HERITAGE RAJASTHAN TOUR

The Heritage Rajasthan Tour is our unique 15 day Rajasthan tour package during which you encounter mammoth forts, beautiful palaces and ancient heritage monuments. Choose this tour for an insight into Rajasthan’s history, culture and heritage and experiencing royal hospitality. The Heritage Rajasthan package tour offers new experiences every single day. In Delhi, you enjoy a rickshaw ride in the crowded by-lanes of India’s oldest markets – Chandni Chowk which was built in the 17th Century. At Ranakpur, marvel at the 15th century Jain temples which have 1400 pillers each having unique patterns and design. At Eklingji and Nagda, you discover temples with exquisite stone carvings built in the 6th Century which are a delight to watch. Enjoy a breathtaking camel ride across the stunning Thar Desert at Jaisalmer. Also included in the tour is a jeep safari to villages situated near Deogarh. The highlight of this Rajasthan package tour is that it offers stay at three palatial properties – Gajner Palace, Deogarh Mahal and Somode Palace.

DAY 01: DELHI

Arrival at Delhi airport. You will be welcomed at the IGI airport by our representative and transferred to your hotel in a private chauffeur driven car/coach. Quickly fulfill the formalities of arrival and check–in at the hotel (at 1200 hours) and start your exploration of India with a city tour of Old Delhi.Our first pitstop is Jama Masjid, built in 1650, it is one of the largest mosques in Asia. Enjoy rickshaw ride in the narrow lanes and alleys of the ancient bazaar of Chandni Chowk. Visit the majestic Red Fort, a huge complex built of red sandstone, the capital of Mughal Empire in India for two centuries. Lets not call it a day yet as we continue our drive to Raj Ghat and pay homage to Mahatama Gandhi, the father of our nation. This completes the visit to Old Delhi and begins our tour of New Delhi. On your way to Qutub Minar, you drive past the 16th century Humayun’s Tomb. Qutub Minar is one of the tallest towers of the 12th century built in Persian architecture style. Before returning to hotel we take a bus tour of the India Gate, Parliament Buildings and President House and finally returns to hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 02: DELHI – MANDAWA (270 KM, 6 HOURS)

We leave by car/coach in the morning to reach Mandawa, founded in 18th century, the town is dominated by medieval fort of Mandawa with a painted arched gateway adorned with painting of Lord Krishna and his cows. Arrival and check–in at hotel. This place has been referred to as the “open art gallery” because it is not only Mandawa but the entire Shekhawati region which is full of fascinating mansions known as havelis in local language which have beautiful intricate frescos painted walls. Afternoon city tour of Shekhawati area to visit Chokhani, Podar , Goenka , Ladia and Saraf havelis which are few of the wonderful examples of this architectural marvel. Overnight stay.

DAY 03: MANDAWA – BIKANER – GAJNER (230 KM, 5 HOURS)

We leave for the eloquent desert city of Bikaner in the morning. It dwells on the ancient caravan routes that originated from Africa and West Asia. The city was founded by Rao Bikaji and renowned for sculptured temples and wonderful palaces in red and yellow sand stones. Arrive Bikaner and check–in at hotel. Afternoon, we go for city tour of Bikaner by first visiting Junagadh Fort which was constructed in 1556 AD by Raja Rai Singh. The major attraction lies in its arcades, Darbar halls, royal rooms, and Jarokhas or screen windows.

Then proceed to Gajner to check–in at Gajner Palace which is an incomparable jewel in the desert. This beautiful treasure trove was built by H.H. Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh of Bikaner on the banks of Lake. The palace comprises of Luxurious art Deco style with Doric pillars, ornamental staircases, and large windows, which attest an artistic intelligence of the bygone era. The Palace features a private wildlife sanctuary, which is home to endangered antelopes like the chinkara, black buck, and neelgai. Overnight stay at palace.

DAY 04: GAJNER – JAISALMER (300 KM, 6 HOURS)

After breakfast, we leave for Jaisalmer also known as Golden City. It was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 and is truly unmatched and unlike other towns in Rajasthan. It was on famous ancient silk route and a trade center in those years. Even today, it retains medieval charm and its narrow streets, magnificent forts and havelis take you back in that period. After arrival check–in at the hotel. In the afternoon, we take you to Bada Bagh to marvel at intricate carvings at Royal Cenotaphs or Chatris of royal family and then you will enjoy spectacular view of Sonargarh Fort and sunset over the sandunes at Gadsisar Lake. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 05: JAISALMER

