Secrets of Rajasthan

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Secrets of Rajasthan

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834,558,802.00

Travel off the beaten path, out of the main cities, and through rural parts of northern India, rich in culture, history, art, heritage, architecture and wildlife. Properties have been chosen for their sustainability, and each have a story to tell and unique experiences to offer.

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Fast Facts

Duration:

Days

Group size:

Single supplement:

Destinations:

New Delhi, India, Sapotara, Bundi, Delwara, Jawai Bandh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer

Departs From:

New Delhi

Ends In:

New Delhi

Travel Styles:

Booking validity:

–

Best Months to Visit

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Tour Map

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India’s capital, New Delhi, lies on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, within the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful buildings, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the grand, sandstone Red Fort, striking […]

Type: Hotel

The Imperial is a luxury hotel located in New Delhi, India. The hotel is near several attractions, such as Jantar Mantar, the National Philatelic Museum and the Sri Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. Away from the city's hustle and bustle, the hotel is an oasis of calm and comfort, offering guests a peaceful atmosphere. The accommodation is elegant and spacious, with rooms and suites fitted with modern amenities such as minibars, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy delicious dishes and drinks at any one of the several on-site restaurants and bars. Additional amenities include a spa and a salon.

Type: Hotel

Ramathra Fort is near to the Kalisil Lake in Ramathra. This hotel is fairly isolated and surrounded by natural sites. The Kailadevi National Park is about 15 km away.Accommodation options for visitors involves a choice between a suite or a luxury tented camp. Each option comes with modern amenities within a comfortable setting.Jeep safaris can […]

Type: Hotel

Haveli Braj Bhushanjee was built 200 years ago and belongs to the Bohara Braj Bhushanjee family, which gave Bundi as many as four Prime Ministers all in the 19th century. This Haveli is situated on the road to the palace and its location makes it very convenient for the tourists to visit other places in […]

Type: Hotel

Housed in an 18th century palace in the village of Delwara, this heritage property features an outdoor heated pool, an ila only spa and palace concierge. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is provided. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, RAAS Devigarh is 2 km from the Nathdwara Temple and 8 km from Eklingji and Nagda temples. Udaipur Railway […]

Type: Hotel

Type: Luxury Tented Camp

Amongst fascinating, billion-year-old granite rock formations, where leopards roam wild and free, coexisting comfortably with the charismatic communities, is the pioneering SUJÁN JAWAI. Spectacularly set in a dramatic wilderness, the camp celebrates the great outdoors with panache. Spend unforgettable days in the wilderness tracking leopards and other wildlife. There is no better place to discover […]

Type: Luxury Tented Camp

Type: Boutique Hotel

RAAS Jodhpur is situated in Rajasthan, India, near Mehrangarh Fort, Ghanta Ghar, the Sheesh Palace, Fort Jodhpur and the Sardar Government Museum. Units feature air-conditioning, satellite television, a minibar, a safe and a hairdryer. There are two on-site restaurants and a cafe at the hotel. Additional amenities include a heated swimming pool, a spa, room […]

Type: Luxury Tented Camp

SUJÁN The Serai is situated in Rajasthan, India. Accommodation consists of luxury tents equipped with an en-suite bathroom, a shower, a lounge area, a veranda and complimentary Wi-Fi. Some units also have a private heated plunge pool. Guests can enjoy on-site dining with Western and local cuisine. Additional amenities include a bar, laundry services and […]

Type: Luxury Tented Camp

Type: Hotel

Pullman New Delhi Aerocity is located within a 3 km radius of the IGI Airport. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with coffee/tea-making facilities, minibars and LED TVs. Guests can start the day with a delicious breakfast. Other hotel facilities include a restaurant, a bar, a fitness centre and a swimming pool.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1

Upon arrival in India, a representative of Luxury Trips, holding a sign in your name, will meet you in the arrivals area upon exiting baggage claim and escort you to your hotel to check-in.

