Come and discover the jewels of Rajasthan, the country of the Maharajas, in its entirety. From the Havelis of the former wealthy merchants of Shekhawati, you leave for a grand tour of Rajasthan on the roads of the Thar desert to Jaisalmer. Then you continue to the Aravallis Mountains and end up in Agra and the Taj Mahal, the highlight of your trip. This trip takes you through the most beautiful fortified cities as well as small villages forgotten on tourist circuits to experience a truly authentic Rajasthan.
Enjoy a taste of India on this exquisite tour that takes you through an incredible journey of traditions and culture that is as rich as the glorious history of this land. Your expedition begins in the hustle and bustle of Delhi. Move on to Rajasthan and explore the wonders of this beautiful state before culminating your journey in the fabled city of Agra- the land of the Taj Mahal.
Rajasthan is a region of India of great cultural richness, but it is also a rural and spiritual India where time seems to have stood still. You dive to meet a warm population that still lives from its culture and the strength of its traditions that forge the character of India. Thanks to a complete program, you can contemplate the ancient fortresses, approach the populations of the desert during a camel ride, travel through the Arravallis mountains aboard a legendary train and glide into the tranquility of the magnificent lake of Udaipur.
This great tour of Rajasthan has been designed at an adapted pace which allows you to stroll through the bazaars and the typical districts of the colorful cities but also to rest. On site, you are welcomed in Delhi by your travel expert and your private driver is there to accompany you throughout your trip. We take care of your entire tailor-made trip and we select charming accommodation addresses for you. An ideal way to travel with peace of mind. Do not hesitate to contact one of our North India travel experts who will be happy to answer all your questions and requests.
ARRIVAL IN DELHI
Day 1
In the land of Gandhi
Namaste Your driver and North India Travel Expert greets you upon your arrival at the airport and welcomes you in Hindi. You return to your hotel and meet your North India Travel Expert who gives you the final details on the organization of your stay. Then, without waiting, you go to visit the Indian capital. This sprawling megalopolis immediately disorients you! Take the opportunity to discover some jewels of the Mughal Empire such as the tomb of Humayun or the Qutb Minâr , the highest minaret in the country. Return to the hotel at the end of the day for your first Indian night.
Delhi – Agra
Day 2
Discovery of Mughal architecture
After a good breakfast, head for the historic district of Old Delhi , the old city. You stroll through the small steep streets and admire the facades of buildings with carved wooden doors and windows. This very lively district is an ode to Indian culture. You are immersed in local life between spice stalls, colorful fabrics, sequined embroidery, thousands of bracelets, local barbers, dressmakers, and street restaurants. At the end of the morning, you take the road to reach the city of Agra. Visit of its fort classified as a UNESCO heritage site . In the evening, from the Mehtab Bagh Persian Gardens near your hotel, the Taj Mahal lights up in the distance.
Agra-Ramathra
Day 3
Romantic atmosphere at the Taj Mahal
Wake up very early to contemplate the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a highlight of your trip! You are dazzled by the splendor of this tomb of love which was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in homage to his deceased queen. You then take the road to reach Ramathra, in the heart of Rajasthan. During the journey, you cross your first small villages typical of Rajasthan , in the middle of arid scenery. Then the landscapes change and you arrive in a greener region, simply magnificent. The Fort where you are staying offers you a 360° view of the surroundings!
Ramathra
Day 4
Relaxing day in the fort
Peaceful awakening and royal breakfast in an exceptional setting. This charming fort overlooks the surroundings and offers a magnificent view of the surroundings. You take advantage of this day of relaxation to discover the small village of Ramathra, some temples and the hamlet of Meena located on the edge of the lake. Why not go on a boat trip to capture the tranquility of the place? The Fort de Ramathra team will also suggest many activities and reveal the secrets of the region. Return to the fort at the end of the day to admire the sunset from the terrace.
