Essence of Rajasthan
| Trip Length | 18 Days/ 17 Nights |
|---|---|
| Travel Type | Private Trip |
| Start Point | New Delhi |
| End Point | New Delhi |
| Travel Theme | Culture/ Heritage |
Essence of Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s beauty is beyond words, captivating travelers with its magnificent forts and ornate havelis. These historic landmarks, carefully preserved for tourists, offer a glimpse into the grandeur and royal lifestyle of the region. Every palace and fort in Rajasthan tells a tale of opulence, with its architectural splendor and rich history that draw visitors into its captivating past.
The regal charm of Rajasthan is reflected in every corner, from the massive forts to the intricate havelis. The innovative history of the state is beautifully showcased in these structures, making them irresistible to anyone who seeks to understand the essence of Rajasthan’s majestic past. The allure of these heritage properties is impossible to ignore, and they offer an unforgettable journey through time.
Visiting the stunning cities of Rajasthan, each with its own unique charm, is a truly rewarding experience. Many of the grand havelis, once home to royal families, have been transformed into heritage hotels, allowing guests to experience royal hospitality while immersing themselves in the vibrant traditions of the region. Rajasthan’s rich legacy invites travelers to experience the essence of royalty and culture, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking a royal experience.
Tour Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and assist you with the check-in process at your hotel. Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, is a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Having been ruled by several dynasties, the city boasts magnificent monuments that reflect its royal heritage and cultural richness. Your journey in Delhi is sure to be both fascinating and enjoyable. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city at your leisure. Overnight stay will be in Delhi.
Included meals: No meals included
Places to Visit: No sightseeing
After breakfast, get ready for a guided sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city divided into two distinct parts: Old and New Delhi. We begin with Old Delhi, starting at Raj Ghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, was cremated. Then, visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, followed by the iconic Red Fort, once the grand citadel and palace of the Mughal Empire. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow, historic lanes of the bustling Chandni Chowk bazaar.
Next, explore New Delhi, beginning with the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal, and the towering Qutub Minar. Take a scenic drive along Rajpath, passing notable landmarks such as India Gate, Parliament House, and the President’s Residence. Visit the serene Lotus Temple, a symbol of peace, before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay in Delhi.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar
After an early breakfast, drive towards Agra. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax. After some leisure time, get ready for a guided sightseeing tour of Agra, beginning with the world-famous Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1630 in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Made entirely of white marble, this stunning monument is the ultimate symbol of love.
Next, visit the grand Agra Fort, a massive fort complex that houses several buildings, including the Pearl Mosque and the Halls of Public and Private Audience. In the evening, you have the option to experience the 6D animation movie « INDIA IN MOTION, » which showcases India’s vibrant culture and heritage. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Agra.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort
After breakfast at the hotel, embark on your journey to Jaipur, with a stop at the historic town of Fatehpur Sikri. Once the Mughal capital during the reign of Emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned due to water scarcity. Visit the impressive Buland Darwaza, constructed by Akbar to commemorate his victory over Deccan India, along with other magnificent structures like the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, and Jodha’s Palace.
Continue your drive to Jaipur, and upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel, Jaipur Mahal. In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore the vibrant markets of Jaipur. Overnight stay at the hotel in Jaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Fatehpur Sikri
After a hearty breakfast, head out for an excursion to Amber Fort, located 11 km from Jaipur. This majestic citadel, built during the reign of Raja Man Singh, is perched on a hilltop. Upon arrival, enjoy an unforgettable elephant ride to the fort’s entrance.
