Explore Rajasthan

Day 1 Arrival / Delhi
Late night arrival. Traditional Welcome garlands. Later, transfer to the hotel as mentioned in rajasthan tour packages itinerary for overnight stay.


Day 2 Delhi
After breakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of New Delhi.

OLD DELHI - A sightseeing tour of Old Delhi would entail visiting the Raj Ghat - the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent fort and palace of the Moghul Empire. Enjoy the cycle rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk.

NEW DELHI - An extensive sight-seeing tour of New Delhi would include a visit to the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial avenue of Mahatma Gandhi - Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House, the President's Residence, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple etc.

Overnight stay in delhi hotel.

Day 3 Delhi - Ahmedabad - {Rajdhani Express 1935 / 1000*}
Following breakfast, We would visit the " Delhi Haat", a bustling crafts village where artisans and craftsmen from various parts of India arrive to display and sell their wares. You would have an excellent opportunity to shop for fabrics, paper mache, woodcraft , etc. This place is very popular with middle class Indians as the quality and price here are both very good. Late evening, transfer to the train station to board the Rajdhani Express to Ahmedabad.

Overnight : Train (B)

Day 4 Ahmedabad - Dungarpur (125 Kms)
Meeting & assistance upon arrival and drive to Dungarpur.

Upon arrival check into the Udai Bilas Palace. The history of Udai Bilas Palace, Dungarpur, Rajasthan dates from the mid-19th century, when Maharawal Udai Singhji-II, a great patron of art and architecture built a wing of bluish grey local stone " Pareva" overlooking the lake and the " Ek Thambia Mahal," featuring intricate sculptured pillars and panels, ornate balconies, balustrades, bracketed windows, arches and frieze of marble carvings, a veritable marvel of Rajput architecture. The Udai Bilas Palace was enlarged in 1940 by Maharawal Laxman Singhji, who built three new wings around the " Ek Thambia Mahal" Literally one- pillared Palace) and thus created the famous " courtyard of the palace. The result is an architectural expression exquisitely detailed. Still the royal residence, the Palace offers accommodation in the houseguest tradition with seventeen spacious and lavishly appointed bedrooms. No two rooms are alike; each room enchants with its own personality, spaciousness and modern comforts and offers a unique experience. The Furnishings are mostly from the 20th century art-deco style, marble bathrooms with English fixtures and running hot and cold water. Meals are served either in the banquet hall, which displays crystal chandeliers, or in the more intimate family dining room. Continental or Chinese dishes are also served.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 5 Dungarpur
The district is the strong hold of Bheels, a tribe whose history of occupancy in the Aravalli range is said to date back to 4000 BC . They are one of the oldest and most primitive tribes of the world. This morning we will visit some of these unspoiled Bheel hamlets in and around the town. We will witness and photograph age-old tribal lifestyles and customs handed down over the centuries. You would have an opportunity to meet villagers who have never seen white people!! Say hello to people, allow them to get used to you and then, you may go ahead with your pictures. You would soon end up as the pied piper followed by scores of noisy and happy children!!!

We return to our hotel by mid morning to enjoy the destination at leisure. Udai Bilas Palace is a round-the-year paradise for bird watchers. The cooler months from mid October to February are the best to see winter migratory birds when birds can be observed in attractive plumage. One can see from the Palace itself at remarkably close range egrets, night and pond herons, white necked and painted storks, coots and winter or resident ducks among others, depending on the season of your visit. Birds are also plentiful in the surrounding wood lands where one can hope to see the Grey Hornbill, Gray Partridge, Green Pigeon, Peafowl, Peacocks, Paradise fly-catcher and the Golden backed woodpecker, to name a few representative species. You may proceed on a leisurely walk around the lake or heir boat for a special boat trip on the lake as well as a gentle trek through the forests so that the nature lover in you is able to enjoy the beauty of the place and are able to get a close look at the bird life.

