Undiscovered Rajasthan
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
India’s fabled “Land of Kings”, Rajasthan is home to a spectacular Rajput legacy that includes some of the country’s most impressive palaces and forts. Spread across a vast expanse of the Thar Desert, it can also boast one of the oldest cultural pedigrees anywhere on the Indian subcontinent. After a chance to explore some of the Mughal and colonial highlights of the Indian capital, this fascinating journey then takes you on to the beautiful havelis of Mandawa, before continuing ...
India’s fabled “Land of Kings”, Rajasthan is home to a spectacular Rajput legacy that includes some of the country’s most impressive palaces and forts. Spread across a vast expanse of the Thar Desert, it can also boast one of the oldest cultural pedigrees anywhere on the Indian subcontinent. After a chance to explore some of the Mughal and colonial highlights of the Indian capital, this fascinating journey then takes you on to the beautiful havelis of Mandawa, before continuing to Bikaner and Jaisalmer. Lying in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer provides your gateway on to the Manvar Desert Camp and a chance to ride camels amongst the desert dunes. From here you’ll travel on to Jodhpur and the spectacular fortress of Meherangarh, before continuing through the Indian countryside to Rohet, Kumbhalgarh and the beautiful 15th century Jain temple at Ranakpur. The journey finishes amongst the lakes and palaces of Udaipur, a city that was once dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’ and today is home to some of the finest Rajput-era palaces in India.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Shahjahanabad in Old Delhi and the architectural grandeur of Lutyens in New Delhi
- Visit the beautiful painted havelis of Mandawa and the desert city of Jaisalmer
- Visit the grand forts of Jodhpur and Kumbhalgarh and the stunning Jain temple at Ranakpur
- Stay in a luxury camp out in a remote part of the spectacular Thar Desert
- Explore the lovely lakeside city of Udaipur on a sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola
- Take in the majestic palace forts of Bikaner and explore the heritage havelis and colourful market
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 at Delhi airport and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon we can show you some of the highlights of New Delhi, taking a trip down the Rajpath to Rashtrapati Bhawan and India Gate, followed by a walk through Lodi Gardens. If this is not your first visit, we have an array of wonderful experiences which will delve deeper into life in Delhi, old and new, so please discuss options with us.
DAY 2: DELHI
DAY 2: DELHI
Join the Salaam Baalak Trust for a fascinating private guided walk through the laneways around New Delhi railway station, led by former street children who share their personal story of survival. From here, embrace the chaos and energy of the vibrant heart of Old Delhi. With magnificent landmarks, from the elegant mosques and beautiful temples, to colourful markets, this tour highlights Delhi’s complex heritage, as it takes you through a new world infused with the traditions and ethos of an ancient people and culture. Enjoy culinary delights along the way, and stop for lunch at one of Old Delhi’s best restaurants, offering up traditional dishes in the heart of this fascinating city.
DAY 3: DELHI - MANDAWA
DAY 3: DELHI - MANDAWA
This morning you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Mandawa, a journey of approximately 8 hours. The traffic leaving Delhi tends to be slow but after passing through the suburbs the journey becomes more relaxing as you drive through towns and villages. On arrival to Mandawa you have the evening to enjoy the town, made famous for its beautifully designed and painted havelis - local townhouses.
DAY 4: MANDAWA - BIKANER
DAY 4: MANDAWA - BIKANER
Early this morning you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Bikaner. A worthwhile detour is to visit Karni Mata temple in Deshnoke, also known as the Rat Temple, home to over 20,000 rats who are worshipped by Hindu visitors who believe they are the reincarnated children of the revered goddess Karni Mata. After visit Karni Mata temple continue a short distance to your hotel. Late afternoon your guide and driver will collect you from the hotel and take you to explore the royal cenotaphs at Devi Kund Sagar and finish the day with a visit to Bikaner's National Camel Research Centre to observe the baby camels.