Ramathra–Ranthambore
Day 5
On the way to the tiger
This morning, after an excellent breakfast on the terrace of the Fort of Ramathra, you take the road to reach Ranthambore. The authentic countryside of Rajasthan passes before your eyes. You arrive at your lodge on the edge of the park. This former hunting reserve of the Maharajas of Jaipur is known to be home to many tigers. You put down your luggage and relax in your accommodation surrounded by nature. Explore the surroundings and go for a nice walk in the Ranthambore fort , dating back to the 10th century. In a beautiful natural setting, monkeys play on the ramparts before the amused eyes of Indian families.
Ranthambore
Day 6
Safari in Ranthambore National Reserve
Today is one of the best days of your trip. You discover Indian wildlife and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. You go on two safaris during the day to give you the chance to come across as many animals as possible. The wild fauna is rich between bears, hyenas, panthers, crocodiles, birds by the thousands, monkeys, Indian antelopes called the Nilghais, axis deer or chitals and of course the tiger population, protected since 1973. Around you, the landscape is made up hills covered with forests, plains and lakes. Lush nature interspersed with ruins of ancient palaces providing a very special atmosphere.
Ranthambore- Samode
Day 7
Samode Palace- The samode Palace is located near the Samode village at a distance of 40 km, to the north of Jaipur. It is built of sandstone at the foot of the Aravalli range of hills with a fortress-like setting. The interiors of the palace display a fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani art and architecture. The Samode palace which belongs to the Rawals of Samode is about 400 years old and has been converted into a comfortable hotel run by the family. Dewan-i- khas is a major attraction of Samode Palace.
Samode Bagh– Samode Bagh, Mahar kalan or garden, built in the 16th century in Mughal style is just at a distance of 4 kms away from Jaipur. This Bagh is enclosed by a 15 feet high wall and is spread over an area of 20 acres and also has 44 sandbanks colored tents with air-conditioning to accommodate visitors. Overnight at hotel.
Samode –Shahpura
Day 8
A Tale of One Thousand and One Nights
This morning, you leave Ranthambore towards the West to reach Shahpura. On the road, you come across many peasants with their herd of buffaloes. So many scenes of local life typical of Rajasthan . You arrive in Shapura and discover a real haven of peace surrounded by green oasis and small lakes. Your stay in one of the most beautiful hotels in Rajasthan , where everything is luxury, calm and pleasure. This palace is renowned for its personalized welcome, its exceptional natural setting and its exemplary approach to responsible tourism .. Your hosts have been involved for several years in aid programs for the surrounding villages and respect for the environment. At the end of the day, relax by the hotel’s magnificent swimming pool.
Shahpura–Nimaj
Day 9
The charm and romance of the Rajasthani countryside
Today you reach the charming village of Nimaj located in the semi-arid countryside of Rajasthan, dotted with trees and small rocky hills. A stopover in this tastefully renovated former hunting lodge offers you an authentic local experience to discover the Rajput culture, the caste of Indian kings and warriors . In the afternoon, stroll through the tranquility of the village, crossing the smiles of the women dressed in their shimmering saris and the men with colorful mustaches and turbans! At the end of the day, there’s nothing like lounging in your hotel’s magnificent swimming pool.
Nimaj
Day 10
In the land of the Maharajas
The small village of Nimaj is not only a romantic stopover , it is also an ideal place to disconnect from city life and meet the smiling and welcoming inhabitants of the region. Between tasting local alcohol, visiting a goat farm and horseback riding, your hotel offers you personalized experiences to spend an unforgettable day. Take the opportunity to taste a chai or masala tea . This spicy and sweet tea with a hint of milk is THE national drink. Back at your hotel, take the time to relax and unwind in this timelessly charming palace.
Nimaj – Jodhpur
Day 11
Direction the blue city
This morning, you take the road to the city of Jodhpur, nicknamed “the blue city”. This teeming city is dominated by an imposing fortress: the Fort of Mehrangarh . As soon as you arrive in Jodhpur, you set off to visit this citadel which has remained impregnable over the centuries. Many viewpoints offer spectacular panoramas of the hundreds of blue houses. In the afternoon, stroll through the winding streets of the old town around the Place de l’Horloge, where the very lively Sardar Market is located . Also visit the incredible Umaid Bhawan Palace , residence of the Maharaja of Jodhpur , before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Jodhpur–Narlai
Day 12
Meet the Bishnoi
After an excellent breakfast facing the Mehrangarh Fort , you hit the road again and stop in a traditional Bishnoi village to meet this unique community in India. Bishnoi means 29 in Hindi. You then discover an ecologist people before the hour, who based their way of life on 29 principles or strict rules. After spending time near these wise men, their animals and their temples, your private driver will drive you to Narlai, a small authentic village located at the foot of the Aravalli Mountains in a charming hotel. At the end of the afternoon, relax by the pool.
