Forts and Palaces

Day 01 :  Arrive Delhi 

On arrival at New Delhi International Airport, warm welcome with fresh flower garlands and meet & assist with tour guide and transfer to the hotel. On arrival check-in at the hotel. (Standard check-in time in 1400hrs.) 

Mystery, magic, mayhem. Welcome to Delhi, City of Djinns, and 25 million people. Like an eastern Rome, India’s capital is littered with the relics of lost empires. A succession of armies stormed across the Indo-Gangetic plain and imprinted their identity onto the vanquished city, before vanishing into rubble and ruin like the conquerors who preceded them. Modern Delhi is a chaotic tapestry of medieval fortifications, Mughal mausoleums, dusty bazaars, colonial-era town planning, and mega malls.

Afternoon proceed for Old Delhi sightseeing. 

First stop would be Raj Ghat, this peaceful, very well maintained park contains a simple black-marble platform marking the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948.

Next you will be driven to Old Delhi market, just before entering the market you will embark on a ‘Rickshaw’ to steer through tiny lanes of Chandni Chowk.  Ride past the majestic Red Fort & through the main Chandni Chowk street straight to Khari Baoli; Asia’s biggest wholesale spice market selling all kinds of spices, herbs, nuts & food products like rice, tea etc. Hop on to your rickshaws and pass through the tiny lanes of Kinaari Bazaar; lane for Indian attire accessories like borders etc, Dariba Kalan; lane for Silver market. Hop off and bid bye to your Rickshaw Puller at Jama Masjid; A beautiful pocket of calm at the heart of Old Delhi's mayhem, the capital's largest mosque is built on a 10m elevation. It can hold a mind-blowing 25,000 people. 

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 02 : Delhi (B,-,D)   

Breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing of New Delhi

Humayun's Tomb: The most perfectly proportioned and captivating of Delhi’s mausoleums, Humayun’s tomb seems to float above the gardens that surround it. This monument strongly influenced the Taj Mahal. Lotus Temple (Photography Stop): Designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariburz Sahba in 1986. Styled after a lotus flower, with 27 immaculate white-marble petals, the temple was created to bring diverse faiths together. (Closed on Monday)

Sikh Temple Bangla Sahib: Topped by golden domes, this handsome white-marble Gurdwara was constructed at the site where the eighth Sikh guru, Harkrishan Dev, stayed before his death in 1664. Also tour the mega kitchen of this Temple where more than 15000 people are served daily. Visit India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhawan & Parliament Street: A drive past Lutyen Delhi’s major monuments, a symbol of the colonial development in the capital. 
(Note: This is a high security area & access to roads are many a times restricted. Hence the panoramic ride is subject to all security clearances)

Qutub Minar: is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. Kashmiri Co-operative, enjoy a Kashmiri Tea ‘Kahwa’ here when you witness the artisians presenting their local arts & products.

Dinner at Indian Accent: Indian Accent showcases inventive Indian cuisine by complementing the flavours and traditions of India with global ingredients and techniques. Indian Accent is time and gain voted the best restaurant of India.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 03 : Delhi – Mandawa (B,-,D) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Mandawa (250 Kms, 5-6 Hrs.). On arrival proceed for sightseeing.

The realm of lovely havelis, harking back to the yester years, epitomizes the beauty of Shekhawati – a region that comprises of Sikar, Jhunjhunu (Mandawa, Nahargarh) and Churu. It is a major landmark tourist destination of colourful Rajasthan. Once the bastion of Rao Shekha, this magnificent land, located on the North of Rajasthan, derives its nomenclature from the former. A riot of colours encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant landscape. Exquisitely embellished havelis mushroomed during the eighteenth century and former half of the twentieth.

Check-in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 04 : Mandawa – Bikaner (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bikaner (192 Kms, 3-4 Hrs.). On arrival proceed for Bikaner sightseeing.

The Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok is a beautiful structure made of stone and marble, inside which resides an image of Karni Mata. The image is decorated with a ‘mukut’ (tiara) and garlands. The images of her sisters and the sisters of Avad Mata give her company on either side. The temple is known the world over for the presence of kabas (rats) that roam freely within the temple precincts.

