check-in, our representative will provide you with all the necessary travel documents and give you a brief introduction to Delhi, along with recommendations for your free time.
Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a city rich in history and culture. As the heart of the nation, it is home to people from diverse backgrounds, making it a true cultural melting pot. From historic monuments to bustling markets, the city offers a unique blend of the old and new.
Relax and unwind on your first night in Delhi, preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Included Meals: No meals included
Places to Visit: No sightseeing scheduled
Start your day with a lavish breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi and New Delhi.
Old Delhi
Established by the Mughal emperors, Old Delhi is known for its narrow, bustling streets and magnificent monuments from the Mughal era. Begin your tour at Raj Ghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. Visit Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, built in 1658 by Emperor Shah Jahan. Explore the imposing Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site standing proudly on the banks of the Yamuna River. Conclude your Old Delhi tour with a thrilling rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, the city’s busiest and most vibrant marketplace.
New Delhi
Designed by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, New Delhi reflects colonial grandeur and modern planning. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Persian-inspired architecture and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Admire the towering Qutub Minar, one of the world’s tallest minarets and a remarkable piece of Mughal craftsmanship. Drive past the Diplomatic Enclave, India Gate (a war memorial honoring fallen soldiers), and the President’s Residence, witnessing the city’s architectural brilliance.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Raj Ghat, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey to Jaipur, famously known as the « Pink City. » As you enter the city, you’ll immediately notice its distinctive charm, with buildings and houses painted in shades of pink, reflecting its royal heritage.
Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome and check in to your hotel. The evening is yours to explore the city at your own pace, soaking in its vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel in Jaipur.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing scheduled
Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur.
Morning: Amber Fort Excursion
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort, one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks. Perched atop a hill, this grand fort was built by Raja Man Singh I in 1592. Admire its intricate carvings and mesmerizing mirror work that adorn the walls. For a truly royal experience, opt for an elephant ride to the fort’s entrance, offering a unique way to soak in its beauty.
Afternoon: City Exploration
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your Jaipur city tour. Visit the Hawa Mahal, the city’s most recognizable landmark, which once served as a royal viewing gallery. Explore the City Palace, a magnificent structure built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, where a section still serves as the residence of the former royal family, while another houses a museum. Discover the fascinating Jantar Mantar, the world’s largest stone observatory, built by Maharaja Jai Singh to study celestial movements.
Evening: Local Market Experience
Conclude your day with a stroll through Jaipur’s bustling bazaars, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles.
Return to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay in Jaipur.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal
After breakfast, depart from Jaipur and journey towards Mandawa, the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Known for its grand heritage havelis and exquisite fresco art, Mandawa is often referred to as an « open-air art gallery. »
Upon arrival, check in to your pre-booked hotel and freshen up. Later, set out to explore the city’s beautifully painted havelis, step-wells, and old streets, each showcasing intricate frescoes that depict historical and mythological themes. Marvel at the vibrant artwork that adorns the walls, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.
Enjoy a traditional dinner and an overnight stay in Mandawa.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Frescoes and Painted Havelis
After breakfast, depart from Jaipur and head towards Mandawa, the cultural heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, renowned for its heritage havelis and vibrant fresco art.
Upon arrival, check in to your pre-booked hotel and freshen up. Later, set out to explore this charming town, often called an « open-air art gallery » due to its beautifully painted havelis, step-wells, and old streets. Admire the intricate artwork and historical grandeur reflected in every corner.
Enjoy a traditional dinner and spend the night at your hotel in Mandawa.
After breakfast, set off for Bikaner, a historic city founded in the 14th century by Rajput ruler Rao Bika Ji. Known for its magnificent palaces, intricately sculpted temples, and stunning red and yellow sandstone architecture, Bikaner showcases the grandeur of Rajput civilization.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel before embarking on a sightseeing tour. Visit the famous Deshnok Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, an extraordinary shrine where thousands of revered rats reside. Explore the Camel Breeding Farm & Research Centre, a unique institute dedicated to camel conservation. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Junagarh Fort, an unassailable fortress adorned with exquisite carvings, and the majestic Lalgarh Palace, a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture.
Spend the evening at leisure or explore the bustling streets of Bikaner to experience local life. End the day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay in Bikaner.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Places to Visit: Deshnok Temple, Camel Breeding Farm, Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Havelis
Proceed to your next destination, Jaisalmer, famously known as the « Golden City. » This ancient city played a crucial role as a trading center due to its strategic location along the camel trade route.
