Rajasthan Discovery
| Trip Length | 17 Days/ 16 Nights |
|---|---|
| Travel Type | Private Trip |
| Start Point | New Delhi |
| End Point | New Delhi |
| Travel Theme | Culture/ Offbeat |
Rajasthan for Solo Women
Explore the architectural wonders of Old and New Delhi, where you’ll witness the majestic Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Jama Masjid, along with the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk. From there, travel to the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, home to the picturesque village of Mandawa, known for its stunning havelis adorned with intricate frescoes.
Continue your journey to Khimsar, where you’ll visit the historic Khimsar Fort and the unique Rat Temple in Deshnok. Next, discover the charm of Rajasthan’s desert cities: Jaisalmer, with its iconic Golden Fort and sand dunes, and Bikaner, known for its impressive Junagarh Fort and Lallgarh Palace.
Venture to the tribal village of Bishnoi for an authentic cultural experience before heading to Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” where you can enjoy serene boat rides on Lake Pichola and visit attractions like the City Palace and Sahelion ki Bari.
Wrap up your tour with a visit to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, famous for its Amber Fort, City Palace, and the historic Hawa Mahal, followed by a trip to Agra to marvel at the Taj Mahal, the eternal symbol of love, and the grandeur of the Agra Fort.
Tour Itinerary
Begin your journey with your arrival in Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India. Upon arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel, assisting with the check-in process. Delhi, with its rich cultural diversity and historical significance, offers the perfect introduction to your tour. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Overnight stay will be in Delhi.
Included meals: No meals included
Places to Visit: No sightseeing on this day.
Explore the contrasting sides of Delhi, starting with Old Delhi. We begin by driving past the majestic Red Fort, a symbol of India’s rich history. Nearby, we visit the Jama Masjid, India’s largest and one of the oldest mosques, followed by a visit to Chandni Chowk, the oldest market in the city, where you will experience an enjoyable rickshaw ride. The tour concludes in Old Delhi with a visit to Raj Ghat, the solemn site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.
Next, we head towards the modern face of New Delhi, marked by high-rise buildings and contemporary infrastructure. Here, we pass the British architectural marvels like Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President’s House) and the Parliament House. Also, visit Humayun’s Tomb, a magnificent Mughal-era monument, and the towering Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. The evening is free for shopping or personal exploration.
Overnight stay will be in Delhi.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar
In the morning, drive to Mandawa, located in the Shekhawati district of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for some time. Mandawa is famous for its artistic heritage, with the region being adorned with beautifully painted walls of havelis that showcase intricate frescoes and murals. These walls, which once served as residences for wealthy families, are decorated with antique representations of the Mandawa family, offering a glimpse into the royal, rich, and splendid past of this region.
Overnight stay will be in Mandawa.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Frescoes and Murals
After breakfast, head towards Khimsar, located on the edge of the vast Thar Desert. The Khimsar Fort, known for its grandeur, is a stunning example of royal architecture. With its rugged ramparts and towering structures, the fort takes you back in time to an era of splendor and conflict. Today, Khimsar Fort is one of the premier heritage hotels in India, offering a glimpse into the past while providing modern amenities.
On your way to Khimsar, make a stop to visit the globally renowned Rat Temple at Deshnok, a unique and revered temple known for its large population of sacred rats.
Upon arrival in Khimsar, check into your pre-booked hotel. In the evening, visit Khimsar Fort and explore its rich history.
Overnight stay will be in Khimsar.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Deshnok, Khimsar Fort
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed towards Jaisalmer, a city established in 1156 by Rawal Jaisala Bhatti, a Rajput leader. Often referred to as the Golden City due to its golden-yellow sandstone buildings, Jaisalmer stands as a majestic symbol in the vast Thar Desert. Its strategic location on ancient trade routes made it an important historical trading hub. The city is home to numerous Havelis, built by wealthy merchants in the 19th century, intricately carved from the golden-yellow sandstone that still shines brightly today.
Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, check into your pre-booked hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight stay will be in Jaisalmer.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing today.
After breakfast, embark on a morning drive to Jaisalmer, a city founded in 1156 by the Bhatti Rajput ruler, Rawal Jaisal. Known as the Golden City, Jaisalmer rises from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage, with its grand fort constructed from yellow sandstone dominating the amber-hued city. Its strategic location made it a key antique trading center, where camel caravans laden with precious spices and silk traveled across India, Arabia, and Europe.
The city’s 19th-century merchants built Havelis (mansions) adorned with delicate carvings from the same golden-yellow sandstone, still preserved in excellent condition. The life within the fort’s walls offers glimpses of medieval grandeur, with narrow lanes lined with beautiful palaces, havelis, temples, and camels.
Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, explore the Jaisalmer Fort and its magnificent Havelis. Later, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Jaisalmer Fort, Havelis
After breakfast, drive towards Manvar and check in at the Manvar Resort upon arrival. Later, embark on an exciting sand dunes safari to the campgrounds, located in the Shergarh region. This area is renowned for its towering sand dunes, the highest in the desert. Experience the thrill of riding through the dunes, exploring the vast, golden landscape.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner while being entertained by folk music and dance, immersing yourself in the cultural charm of the desert.
Overnight stay at Manvar.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Sand dunes safari
After breakfast, drive to Rohet Garh, a charming desert home of the descendants of the 16th-century Rathore of the Champawat clan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Rohet Garh offers an exceptional blend of history and hospitality, where the noble traditions of Rajput culture are still cherished despite the influence of modernity. This is a place where you can experience the renowned warm and gracious Rajput hospitality firsthand.