The National Research Centre on Camel is 8 kilometres from the city. This camel research and breeding centre is the only one of its kind in Asia. The centre is spread out over 2000 acres of semi-arid land and is managed by the Government of India.
Check in at the hotel. Proceed for sightseeing.

Bikaner is a vibrant, dust-swirling desert town with a fabulous fort and an energising outpost feel. Bikaner is situated in the northern region of Rajasthan. One of the earlier established cities, Bikaner still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts, built of red sandstone, that have withstood the passage of time. The city boasts of some of the world’s best riding camels and is aptly nicknamed ‘camel country’. It is also home to one of the world’s largest camel research and breeding farms. Bikaner hosts some of very few places where one can procure legally Camel Leather protected under fair-trade practices.

Junagarh fort is an impregnable bastion that holds the distinction of having never been captured. It was constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most distinguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an attractive assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and window.

In evening visit the local markets of Bikaner, explore the area on Tuk-Tuks and also visit the local Jain Temples.

Take a tuk-tuk ride in the market of Bikaner. Bikaner markets are very famous for spices, local namkeens (snacks) & havelis. Go around hoping in markets in your tuk-tuk, also visit a local Jain temple, famous for its leaf painting, frescos etc. This temple attracts many pilgrims from around India from Jain community. 

Dinner & overnight at the hotel.

Day 05 : Bikaner – Jaisalmer (B,-,-)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Jaisalmer (330 KMs, 5-6 Hrs.). On arrival proceed for sightseeing.

The Jaisalmer Fort also goes by the name Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) as it rises from the desert itself and seems to become one with the golden hues of the sand. The setting sun adds its own magic and shrouds the fort with mystique. The fort is constructed in the classic style of the royals by local craftsmen. Jain Temples of Jaisalmer, located inside the Jaisalmer Fort date back to the 12th and 15th centuries. The temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdevji, famous Jain hermits known as 'Tirthankars' (wise teachers who taught people how to attain nirvana).

Check-in and overnight at the hotel.

The city of Jaisalmer acts as the guard to western Rajasthan (and India’s) frontier. This 'Golden City’ is located close in close proximity to the Thar Desert. The city’s most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist attraction. It houses shops, hotels and ancient havelis (homes) where generations continue to live. This fort is a world heritage site and forms an important plot point in one of Satyajit Ray’s famous Feluda stories and corresponding movie, Sonar Kela.

Day 06 : Jaisalmer – Sand Dunes (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for Jaisalmer sightseeing.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli, This haveli was built in the first half of the 18th century and a part of it is still occupied by descendants of the original residents. Patwon Ki Haveli, among the largest and the most elaborately carved havelis in Jaisalmer, this five-storey structure sits proudly in a narrow street. About 6 kilometres to the north of Jaisalmer lies Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (literally Big Garden). This garden complex houses chhatris or royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer state, including that of Jai Singh II. Vyas Chhatri is one of the most beautiful examples of Rajasthani architecture. This old Brahmin cemetery, full of local versions of cenotaphs, is dedicated to Ved Vyaas, the sage who wrote the epic, Mahabharata.

Then we will drive towards your desert camp. On arrival check-in at your luxury camps in the Thar Desert. 

Evening, a sundowner at the dunes will be arranged for you to soak in the Golden Hues of this Thar Desert. 
 
A cultural show with folk dance and music will be organised at the camp with dinner at night. 

Overnight at the camp.

Day 07 : Jaisalmer – Osian – Jodhpur (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Jodhpur (260 Kms, 4-5 Hrs.). En-route visit Osian.

Osian is famous as home to the cluster of ruined Hindu and Jain temples dating from the 8th to 12th centuries. The city was a major religious centre of the kingdom of Marwar during the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty.

Drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check-in at the hotel.

