Complete Rajasthan
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Recapture some of the romance and adventure of India’s golden age with a journey through the colourful landscapes of the fabled “Land of Kings”. Steeped in the legacy of the Mughal emperors and the Rajput princes, you’ll travel in style through the heart of rural Rajasthan, to experience the character and charm of some of the oldest cultural heritage on the Subcontinent. From the bustling streets of Delhi, where you will be served a home-cooked lunch in an old haveli, ...
Recapture some of the romance and adventure of India’s golden age with a journey through the colourful landscapes of the fabled “Land of Kings”. Steeped in the legacy of the Mughal emperors and the Rajput princes, you’ll travel in style through the heart of rural Rajasthan, to experience the character and charm of some of the oldest cultural heritage on the Subcontinent. From the bustling streets of Delhi, where you will be served a home-cooked lunch in an old haveli, you’ll travel first to the city of Agra. Here you will have an opportunity to soak up the grandeur of the Mughal age with visits to Agra Fort and the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. Support a good cause on a USAID walk through a farming community to a unique sunset viewpoint of the Taj Mahal before continuing to Ranthambore, to go tiger tracking. Continuing to Jaipur, where a guided heritage walks through the famous ‘Pink City’, taking you to the Palace of the Winds and renowned photographer Tikam Chand, is then followed by a chance to enjoy the opulent splendour of the old Marwar kingdom with a stay at the sumptuous Chhatra Sagar tented camp. Moving on to the spectacular Ahhichatragarh Fort, Nagaur, finest and most extensive examples of Rajput-Mughal architecture in the Marwar region. Staying inside the fort, offering the unique opportunity to explore its architectural highlights and the restored frescoes. The journey will take you next to the desert outposts of Bikaner and Jaisalmer, with some of the finest examples of Rajput architecture and forts. From here you’ll travel on to Jodhpur and the spectacular fortress of Meherangarh, before continuing through the countryside, to the 17th century splendour of Narlai, you then can enjoy walking and sightseeing amongst the Aravalli Hills and sleepy village, before heading on to the captivating lakeside city of Udaipur, home to some of the finest Rajput-era palaces in North India.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Enjoy guided heritage walks through Agra, Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur
- Support USAID on a guided walk to a special sunset viewpoint of the Taj Mahal
- Have your photograph taken on a 150-year-old camera on the streets of Jaipur
- Go tiger tracking on safari and search for sloth bears in the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park
- Stay inside the grand Ahhichatragarh Fort in Nagaur and soak up this amazing palace and stunning frescoes
- Explore the lakeside city of Udaipur on a sunset boat cruise and enjoy a walking tour of the old city's lanes and markets
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI
DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI
Arrive into Delhi airport this morning and rest at the hotel. This afternoon you will have the opportunity to explore New Delhi, a complete contrast to the medieval Old Delhi. It's a city known for its formal parks, magnificent parliament building, the Rashtrapati Bhawan and India Gate. Also Humayun's Tomb, architecturally considered the forerunner of the Taj Mahal, and stroll through the tranquil Lodi Gardens nearby.
DAY 2: DELHI
DAY 2: DELHI
This morning you will get the chance to explore the vibrant streets of Old Delhi by foot and by rickshaw. Discover some of the capital's most fascinating hidden treasures as you step behind the scenes into some of the area's quieter temples and havelis, learning about the rich history of this old Mughal capital and observing daily life in the heart of the old city. Enjoy some culinary delights as you go, before being presented with the ultimate feast as you are welcomed into one of the oldest family-run havelis in the city to enjoy a delicious home-cooked lunch.
DAY 3: DELHI - AGRA
DAY 3: DELHI - AGRA
This morning you will transfer to Agra, where on arrival you will have lunch at the empowering Sheroes Hangout Café, an establishment which supports women who have been victims of acid attacks and are fighting to stop acid attacks in India. This afternoon your guide will take you to visit the magnificent Agra Fort, before you continue on to a less-visited part of Agra to then enjoy a Mughal heritage walk through the farming community of Kachhpura, led by a USAID-trained specialist guide. The walk ends with some refreshments on the rooftop of a local home where you can enjoy watching the sunset and catch a glimpse of the beautiful Taj Mahal across the river in the far distance.
DAY 4: AGRA - FATEHPUR SIKRI - BHARATPUR - RANTHAMBORE
DAY 4: AGRA - FATEHPUR SIKRI - BHARATPUR - RANTHAMBORE
Early this morning you will visit the iconic Taj Mahal for sunrise. This is an extraordinary time of day to visit, as the soft sunlight hits the exquisite marble relief work and semi-precious stones, resulting in a stunning blend of light and colour. After some breakfast, set off to Bharatpur, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri on the way. On arrival to Bharatpur, board a local train for your exciting journey through the countryside, ending in Ranthambore for the evening.