Delhi is one of India’s most vibrant cities today. It is not only a city that has played capital to various dynasties but is also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Today, apart from being at the political forefront, it also leads the country in terms of art, culture, culinary experiences, shopping, entertainment and overall standard of living. The city, like other ancient cities, is a beautiful homogeneous mix of the old and the contemporary. Delhi is a microcosm of all that is India

Location:

LocationNew Delhi

Accommodation:

Accommodation The Imperial

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 2

After breakfast start your tour of Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest and Delhi’s most spectacular mosque. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort (Closed on Monday) – a marvel in red sandstone, built on the banks of River Yamuna by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. This fort was built on the lines of the Agra Fort and has similar architectural marvels.

From here, board pedicabs to converse the busy and crowded streets of ‘Chandini Chowk’. Literally translates Chandini Chowk mean Golden Street and used to be the main royal market for the Mughal Empire; today, this is Delhi’s largest wholesale market and represents some of the most expensive real estate. The craziness of the market can be easily ignored as you become an onlooker of life in this huge bazaar. You traverse through two main streets Khari Baoli, the largest spice market and the jeweller row of Kinari Bazaar where in small cramped little shops significant trade of gold and silver is carried out.

The pedi cabs drop you back at your vehicle and you are driven to Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial – Rajghat. Located in a huge open park this monument is as peaceful and tranquil as the man himself.

Afternoon visit the Qutub Minar, the tallest minaret in India. Built in the 12th Century, this minaret is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is made of the traditional red sandstone and marble as also seen in later Mughal architecture. The complex also has an ancient iron pillar, which is considered to be 1600 years old. While the Qutub Minar is inscribed with Koranic verses for its entire length of 237 feet, the iron pillar in the same complex is inscribed with Brahmin poetry extolling the kings of the Gupta period.

Later visit, the mausoleum of Emperor Humayun. The monument was commissioned by Humayun’s wife, selected a Persian architect to build the tomb. He combined the best of Hindu and Persian architectural styles to create this fabulous monument, which went on to become the forerunner of the Mughal style of architecture in the country.

Lastly you are driven through Lutyen’s Delhi where you drive past India Gate – the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, Rashtrapati Bhawan – the Presidential Palace, the Parliament House and other beautiful buildings built by the noted British architect. This entire area of Delhi is lush, with parks, wide roads and rambling beautiful houses.

Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

Location:

LocationNew Delhi

Accommodation:

Accommodation The Imperial

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 3

In the morning your representative will meet you at hotel and will escort you to Railway station to connect train to Agra.

Agra was the erstwhile capital of the Mughal Empire. Located in central India, on the banks of the Yamuna River, this city has always been very important in the country’s history. Today, it is known around the world as the home of the Taj Mahal. Unlike most other Indian cities, Agra has not grown into a large metropolis, but maintains its small-town status. It is replete with monuments and places of interest.

On arrival at Agra, our guide will meet you at Railway station and will take you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Taj Mahal (closed on Friday). This monument is an amazing feat of human industry, a perfect example of beauty, symmetry and aesthetics. It is only once you enter the main gates and gaze upon the Taj, does the enormity of the task of building this mammoth structure impress. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjehan, this is a tribute of love for his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. As the rays of the sun hit the marble, they make it glitter, and change color, reflecting stark white against a very blue sun.

After lunch (own account) drive to Ramathra (4 hours).

Ramathra was granted as a jagir (fiefdom) in 1645 AD to Thakur Bhoj Pal by his father the Maharaja of Karauli. The name Ramathra honours Lord Rama, who, it is believed, camped here while on his epic journey to Lanka. Today, Ramathra Fort belongs to Thakur Brijendra Raj Pal and his family who are descendants of the founder.

The fort has a strong perimeter wall crowned with parapets. Its ramparts are wide and offer a spectacular view from the hilltop. Inside there is a multi-story palace, parts of which are being restored using traditional building techniques and local craftspeople. Stone lattices and a painted ceiling ornament the otherwise simple facilities. It was, after all, designed to be a battle fort.

Upon arrival check in at hotel rest for the day at leisure.

