Luxury Rajasthan: Heritage Forts & Palaces
Example Itinerary
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Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Delhi: Arrival
On arrival into Delhi you will be greeted by your Wild Frontiers representative and transferred directly to your hotel for check in. We have a number of exceptional restaurant recommendations which offer the best of the best of Indian cuisine, please discuss with us and we can make reservations on your behalf.
Day 2 Delhi: Old & New
Start your day by exploring the fascinating Old Delhi area, where you will walk past old crumbling havelis, see vibrant street food stalls, visit the famous Jama Masjid (mosque) and wander through colourful markets. Continue to the imposing Red Fort, one of the most important buildings of Mughal architecture from that period. In complete contrast to the medieval Old Delhi, New Delhi stands in formal splendour; a city of wide boulevards offering ever-changing perspectives of Lutyens' landscaped city. Highlights include Rashtrapati Bhawan, India Gate and Humayun's Tomb, architecturally considered the forerunner of the Taj Mahal, as well as a visit to the Sikh temple of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where you can also visit the community kitchen where thousands are fed delicious food every day.
Day 3 Delhi – Agra: Agra Fort and Community Walk
This morning you will transfer to Agra, a journey of approximately 4 hours. This afternoon your guide will take you to visit the magnificent Agra Fort, built by the Mughal emperor Akbar. This fortified citadel overlooks the banks of the Yamuna River, and served as the headquarters of the Mughal Empire when Agra was its capital. 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 – Ajabgarh: Taj Mahal and Candlelit Dinner
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 the magnificent fortified ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After spending time at the site, you will then be transferred to a luxurious hotel in the gorgeous rural setting of Ajabgarh, near Sariska Tiger Reserve. This evening you will be treated to a romantic candlelit dinner at a Chattri, an old memorial, overlooking a lake.
Day 5 Ajabgarh: Rural Village Safari
This morning wake early for a private yoga session at the hotel, the perfect way to start the day. Following breakfast, you will go on an excursion to Bhangarh, considered one of the most haunted forts in India. The 17th century fort was built by Diwan Madho Singh of the Jaipur royal family, whose successor is believed to have cursed the site. Then head out on a jeep safari through the rural villages and countryside, where you will stop for a beautiful sunset before returning to the hotel.
Day 6 Ajabgarh – Jaipur: Palace Hotel
This morning after a leisurely breakfast, you will transfer to Jaipur with your driver, a journey of approximately 2 hours. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring Jaipur’s magical backstreets filled with a wonderful array of boutique shops and restaurants, or perhaps take a guided walk around the Taj Rambagh Palace, your home for the next three nights. The palace is filled with history and one of the butlers will be able to reveal the lives of the maharajas to you.
Day 7 Jaipur: Historic Sites and Traditional Crafts
Your morning starts with a short drive into the old city and a stop at the Palace of Winds, the iconic building which represents most people’s image of this city. From here you’ll visit the fascinating and beautifully ornate City Palace Museum, as well as Jantar Mantar, the UNESCO listed Royal Observatory. 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. This afternoon you will discover the bazaars, cuisines and crafts of Old Jaipur on a walking tour. It's a great way to explore the crafts capital of India as you meet with locals and learn about the rich artistic and culinary traditions of this fascinating city.
Day 8 Jaipur: Pink City Rickshaw & Cookery Class
Set off this morning on a city tour in a Pink City Rickshaw, a local initiative managed and run by women from low income households in Jaipur. One of the smart, enthusiastic ladies will take you around the main sights in an e-rickshaw giving you an insight into the city. Later this morning you will visit the stunning Amber Fort, the Rajput masterpiece perched high on a hillside just outside of Jaipur city centre. This evening you will head to Dera Amer, a heritage hotel, for a cookery class with their chef. Learn the secrets of their family recipes before sitting down to enjoy what you have made.
Day 9 Jaipur – Barwara: Luxury Fort Hotel
A morning’s drive through the countryside brings you to Barwara and the impressive 14th Century fort, converted into a sanctuary of well-being. Here the palaces and temples have been carefully restored to provide epic luxury and relaxation to travellers. This afternoon is at leisure to explore the fort or use the spa.
Day 10 Barwara: Rajasthani Heritage Walk
Head out this morning on a heritage walk, delving into the history of the fort as well as Rajasthani culture and architecture. Learn about the horticulture around the fort where a careful rewilding programme is under way with endemic species. Spend the afternoon relaxing before this evening heading to one of the temples for an evening Puja ceremony and blessing by one of the priests.