After breakfast, we explore golden city and start with our visit to Jaisalmer Fort which is one of the oldest forts in Rajasthan. The fort is made of yellow sandstone and it is a massive structure in the desert town. The architecture of fort is an amalgamation of Rajput and Islamic style. This is undoubtedly a breath–taking sight to watch as it appears to rise from the arid sands of Thar. The fort is actually still alive with people still abiding within its walls.The fort complex consists of a palace and numerous beautiful Jain temples. Nearby is Patwon ki Haveli, one of the largest havelis in Rajasthan. It is a group of five small havelis with beautiful intricate carvings on the windows. Even today, you can sense the old world charm and royalty of these havelis. We will also visit Nathmal ki Haveli which gives visitors a glimpse of Marwari community lifestyle. The carvings on the walls are a visual treat to the eyes. Later in the afternoon, get ready for an excursion to the sand dunes, few kilometer away from Jaisalmer City. Enjoy the sun set across the horizons of never ending sand dunes on the back of a camel in the desert. It is now time to return to the hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 06: JAISALMER – JODHPUR (310 KM, 6 HOURS)

We leave for Jodhpur in the morning. Jodhpur is also known as gateway to Thar desert and the blue city as most of the houses in the old Jodhpur are painted in blue color. This crowded desert city flutters with beauty, warmth and romance. A visit to Jodhpur is a romantic journey into the past with forts, palaces, temples, culture, tradition, spices, fabric, color, and flourishing handicrafts. Arrive at Jodhpur and check–in at hotel. Afternoon, we go for city tour of Jodhpur. The city is also known as the blue city as most of the houses are painted in blue. We first visit Mehrangarh Fort which stands a hundred feet above a cliff and dominates skyline of Jodhpur. It is made of red sand stone and looks invincible and impressive. The Palaces within the fort are known for intricate carvings and courtyards. There is a good collection of musical instruments, royal costumes, royal palanquins, and cannons. We also visit Jaswant Thada which is beautifully set against the hilly background and glistening lake. Overnight stay.

DAY 07: JODHPUR – RANAKPUR – UDAIPUR (280 KM, 6 HOURS)

In the morning, we shall leave for Udaipur and en–route stop to visit Ranakpur. The Jain temples at Ranakpur are dedicated to Adinath, the first tirthankara of Jains. The temples are very sacred and must visit for followers of Jain religion. But it is not only religious significance but the temples are also known for intricate carving on stone. The most interesting feature is that there are no less than 1400 pillars in the temple and none of the pillars is similar to each other as these are all carved in a different pattern. The domes of the temple are also richly decorated. Later proceed to Udaipur which is one of the best examples of royal grandeur and also known as Venice of the East. Udaipur city was capital in the Mewar region. It was built after the ruler of Chittorgarh retreated when almost invincible fort at Chittorgarh, former Capital of Marwar, was captured by the Mughal emperor Akbar. Arrive in Udaipur and check–in the hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 08: UDAIPUR

We shall start our tour of Udaipur city in the morning with visit of City Palace which took three centuries to complete the construction incorporating brilliant ideas of architecture. The Palace is a big complex of joining buildings. The rooms feature typical Rajput architecture with decorated mirrors, glassware and magnificent frescoes. There is also a Museum which displays how Udaipur city was founded by Raja Uday Singh and later developed by other Maharajas in form of paintings. We shall next visit Jagdish temple which is adjacent to City and a steep staircase takes us there. The entrance of the temple is greeted by two elephants. The stone art work and intricate carving on the walls is remarkable. We shall now drive to Saheliyon Ki Bari Gardens which is the most beautiful garden in the city. It was built for princess and her forty eight maids who has come to Udaipur along with her as part of her dowry. The wonderful lay out of the garden is a treat to your eyes.In the afternoon we shall go for an excursion to Eklingi and Nagda. Eklingji is a very famous and sacred Hindu Temple. It was constructed in 9th century by Guhila dynasty of Mewar. The final visit of the day is Nagda, which was founded by Nagaditya, the fourth Mewar King, in the 6th century. Nagda is famous for 10th century Sas–Bahu Temple to hotel for overnight stay

DAY 09: UDAIPUR – DEOGARH (135 KM, 3HOURS)

In the morning leave for Deogarh. Arrival at Deogarh and check–in at Deogarh Mahal to experience regal hospitality of Rajasthan. Deogarh Mahal is situated over a hill overlooking village. Built in 17th century, it stands atop a hill and offers great views of the surrounding lakes and hills. Earlier abode of the king is now a magnificent hotel, which is owned and operated by a royal family. Every corner of the palace has stories to tell. It is one of the most remote and charming heritage hotels in Rajasthan. In the Afternoon Jeep safari to nearby villages. Overnight stay.