DAY 5: RANTHAMBORE
DAY 5: RANTHAMBORE
Today you will explore the wilderness of Ranthambore National Park going in search of the Bengal Tiger, as you are taken on a morning and afternoon game drive, accompanied by a naturalist. Ranthambore National Park is centred around the 10th century Ranthambore Fort, and is one of India’s most picturesque parks, home to the elusive tiger, as well as many other species of wild animals including sloth bears, chital deer, wild boar, caracal, monkeys, leopards, crocodiles, jackals, jungle cats, Indian Fox, and numerous species of birds, providing fantastic wildlife viewing experiences.
DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE - JAIPUR
DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE - JAIPUR
This morning you will journey from the wilds of Ranthambore to the colourful streets of Jaipur, where you can spend your afternoon walking through some of the old city’s backstreets and admiring the many arts and crafts this city is so famous for.
DAY 7: JAIPUR
DAY 7: JAIPUR
Today you will have a tour of Jaipur, visiting the fascinating old Royal Observatory built by Jai Singh II, which houses the largest sun dial in the World, the City Palace Museum, the Palace of the Winds and its impressive facade and finally the stunning Amber Fort, which is a 9km drive from the city. Make sure to look out for the renowned photographer Tikam Chand as you pass the Palace of the Winds - here on Jaipur's busy streets you can have your portrait taken with a 150-year-old camera, the most beautiful and original souvenir you could ever ask for.
DAY 8: JAIPUR
DAY 8: JAIPUR
Early this morning, rise with the sun with the Pink City Rickshaw Company, going behind the scenes of every day Jaipur, making the most of the quieter hours as you are taken from flower markets to temples to tea stalls. This tour offers the perfect opportunity to respectfully observe daily life whilst also supporting a form of tourism that also strives to empower women in the area. Later this afternoon take a culinary journey through the backstreets of Jaipur, stopping by favourite spots amongst many locals and visiting the food market, gaining a deeper understanding of Jaipur’s rich culinary history and the ingredients used in Rajasthani cooking.
DAY 9: JAIPUR - PUSHKAR - NAGAUR
DAY 9: JAIPUR - PUSHKAR - NAGAUR
Continuing across the desert landscapes of Rajasthan today, stop for lunch and enjoy the eclectic atmosphere of Pushkar, a city of Hindu shrines and hippy hangouts, nestled beside the shores of a sacred lake. Three hours to the west of here lies the inimitable charms of Nagaur Fort, a luxurious heritage property, set within the 5th century Ahhichatragarh Fort, that offers an unforgettable experience.
DAY 10: NAGAUR
DAY 10: NAGAUR
Spend today exploring the historic Ahhichatragarh Fort, an exquisitely restored fort known for its stunning architecture and unique frescos, We also recommend a sunrise or sunset stroll around the perimeter of the fort’s ramparts and to head into town during the day to visit local markets and shrines. The evenings are magical as you can enjoy a sundowner and the delicious traditional cuisine and hospitality in equal measure, out in the open air with a backdrop of oil lamps in this peaceful oasis.
DAY 11: NAGAUR - BIKANER
DAY 11: NAGAUR - BIKANER
Today you will transfer to the city of Bikaner. Along the way, you will have the chance to stop for a cup of tea and to take photographs. On arrival at Bikaner, you will be transferred to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure and free to explore the old city of Bikaner.
DAY 12: BIKANER
DAY 12: BIKANER
Today enjoy a tour of the impressive fort of Bikaner, before exploring the backstreets of Bikaner's old town, passing grand Rampuria Havelis, visiting its lively spice and vegetable market and the impressive Jain temple. Later explore the Karni Mata shrine, better known as the Rat Temple, for its thousands of 'holy' rats and the Prachina Museum.
DAY 13: BIKANER - JAISALMER
DAY 13: BIKANER - JAISALMER
Today you will set off west towards the Thar desert to Jaisalmer, stopping en route at the town of Phalodi, where you will visit a group of impressive local temples. When you arrive in Jaisalmer you will have free time to enjoy this amazing and impressive Jaisalmer Fort.
DAY 14: JAISALMER
DAY 14: JAISALMER
Today you will have a full day city tour of Jaisalmer and the surrounding area. The day will start with a visit to Gadisar Lake with its old temples built between the 16th and 19th centuries, you will then visit the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, with its bustling market, daily life, famous architecture and the Jain temples within it. The evening will be free to enjoy the sunset on the dune with sundowners.
DAY 15: JAISALMER - JODHPUR
DAY 15: JAISALMER - JODHPUR
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the blue city of Jodhpur. En route you have the opportunity to visit the charming Mandore gardens and cenotaphs. On arrival at Jodhpur, you will be transferred to your hotel. Rest of day at leisure and free to explore the old city of Jodhpur.