By evening, arrive in Jaisalmer and witness a breathtaking sunset view, an experience so mesmerizing that words cannot do it justice. Spend a relaxing night at your hotel in Jaisalmer.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer.
Begin with a visit to the Golden Fort (Jaisalmer Fort), a magnificent structure housing five interconnected palaces—Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal, and Moti Mahal—along with a museum showcasing the region’s rich history. Within the fort, marvel at the exquisite Jain Temples, renowned for their intricate architecture and stunning craftsmanship.
Next, explore the Patwon-ki-Haveli, an opulent mansion built by Guman Chand Patwa, followed by a visit to Salem Singh Haveli, another architectural gem that showcases the grandeur of Rajasthan’s heritage.
After lunch, take a scenic drive to the Sam Sand Dunes, located 40 km from the city center. No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without experiencing these mesmerizing dunes. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset, soaking in the breathtaking desert landscape before returning to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Places to Visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salem Singh Haveli, Sam Sand Dunes (Camel Ride)
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey towards Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City.
On the way, stop for lunch at Fort Pokaran, famously known as the Palace of Five Mirages. En route, visit the Bishnoi Village, a community dedicated to preserving the environment where animal hunting is strictly prohibited. Here, you can spot numerous deer and other wildlife that thrive in the area.
Upon reaching Jodhpur, check into your hotel and take some time to rest. Later, embark on a city tour, beginning with the Mehrangarh Fort, a towering fortress built in the 15th century with seven massive gates, each bearing marks from battles fought to protect the city. Next, visit Jaswant Thada, a beautiful white marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Finally, explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace, a magnificent palace that still serves as the royal family’s residence, with part of it transformed into a luxury hotel.
Enjoy the evening at leisure and spend the night at your hotel in Jodhpur.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Bishnoi Village
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and then depart for Udaipur, a charming city often referred to as the City of Lakes.
On the way, stop to explore the Ranakpur Jain Temples, which were built in the 15th century during the reign of Rana Kumbha. The Chaumukha Temple, also known as the Four-Faced Temple, is the main attraction here and one of the most revered Jain temples in India.
Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will be warmly welcomed at your hotel and assisted with check-in. In the evening, enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, where you can take in the stunning views of the city and its palaces.
Overnight stay at your hotel in Udaipur.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Boat ride on Lake Pichola
Begin your Udaipur city tour with a visit to the magnificent City Palace, one of Rajasthan’s largest and most opulent palace complexes. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it offers breathtaking views of the lake and city. Inside, explore the Peacock Square, the miniature painting school, intricate mirror work, and beautiful motifs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
Next, visit the Lake Palace, also known as the Summer Palace, which was started by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1628 and took 24 years to complete. Today, it stands as a luxurious hotel. Continue your tour with a trip to Jag Mandir, a beautiful palace located on the center of Lake Pichola, and then head to Fateh Sagar, a serene artificial lake. Visit Sahelion Ki Bari, a stunning marble pavilion originally built for the royal ladies to enjoy their leisure time.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Udaipur.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: City Palace, Sahelion Ki Bari, Jag Mandir
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, our representative will meet you at the hotel lobby and assist you with your transfer to Udaipur Airport. From there, board your flight to Bangalore, with a stopover in Delhi or Mumbai.
Upon arrival in Bangalore, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can check in and relax. Known as the fastest-growing city in Asia, Bangalore is a hub for the IT industry and home to some of the most advanced high-tech industries in India.
Spend the evening at leisure, with an overnight stay in Bangalore.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing
After a delicious morning breakfast, embark on an exploration of Bangalore. Start with a visit to the Bangalore Aquarium, the second-largest aquarium in India, which was inaugurated in 1983 and is home to a diverse range of aquatic species.
Next, head to Cubbon Park, a lush green space spread over a vast area, built by Sir Richard Shankey in 1864. Afterward, explore the famous Lal Bagh Gardens, covering 240 acres, where you can witness a rare collection of tropical and subtropical trees and plants.
End your sightseeing with a visit to Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Palace, built by the Sultan himself as a summer residence, and completed in 1791. After a day full of history and nature, return to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Bangalore.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Bangalore Aquarium, Cubbon Park, Tipu Sultan’s Fort and Palace
Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast and embark on a journey to Mysore, also known as the « City of Palaces. » Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and some time to freshen up and relax.