Location:

LocationSapotara

Accommodation:

Accommodation Ramathra Fort

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4

After breakfast enjoy the included activities and also choose from additional activities payable directly.

Ramathra Village Trail (included): A complete walking tour of Ramathra village, a small hamlet of farmers and cattle herders, takes about 3 hours. You see all kinds of work associated with tending crops and animals.

Boating At Sunset (included): Take a rowboat ride to Kalisil Dam at sunset. It is peaceful & picturesque with breathtaking views of the sunset & rich with birdlife. Life jackets, a bird book & also a pair of binoculars are provided.

Bird Watching (included): There are a variety of species of birds seen around the Fort & Lake. Bird watching can be done at the lake, at the marshes below the fort or during your walk to the village.

Picnic At The Lake (additional cost): Set out in a rowing boat to an island on the lake with breathtaking views & lots of birds & ducks, relax & enjoy a hot meal.

Wilderness Drive (additional cost): Tour the countryside, visit ‘Gujar’ hamlets, and explore a cavernous gorge and an old cave temple. Look out for possible wildlife sightings enroute.

Night Drive into the Buffer Zone of Kaila Devi National Park (additional cost): Drive across the Daang plateau stretching east to the Chambal River Valley and as far as Ranthambhore to the south. This area is filled with gorges. Until recently, tigers roamed the area, but visitors regularly see several varieties of deer, blue bulls, wolves, jackals, hyenas, foxes and if lucky, a wild boar, bear or leopard.

A day-trip to Karauli (additional charge): An hour’s drive from Ramathra, the city palace in Karauli and the temple of Madanmohanji are very well preserved. The Karauli bazaar is a busy place to explore. Lacquered bangles are a specialty, and one can see bangle makers at work.

Camel Cart Ride (additional charge): A ride through the village or to the lake.

Body Massage (additional charge): A full body massage by local village masseurs on the day beds on the ramparts of the fort .

Cooking Demo (additional charge): Learn Indian style cooking on wood fire chullas. Choose your dish & accompanying breads.

Location:

LocationSapotara

Accommodation:

Accommodation Ramathra Fort

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5

After breakfast drive to Bundi (4.5 hours). Bundi is a magnificent town. Dotted with palaces and forts, the place has a fairy tale quality about it. Bundi’s charm lies in its location –surrounded by orchards of orange, guava, pomegranate and mango trees, flanked by the Aravalli range and rivers and lined by fields of cotton, barley and wheat.

Upon arrival check in to your hotel.

In the afternoon guide will take you to the Bundi Palace, where its walls are adorned with some of the best frescoes and murals in India. A special gallery is open to visitors that contain stunning works of art. The art of Bundi has influences from the Deccan (southern India) rather than from the Mughal court. While you get a chance to appreciate the art, learn also about the Bundi Royal family and their special relationship with the British court.

Also visit Sukh Mahal or Rudyard Kipling’s House. Located in front of a lake, this beautiful and serene palace is where Kipling said he got the inspiration for his book Kim.

Location:

LocationBundi

Accommodation:

Accommodation Haveli Braj Bhushanjee

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 6

This morning after breakfast drive to Udaipur (5 hours).

Udaipur is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. Studded with lakes, amidst rolling hills is located this gem of a destination. Founded in 1559 by Mahrana Udai Singh II, Udaipur was the final capital of the state of Mewar. Here the king was designated caretaker and not ruler in the name of the Lord Shiva. Thus, the title given to the kings here was Maharana and the current Maharana is the 76th descendant of the family. Due to its strong location, Udaipur was never conquered either by the British or the Mughal Empire, thus leaving it bereft of their influence.

After checking in, take an afternoon Delwara Heritage Walk. Delwara village epitomizes the rich history of Rajasthan state. Traditionally the area was divided into kingdoms under the rule of tribal families. The Jhala Rajputs ruled the kingdom of Mewar wherein Delwara lay. Devigarh Palace was built at this strategic location in order to guard one of the three main passes into the valley of Udaipur. Due to its geographical importance, the principality of Delwara was awarded to Sajja Singh from Gujarat, for displaying his bravery and loyalty to Maharana Pratap of Mewar against the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the battle of Haldighati (1576), more information on this can be found below as part of our ‘Battle Stories’ experience.