Late afternoon we visit the ancient fortified ruins of the Old Fort. Besides fine panoramic view of the ancient town of Dungarpur the fort has well preserved examples of natural colour paintings and incredible art and architecture.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 6 Dungarpur - Udaipur (100 Kms)
Following breakfast, we drive to Udaipur. Royal capital of a divine dynasty. Languid Lake City, strewn with marble palaces, hibiscus - massed gardens, fountain pavilions, and cobbled medieval gardens.

Welcome to Udaipur, the famed "City of sunrise". Founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, from the lineage of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar - the decedents of the sun God. A city where the sun truly never set, where tradition and a strict code of heroism were happily united with a love of fine living. A city that has come to be an oasis of romance in the warrior state of Rajasthan.

Upon arrival check into the hotel Jagat Niwas.

Afternoon is at leisure for nature walks, visits to the bustling bazaars or just to enjoy your charming heritage hotel overlooking the tranquil Lake Pichola.

Overnight: Hotel Jagat Niwas (B)

Day 7 Udaipur Tour
Morning, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan

Overnight : at hotel / resort (B)

Day 8 Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh (90 Kms)
Following breakfast a two hour drive to Kumbhalgarh. We would have photo stop several times as we walk through the countryside as well as interact with primitive tribals.

Upon arrival we check into the beautifully preserved Aodhi Lodge - a property of the Royal family of Udaipur.

Afternoon, we explore the beautifully preserved and one of the most majestic forts of India. 13 mountain peaks surround the impregnable fortress of Kumbalgarh (54 Kms) at a height of 3281 ft. Seven towering gateways pierce the massive walls of this prominent fortress of Mewar. The young Udai Singh founder of Udaipur took shelter here from his treacherous uncles. Emperor Akbar was defeated by these impregnable walls dotted with cannonballs.

Overnight : at hotel / lodge (B)

Day 9 Kumbhalgarh to Ghanerao trip (35 Kms)
Following breakfast, we would have an opportunity to explore the feudal village of Kumbhalgarh. The people here are extremely friendly and hospitable. We witness their ethnic tribal estyle

We continue our ride to the interiors of Rajasthan to witness tribal life untouched by modern times.

Upon arrival at Ghanerao we check into the Royal Ghanerao Castle, a property of the Royal Family of Mewar. We stay at the Ghanerao Royal Castle to step back into the past and re-live it. Here truly time stands still to let you bask in the sunshine of the bygone era. Besides all modern comforts the royal family here have endeavoured to recreate the lifestyle of the thakurs (feudal lords) in all past glory. Situated in the picturesque `Godwar` region of Rajasthan, Ghanerao was founded in 1606 A D Today, standing sentinel over the villages, The Ghanerao Royal Castle is a truly magnificent edifice of red sandstone havelis (mansions), marble citadels and some miniature paintings on walls, the village is strewn with old temples, step walls and marble archways. The old fort to the south of the castle pock, marked with cannonballs and destroyed time and again, but stubbornly refusing to be vanquished.

Afternoon escorted walks through the primitive town to witness traditional styles of living and occupation.

Overnight : Ghanerao Castle (B)

Day 10 Ghanerao - Narlai (60 Kms)
Following breakfast we ride to Narlai, stopping several times for photos and walks through the countryside to interact with and witness the life styles of the natives.

Upon arrival check into Rawla Narlai. Situated in the Narlai village, Rawla Narlai, is a 17th century fortress renovated over the years to have 15 exquisite double rooms. Rawla Narlai is full of surprises; it is situated in the heart of a typical Rajasthani village bustling with activity and bursting with colours. But, inside the Rawla (fortress) there is only serenity and stupendous view of a gigantic 350 ft single rock of granite dotted with caves and temples and crowned by a statue of a white elephant - proud guardian to the open desert on one side and the crumbling Aravali hills on the other. Maharaja and Rani Swaroop Singh, and their sons oversaw the careful restoration of this hunting lodge, with aesthetics, comfort, and atmosphere that will embrace your senses. Comfortable rooms and modern bathrooms blend with the ancient way of Narlai, while offering a warm and homely atmosphere. The charming rooms are all stylised from references from the past adding more to your experience at Rawla Narlai. The chef prepares you a delicious meal, garnished with care made from Secret Recipes handed down for generations to the Royal family. In the evening bathe in the moonlight under the starry sky, listening to hypnotic and chanting rhythms by local musicians who will rekindle the sprit in you. The peace and calm of the gentle rustling leaves, the sun bathed courtyards and the star lit nights adds an air of romanticism to this wonderful fortress.