DAY 5: BIKANER
DAY 5: BIKANER
Today enjoy a tour of the impressive Fort of Bikaner, also known as the Junagarh Fort. The palaces within the fort have a series of impressive courtyards, balconies, towers and terraces and the interiors are still very well-preserved in both paintings and carvings. From here head to the backstreets of Bikaner's Old Town, passing grand Rampuria Havelis, visiting its lively spice market and impressive Jain temple. For those interested in architecture, we recommend visiting the grand Lalgarh Palace, built by the most prolific British architects in India at the time, Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob. The palace was built for the Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the early 1900’s, in the beautiful Indo-Saracenic style which is a wonderful combination of Indian and European architectural traditions. You will also be able to take a guided tour of the colourful vegetable market and continue on to the nearby Bhandasar Jain temple and explore the historic old havelis in and around the hotel, which offer a wonderful insight into the fascinating heritage of this area.
DAY 6: BIKANER - JAISALMER
DAY 6: BIKANER - JAISALMER
This morning you transfer to Jaisalmer with your driver, stopping en route at the town of Phalodi, where you will visit a group of impressive of local temples. Rest of the day at leisure.
DAY 7: JAISALMER
DAY 7: 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 and the Delwara Jain temples and havelis within it. Later this evening you will be taken to Bada Bagh to view the sunset.
DAY 8: JAISALMER
DAY 8: JAISALMER
Morning at leisure and free to explore this fascinating fort. Late this afternoon you will be taken to Lakhmana sand dunes for a camel riding excursion in the desert, visiting ethnic and Hindu villages during the day. You can enjoy sunset from Fort Khabha, which was one of the ruined villages of the Paliwal brahmins and Khabha Fort. After sunset return to your hotel and relax for the evening.
DAY 9: JAISALMER - MANVAR
DAY 9: JAISALMER - MANVAR
Today your driver will transfer you to Manvar Desert Camp. On arrival relax for the remainder of the day. The camp has a selection of wonderful experiences on offer, including desert wildlife jeep safaris searching for local wildlife and birds. The village walk of the nearby settlements of the traditional inhabitants the Bishnois, Rajputs, Meghwals is a wonderful way to explore the cultural highlights of this region and also allows you the opportunity to visit the studios and homes of desert craftsmen such as carpenters, metal-smiths and cobblers.
DAY 10: MANVAR - JODHPUR
DAY 10: MANVAR - JODHPUR
This morning you will continue on to Jodhpur, where you will be given an insight into the work of the Sambhali Trust, a non-profit charitable organisation that works with women and children to promote self-esteem, economic independence and the development of educational and vocational skills.
DAY 11: JODHPUR - ROHET
DAY 11: JODHPUR - ROHET
After a morning checking out the vegetable market and the famous clock tower, you will be taken by private vehicle to the small village of Rohet. On arrival you will be taken to your beautiful rural hotel and can enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
DAY 12: ROHET - KUMBHALGARH AND RANAKPUR - UDAIPUR
DAY 12: ROHET - KUMBHALGARH AND RANAKPUR - UDAIPUR
Early this morning you will travel to Udaipur, stopping at various sights of interest en route, including the stunning Kumbhalgarh 15th Century Fort in the Aravalli Hills, as well as Ranakpur, home to a beautiful 15th Century Jain temple. In Kumbhalgarh you will spend an hour or two wandering around the fort and enjoying the incredible views of the mountains and temples within the fort. The 15th century Ranakpur Temple has 29 halls and 1,444 pillars, all individually carved. Once you reach Udaipur check into your hotel.
DAY 13: UDAIPUR
DAY 13: UDAIPUR
This unique heritage walk is a fascinating way to learn more about the cultures and communities of Udaipur’s old city backstreets. Navigating your way through the labyrinth of alleyways you will pass by artisans and tradesmen, from jewellers and potters, to spice vendors and mechanics. From lesser-known temples to historic havelis, you will get the chance to explore behind the scenes of some of the city’s most beautiful hidden gems, and gain a greater insight into the daily life of this creative and very traditional neighbourhood. This evening enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, passing by Jagniwas Island, which is home to the famous Lake Palace Hotel.