The day is free for sightseeing in the area, allowing you to explore the local heritage and culture at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Rohet.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Local sightseeing and exploration
After breakfast, embark on a Bishnoi tribal village safari by jeep. Rohet is renowned for its village safaris, providing a unique opportunity to connect with local cultures and traditions. During this journey, you will be welcomed into the homes of various communities, where warmth and hospitality await. Interact with the Bishnois, the guardians of nature for over five centuries, who are often regarded as the world’s first biologists for their efforts in protecting wildlife such as the black-buck antelope.
You will also meet the semi-nomadic Raika shepherds, known for their vibrant crimson and marigold costumes, which are a true testament to traditional design, as well as the Paliwals and Meghwals, skilled farmers and weavers. This safari offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these unique communities and their deep connection to the land and its creatures.
Return to Rohet for your overnight stay.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Jeep Safari at Bishnoi villages
After breakfast, depart for Udaipur, making an enroute stop at the renowned Jain Temples of Ranakpur. These temples are of great significance to the Jain religion and attract a large number of devotees and tourists every year. The Ranakpur Jain Temples are particularly famous for their stunning architectural beauty. The highlight of these temples is the 1444 intricately carved pillars, each uniquely designed, making it a marvel of craftsmanship. No two pillars in the temple share the same design, which adds to the grandeur and allure of the site.
After exploring the temples, continue your journey towards Udaipur. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Udaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Jain Temples of Ranakpur
After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Udaipur, starting with the magnificent City Palace & its Museum. Built in soft yellow stone, the City Palace is a stunning architectural marvel. Some parts of the palace now house a museum, featuring intricately detailed miniature paintings and beautifully embellished marble and sandstone walls, along with colored glass and mirror work, reflecting the opulence of the royal family.
Next, visit Sahelion-ki-Bari, also known as « The Garden of the Maids of Honour ». This beautiful garden, originally designed by Maharana Sangram Singh, is a peaceful retreat with fountains, lotus pools, and lush greenery.
Continue your tour to the Jagdish Temple, an Indo-Aryan architectural gem dedicated to Lord Jagannath. Afterward, enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola, where you can admire the stunning views of two beautiful structures situated on the lake: Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (also known as Lake Palace).
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Udaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: City Palace, Sahelion-ki-Bari, Boat ride at Lake Pichola
After breakfast, drive to Deogarh and check into your hotel upon arrival. Deogarh Mahal, situated atop a hillock, offers stunning views of the surrounding villages. The fortress was constructed by the renowned Sompura designers, known for their intricate craftsmanship. The Mahal has five floors and over 200 rooms, each beautifully adorned with murals painted by local artists. This has led to the establishment of the Deogarh School of Painting, which has gained international recognition for its unique style. The royal family also owns a large collection of Deogarh miniatures.
Enjoy the serenity and history of this impressive fortress before settling in for an overnight stay in Deogarh.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Deogarh Mahal
Today is free for you to explore the charming town of Deogarh at your own pace. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local villages, interacting with the locals and experiencing their traditional lifestyle. The village walks will allow you to observe the unique culture, craftsmanship, and scenic surroundings of the region. Don’t miss the chance to visit the local market, where you can find handicrafts, colorful textiles, and traditional Rajasthani artifacts.
After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Deogarh.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Village walks, Local market
After a hearty breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with majestic monuments that reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past. On arrival, check into your hotel and relax. The evening is free for you to explore the vibrant markets of Jaipur, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and more.
Overnight stay is in Jaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: No sightseeing today
Start your day with a visit to Amber Fort, one of the most iconic landmarks of Jaipur. Located on a hilltop, the fort’s rugged exterior contrasts with its serene and beautiful interiors. You’ll have the chance to take a royal elephant ride to reach the fort’s entrance, adding to the grandeur of your visit. Admire the intricate carvings and stunning architecture inside the fort that captivate every visitor.
Afterward, drive back to Jaipur and continue your sightseeing tour. Visit the City Palace, a magnificent blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Located nearby is the famous Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory that showcases the scientific brilliance of the past. Conclude the tour with a visit to the Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of Winds,’ known for its distinctive five-story façade with 953 small windows.
The evening is free for leisure activities.
Overnight stay is in Jaipur.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal
After breakfast, depart for Agra, with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri en route. This historical city, once the capital of the Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar, is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was abandoned after a short period due to water scarcity, but its ruins remain an architectural marvel, showcasing intricate Mughal architecture.
Continue your drive to Agra, and upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Agra is world-renowned for being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal. This white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal and is often described as a ‘dream in marble.’ The monument’s grandeur and intricate craftsmanship are sure to leave you in awe.
Overnight stay is in Agra.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Mahal
Early in the morning, visit the Taj Mahal to witness its mesmerizing beauty at sunrise. The soft golden light adds a magical aura to this already stunning monument, offering an unforgettable experience.
Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast and proceed to explore Agra Fort, a magnificent structure built by Emperor Akbar on the western bank of the River Yamuna. The fort’s imposing walls and historical significance offer insight into the grandeur of Mughal architecture.
Next, visit Itmad-ud-Daula, often referred to as the « Baby Taj » due to its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal. This beautiful tomb is a fine example of Mughal architecture and is set amidst lovely gardens.
After the city tour, drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at Delhi International Airport for your onward flight.
Included meals: Breakfast
Places to Visit: Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daula