Afternoon, we would have an escorted stroll through the small town, bustling with activity and bursting with colour- perhaps pausing to see the rich handicrafts or even to design your own silver Tabiz, a ancient lucky charm, both for women and men- worn around the neck, at the silversmith.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 11: Narlai
Wake up to the sounds of this 17 century village, and take in the spiritual energy from descending from the Shiva Temple, deep in a primal cave, on the hill overlooking your room. You may hear whispers of the early morning chanting coming from the many temples and mosques. At breakfast you are encouraged to feed the harmless monkeys, if they come down from the hills, as a token of prayer to Lord Hanuman. After breakfast we have an escorted stroll through the small bazaar, bustling with activity and bursting with colour.

Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Rawla Narlai (B)

Day 12: Narlai - Sodawas (45 kms)
Following breakfast we travel to Sodawas. Upon arrival, check into Sodawas Kot.

Sodawas was given in Jagir (Fief) to Late Thakur Bishan Singhji by His Late Highness Maharaja Shri Umaid Singhji of Jodhpur in the Year 1943 along with two other villages, before which it was a 'Khalsa' Village, meaning for Three Decades it was under the direct rule of Marwar State(Jodhpur). Upon arrival you enter through a grand gateway into the Sodawas Kot, which is still owned by the family of Thakur Bishan Singhji.

The Kot has ten bedrooms and every modern amenity. The family drawing and dining rooms have been opened to receive guests in true Rajput Hospitality. Traditional Rajasthani Cuisine for which the House is well known for, is served with a mild and delicate blend of spices adapted to your taste. The family will join you and will give you an opportunity to discuss their traditions, culture and the rich heritage of Marwar erstwhile State of Jodhpur. Folk Music and dance are performed in the evening specially for us. The beautifully designed stables will interest Horse lovers. Once the much loved stallion and mare of the Late Thakur Sahib were stabled here.

Beyond the Kot walls the guest encounters breath taking green fields of mustard and wheat; and in the village, one can see artisans working on the local crafts of the region.

This afternoon we walk through the main boulevard which is wide enough to take a bullock cart. We visit the local school here to witness the kids sitting in rows on cotton mats. We also visit the colourful bazaar as well as the village temple to witness the day to day. Life here is very simple and uncomplicated and traditional virtues still intact. People here may be very poor, but they are extremely friendly and hospitable, willing to share out their meagre possessions with you.

Overnight at Sodawas Kot. (B)

Day 13: Sodawas - Rohet (65 kms)
Following breakfast we ride out to Rohet. Upon arrival check into the Rohetgarh fort.

At Rohet, one is transported in to a world of the past, a world of honour and of chivalry, of glory and of pride; a world of vibrant colours and spectacular magnificence. Past centuries come to life at the historic boundary walls of Rohet- the 16th century fortified deserted home of a Rajput clan. Within the precincts of these time weathered walls is our hotel, the impressive Rohetgarh Fort- a bastion of proud Rajput traditions bathed in the ambience of unmistakable Rajasthani culture where one can, even today experience the famed warm and courteous Rajput hospitality. Frescoes on the tall gateway, brightly painted in the traditional style, using traditional motifs and colour schemes herald your entry to this charmed world the bygone era. The gateway leads to a compound where a profusion of flowers frame the archways in welcome. The portico is a warm and informal place decorated with the artifacts and trophies of many years. Exquisitely carved furniture, delicate hand block prints, original paintings and photographs decorate your rooms, which though redolent with the romance of a bygone era, provide all the modern amenities. Antique hunting riffles, shields & spearheads, daggers and original paintings form the backdrop of the dinning room. The swimming pool here is in beautiful settings and is an oasis in a dessert.