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape dominating a rocky ridge with the eight gates leading out of the fortress. The new city is located outside the structure. Jodhpur is also known for the rare breed of horses known as Marwari or Malani, which are only found here.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 08 : Jodhpur (B,-,-) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for sightseeing of Jodhpur City.
Mehrangarh Fort, Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill which is 125 metres above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Mehrangarh Fort still bears the imprints of cannonball attacks courtesy the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. Jaswant Thada, This milky white memorial built towards the end of the 19th century as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh is a huge tourist attraction. Umaid Bhawan Museum, The museum displays glass, porcelain wares, memorabilia, information nailed on the building along with unique charms like the stuffed leopards and a huge symbolic flag.

A serene walk in the blue lanes of Jodhpur will immerse you in the history, culture & traditions of this city, walking in the narrow lane, past the locals, the small shops & even cows. A great photographic experience this walk will then bring you to clock tower where you witness the local life-circle running its cycle. 

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 09 : Jodhpur- Kumbhalgarh (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Kumbhalgarh (170 Kms, 3-4 Hrs.). On arrival proceed for sightseeing.

Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century AD by Rana Kumbha. The inaccessibility and hostility of the topography lends a semblance of invincibility to the fort. It served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to King Udai of Mewar in his early childhood when Banbir killed Vikramaditya and usurped the throne. It is of immense sentimental significance for the people being the birthplace of Mewar's legendary king Maharana Pratap. The fort is self-contained in all respect to withstand a protracted siege.

Check-in, dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 10 : Kumbhalgarh – Ranakpur – Udaipur (B,L,-)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Udaipur (85 Kms, 2 Hrs.). En-route vist Ranakpur.

At the foot of a steep wooded escarpment of the Aravalli Hills, Ranakpur is one of India’s biggest and most important Jain temple complexes. The main temple, the Chaumukha Mandir (Four-Faced Temple), is dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankar (depicted in the many Buddha-like images in the temple), and was built in the 15th century in milk-white marble.

Lunch at Mountbatten lodge

Mountbatten Lodge is an opulent 4 suite hideaway nestled in a ruggedly scenic valley and bordered by the Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.  The property is fortunate to have two of the most important historical sites in the country on our doorstep – the famous Ranakpur Jain Temples and the mighty Kumbalgarh Fort.
Drive to Udaipur. On arrival check-In and overnight at the hotel.

Often referred to as the 'Venice of the East', the city of lakes Udaipur is located around azure water lakes and is hemmed in by lush green hills of Aravallis. The famous Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful sights of Udaipur. The beautiful City Palace adds to the architectural beauty and grandeur of the city. 

Day 11 : Udaipur (B,-,-)

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for sightseeing.

Sahelion-ki-Bari, which is good example of the art of landscaping, a beautiful garden was built for the 48 maidens meant to be a part of the dowry of the princess. Arrive at City Palace, Standing on the edge of the Lake Pichola and built by Maharaja Udai Singh, the gorgeous City Palace is a marvel in marble. Majestically set on a hill, it is accentuated with balconies, towers and cupolas along with superb views of the lake and the city that can be admired from the upper terraces. Udaipur is the storehouse of several items of historical significance. One such place to visit is the Vintage and Classic Car Museum. The museum showcases some of the most exquisite collection of royal antique cars which make it a heritage site, which is worth exploring.

Later, a short walk to the Jagdish Temple, lets you immerse in local life & get great pictures.

Evening, you will have boat ride in Lake Pichola, ride takes you to visit Jag Mandir - the first island palace on Lake Pichola.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12 : Excursion to Chittorgarh (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for the excursion tour of Chittorgarh.

Chittorgarh resonates with stories of Rajputana bravery, pride and passion. Chittorgarh Fort has had a tumultuous past. This bastion of the Rajputs has faced violent attacks thrice in its entire history. Witness Padmini Palace, tower of Victory, Kirti Stambh or Jain Temples.

Return to Udaipur. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 13 : Udaipur – Nagda and Eklingji Temples – Rural stay (B,-,D)

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Nagda and Eklingji Temples.

Nagda Temple, the abandoned capital of the Mewar region, is an ancient group of temples dating from the 7th century, situated beside an ever-expanding lake covered by a floating forest of lotus flowers. Most buildings were destroyed by the Mughals or have been submersed by the lake over the years. Yet, the surviving pair of 10th century temples, called the ‘mother-in-law’ and ‘daughter-in-law’, still offer a breath-taking glimpse into the colourful history of the city.

