Rajasthan Heritage Expedition

ARRIVAL IN DELHI

A CITY OF HERITAGE AND HISTORY: Your journey begins as you land at New Delhi International Airport, where our representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. This metropolis, a dynamic blend of heritage and modernity, has served as the heart of India for centuries. A magnet for emperors, traders, and travellers alike, Delhi has been rebuilt multiple times, reflecting the grandeur of its past. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, adjusting to the rhythm of this incredible destination before setting off on an unforgettable tour through history and culture.

New Delhi

DISCOVERING THE HISTORIC QUARTERS OF DELHI: Accompanied by a local expert, delve into the city's vibrant contrasts. Begin in Old Delhi at Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. This grand structure stands as a testament to Mughal architecture. Navigate the narrow alleys of Chandni Chowk on a rickshaw, witnessing a marketplace unchanged for centuries. Drive past the Red Fort, a striking reminder of imperial power, before visiting Raj Ghat, the resting place of Mahatma Gandhi. In the afternoon, tour parts of New Delhi, where colonial elegance meets contemporary India. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal, followed by a serene walk through Sunder Nursery, a landscaped garden linked to Mughal traditions. A drive past India Gate, Parliament House, and the Presidential Palace completes the day’s exploration.

Meals Included: Breakfast

New Delhi

Agra

A CITY OF LEGENDARY MONUMENTS: Board the Gatiman Express, India's premier high-speed train, for a comfortable ride to Agra. This city, once the seat of the Mughal Empire, is famed for its architectural wonders. Upon arrival, visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO-listed stronghold that housed emperors and shaped the destiny of a dynasty. Wander through its palaces and courtyards, where stories of conquest and love still linger. Later, settle into your hotel. Later, you have options to visit Mehtab Bagh, a riverside garden offering breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal at sunset—a perfect vantage point to admire this world-renowned landmark from across the Yamuna River.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Agra

SUNRISE AT THE TAJ & THE ROAD TO JAIPUR: Rise early to witness the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft hues of dawn. This exquisite monument of love, crafted from white marble, stands as one of the greatest testaments to architectural brilliance. As the first light of day illuminates its intricate carvings, your guide will share the poignant love story that inspired its creation. After breakfast, journey towards Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. En route, explore Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted Mughal city that once thrived under Emperor Akbar. Its well-preserved palaces and mosques provide a fascinating glimpse into the empire's vision of grandeur. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check into your hotel. Optional experiences include a Bollywood film screening at Raj Mandir Cinema, known for its Art Deco splendour, or attending the Aarti ceremony at Birla Temple, a mesmerising spiritual ritual set against a backdrop of white marble.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jaipur

EXPLORING THE PINK CITY – A HERITAGE TREASURE: Explore Amer Fort, a stunning hilltop stronghold and former capital of the Rajput rulers before Jaipur’s founding. With intricate mirror work and stunning courtyards, this fortress embodies Rajasthan’s royal legacy. On your way back, stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an architectural marvel with latticed windows once used by royal women to observe the streets below. The afternoon takes you to City Palace, where a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture houses rare artefacts from the region’s past. Nearby, visit the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory with remarkable precision, showcasing India’s scientific advancements of the 18th century. For a deeper cultural connection, consider a Pink Tuk-Tuk ride through Jaipur’s bustling streets or a visit to a Jaipur Blue Pottery workshop, where artisans craft delicate ceramics using centuries-old techniques.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jaipur

PUSHKAR

A SPIRITUAL AND CULTURAL SANCTUARY: After breakfast, set off towards Pushkar, a sacred town nestled between rugged hills and separated from Ajmer by the mystical Nag Pahar (Snake Mountain). This revered pilgrimage site holds a unique place in Hindu mythology and is best known for its Brahma Temple, one of the few dedicated to the creator of the universe. At the heart of the town lies Pushkar Lake, a semi-circular holy water body fringed by over 500 temples and ghats. Pilgrims from across India come to take a ritual dip in its sacred waters, believed to absolve sins. The town is also famous for its annual camel fair, a vibrant spectacle that draws thousands of traders, herders, and travellers. Explore the bustling bazaars, where an array of handicrafts, textiles, and rose-based products—a specialty of Pushkar—are on offer. The town’s laid-back pace and deeply spiritual atmosphere make it an unforgettable stop on your expedition.

Meals Included: Breakfast

KHIMSAR

FORTS, FAIRS, AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS: This morning, embark on a journey towards Khimsar, with an en-route stop at Nagaur Fort. One of Rajasthan’s most impressive strongholds, this ancient walled city dates back to the 4th century and has witnessed numerous battles. It hosts two of the region’s largest cattle fairs, where traders compete in races and traditional competitions featuring camels, horses, and bullocks, all accompanied by spirited folk music and dance. Continue towards Khimsar, an oasis of tranquillity in the desert. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. For those seeking adventure, a Jeep safari into the surrounding dunes (available at an additional cost) offers a thrilling way to experience Rajasthan’s stark yet mesmerising landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DECHU

EXPERIENCE THE GOLDEN DUNES OF DECHU: Start your day with a heritage walk through Khimsar Fort, a stunning architectural marvel. Originally built as a military bastion in the 16th century, it was later transformed into a royal residence in the 18th century. The finely carved stone balconies and intricate lattice windows of the zenana (women’s quarters) provide a glimpse into the opulent lives of Rajasthan’s rulers. Later, drive to Dechu, a gateway to Rajasthan’s desert landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your desert retreat. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, this region offers some of the most spectacular vistas of rolling sand dunes. As the sun begins to set, embark on a 4x4 desert safari, navigating the undulating terrain while searching for wildlife that has adapted to these extreme conditions. This makes for an unforgettable desert experience, where the silence of the dunes is broken only by the whispering winds and distant echoes of desert life.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jodhpur