The food at Rohetgarh is special; each recipe is both traditional and typical, handed down the generations and jealously guarded to retain its pristine flavours. You savour only the very best of Rajasthani cuisine's, food favoured by the Royalty. The 16th century descendants of the Rathore ruling family still live here and host the guests. The members of the Royal family interact with the guests and interesting stories and anecdotes are narrated.

This afternoon, we would explore Rohet, which is a fascinating small feudal town, which seems to be straight out of the Arabian Nights. There is no proper road here - only one main dust trail. On either side are typical thatched houses and shops of all kinds - colourful bangles, silver jewellery, potters, fruit vendors on carts, dress shops, tailors etc.

Overnight: Rohetgarh (B)

Day 14 : Rohet
Morning at leisure to enjoy the amazing palace hotel of whimsical charm and the surrounding fairy tale town of Rohet.

Late afternoon we enjoy jeep safaris to visit the heart of Rajasthan villages where traditions centuries old still permeate life styles. One can witness the 'opium ceremony' - a ritual by which guests are welcomed. Gaily attired men and women carry on their chores and one can catch a glimpse of their norms and customs. The smoothened mud floors of the village huts remind one of the simple and traditional living here

Overnight: Rohetgarh (B)

Day 15: Rohet - Jodhpur (40 Kms)
Following breakfast, we drive to Jodhpur.

Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Afternoon, proceed on a guided tour of Jodhpur. Our tour includes the massive Mehrangarh fort. In olden days this must have been impregnable since its rocky base is scraped straight down making it nearly impossible to ascend. Once inside, royal palaces abound with fascinating history and priceless jewels, on to the armoury and Jaswant Thada - the Royal Crematorium.

Tonight you have the option of participating in the New Years eve festivities hosted by your hotel.

Overnight: Ajit Bhawan Palace (B).

Day 16 : Jodhpur
Morning at leisure to recover from the new years eve festivities of last night.

Afternoon, we would ride horse carriages to the Clock Tower Bazaar. This is one of India's largest and most colourful whole sale market especially with respect to clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables etc.

Overnight: Ajit Bhawan Palace (B).

Day 17 : Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
This morning drive to Jaisalmer. The drive is through desert country with scantly vegetation and life stock in view.

Upon arrival, check in to Gorbandh Palace. Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight Gorbandh Palace.

Day 18 : Jaisalmer
This morning , we visit the residential portions of the fort where one third of the population of the old city lives. The design of houses remain as they were a couple of centuries back and so are the lifestyle of people occupying them. This is because most of the families continue to work for for generations for the rurel (though only titular now) hence there is a sense of continuitey. The houses are arranged in narrow lanes and have small windows from where the shy child or the girl peeps. This is the city believed to be the home of the most handsome men and women in Rajasthan.

Afternoon for inependent walks through the narrow cobbled paths of the old city.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 19 Jaisalmer - Sam - Jaisalmer
Afternoon, we drive to Sam ( famous for sand dunes ), a dessert outpost. Enroute we visit a few typical dessert villages, which have a sprinkling of huts. The rough terrain here does not support cultivation, hence the entire village work as causal labourers in road works or community projects. Inspite of their poverty and hard life the people are very friendly and seem to be aware that they are proud owners of very expressive and beautiful faces. We move on to Sam where we explore the dessert. Against the backdrop of the setting sun and the huge expanse of the dessert the camels with their long shadows would be excellent pictures.

Evening drive back to our Hotel in Jaisalmer.