DAY 10: DEOGARH – CHITTORGARH – BUNDI (320 KM, 6 HOURS)

In the morning leave for Bundi. But, before reaching there, we will stop at Chittaurgarh which is India’s most noteworthy medieval fort built in the seventh century. Situated on a great height, Chittaurgarh sprawls remarkably over the nearby towns. Chittaur fell twice in the sixteenth century, first to the strengths of Sultan of Gujrat and later to the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Surrendered by its rulers who later settled for another capital at Udaipur, resulted in the ruins of Chittaur’s apartments and palaces. Little has survived the assaults of the armed forces and of time, but there still is enough to give a sneak peak into the history at what probably has been one of Rajputana’s most prominent fortifications. Continue drive to Bundi and check–in at hotel. Bundi is famous for its Taragarh Fort, Havelis and miniature paintings which are famous all over. Overnight stay.

DAY 11: BUNDI – SAMODE (260 KM, 5 HOURS)

In the morning go for sightseeing of Bundi. Visit Bundi Fort which is a great piece of Rajput architecture and beautifully decorated with arches and ornate windows. Also visit Bundi Palace which is well known for exquisite frescos. Later drive to Samode which is a small village set among rugged Aravali hills. The real charm of this place is stay at a very charming heritage hotel, Samode palace. The palace dates back to 19th century and is built on three levels, each with its own courtyard. The main highlight of the Palace is the exquisite Diwan–i–Khas, which is decorated with original paintings and exquisite mirror work. You can also visit Fort and have great views from the ramparts. You can also visit the village and shop for local handicrafts like block–printed fabric and bangles. Overnight stay in Samode Palace which has been host to many royalties and celebrities from all over the world.

DAY 12: SAMODE – JAIPUR (45 KM, 1 HOURS)

In the morning, we leave Samode to first visit Amer Fort which is perched on a hill. The architecture of the fort is a unique blend of Rajput and Hindu style. Amer is the former citadel of Kachwahas of Amer who had ruled the city. It is a thrilling climb to the fort as its done sitting on an elephant’s back. The Fort is known for cobblestones pathways with enormous fortification. There are beautiful buildings inside the fort including Sheesh Mahal (palace of glass), Jai Mandir and Sukh Niwas. Later check–in at hotel. Afternoon, we start our exploration of the majestic city of Jaipur with a visit to the City Palace, the former royal residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Even today, the royal family abides in a part of the palace that is cordoned off for the visitors. It is quite different from other Rajput palaces and forts as apart from the Rajput architecture you can also observe smithereens of Mughal architecture. Not far away from the city palace is Jantar Mantar which possesses various astrological instruments that have impressed astronomers all over the world. Here you will see the largest sundial in the world and one of the best preserved observatories. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 13: JAIPUR – ABHANERI – FATEHPUR SIKRI – AGRA (265 KM, 6 HOURS)

After breakfast, get ready to depart for Agra, home to Taj Mahal. But, before reaching Agra, we shall stop at Abhaneri village where you will visit Chand Baori, an ancient hidden stepwell. The step wells are unique in this part of the world and were used for storage of water by rainwater harvesting. They also served as pools for ritual cleansing before entering a temple. Our next stop is Fatehpur Sikri, the best preserved Mughal Palace city in India which was built by Akbar in 16th century. He used the best craftsmen in the country to build the city but unfortunately had to abandon it a few years later after the water system failed. After exploring the fort, proceed to Agra and check–in at the hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 14: AGRA

In the morning, we begin exploring the city of Agra, first visiting one of the Ancient Seven Wonders of the World, “Taj Mahal” It is a mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his beloved Mumtaz Mahal. It took no less than 22 years to build this architectural wonder and was finally completed in the year 1653. The interiors of Taj Mahal are adorned with highest quality inlay work incorporating semi–precious stones. Taj Mahal is undoubtedly a treat to your eyes and spectacle to watch. Then visit Agra Fort which had been the seat of power of the Mughal dynasty for many centuries. The huge awe–inspiring facades of the fort are a symbol of strength, power and resilience of the might empire. The view of Taj Mahal from the fort is also unforgettable. Later we continue our Agra tour and visit Sikandra, the tomb of great Akbar. It is interesting to note that the emperor himself chose the site of his tomb and started the construction although it was later completed by his son, Jahangir. This is made of red sandstone with fine inlay work of marble. After city tour of Agra, return to hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 15: AGRA – DELHI (200 KM, 4/5 HOURS )

After breakfast, transfer to Delhi airport to catch flight for onward destination.