DAY 14: DEPART UDAIPUR
DAY 14: DEPART UDAIPUR
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
The Claridges, Delhi
The Claridges has been a veritable treasure in Lutyens Delhi since the 1950's. Amidst the rush of new modernity, the soul of The Claridges lives on. Refurbished, redesigned and revitalized, the hotel now offers guests an experience that is new and yet so familiar. The hotel is also in an excellent location just a short auto ride from Khan Market and not much further to Connaught Place. Under current management, the hotel has a blend of tradition and modernity. Leading designers of international repute have helped enhance the heritage and elegance of this four star hotel. There are 132 different rooms and suites, all designed with an elegant blend of 19th century character and contemporary style. Wine and dine to your heart's content in the Dhaba, inspired by rustic Punjabi villages; the Jade, serving Chinese-Cantonese cuisine; Sevilla, for all your tapas needs; Pickwicks, a multicuisine buffet that is always open; Ye Old Bakery, where the corn pudding is a must try; or the Aura, a romantic, dimly lit bar. There is also a refreshing outdoor pool, indoor gym and relaxing spa to enjoy at the end of a busy day.
Rohet Garh, Rohet
A decorative monumental outer wall with elaborate gates welcomes you to the refined interior of Rohet Garh. Lush green gardens with roaming wild peacocks and traditional Rajput flourishes in the architecture greet you on entry, along with a beautiful courtyard which houses an enticing swimming pool. The rooms that line the periphery of this wonderful property have either lake or garden views but all are gloriously decorated in the traditional local design. There is a spa with excellent treatments and a great restaurant and the Rohet family will do all they can to make sure your stay is a pleasurable one in this fantastic countryside retreat.
Amet Haveli, Udaipur
Located on a small peninsular that juts out onto Lake Pichola near the Hanuman Ghat and directly opposite the magnificent shoreline of Udaipur City Palace, this is one of the best-placed boutique accommodation options in Udaipur. This pretty 350-year-old haveli has enough charm and elegance to have found its way into glossy books on Indian style, and has the most beautiful panoramic lake views in Udaipur. Only 10 minutes walk away from town means it is in a quiet and peaceful area, so you can take in the spectacular views or just sit back and people watch. It is also well known for its excellent lakeside restaurant, the Ambrai. Please note this is a mid-range property; it is in a great location, with plenty of charm, but in terms of facilities and service this would not be categorized as a luxury hotel.
Castle Mandawa, Mandawa
Well located in the heart of Mandawa this converted castle is a large historic, boutique hotel that was built in 1892 and has a real feel of crumbling glamour about it, with pictures of past kings lining the walls. There is also a lovely swimming pool area and ayurvedic spa in the well manicured gardens at the back of the property. There are lots of private spaces to relax and unwind after sightseeing and an outdoor swimming pool. All the rooms are spacious and individually styled with old world charm. The staff are friendly and accommodating.
Manvar Desert Camp, Manvar
Located 6 km from the town in the midst of the wilderness, surrounded by the sand dunes, is the splendid isolated splendour of the Manvar Tented Camp. The concept traces its birth to the 17th century when while on his way to the battlefields, the Mughal Emperor Jehangir, known for his luxurious lifestyle, used to set up royal style camps. These camps were equipped with all the amenities. This tradition has been recreated in the 30 luxury tents in the desert where you will be able to enjoy the peace and seclusion of this unique getaway. Spend your time here exploring several desert villages of the Shergarh area. Predominantly inhabited by Rajputs, this desert area has a rich legacy of generations engaged in pursuits that this region is famous for - incredible valour and martial excellence on the battlefield. Evocative of valour, glamour and romance, the desert warrior has played a key role in the numerous stories of adventure and glory that colour the pages of local lore and the annals of Indian history alike.
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.
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.
Rohet House, Jodhpur
Rohet House in Jodhpur is a charming boutique guesthouse and is part of the award-winning Rohet House group of properties. The guesthouse is decorated with beautiful frescoes of Indian flowers, culture and animals, complimenting the interiors using pastel colour tones and luxury textiles. There is a lovely garden with a swimming pool and shaded verandah for guests to unwind. During the colder months the cosy sitting room is also a welcome retreat. The four rooms and six suites are split between three floors and all feature state of the art bathrooms, air-conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. The dining room serves local and western cuisine, as well as a delicious afternoon tea.
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
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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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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.
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Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
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