Eklingji Temple is a 1000-year old temple complex dedicated to the god Shiva. It is an ideal choice to explore Hindu religious practices, as the temple is usually not too crowded and in remarkably good condition. The quality of the upkeep is due to the fact that Eklingji is serviced by the personnel of the Rajasthani Maharana himself, who visits the temple every Monday, on the holy day of Shiva.

Dinner and overnight at the Rural stay.

Day 14 : Rural stay – Pushkar – Jaipur (B,-,-)

Breakfast at the rural stay. Village, hamlets & farms a morning Village walk in the rural area of Rajasthan personifies the Indian culture for you. Drive to Jaipur (400 kms, 6-7 Hrs.). En-route visit Pushkar.

Brahma Temple, nestled in the picturesque Pushkar valley beyond the Nangaparvat and Anasagar Lake, the Brahma temple holds a special place in the hearts of Indians. It is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. According to Hindu scriptures, the sacred Pushkar Lake is described as ‘Tirtha Raj’, the king of all pilgrimage sites. No pilgrimage is considered to be complete without a dip in in the holy Pushkar Lake. 

Drive to Jaipur. On arrival check-in at the hotel.

Jaipur holds the distinction of being the first planned city of India. Renowned globally for its coloured gems, the capital city of Rajasthan combines the allure of its ancient history with all the advantages of a metropolis. Jaipur traces back its origins to 1727 when it was established by Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amber. He shifted his capital from Amber to the new city because of the rapidly-growing population and an increasing water scarcity. Noted architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya used the established principles of Vastu Shastra to build the city.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 15 : Jaipur (B,-,-) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Proceed for Jaipur sightseeing.

Amber Fort. Jeep ride uphill & downhill at the fort. Nostalgic Amber Fort, near Jaipur in Rajasthan, is one of the most well-known and most-visited forts in India. During downhill, visit a very heritage structure – Panna-Meena ka kund, which is a square-shaped stepwell, with adjoining stairs on all four sides and a room on the northern wall.
We will make our way back to the city, en-route we will stop at Jal Mahal, Possibly the most serene sight amidst the chaos of Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal Jaipur, the Water Palace. Short stops at the Jewel & Carpet Workshops in Jaipur are must to witness how the local artisans create marvels from raw materials. Jantar Mantar, a large grassy enclosure containing eighteen huge stone astronomical measuring devices constructed between 1728 and 1734. City Palace, originally built by Jai Singh in the 1720s and having lost none of its original pomp and splendour. Before you start exploring the local markets, stop for photography at the one world’s most famous façade Hawa Mahal. 

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16 : Jaipur – Agra (B,-,-)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Agra (240 Kms, 4-5 Hrs.). On arrival proceed for sightseeing.

Agra Fort: Built by Akbar in 1565 A.D, this Fort is a masterpiece of design and construction. Within the Fort are a number of exquisite buildings, including Moti Masjid, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas etc. Itmad-ud-daula: Built entirely in white marble and inlaid with semi-precious stones, this mausoleum on the bank of the Yamuna exhibits a strong Persian influence. 

Check-in and overnight at the hotel. 

Agra has been immortalized as the City of the Taj. Yet, it doesn’t take much for the roving eye to discover that there’s more to Agra than just the fabled Taj Mahal. The city is a virtual gateway to a world of discovery….. A freeze-frame from a resplendent era that’s long since gone by.

Day 17 : Agra – Delhi (B,-,-)

Early morning visit Taj Mahal a UNESCO world heritage site constructed by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal that has left tourist spellbound by its beauty for years. 

Return to the hotel for breakfast and daily routine.  

Visit Marble Workshop; local artisans showcase their skill of Marble Inlay work in these workshops. The artisans in Agra are believed to be the descendants of the artists who were actual workers of Taj Mahal.

Drive to Delhi (240 Kms, 4-5 Hrs.). On arrival check-in and overnight at the hotel.

Day 18 : Departure (B,-,-)    

Breakfast at the hotel (subject to time availability). Transfer to airport as per your flight timings.