
One
of the most colorful regions in India, if not the world, is the state of
Rajasthan. Explore this awe-inspiring "Land of Kings", where much
of India's history comes from. If you desire to be treated like royalty and
lavish in the exquisite surroundings of some of the state's best palace
hotels, then this tour is tailor made for you.
Day 01 : Arrive Delhi
Arrive in India's bustling capital city of Delhi, where you are greeted
with a traditional Indian welcome and escorted to the hotel. Overnight at
Delhi.
Day 02 : New Delhi Sightseeing
After a leisurely morning, embark on a tour of New Delhi. Drive along
Rajpath, the capital's broadest avenue, for a view of Parliament House, the
President's House, India Gate. Visit the Humayun's Tomb, Qutab Minar and
Birla Mandir, a colorful and modern Hindu temple. Enjoy a welcome dinner at
the Bistro restaurant with a presentation of Indian music and dance.
Day 03 : Old Delhi Sightseeing - Agra
Morning tour Old Delhi. Among your stops are the Red Fort, built by Shah
Jahan; Raj Ghat - a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; Ashoka Pillar and the
mile-long Chandni Chowk bazaar. This afternoon drive to Agra, en route
stopping at Sikandra, to visit the tomb of Emperor Akbar. Overnight at Agra.
Day 04 : Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur
Early morning experience a sunrise visit of the magnificent Taj Mahal, a
monument to the memory of love. After breakfast, tour the exquisite 16th
Century Agra Fort. Proceed to the abandoned and nearly intact Mughal city of
Fatehpur Sikri, a masterpiece of Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture.
Continue overland to Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, also known as
the "Pink City". Overnight at Jaipur .
Day 05 : Amber Fort Excursion and Jaipur Sightseeing
Today, you are transported back in time. Experience riding royally atop
elegantly draped and painted elephants, up to the mountain fortress of
Amber. Later, enjoy a tour of Jaipur City, visiting Hawa Mahal or "Palace
of Winds," City Palace and the ancient observatory. Overnight at
Jaipur.
Day 06 : Jaipur - Mandawa
Today, you drive to Mandawa in the Shekhawati region known as "the
open air art gallery" of Rajasthan. The Castle Mandawa, a rugged and
handsome fort, featuring war-scarred turrets, lofty domes and ancient
cannons, offers gracious hospitality with modern comforts for your night
stay. Overnight at Mandawa.
Day 07 : Mandawa - Bikaner
Visit enchanting villages in the Shekhawati region. The many havelis (town
mansions) are covered with frescoes painted by local artists. Continue to
the fascinating city of Bikaner, tucked away in the desert of western
Rajasthan and characterized by its beautiful sandstone architecture. Enjoy
your stay at historic hotel, carved out of red sandstone and still inhabited
by the royal family. Overnight at Bikaner.
Day 08 : Bikaner Sightseeing
Start the day by visiting the unusual and impressive Junagarh Fort, built
on the desert plain itself, instead of a usual hilltop. The palace complex
with its sumptuously decorated interiors, ornately lacquered walls and
dazzling colored glass, are perhaps the best preserved examples of their
kind in India. Overnight at Bikaner.
Day 09 : Bikaner - Jaisalmer
Drive to Jaisalmer, a fascinating city rising from the heart of the Thar
Desert like a golden mirage. The commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone
stands in awesome splendor. Overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 10 : Jaisalmer Sightseeing
Visit the awesome Jaisalmer Fort, housing the entire township within its
ramparts. Visit the Lovely Nathmalji-ki-Haveli and Patwonki- Haveli; three
beautifully sculptured Jain Temples built between the 12th and 13th
centuries; and five interconnected palaces. No trip to Jaisalmer is complete
without a sunset trip to the picturesque sand dunes of Sam and a camel
safari. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes; the numerous musicians and
dancers are a photographer's delight. Overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 11 : Jaisalmer - Manvar
Drive to the enchanting Thar Desert oasis of Manvar, where you enjoy your
stay in a luxurious tented camp and experience a night in the desert. Dine
al fresco tonight under a canopy of stars, with entertainment including folk
dancing and indigenous music. Overnight at Manvar.
Day 12 : Manvar - Jodhpur
Embark on an early morning camel safari to witness the magnificent sunrise
over the desert dunes. Later travel to Jodhpur. Visit the invincible
Mehrangarh Fort and the Jaswant Thada, a graceful marble cenotaph built in
1899. Overnight at Jodhpur.
Day
13 : Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur
This morning depart for Udaipur. Stop en route and tour the beautifully
sculpted 15th century Jain Temples of Ranakpur. Continue your journey,
stopping for lunch at Maharani Bagh - a mango grove and the private gardens
of the Maharana of Jodhpur. Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 14 : Udaipur Sightseeing
Tour this famous "City of Lakes," known as Udaipur, one of the
most picturesque and romantic cities of India. Visit City Palace with its
scalloped arches, fretted balconies and cupolas Saheliyon ki Bari Garden and
the folklore museum where you can see a presentation of the string puppets
typical to this area. The afternoon is at leisure. Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 15 : Udaipur - Mumbai
Your day is at leisure. Evening flight to Mumbai (formerly Bombay). After
dinner, bid farewell to India, and depart on your international flight
filled with colorful memories of your regal escapade in the heart of
Rajasthan.