After exploring Amber Fort, return to Jaipur and visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Start with the City Palace, a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Next, visit Jantar Mantar, a unique astronomical observatory built from brick, still used to forecast solar events with remarkable accuracy. Conclude your tour with a visit to Hawa Mahal, the five-story, pyramid-shaped palace made from pink sandstone. In the evening, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal
After breakfast at the hotel, drive towards Deogarh, nestled in the heart of the Aravalli mountain range. Surrounded by rocky hills and dotted with numerous ancient fortresses and over a hundred lakes, Deogarh is known for its exquisite miniature art. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel, Deogarh Mahal, and relax. In the afternoon, take some time to explore the majestic Deogarh Mahal and its stunning surroundings. Overnight stay at Deogarh.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing
After breakfast, drive to Chittorgarh, a city steeped in both tales of war and romance. Known for its history of valor and sacrifice, Chittorgarh stands as a testament to both victory and defeat. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the city, including a visit to Chittorgarh Fort. This magnificent hilltop fortress, built on a massive rock, stretches over 3 miles and rises 495 feet above the ground. As the largest fort in India, it is renowned for its tales of bravery, where people chose death over surrendering to invaders. In the evening, return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Chittorgarh.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Chittorgarh Fort
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, drive towards Udaipur, famously known as the City of Lakes and the City of Sunrise. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll through the local markets and enjoy the serene surroundings of Udaipur. You can also indulge in a delightful boat ride on Lake Pichola, offering breathtaking views of the city. Overnight stay is at Udaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Boat ride at Lake Pichola
After a delicious breakfast, get ready for a guided city tour of Udaipur, starting with a visit to the majestic City Palace. This sprawling complex, built in 1559 AD, consists of several charming buildings, offering panoramic views of Jag Mandir and Lake Palace from its verandas. Next, visit the Saheliyon-ki-Bari, or « Garden of Maidens, » designed for the queens and their ladies to spend their leisure time. In the evening, enjoy a romantic boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola, where the beauty of the lake is enhanced by the surrounding hills, palaces, temples, and lush landscapes. Later, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Udaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: City Palace, Saheliyon-ki-Bari
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, drive towards Kumbhalgarh, located at an elevation of 1914 meters above sea level, surrounded by the thirteen peaks of the Aravalli Mountains. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel or resort and relax. After some leisure time, explore the serene surroundings of Kumbhalgarh Fort. Built by Rana Kumbha, this fort stretches up to 36 km in length, making it one of the largest forts in India, second only to the Great Wall of China. From the fort’s summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Overnight stay is at Kumbhalgarh.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Kumbhalgarh Fort
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, drive towards Jodhpur, also known as the « Sun City. » En route, stop at the renowned Ranakpur Jain Temples, particularly the Chaumukha Temple, dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple is famous for its 1,444 intricately carved columns, each uniquely designed, ensuring no two columns are identical. After exploring the temples, continue your journey towards Jodhpur. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax. Overnight stay is at Jodhpur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Ranakpur Jain Temples
After breakfast, get ready to explore Jodhpur’s famous landmarks. Start with the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, built in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, the Rathore ruler. This majestic fort stands atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Next, visit the magnificent Umaid Bhavan Palace, now a luxurious five-star heritage hotel. Then, head to Jaswant Thada, a beautiful white marble memorial dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore the vibrant local market. Overnight stay is at Jodhpur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada
After breakfast, drive towards Jaisalmer, the town of Bhati rulers, nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the « Golden City, » Jaisalmer is renowned for its buildings made of yellow sandstone that give the city a golden hue. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax for the rest of the day. Overnight stay is in Jaisalmer.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing
After breakfast at the hotel, start your day with a visit to the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Kila. Situated about 30 meters above the city, this fort houses an entire living area within its massive walls. Jaisalmer is also renowned for its traditional havelis, so your sightseeing tour will include visits to Patwon ki Haveli, Salim ji ki Haveli, and Gadi Sagar Lake. In the evening, head out for an excursion to the Sam Sand Dunes, located about 40 km from the city. Enjoy a camel ride at sunset, offering stunning views of the desert, followed by an optional Rajasthani dinner and live cultural performances. Later, return to Jaisalmer for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Included meals: Breakfast, Theme Dinner
Places to Visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim ji ki Haveli, Camel Ride
After breakfast at the hotel, drive towards Bikaner, a city known for its sand dunes and delicious spicy cuisine. Upon arrival in Bikaner, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax after your long journey. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay will be in Bikaner.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing planned today
After breakfast, get ready for a guided sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Begin with a visit to Junagarh Fort, built in the 15th century by Raja Rai Singh, followed by a tour of Lal Garh Palace, constructed by Maharaja Ganga Singh in 1902 to honor his father. Next, head to the famous Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, located 30 km from Bikaner. Finally, visit Asia’s largest camel breeding farm and enjoy an exciting camel ride. Overnight stay will be at Bikaner.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Junagarh Fort, Lal Garh Palace, Karni Mata Temple, Camel Breeding Farm
After breakfast, drive towards Mandawa, renowned for its forts and havelis. Upon arrival, check into your pre-booked hotel and relax. Mandawa, located in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati district, is often called an open-air art gallery due to its stunning wall murals and elaborate frescoes. After some rest, enjoy a city tour of Mandawa, visiting notable sites such as Mandawa Fort, Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, and Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli. Overnight stay will be in Mandawa.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Frescoes and Havelis
After breakfast, drive back to Delhi and transfer to the Delhi International Airport for your flight back home or to your next destination.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing