This tour covers all major cities across India's vast stretch of desert, and is perfect for those interested in exploring the must-sees and hidden pleasures which lie ahead. From the virtually unheard of areas in Shekhawati, famous for its painted havelis, to unforgettable rides on the hill railway in Jojawar; head for Karauli, a town rich in history, and where tourists are few and far between. You'll even get the chance to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra. With an inside look into India's more exotic side, in a rather idyllic setting, this trip has all the ingredients for a total escape. It's really a no-brainer!
The itinerary has been created by our local agency with one idea in mind: to inspire you. Every element can be adapted to your needs and interests, from duration to accommodation and activities.
When you arrive in Delhi Airport you’ll be met by our English-speaking driver and taken to your hotel.
Overnight in Delhi.
Your first full day in India will consist of a guided sightseeing tour, covering all the major highlights of Old Delhi- Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Raj Ghat, and the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk.
Later, visit New Delhi, including Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Raj Ghat, India Gate and Lotus Temple.
Overnight in Delhi.
Depart from Delhi and drive west to Rajasthan, reaching Mandawa by the mid-afternoon.
This town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is famous for its brightly painted Havelis built by successful merchants and traders over several centuries.
Mandawa is a small town, largely free of vehicle traffic which makes it ideal to explore on foot.
Overnight in Mandawa.
250 km, 6.5 hours
This morning, drive to Bikaner, a vast desert boasting one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan.
Visit one of the well-preserved palaces and the fort; you can also go for an excursion to the nearby camel breeding farm.
Overnight in Bikaner.
160 km, 4 hours
Today you'll have an optional morning visit to the (in)famous Karnimata Temple at Deshnok.
This truly unique place is universally known as the ‘Rat Temple’ due to the feeding of rodents which live in the area, and are seen as deities.
While it is without doubt an unforgettable place to visit, it is not an experience for everyone!
Later in the day, drive to Jaisalmer in the far west of Rajasthan, and in the evening you can enjoy a camel ride in the nearby Khuri village.
Overnight in Jaisalmer.
320 km, 7 hours
The ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer is dominated by its Fort, a picturesque structure which seems to rise up directly from the desert surrounding the city.
Can be toured with a guide, after which you'll spend time in the afternoon exploring the Old City area and sandstone havelis on foot.
Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Today, drive to the Blue city of Jodhpur, stopping en route at Osiyan to visit the impressive Hindu and Jain temples.
Once arrived you can spend the remainder of your day free to do as you please in Jodhpur, perhaps exploring the old city on foot.
Overnight stay in Jodhpur
300 km, 7 hours
Enjoy a visit to Jodhpur in the morning, an ancient trading town dominated by its famous fort - Meherangarh - which sits atop a ridge above the Old City's bustling markets and bazaars.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
Travel this morning towards Jojawar - a small town in the foothills of the Aravali Range with a suitably romantic and chivalric past, and a wonderful heritage hotel.
Overnight at Rawla Jojawar.
140 km, 3.5 hours
In the morning, head for the hills and board the rather unique mountain-railway train for a wonderful scenic route through the Aravali Range.
Later, return to Jojawar for lunch, before a jeep safari to visit the Bishnoi people in their residential villlages; they inhabit much of the western desert in Rajasthan.
The Bishnoi clan are semi-nomadic people with a strong ethos for protecting the fragile environment which surrounds them.
The jeep safari will help you learn about their lifestyle as well as the region's natural sparkle.
Overnight at Rawla Jojawar.
Today drive to Ranakpur and tour around Jainism. The drive from Ranakpur to Udaipur is truly beautiful as the road traverses lush valleys dotted with streams and waterfalls.
Upon reaching Udaipur, check in to your hotel and enjoy time in the late afternoon sipping a cool drink on a rooftop terrace over stunning Lake Pichola.
Overnight in Udaipur.
300 km, 6.5 hours
Named "the most romantic city in India", Udaipur is a magical place with major sites including the City Palace, Jagannath Temple and the island of Jag Mandir (which can be visited during your afternoon boat ride on the Lake).
While each major city in Rajasthan boasts unique and alluring markets, those in Udaipur are just as noteworthy.
Key things to look out for include the many silversmiths and painters who still produce miniature works in the age-old Udaipur-school tradition.
Overnight in Udaipur.
After breakfast drive to Bundi, following a visit to Taragarh Fort.
Also known as the 'Star Fort', Taragarh is the most striking element in the city.
It is popular among tourists due to its panoramic view of the city.
Later, visit the The Nawal Sagar Lake, a big manmade lake seen from the Taragarh Fort.
Located in the middle of the city, you'll be able to able to see the reflection of the entire city in the lake.
Overnight stay in Bundi.
270 km, 6 hours
Morning drive to Pushkar, a small and very sacred town clustered around the shores of a lake.
Explore the town on foot in the afternoon.
Overnight in Pushkar.
200 km, 4.5 hours
Depart from Pushkar and head to Jaipur, aka the ‘Pink City’ and the capital of modern-day Rajasthan.
The afternoon will be dedicated to exploring the bazaars in the walled city.
You might like to settle down to a Bollywood blockbuster at Raj Mandir, one of the most ornate cinemas in India.
Overnight in Jaipur.
160 km, 4 hours
The city of Jaipur has many historical sites to be discovered during today's guided sightseeing tour - these include Amber Fort on the city’s outskirts, the vast City Palace, the much-photographed Palace of the Winds, and much more.
Overnight in Jaipur.
This morning get ready for Karauli, a small town mid-way between Jaipur and Agra.
Here you can stroll through the markets, view local craftsmen at work and tour the spectacular City Palace which is still owned by the descendants of its founders.
Overnight in Karauli.
180 km, 4 hours
Spend a day discovering Karauli where you will have the option to visit the nearby Kaila Devi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kaila Devi is part of the same forest as the nearby Ranthambore National Park, but the contrast between the two is obvious, with many tourists visiting the latter daily, while Kaila Devi is well away from any major tourist route.
This low-key park is home to all the same animals as Ranthambore, except tigers, meaning you can walk in the Sanctuary, something not possible in many places in India.
Karauli is also a great place to relax at your hotel, engage in conversation with your hosts whose family history is full of enthralling stories and bargains in the genuinely local markets nearby.
Overnight in Karauli.
Depart Karauli and drive via Fatehpur Sikri to Agra. The abandoned Mughal capital of Fatehpur is one of the world’s ultimate ‘ghost towns’ having been occupied for only a very short time in the late 17th century.
Despite 300 years of exposure to the elements it remains in a remarkably good condition.
Tour the area with a guide and later proceed to Agra.
Overnight in Agra
160 km, 4 hours
On the last full day of your tour, you’ll be able to visit what is generally regarded as the most beautiful manmade structure in India, the Taj Mahal.
Later on in the day, depart for Agra and drive for 4 hours to Delhi.
If you plan to take an early morning flight you can directly transfer to Delhi Airport, otherwise you may want to consider spending an extra night in Delhi.
210 km, 4 hours
The price reflects this specific tour itinerary and is designed to give you an idea of the budget required for this destination. Throughout the trip-planning process, our local agency will tailor your itinerary around your budget.
| 2 Pax | 4 Pax | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person | £2,000 | £1,700 |