Day 20 : Jaisalmer - Bikaner (300 kms)

Morning drive to Bikaner. We would have opportunities to stop on the way for pictures as well as to interact with local tribes. Upon arrival check in to Karni Bhawan. Afternoon is at leisure. We suggest that you walk to the city center which is bustling with colour and activity.

Overnight - Hotel Karni Bhawan (B)

Day 21 : Bikaner
Today , we explore the city of Bikaner amongst vociferous hawkers and vegetable and fruit vendors. The nearby main bus stand is also a good venue for pictures. People sitting inside buses, on the roofs, on the foontboards or at the stand in their colorful traditional dresses could be interesting objects for our cameras. We also visit some of the residential squares where people sit in front of their houses on string cots gossiping away and kids playing noisily and posing in mockery before your cameras.

Overnight Karni Bhawan (B)

Day 22 : Bikaner - Mandawa (245 Kms)
Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and ride into the heart of the Thar Desert at Mandawa, which used to be a medieval Indian trade city and still has beautifully preserved houses of medieval Indian traders in typical Rajput (Rajasthani) style.

Upon arrival, check into the Mandawa Dessert Resort which is beautifully built in traditional Rajput style - wooden doors, bamboo thatched roofs, mud plastered walls and floors, ethnic décor etc. However, all these traditional charms encapsulate all the modern luxuries sought by discerning tourists.

Overnight at Mandawa Desert Resort (B)

Day 23 : Mandawa
Today, we walk through the main (and the only) street of the town. We would visit some of the ancient and beautifully preserved 'havelis' (mansions). They would give us an idea of how families lived in those days. The havelis have beautiful paintings depicting mythological themes on the walls. Made from vegetable dyes these paintings have lasted centuries and still are quite sharp.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 24 : Mandawa - Jaipur (165kms)
Following Breakfast, we ride to Jaipur. In a land steeped with heritage , picturesque with exquisite architecture , in a state vibrant with heroic memories and romance ,lies the dream city of Jaipur . The people are dynamic ,martial and ,need we say it ,colourful . Here every walk through the by lanes is a walk through history . Indeed , Jaipur could be compared to a vast open air museum . Pink turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis' ( ladies scarves ) . Camels buggies and elephants are as commonly found as motor cars and buses Upon arrival, check into Hotel Vissau Palace. Afternoon is designed for escorted walks with our guide in Jaipur's shady animated streets - or for independent discovery. The city is best explored on foot and only the inquisitive visitor willing to go into the rastaas (streets) and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of the city. Jaipur's colorful bazaars tantalize the eye with enameled blue pottery, exquisite gem-studded jewelry, engraved brass work, traditional block-printed fabrics and brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together with traditional crafts and miniature painting.

Overnight: Hotel Vissau Palace (B)

Day 25 : Jaipur Tour
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royals of Jaipur, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years.

Overnightat hotel.

Day 26 : Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (245 kms)
Following breakfast we drive to Fatehpur Sikri for a guided tour. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire's splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well sculpted buildings. From here we continue riding to Agra. Upon arrival , check in to the hotel Howard Park Plaza.

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, their is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are, the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sun set we visit the Taj Mahal to witness this spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in every aspect of its construction, the inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable.

We would also have an opportunity to visit a marble showroom where we would be able to witness the inlay work done on marble just as at the Taj Mahal.

Overnight: Howard Park Plaza. (B)

Day 27 Agra to Delhi travel
Following breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort;. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid & other magnificent buildings reflect the skill of the ancient Indian architects. Afternoon Drive to delhi, stopping on the way at well appointed midway restaurants for washroom facilities and refreshments. Upon arrival, check into Hotel Connaught.

Overnightat hotel.

Day 28 : Delhi
Day at leisure. You would have a car and driver at disposal for local journies and visit. Why not experience the shopping options of this shoppers delight of a city. Also, try out some ethnic restaurants etc.

Overnight at hotel in delhi.

Day 29 Delhi - Departure
Early morning transfer to the airport for your onward flight with amazing and unforgetable rajasthan tour.