Signature Luxury Rajasthan Tour

Today’s full-day tour of historic Delhi will start with a visit to the gracious tomb of Humayun, then continue to the National Museum to admire the exquisite collection of Chola bronzes dating back to the 10th century. Next, drive through the wide tree-lined avenues with photo-stop visits to India Gate – the War Memorial Arch; the Parliament House as well as the Vice Regal Palace – the official residence of the President of India. In the afternoon, visit the 17th century Jama Masjid – one of the largest mosques in Asia and complete your tour of Delhi with a walking tour that allows you to get under the skin of Old Delhi whilst exploring its bustling alleyways filled with spice merchants and jewellers.

Drive to Agra, once the capital of the Mughal Empire and home to the inimitable Taj Mahal. En route, visit Sikandra – Emperor Akbar’s splendid red sandstone tomb. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel.

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. Then, return to your hotel for breakfast. The remainder of the morning will be at leisure. In the afternoon, visit the imposing Agra Fort, which provides an insight into 16th century Mughal court as well as the lifestyle of the Mughals and the striking tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, which is popularly referred to as ‘Baby Taj’ and believed to be the first monument in India to be built entirely of white marble. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Enjoy a romantic Champagne breakfast from your suite’s private balcony, as dawn breaks over the Taj Mahal. Then, proceed to Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital city of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. This extensive and exceedingly well-preserved palace complex showcases an effortless integration of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. Next, board the Jan Shatabdi Express to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore National Park – India’s premier Tiger reserve.

Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives inside the picturesque Ranthambore National Park, with medieval ruins and man-made lakes set against dry deciduous forests.

Return to the park one last time in search of the elusive tigers and sloth bears, Nilgai, hyenas and crocodiles (shared jeep safari). In the afternoon, a scenic drive through rural villages and small towns will bring you to the vibrant ‘pink city’ of Jaipur. Planned by Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1727, Jaipur is an atmospheric city of bazaars, beautiful palaces, fine havelis and spectacular forts.

Set off this morning to discover 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. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Alternatively (supplement applies), enjoy a guided tour of the markets in the Old City of Jaipur and shop for precious stones, exquisite hand-made jewellery or stylishly embroidered fabrics.

Begin your day with a visit to 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 the 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). This afternoon is at leisure. This evening, enjoy a magical sundowner atop the 19th century Naila Fort, an enchanted castle surrounded by woodland and is one of Mr Oberoi’s private retreats in India.

Leave Jaipur this morning and fly to the ‘Lake City’ of Udaipur, often regarded as one of the most scenic cities in Rajasthan. On arrival, transfer to the opulent The Oberoi Udaivilas, which enjoys a tranquil setting on the edge of Lake Pichola. Later this afternoon, set off to explore Udaipur. Start at the City Palace, an impressive complex on the shores of Lake Pichola that combines Rajasthani, European and Chinese design. Then, proceed to the Fateh Prakash Palace to explore the Crystal Gallery and the grand Durbar Hall before arriving at the intricately carved Jagdish temple. Conclude your explorations with a guided walk through Udaipur’s quaint streets before returning to your hotel.

Rise early for a hot air balloon flight (shared basis) and enjoy an unrivalled bird’s eye view of Udaipur’s picturesque lakes and palaces. The remainder of the morning is at leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities at your hotel. After relaxing and enjoying your surroundings, enjoy a private sunset cruise on Lake Pichola later this afternoon.

You will be collected from your hotel this morning and transferred to Udaipur Airport. On arrival, check in for your onward flight.