DAY 16: JODHPUR
DAY 16: JODHPUR
Today you will visit the majestic Meherangarh Fort, stopping at the royal cenotaph Jaswhat Thada en route. The Meherangarh Fort sprawls across a 125m high-hill, and is entered through a series of seven gates built by the reigning Jodhpur Maharajas who each extended to the fort over the centuries. You will then be taken down to the old city to visit the central bazaar which sprawls from the clock tower.
DAY 17: JODHPUR - NARLAI
DAY 17: JODHPUR - NARLAI
Driving into the beautiful landscapes of the Aravalli Hills today you head for the majestic setting of the Rawla Narlai, a sumptuous 17th century retreat that once served as a hunting lodge for the Jodhpur royal family. Surrounded by forested hills and rocky outcrops, a walk up to the top of the Elephant Hill this afternoon provides the perfect spot from which to enjoy a big-sky sunset, before savouring a magical 1100-year-old step-well dinner, brought to life by dimly lit oil lamps.
DAY 18: NARLAI
DAY 18: NARLAI
Today is at leisure. Why not go on a dawn jeep safari this morning, to search for the elusive leopards that prowl the granite outcrops? There is also the opportunity for optional horse-riding excursions and guided tours around the nearby town. Alternatively, you may just prefer to spend the afternoon relaxing beside the pool, before heading down to the lake to enjoy tea and a chance to spot the storks, spoonbills and kingfishers that find the lake a popular attraction.
DAY 19: JODHPUR - RANAKPUR - UDAIPUR
DAY 19: JODHPUR - RANAKPUR - UDAIPUR
A beautiful drive through the stunning countryside brings you to the spectacular 15th century Jain temple of Ranakpur, home to 29 elaborate halls and over 1,400 intricately carved pillars. Continuing on through the Aravalli Hills to Udaipur, the rest of the day then provides a chance to explore Rajasthan's majestic Lake City on foot, before an evening spent enjoying the views out towards the magnificent Lake Palace from the rooftop of your lakeside haveli.
DAY 20: UDAIPUR
DAY 20: UDAIPUR
Embark on a morning city tour of Udaipur, the Lake City, as your local guide takes you to visit the highlights of this beautiful city including the City Palace, which was built in 1559 A.D and sits on the edge of Lake Pichola, the Jagdish Temple and Sahelion Ki Bari gardens, before retiring to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to either relax at the hotel or explore the fascinating old city full of colourful markets, street food stalls, tradesmen and artisans, shops and cafes. Later this afternoon you will be taken on a sunset boat cruise on the Lake Pichola, passing by Jag Niwas Island, which is home to the famous Lake Palace Hotel.
DAY 21: UDAIPUR
DAY 21: UDAIPUR
Today you have free to enjoy Udaipur at your own leisure. We can arrange a tour through the backstreets to see its various artisans and lesser-known temples, a meeting with a miniature painter to learn more about this ancient craft and make your own souvenir or a bike ride through rural scenery to a picturesque lake for a romantic picnic. We can also arrange a rickshaw ride with the Old City Rickshaw Company, an amazing initiative aimed at providing innovative employment opportunities for women from low-income households in and around Udaipur.
DAY 22: DEPART UDAIPUR
DAY 22: DEPART UDAIPUR
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Trident Agra, Agra
A reliable contemporary option in Agra, this four-star hotel is built from red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era and is well placed for visits to the Taj Mahal. It has a stylish lobby with a great intimate bar and restaurant, a large outdoor pool in the courtyard surrounded by gardens to enjoy when you are not sightseeing. The 135 rooms are well appointed and have views of the gardens and pool. The wood fire beckons at the al fresco Italian dining experience, using fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own garden. Discover the dishes of the Moghul emperors, including mouth-watering curries and kebabs, at the restaurant. Escape the bustle of the city and relax at the wellness centre, using Western, Ayurvedic and Oriental techniques. The fitness centre and swimming pool are ideal for blowing off some steam before sipping on a cocktail contemporary bar.
Khem Villas, Ranthambore
At Khem Villas, it is common to see jackals, jungle cats, hyenas, desert fox and crocodiles within the 10 acres of surrounding grasslands. The hotel has a series of cottages and tents, each with private terrace. The eight stand-alone luxury cottages are spacious and comfortable, each with an outdoor shower, a large private courtyard and veranda. The food at the camp is entirely vegetarian, cooked using mainly home-grown organic vegetables, they have their own organic dairy and bakery. It is the perfect spot to go on a wildlife safari or alternatively, relax and indulge in the Ayurvedic treatments on offer.
Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Jaipur
This 1928 palace was built by General Amar Singh Ji and is now a timeless royal heritage hotel. Created with an Anglo-Indian design and furnished with traditional Rajput decorations and Jaipur-style frescoes, a bold pastel colour scheme is elegantly used throughout the hotel. The property is surrounded by acres of gardens and orchards for a remote, retreat-like feeling despite being perfectly located in central Jaipur. Its history as a royal residence is evident from the high ceilings, four poster beds and wonderful chandeliers. Each of the 52 rooms are well-appointed, with period furniture and intricate detailing, offering lots of space and natural light. Other facilities include an outdoor pool, spa and a restaurant specialising in ancient royal cuisine, known as “thikana”.
Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur
Due to the fact that this elegant, boutique hotel is still the home of the grandson of the late Maharaj Ratan Singhji, it not only offers a fascinating insight into the family's history, with family portraits and photographs decorating the drawing room, but also gives you the opportunity to witness the legendary Rajput hospitality. With its impressive exterior and comfortable interior, the structure is surrounded by a peaceful courtyard and lovely gardens - continuing the romance of the bygone era.
Rawla Narlai, Narlai
Situated in the heart of the desert state, this lovely historic boutique hotel is a charming find. Nestled between the 17th century village of Narlai and a towering rock topped with a temple, it is the ideal picturesque spot for an outdoor pool area. The rooms are all individually decorated with antique photos and furniture, and the five luxury tents by the pool offer a different sleeping experience. Excursions, which can be arranged and paid for when you are at the Narlai include a bullock ride to the local step well, jeep safaris and village walks.
Trident Hotel Udaipur, Udaipur
Set within forty three acres of lush green landscaping, Trident Udaipur is located on the banks of the picturesque Pichola Lake and is a ten minute drive from the city centre. The rooms at this five star hotel are furnished in shades of beige and light cream and the architecture reflects the ancient heritage of Udaipur, while still having a contemporary vibe. There are 143 well appointed rooms and a spa, a lovely outdoor swimming pool and two fine dining options to choose from. This is a reliable and informal option, and what it lacks in character it makes up for with great service.
Killa Bhawan, Jaisalmer
Killa Bhawan is made of three converted town houses built into the fort walls, giving it rich atmosphere and stunning city views. A charming boutique lodge in the heart of the old city of Jaisalmer just opposite the famous Patwa Haveli, this intimate heritage property has just 9 rooms all individually styled with traditional Rajput flourishes such as four poster beds and bronze statues. The outdoor terrace is ideal for watching the glowing Jaisalmer sunset, and the red pillows and rugs balance out the rustic feel of the stone walls and intricate hand carved furniture and well-placed lamps create a cosy, glamorous Arabian ambiance. You can also enjoy yoga and massage at the lodge, which has an informal service yet personalised. A lovely, enchanting hotel.
Ranvas Nagaur, Nagaur
Ranvas Nagaur is a luxurious heritage property, set within the 5th century Ahhichatragarh Fort. The 18th century residence contains ten luxurious havelis, which was once the home of the Maharaja of Jodhpur’s queens. Each of the havelis has a private courtyard in which the rooms are set around. The Mughal-Rajput architecture is complimented by period artefacts and modern comforts to provide an unforgettable experience. There are two restaurants, a swimming pool and spa for relaxation between activities in the area.
Haveli Dharampura, Delhi
Originally built in 1887 AD, the haveli in Dharampura, Old Delhi has been transformed into an award-winning heritage hotel. After six, painstaking years of renovation, the property now offers one of the most luxurious romantic hideaways in the city. The 14 beautifully furnished rooms, in three categories, have been tastefully designed to create a unique ambience and charm, keeping the royal Mughal era in mind. The colourful courtyard is a gorgeous centrepiece leading to the facilities, including the ground floor restaurant and rooftop terrace bar, complete with views of the Red Fort. The property can arrange live cultural performances alongside dinner, as well as heritage and food walks within the city. Returned to its former glory, the haveli was given the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2017.
Narendra Bhawan, Bikaner
A lavish luxury boutique hotel, Narender Bhawan is the latest addition to Bikaner.This was the former residence of the Maharaja of Bikaner, Narendra Singhji. With art deco design elements, the 82 opulent rooms and suites are designed with traditional Rajput furnishings and avant-garde themes. The rooms are set on four floors, the last two looking into the Diwali Chowk, the central open-to-sky courtyard which has been built over the two floors of the original Haveli. A charming outer verandah in the front doubles up as an open lounge with seating on either ends of an elaborate chinoiserie. The verandah leads out to small alcoves with high tables, fashioned into what was originally a ‘gaushala’. The cuisine at Narendra Bhawan includes western, Indian and local Bikaneri menus, and the choice to eat at multiple venues. ‘Clinic’ is the spa which offers holistic wellness therapies. There is also a well-equipped modern gym and a charming rooftop pool with Portuguese tiles and shaded sun loungers. Little details surround you on arrival, including music to suit the time of the day. Art Deco and plush furnishings being an underlying theme to coincide with the era and tastes of HH Narendra Singhji.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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