DISCOVERING THE BLUE CITY: This morning, travel to Jodhpur, the second-largest city in Rajasthan and the historic capital of the Marwar Kingdom. Jodhpur, known as the Blue City, features a striking maze of indigo-hued houses beneath the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. The blue colour, once reserved for the Brahmin caste, is now a hallmark of Jodhpur’s skyline and is said to help keep homes cool during the scorching summer months. The city’s rich history, dating back to 1459, is interwoven with tales of warrior kings, desert battles, and dynastic legacies. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the timeless atmosphere of this regal city.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Jodhpur

Jodhpur

A HERITAGE CITY RICH IN HISTORY: Begin the day with a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort, a formidable stronghold perched 125 metres above the city. This 15th-century citadel, described by Rudyard Kipling as "the work of angels, fairies, and giants," dominates the skyline. Wander through its grand palaces, courtyards, and museums, where intricate carvings and priceless artefacts narrate the story of Jodhpur’s ruling dynasty. From the fort, continue to Jaswant Thada, a white marble cenotaph built in honour of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Overlooking a serene lake, this site is a peaceful retreat offering panoramic views of the fort and the city below. In the afternoon, explore Jodhpur’s historic quarters, where a maze of narrow alleyways leads to Sadar Bazaar, a lively marketplace filled with artisans, spice traders, and textile merchants. Hop onto a tuk-tuk and navigate through the vibrant streets, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern commerce.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Udaipur

TEMPLES OF RANAKPUR & THE CITY OF LAKES: Depart from Jodhpur and journey south towards Udaipur, a city of serene lakes and royal heritage. En route, stop at the spectacular Jain temples of Ranakpur, a 15th-century marvel hidden in the secluded valleys of the Aravalli Range. This sacred complex is renowned for its intricate carvings, finely decorated ceilings, and a breathtaking assembly of 1,444 uniquely sculpted pillars—no two alike. Important note: The temples open at 11:00 AM, and visitors must adhere to local customs—leather items, bare legs, and black clothing are not permitted. After exploring Ranakpur, continue towards Udaipur, where the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola welcome you. In the evening, embark on a boat ride across this picturesque lake, gliding past palaces, havelis, ghats, and embankments that reflect the grandeur of the city’s past. Stop at Jag Mandir Island, where the exquisite Gul Mahal Pavilion offers a glimpse into the architectural finesse of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Udaipur

Begin the morning with a visit to the City Palace, an awe-inspiring fortress of white marble perched on the banks of Lake Pichola. This vast royal residence, fortified yet elegant, houses courtyards, museums, and intricate chambers that narrate the legacy of the Mewar dynasty. Enter through Tripolia Gate, a triple-arched marvel from 1725, and admire the Suraj Gokhada, a historic balcony where rulers once reassured their people in times of turmoil. In the afternoon, visit the Jagdish Temple, the largest and most splendid shrine in Udaipur, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s 16th-century architecture is adorned with intricately carved pillars, sculpted elephants, and vibrant friezes, showcasing the spiritual and artistic richness of the region. Drive past Fateh Sagar Lake, a scenic reservoir that enhances the city’s natural beauty, before arriving at Sahelion-ki-Bari, the Garden of the Maids-of-Honour. This royal retreat, adorned with elegant fountains, marble kiosks, and ornamental pools, once served as a sanctuary for the women of the court.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Udaipur

Mumbai

ENTERING THE HEART OF MODERN INDIA: After breakfast, transfer to Udaipur Airport for your flight to Mumbai, India’s financial powerhouse and cultural melting pot. Upon arrival, a local representative will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Mumbai, a city of contrasts, blends colonial-era grandeur with contemporary vibrance. As the economic capital, it pulsates with energy, creativity, and commerce, while its coastal location adds an unmistakable charm. Known as the city that never sleeps, Mumbai embodies heritage, modernity, and an unbreakable spirit.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Mumbai

A CITY STEEPED IN HISTORY & LEGACY: Set out for a guided exploration of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, beginning with the Prince of Wales Museum (closed on Mondays). Housed within a heritage structure dating back to the colonial era, the museum showcases an extraordinary collection of ancient artefacts, sculptures, and artwork, offering a deep insight into India’s past. Next, visit Mani Bhawan, where Mahatma Gandhi lived from 1917 to 1934. Now a museum and research centre, it provides a poignant insight into the life and philosophy of India’s revered leader. Visit the Gateway of India, a grand triumphal arch built in 1911 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, this monument has stood witness to historic events, including the departure of British troops in 1948. Drive along Marine Drive, famously known as the Queen’s Necklace for its glittering arc of streetlights curving along the coastline. Pass by Chowpatty Beach, a lively hub where locals gather to enjoy the sunset, street food, and festive celebrations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DEPARTURE FROM MUMBAI

CONCLUSION OF A REMARKABLE JOURNEY: At the designated time, transfer to Mumbai Airport for your onward flight. As your expedition through Rajasthan’s heritage and India’s vibrant landscapes comes to an end, you take with you unforgettable memories, cultural encounters, and a deep connection to this land of legends and royalty.

Meals Included: Breakfast