Day 11 Barwara – Shahpura: Rural Idyll
Transfer the short distance to Shahpura where you will check in to Shahpurabagh, a heritage hotel set in 45 acres of gardens and surrounded by lakes and farmland. You may like to head out on bicycles along the farm trails or perhaps take a rowing boat out on one of the lakes, there is also an in-house naturalist who can take you on a birding walk or perhaps relaxing by the pool and listening to the birds will suffice for today.
Day 12 Shahpura: Village Visit & Phad Painting
Head out in one of the jeeps today on a safari through the farmland and villages, visit the largest of the nearby lakes, Nagar Sahar. Head to one of the bustling villages and explore the bazaar as well as visiting the home of one of the local Joshis (priests). This afternoon learn about the technique of phad painting in which religious and folk stories are depicted on scrolls to be sung by priests.
Day 13 Shahpura – Jodhpur: Private Champagne Fort Visit
Today you will be transferred to Jodhpur, a medieval desert town dominated by the towering and spectacular Meherangarh Fort. After some time to relax and freshen up, this evening you will arrive at Mehrangarh Fort just as it is closing to the public and experience a very special behind the scenes tour, hosted by the museum’s curator. As twilight descends on the historic fort of Jodhpur, sip on a chilled glass of champagne and venture through various rooms and galleries whilst being told tales of sacrifice and extraordinary events of adventure, ending with an al-fresco dinner on the terrace restaurant which looks up to the turrets and ramparts of this famous ancient fort, a truly mesmerizing experience that will surely be a highlight of your trip.
Day 14 Jodhpur: Old City & Family Dinner
Explore the ‘blue city’ of Jodhpur on foot as you wander through the undiscovered areas of the city, taking in sights of unexplored lakes and temples that ooze splendid architecture as well as monuments, sweet shops and landmarks that are authentic to the city. You can experience markets and places that are over 100 years old before sampling highly renowned Jodhpuri lassi shots or learning how to make luscious Jalebis. After relaxing this afternoon, you will then be welcomed into a family home in Jodhpur for a wonderful evening of culinary delights and cultural exchange as you learn the basics of Indian cooking and enjoy a delicious meal with your hosts.
Day 15 Jodhpur – Udaipur: Exquisite Jain Temple
Continue your journey to your final destination, Udaipur, known as the city of lakes. En route stop at Ranakpur, a Jain temple dating from the 15th Century, famed for its 1444 intricately carved marble pillars. On arrival in Udaipur take a boat ride to your hotel, an island palace built by a prince in 1746. Take in this incredible accommodation's historic features and enviable views before going on a private boat tour of Lake Pichola, for gorgeous sunset views of Udaipur.
Day 16 Udaipur: The White City
This morning your local guide will take you to visit the highlights of this beautiful city. Explore the City Palace, which was built in 1559 A.D and sits on the edge of Lake Pichola, the Jagdish Temple and the Garden of the Maid's Honour, and spend some time exploring the city’s backstreets where you can meet with local tradesmen and artisans. This final afternoon is then free to relax or explore at leisure. You may like to make use of the hotel’s spa boat offering a wide selection of treatments.
Day 16 Udaipur: At Leisure
Today is at leisure, we have a wonderful array of recommendations for you, from boutique shopping to exclusive meetings with local artisans or chefs, so please discuss options with us based on your interests.
Day 17 Udaipur: Departure
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Rated amongst the leading resorts in the world, The Oberoi Amarvilas offers the best view of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The hotel is located 500 metres from the Taj Mahal and all rooms, suites, the lobby, bar and lounge offer breathtaking views of the monument. Built in a style inspired by Moorish and Mughal architecture, the hotel is a splendid display of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions that take you back to an era of Emperors and Princes. As with all Oberoi properties, the service is impeccable and the decor tasteful and opulent. The bar has a wonderful terrace overlooking the Taj and the large outdoor pool and spa are luxurious. Two fine dining options are available and there are daily evening shows that complete the enchantment of this elegant hotel.
Amanbagh Hotel, Ajabgarh
The deluxe five star resort, Amanbagh rests within a walled enclosure in an exotic garden of statuesque palms and lawns of manicured jade green - a dramatic contrast to the surrounding rugged terrain of the Aravalli Hills. Styled after the grandiose architecture of the Moghul era, Amanbagh pays homage to Rajasthan's golden age. The use of local materials for the period details and lavish interiors incorporate floors of softly-hued pink marble, and domed cupolas and inner courtyards of pale smooth sandstone. The 40 suites, swimming pool and spa are all luxuriously designed and service is impeccable.