In the afternoon, enjoy a splendid sightseeing tour of Mysore. Begin with a visit to the Mysore Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in India, home to exotic animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger, White Tigers, Elephants, and many more. Next, explore the majestic Mysore Palace, an architectural marvel completed in 1912. You will also visit Karangi Lake and several historic temples.
In the evening, indulge in some shopping at the local markets. Famous items to buy in Mysore include Mysore Silk, Mysore-style paintings, and the traditional Mysore Peta (a silk turban).
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Mysore.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo
Today, head to the charming « Queen of Hill Stations », Ooty. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and unwind.
Later, embark on a scenic sightseeing tour of Ooty. Begin by visiting Dodabetta Peak, the highest point in Ooty, offering breathtaking views of the Coimbatore plains and the Mysore highlands. Next, visit Ooty Lake, a beautiful artificial lake built in 1824, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride.
Explore the historic St. Stephen’s Church, which was built in 1829 and is one of the oldest churches in the region. Afterward, visit the Government Botanical Gardens, which covers 22 hectares and is home to over 650 species of plants.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, a bustling area popular with both locals and tourists, before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Ooty Lake, St. Stephen’s Church, Government Botanical Gardens
After breakfast at the hotel, depart from Ooty and drive towards the picturesque hill station of Munnar in Kerala. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.
Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea and cardamom plantations, which will captivate your senses as you explore the area. Once a British summer retreat, this beautiful town is a haven for nature lovers, with its breathtaking landscapes offering endless views of lush greenery.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Echo Point, one of Munnar’s most popular spots, known for its natural echo phenomenon. Then, head to Kundala, a charming town renowned for its golf course. Next, visit Mattupetty, located at an altitude of 1,700 meters, known for its specialized dairy farm. While in the area, also visit the scenic Mattupetty Lake and Dam.
In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Munnar.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Tea and Cardamom Plantations, Echo Point, Kundala, Mattupetty Lake and Dam
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a Tea and Spice Plantation Tour today. Munnar is renowned for its lush plantations, and this tour offers a fascinating insight into the process of tea and spice cultivation. You will have the opportunity to explore the sprawling tea estates and spice gardens, where you can learn about the various types of teas and spices grown in the region, such as cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper.
In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Munnar.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Tea and Spice Plantation Tour
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Thekkady, a renowned destination for housing one of India’s most beautiful wildlife parks – the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. On arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax.
Later, embark on an evening safari at Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary spans 777 square kilometers and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, sambars, wild boars, and antelopes. The centerpiece is the serene Lake Periyar, an artificial lake that adds to the park’s beauty. During the boat cruise on the lake, you can enjoy views of the wildlife along the shores in their natural habitat.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Periyar.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Boat Cruise on Lake Periyar
After a hearty breakfast, head towards Kumarakom, the heart of Kerala’s beautiful backwaters. En route, visit Kottayam (96 km from Cochin), a town known for its historic churches and rubber plantations.
Upon reaching Kumarakom, check into your hotel. In the evening, visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a paradise for bird watchers, home to a variety of migratory and local birds. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore the natural beauty of Kumarakom, known for its serene backwaters and lush landscapes.
Overnight stay will be at the hotel in Kumarakom.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Today will be one of the most unforgettable days of your life as you embark on a traditional Kerala Houseboat, also known as Kettuvalam. Glide through the serene backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters, while enjoying the sights and sounds of Kerala’s rural beauty.
All meals—Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner—will be served to you on the houseboat, giving you a unique and immersive experience of Kerala’s backwater lifestyle.
Enjoy the day with sightseeing along the route and relax in the comfort of your houseboat.
Overnight Stay will be aboard the Houseboat.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Places to Visit: Houseboat sightseeing
Today, disembark the houseboat at Alleppey and journey to Cochin, the commercial hub of Kerala, often referred to as « God’s Own Country ». Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your pre-booked hotel for check-in and relaxation.
In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Cochin, which includes:
- Jewish Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in India, a historical and architectural gem.
- St. Francis Church: The oldest European church in India, built in AD 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars.
- Dutch Palace: Built by the Portuguese in 1557, this palace was a gift for Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Cochin, showcasing an interesting blend of architectural styles.
In the evening, enjoy a Kathakali dance show, a traditional dance form known for its elaborate costumes and vivid storytelling.
Overnight stay will be at your hotel in Cochin.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Kathakali Dance Show
With the sweet memories of your tour, you will be transferred to Cochin Airport by our representative. From there, catch your flight to your onward destination.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing