Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan

Set off this morning to explore Lutyen’s designed New Delhi and learn about the city’s British heritage. Visit the gracious Humayun’s Tomb and Qutb Minar – one of the earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. In the afternoon, visit the 17th-century Jama Masjid and complete your tour of Delhi with an exciting cycle-rickshaw ride that allows you to get under the skin of Old Delhi whilst exploring its bustling alleyways filled with spice merchants and jewellers.

Rise early and board India’s fastest train, the Gatimaan Express to Agra, once the capital of the Mughal Empire. On arrival, proceed to visit the striking tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, popularly referred to as ‘Baby Taj’ and then continue to explore the imposing Agra Fort, which provides an insight into 16th century Mughal court. Then, after time to rest and relax, later this afternoon, go for a stroll through Mehtab Bagh, a classic Mughal Garden that offers outstanding views of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

Rise early to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Built as a monument to eternal love and described by poet Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of time”, this magnificent 17th-century mausoleum made of milk-white makrana marble was created by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz. Next, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s abandoned capital city, and continue to the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan.

Set off this morning to explore the yellow-hued Amer Fort. Capital of the Kacchwaha Rajputs until the 18th century, Amer is one of Rajasthan’s finest hill-top forts and is famed for its lavish murals, carvings, and Mughal-style gardens. The most striking feature of this Fort-Palace is the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) with its intricate glass inlaid panels and mirrored ceilings. Next, visit the hilltop fort of Nahargarh, affectionately known as ‘Tiger Fort’ and take in the glorious views of the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, discover havelis and markets in the Old City of Jaipur on foot and by tuk-tuk (supplement applies).

Start the day by visiting the splendid City Palace, where the highlight is the royal quarters and the chance to see the private collections of the Jaipur Maharajas. Continue to Jantar Mantar, the largest stone observatory in the world, and view the magnificent Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), a high-screen façade with nearly 900 jharokhas (latticed windows). In the afternoon, drive along the semi-arid flat plains of Rajasthan, passing through quaint villages and farmlands to Shekhawati, popularly known as Rajasthan’s open-air art gallery. On arrival, check in at one of the finest restored mansions.

Shekhawati was an important trading hub between 1830 and 1930, and the villages in the region were home to prosperous merchants who built exquisite havelis (mansions) and decorated them with impressive frescoes. This morning, enjoy a guided walk visiting some of the interesting havelis in the region and marvel at the profusion of intricate wall paintings. Along the way, meet artists and learn first-hand about the traditional techniques still practised to restore old crumbling mansions.

Drive off the usual tourist trail and pass through idyllic Rajasthani villages to Nagaur, a historic town built around the spectacular 12th-century Ahichattragarh Fort. The sprawling fort is a fine example of Rajput-Mughal architecture and an important bastion that provided shelter to the Maharaja of Jodhpur during the 18th century. After taking time to rest and relax, later this afternoon, enjoy sunset strolls along the magnificent ramparts of Ahichattragarh Fort and take in the wonderful views of Nagaur.

Begin your day with a guided walk through the delightful town and visit the lovely mosques within the old city’s walls. Then, this morning’s fascinating drive through the vast, empty desert will bring you to Jaisalmer. Founded in 1156, Jaisalmer’s strategic location on the famed Silk Route turned its merchant princes prosperous as Jaisalmer developed into an important hub connecting India with Persia and beyond. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Begin your day with a visit to the historic ‘Golden Fortress’ and discover well-preserved merchant homes and beautifully sculpted ancient Jain temples on your guided walk through narrow medieval streets and alleyways of the surviving fortified city – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the ramparts of the fort, enjoy spectacular views of the town that spills down the hillside below. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, spend the afternoon exploring the abandoned 13th-century village of Kuldhara nearby (supplement applies).

Leave Jaisalmer behind and drive across the Thar Desert to the small village of Manvar, where you will turn off the road into the desert wilderness for a night’s camping under the stars. Later this afternoon, embark on a camel ride and explore the small secluded villages nearby. Watch the sun set over the magical dunes before returning to your camp. In the evening, there will be a cultural performance of dance and music under the stars.

A morning’s drive will bring you to the charming ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur. After time to rest and relax, this afternoon enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the old city that will offer you the chance to see crumbling havelis, small atmospheric temples, and lively mosques and explore bustling markets that sell everything from delicious samosas to exquisite silk sarees.

Spend the morning visiting the towering Mehrangarh Fort, which offers breathtaking views of the city and, within its walls, contains several imposing palaces that provide a fascinating insight into the historical life of the city and the trappings of royalty. Admire the fabulous collection of miniature wall paintings before visiting the royal cenotaphs and the bustling markets of the old city. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Alternatively, this evening visit the 18th-century Chokelao Bagh garden at the foot of the Mehrangarh Fort, which is filled with traditional flowering plants. Then, conclude your explorations with dinner at the Chokelao restaurant, which is set on the upper terrace and offers striking views of the fort (supplement applies).

A picturesque drive through the rugged Aravalli Hills will bring you to Ranakpur. Here, explore the exquisite Jain temple complex, where each of the 1,444 carved pillars is unique and individually designed. Then, continue to Udaipur, which is regarded as one of the most scenic cities in Rajasthan. This charming town dotted with white-marble palaces and serene artificial lakes is set against a backdrop of green hills, whilst its narrow streets lined with delightful havelis still retain their old-world charm. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy your hotel facilities.

Begin your day with a visit to the City Palace, an impressive complex on the banks of Lake Pichola that elegantly combines Rajasthani, European and Chinese design. Marvel at the intricate stonework and stylish interiors featuring delicate murals, exquisite glass, mirrors and ornamental tiles before proceeding to the Fateh Prakash Palace to explore the Crystal Gallery and the grand Durbar Hall. Then, visit the intricately carved Jagdish temple and explore Udaipur’s quaint streets on foot. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing private sunset cruise on Lake Pichola.

Transfer to Udaipur airport and check in for your onward flight.