Six Senses Fort Barwara, Barwara
The highly-anticipated Six Senses Fort Barwara is finally with us and there are very few properties which offer quite the combination of modern luxury and old-world charm as Fort Barwara does. Located on the site of a 700-year-old fort which was once owned by the Rajasthani royal family, Six Senses Fort Barwara has focused its development around the preservation and restoration of the old fort, preserving the original fort structure as well as three traditional buildings and two temples. Efforts are also being made to reforest the surrounding protected land, and guests will find an oasis of traditional gardens and water features throughout the property. Facilities are extensive, including both indoor and outdoor pools, spa treatments and wellness programs, fitness centre and yoga pavilion, and much, much more. Guests can enjoy an array of drinking and dining experiences, from the culinary delights of Roohani Restaurant, to one of their unique 'destination dining' locations where you can soak up the surrounding views as you are taken on an exclusive gastronomic journey of discovery. 'Each suite reinterprets the gracious and regal ambiance of a bygone era', a statement made by the property and one which is evident throughout the different suites, all immaculately designed and executed.
The Imperial, Delhi
The Imperial is an exceptional hotel located in an oasis of greenery, hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of New Delhi. Considered one of the top hotels in Delhi, this grand five star deluxe establishment successfully mixes a traditional blend of elegance with the modern comforts of a high-class hotel. This is especially exemplified by its architecture and the time-honoured hospitality of the Indian staff. The hotel's facilities include a spa, swimming pool with Jacuzzi and sauna, shops, money exchange, not to mention the wide range of delicious menus spread across a generous number of bars and restaurants.
Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
If you want a truly royal experience, there is no better place to stay than the magnificent, five star Rambagh Palace in Jaipur. Originally built in 1835 for the queen's favourite handmaiden, the home was later converted into a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge, before blossoming into a grand palace and the home to the Maharaja of Jaipur. Having remained in the royal family for some generations, the palace has now been converted into one of the leading palace hotels in the world. The 'Jewel of Jaipur', as it is fondly known, still harbours the romantic opulence of a bygone era, and is surrounded by majestic gardens and decorated with marbled corridors that echo the elegance and importance of its history. The rooms are colourfully decorated with rich fabrics and silk drapes, each with their own unique antiques that perfectly complete your royal experience.
Raas Jodhpur, Jodhpur
This beautiful old haveli is now a luxury hotel in the heart of Jodhpur's old city. The 150-year-old building was built with Jodhpur's very own 'rose-red' sandstone and has recently been renovated using the skills of local craftsmen. It is in a great location, right in the heart of the old town by Clock Tower Market and boasts spectacular views of the fort looming above - visible from many of the rooms. RAAS is Jodphur's very first boutique hotel and is both luxurious and blissfully peaceful, with its al fresco terraces, courtyard and central swimming pool. The newly added spa, in collaboration with Ma Earth Botanicals, offers guests a variety of bespoke healing and relaxation treatments in a tranquil and atmospheric setting.
Shahpura Bagh, Shahpura
This gorgeous historical property is within forty-five acres of land, surrounded by stunning wetlands. It is a tasteful, elegant affair, complete with an authentic Rajput welcome from the owners and rooms littered with stylish antique furniture. Each room or suite are individually designed in a minimalist style using antique furniture and modern amenities. The grounds are lushly green, featuring a lovely outdoor infinity pool and poolside bar, large gardens and a lake for early morning birdwatching strolls. The food is also excellent - much of it homegrown on the estate and organic and can now be enjoyed in the new al fresco dining area. Shahpura Bagh offers a real taste of luxury in rural India.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
A private floating palace in the middle of Lake Pichola, the Taj Lake Palace is an opulent marble haven, worthy of its status as best hotel in the area, indeed the state. You enter this beautiful setting via a private gondola from the hotels own dock and will be welcomed by falling rose petal. Its 83 rooms and suites are decked out in silk, marble, carved wood and richly coloured murals. The spa blends traditional Indian wisdom with modern techniques, and the swimming pool, champagne heritage walks and boat trips are unforgettable. Wrapped up with impeccable service and four gourmet restaurants, this is the pinnacle of Indian hospitality.
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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.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Shalmali
Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
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