Narlai
Day 13
Serenity and beauty of the Aravalli Mountains
Beautiful day of relaxation in perspective! Admire the magical atmosphere and decor of this exceptional accommodation. Each room is uniquely decorated with care and highlights the local cultural heritage . In the early afternoon, go on safari! By Jeep or on horseback, nothing better to observe the local flora and fauna. Thousands of magnificent birds populate the region between lakes and rocky hills. Perhaps you will be lucky enough to see one of the ten wild leopards that inhabit the region. At the end of the day, there’s nothing like climbing Elephant Hill . From the summit, you can admire a superb panorama at sunset.
Narlai–Udaipur
Day 14
Head to the Venice of the East
After your breakfast, your private driver will take you to Udaipur. Along the way, you will discover the temple of Ranakpur, the most beautiful Jain temple in India with its great decorative richness, carved like ivory. This beautiful visit allows you to learn more about Jainism, this pacifist and philosophical religion that respects life in all its forms. You then cross the Aravalli Mountains on a small road crisscrossing through a fabulous landscape. In the middle of this authentic countryside then appears the city of Udaipur and its lake Pichola . Return to your hotel on the shores of the lake and enjoy the magnificent view of the illuminated City Palace of Udaipur .
Udaipur
Day 15
City tour and ride on Lake Pichola
You spend a wonderful day in the sweet atmosphere that emanates from Udaipur. Start by getting happily lost in the City Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in Rajasthan. You walk through the corridors and rooms, each as sumptuous as the next, like in a time machine. Then, walk the small streets of the city protected from the heat. And, why not treat yourself to an excellent Ayurvedic massage with natural essential oils to rebalance body and mind. At sunset, you admire the magnificent facade of the City Palace that borders the lake during a cruise on Lake Pichola.
Udaipur – Manvar
Day 16
In the morning, leave for Manvar by road. It’s a roughly 2.5-hour long drive. You will reach in time for lunch and after lunch, go on a jeep safari to experience local village life. Visit the homes of local communities such as bishnois, rajputs and meghwals. Also, check out the homes of craftsmen such as carpenters, cobblers and metalsmiths. You may also spot desert wildlife and climb sand dunes. In the evening, check in at the Tent. You may also want to experience a camel ride into the majestic desert. It’s a different experience altogether to traverse the desert on a camel – the ship of the desert. Dinner will be served at the Camp. Overnight at camp.
Manvar – Jaisalmer
Day 17
After breakfast, proceed for Jaisalmer by road (about 03 hours). On arrival, you will be met by a Go India representative and get assisted with your check in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Jaisalmer
Day 18
The day begins with a sightseeing tour of the enchanting city of Jaisalmer. The top highlight would be the trip to the fort built centuries ago by Rawal Jaisal. A large chunk of the population still lives here. You will also visit Jain temples of the 12th to the 15th centuries as well as the Patwon ki Haveli. It’s an old five-storey mansion with carved pillars and murals. In the evening, visit the sand dunes and Lodurva village. At Lodurva, you will explore ancient Jain temples at Lodurva village and enjoy the view of a spectacular desert sunset from camelback.