The current community was once known as ‘devkul paton nagri’ or the ‘town of gods’. This was because it boasted approximately 1000 temples, out of which there were about 400 Jain Mandir Temples. Each successive ruler built their own temples worshipping different gods and over time these accumulated. Even today every street in Delwara has at least one temple.

Location:

LocationDelwara

Accommodation:

Accommodation Raas Devigarh

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 7

After breakfast, visit the City Palace Complex – built along the banks of the Lake Pichola, this is a series of Palaces that have been built since 1559. The maintenance and building of the palace continue to this date. Inside the palace you visit the museum with its collections from the royal wardrobe, paintings, carriages, armory and more. After this, visit the silver gallery – one of the newest additions to the palace to see the fantastic collection of silver of the House of Mewar. Walk out of the Palace Complex and through the quaint streets outside to visit the imposing Jagdish Temple. Unlike the temples at Ranakpur, the Jagdish Temple has intricate carvings right around it. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu (The Preserver in the Hindu trinity of Gods), the temple was built in 1651 by the then Maharana – Jagat Singh.

This evening a boat ride on Lake Pichola is planned so that you can enjoy watching the sun settle over the horizon from your unique vantage point.

Location:

LocationDelwara

Accommodation:

Accommodation Raas Devigarh

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 8

This morning after breakfast drive to Jawai (3 hours) – the land of the leopard. On arrival check in to your lodge. The rest of the day is at leisure with lunch and dinner at your lodge.

Jawai is a heart of untrammelled wilderness, where nomadic Rabari herdsmen have shared land with wildlife for centuries. The hilly landscape is considered a region of mystery, adventure, and is home to a variety of animals, most notably the leopards that grace the landscape.

The lodge offers many activities, and you can enjoy these or just relax.

Location:

LocationJawai Bandh

Accommodation:

Accommodation SUJÁN JAWAI

Type:

Accommodation Type Luxury Tented Camp

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9

A landscape inspiring adventure, myriad activities abound here. Enjoy morning and afternoon games drives, and stroll along the lake edge observing migrant fishing communities and flamboyant flamingos. Discover rural India and meander through colorful villages engaging with potters, bangle makers and weavers. Observe devout worshippers in quaint temples and shrines, and strap on your walking shoes for rambles through the wilderness. Seek out dynamic Rabari herdsmen that roam the land as they have for centuries, proud keepers of the significant bond between local culture and wildlife.

Location:

LocationJawai Bandh

Accommodation:

Accommodation SUJÁN JAWAI

Type:

Accommodation Type Luxury Tented Camp

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Jodhpur (3 hours).

Jodhpur – The second largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur has a long and valorous history involving severe hardships and battles. Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha a Rajput King, Jodhpur became the capital of his kingdom Marwar. Located on the strategic Delhi – Gujarat road the town prospered as a trade route. The state has always been known as a seat for art and architecture and has the monuments to prove it. Today, Jodhpur is on the international party circuit as also the fashion world.

Upon arrival check into the hotel. This afternoon, you see the Jaswant Thada, a white marble memorial to the rulers of Marwar. From here continue to Mehrangarh to see one of the best-preserved fort palaces in India. This multi award winning museum, houses one of the best galleries showcasing life of the court of Marwar. Galleries include Elephant howdahs, palanquins, paintings, woodcraft, textile and more. The base of the Mehrangarh hill, is surrounded by houses painted blue and it is these that give the city its name – The Blue City of Jodhpur.

Location:

LocationJodhpur

Accommodation:

Accommodation RAAS Jodhpur

Type:

Accommodation Type Boutique Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 11

After breakfast check out, and then take an off road adventure into the countryside. Jodhpur is located in one of the most infertile regions of Rajasthan. This area is home to a lot of tribes who live in peace and harmony with nature. Among these are the Bishnoi people, who are known across the world as conservationists. They don’t believe in killing any animals and survive on what they can grow in this harsh environment. You get the opportunity to talk to the villagers and understand how through their tireless efforts life has come back to this arid region of the country. Lunch is arranged at a picnic spot in the middle of the desert.

After visit drive to Jaisalmer (4.5 hours).

Jaisalmer – located at the edge of the country almost touching the international border and surrounded by the Thar Desert National Park, lies the city of Jaisalmer. Known as the Golden City or the City of the Gold Fort, Jaisalmer is one of the most intriguing and romantic cities of Rajasthan. The massive for which crowns the city houses villages, temples, hotels, schools and various other establishments and is a great place to walk around. Named after its founder Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a Rajput king in 1156 AD, “Jaisalmer” means “the Hill Fort of Jaisal”. As it was on the main spice route and caravan route, it gained prosperity through trade and the signs of this can be seen in the planning of the town as well as the intricately carved havelis or villas.

Upon arrival check in to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure.

Location:

LocationJaisalmer

Accommodation:

Accommodation SUJÁN The Serai

Type:

Accommodation Type Luxury Tented Camp

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12

After breakfast, explore Jaisalmer. Start with the amazing Jaisalmer fort, which dominates the skyline. This is a living fort, houses a quarter of the city’s population. The main attractions include the Royal Palace and some beautiful temples, but it is the walk through the fort that is enchanting.

As the region was made famous by being on the main trade routes, Jaisalmer was famous for villas or Havelis. These havelis are of note due to their exquisite bas relief which is now a signature of local architecture. Visit Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salam Singh-ki-Haveli, with its beautifully arched roof capped with blue cupolas and carved brackets in the form of peacock and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli. This afternoon visits the Gadi Sagar Lake, once the only source of water in Jaisalmer. End your day at Bada Bagh – the cenotaphs of the rulers of Jaisalmer.

In the evening you will be driven to Sam Sand Dunes to enjoy a camel ride and view the sunset.

Location:

LocationJaisalmer

Accommodation:

Accommodation SUJÁN The Serai

Type:

Accommodation Type Luxury Tented Camp

Room Basis:

Room Basis Full Board – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13

After breakfast at hotel, our representative will meet you at hotel lobby and escort you to airport to board your flight to Delhi.

Upon your arrival in Delhi, you will be met and escorted to your airport hotel where rooms are reserved till departure.

Location:

LocationNew Delhi

Accommodation:

Accommodation Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Day 14

You will be transferred to the International airport to connect with your flight back to home.

Location:

LocationNew Delhi

Accommodation:

Accommodation Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

Type:

Accommodation Type Hotel

Room Basis:

Room Basis B&B: Bed and Breakfast

Rates

From:

834,558,802.00

Enquire Now

Price Includes:

Breakfast daily except Ramanthra and Bera where 3 meals a day are included.
Transfer and excursions by air-conditioned Innova vehicle.
Local English speaking guides per the itinerary.
Entrance fees.
Train ticket Delhi/Agra.
Boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur.
2 Shared jeep safaris at Bera.
Bishnoi village jeep safari including lunch
Delwara Heritage Walk in Udaipur.
Camel ride in Jaisalmer.
Current applicable government taxes subject to change.

Price Excludes:

Meals, drinks, laundry, entrance fees, porterage, tours/excursions and transfers not specified;
Early check in / late check out at hotels (check in time is 2:00 pm and check out time is 12:00 pm).
Any scheduled flights and related taxes not specified;
Cancellation, baggage and medical insurance – which is essential;
Staff gratuities;
Any new gov. taxes, levies, fuel or industry increases which are beyond our control;
Any items of a personal nature or anything not specifically stated as included;
International airfare.

Reviews

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We just came back from a safari in Botswana, Namibia and Zambia, which was organised by Charlotte at ATI Holidays. We had a truly fantastic time, and would like to thank them for their help in organising it all. The…
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Secrets of Rajasthan