Jaisalmer – Keechan – Khimsar
Day 19
After breakfast, proceed for Keechan by road (about 03 hours). On arrival, head to the small village of Keechan, which is protected by sheaths of sand dunes and dotted with old havelis, Keechan’s landscape is a treat to the eye. This remote village in West Rajasthan plays host to thousands of Demoiselle cranes in the winters. Locally known as kurja, these cranes migrate here from their breeding grounds on the Central Asian steppes. The village of Keechan feeds around 500 kg of grains every day to the cranes. The local villagers have formed small organizations and are doing a terrific job of protecting nature. Later, proceed by road to Khimsar (about 04 hours). On arrival, you will be assisted with check- in at the hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Khimsar – BIKANER
Day 20
Later, drive to Bikaner, around 220 km (approximately five hours) from Mandawa. Established by Rao Bika and the Jats in 15th century, Bikaner became popular around the world for its snacks and sweets. The colourful city of Rajasthan in Thar Desert still retains its old-world charm and reflects the chivalry, courage and bravery of royal Rajputs. On arrival in Bikaner, check-in at hotel. This evening, explore the markets of Bikaner, a shopper’s paradise for leather products, embroidered mojri (slip on shoes), cotton and wool products. Overnight, stay at hotel.
BIKANER – MANDAWA
Day 21
The Haveli of Nadine the Prince and the Temple of Deshnok
After a good night in this charming setting, head for the town of Bikaner , a fortified city at the gates of the Thar desert. You first stop at the Haveli of Nadine le Prince, the restoration of which took ten years . Murals of animals, portraits and mythological themes have a lot to tell you. The lace of sculptures that embellish its ceilings, walls and facades have a lot to amaze you.
MANDAWA – PUSHKAR
Day 22
The spiritual city
Today, you reach the city of Pushkar and its sacred lake which welcomes hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over the world to purify themselves on the steps of the lake (the ghats). Surrounded by four hundred temples, the lake is said to have formed following the passage of Brahma, a Hindu god who dropped a lotus petal there, which formed the city’s three water sources. You will certainly see more than one Sadhu there. Recognizable by their painted faces, these people have broken all social ties in order to devote their lives to the spiritual quest. You stroll through the alleys of this calm and charming town and visit the Brahma temple. Night at the hotel.
Although small, the city is also famous for its great camel fair which takes place once a year (in November) and which can bring together up to 20,000 specimens.
Pushkar – Jaipur
Day 23
Ajmer and its Dargah shrines
After your breakfast, you take the road first to Ajmer, where the dargah shrines are revered by Indian Muslims. A true religious city, its mosques, its courtyards and its pious articles shops vibrate with this ardent religious fervor that punctuates local life. The tomb of Moinuddin Chisti is also a high place of pilgrimage in India. You arrive at the end of the day at your hotel in Jaipur, “the pink city”, capital of Rajasthan. With its rich cultural heritage and colorful past, it is one of the most important heritage cities in India, known especially for its gemstone jewelry. Night at the hotel.
Jaipur
Day 24
The pink City
After your breakfast, you set out to conquer the Fort of Amber, the original seat of royal power and one of the essential buildings of Rajasthan . The Mughal influence marks the open pavilions and the gardens with canals and fountains and you will discover with astonishment an ingenious system of natural air conditioning of the time. A morning full of enchantment. In the afternoon, let yourself be transported to the time of Hindu harems at the Palace of the Winds. Pierced with 953 open windows, women could observe outside life without exposing themselves. Finally, pass through one of the seven gigantic and beautifully ornamented gates to stroll through “la ville rose”, the historic center of the fortified city. Night at the hotel.
(Given our commitment to responsible tourism, we have decided to cancel the ascent to Amber Fort by elephant so as not to condone the mistreatment of its animals)
Jaipur – Bharatpur
Day 25
After breakfast, leave for Bharatpur by road (about 04 hours). On arrival, you will be assisted with check in at the hotel. In the afternoon, proceed to Keoladeo National Park or Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan, India, it’s a famous avifauna sanctuary that houses thousands of rare and highly endangered birds, including migratory birds like the Siberian Crane during the winter season. Over 230 species of birds are known to have made the National Park their home. It is also a major tourist centre with scores of ornithologists arriving here in the hibernal season. It was declared a protected sanctuary in 1971. It is also a declared World Heritage Site. Overnight at hotel.
Bharatpur – Delhi
Day 26
On arrival in Delhi, check-in at hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure and shopping. Overnight, stay at hotel.
DELHI – INDIRA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Day 27
Return flight
Today a Go India representative will assist with your transfer to the international airport for your onward flight.
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