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JEWEL IN THE CROWN
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A journey across colourful Rajasthan, a world of haughty camels,
culturel, people, palaces, busy bazaars, dazzling silks, wildlife
at Ranthamore Tiger reserve and Shah Jehan's fabled Taj Mahal
Route: Delhi- Agra- Ranthambore- Jaipur- Bikaner- Jaisalmer- Luni-
Jodhpur- Udaipur- Delhi
Rajasthan is one of India's brightest Jewels, a vast desert province
where Rajput princes ruled for centuries in extravagant pomp and
splendor. The forts and palaces of the Maharajahs bear witness of
this proud and glorious past, but Rajasthan has more than just this
rich historical legacy - it is also a land of traditional crafts,
musicians and folk dance, women wearing bright saries with bangles
and silver nose rings, festive village life and the contrasting
forms and colours of the desert. Rajasthan is, simply, India at
its best!
Day 1, DELHI
Arrive Delhi by the early hours of morning. Garland welcome, assistance
and transfer to your pre-booked hotel. Morning at leisure. Afternoon
sightseeing to Red Fort, Jama Masjid Mosque & Humayuns tomb.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 2, DELHI TO AGRA
We leave early morning by the Shatabdi Express to Agra (2 hours),
on arrival we transfer to hotel. Later we visit India's most celebrated
monument the Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jehan as a mausoleum for his
wife Mumtaz, and also explore Akbar the Great's Red Fort before
returning to our hotel. Evening free to relax. O/n Hotel.
Day 3, AGRA TO RANTHAMBORE
Today after breakfast, a beautiful drive through colourful Rajasthan
to Ranthambhore National Park (about 267kms/06hrs).
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve is situated in Rajasthan at the eastern
end of Aravalli range. The rolling hills; dry dhok forest and tranquil
lakes, decorated with the crumbling ruins of numerous temples and
a hilltop fort, epitomise all the princely splendour of this famous
Rajput state. The reserve also offers one of the best opportunities
for seeing Tiger during the day, as well as many other mammals,
including Leopard, Sloth Bear, Rhesus Macaque, Common Langur, Nilgai,
Indian Gazelle (Chinkara), Wild Boar, Jackal, Spotted and Barking
Deer, Samber and Marsh Mugger Crocodiles. The bird life here is
also superb, particularly around the lakes.
Day 4, RANTHAMBORE
Jeep Safari. Morning and evening game viewing by jeep with knowledgeable
guide. The day time at leisure. O/n Resort.
Day 5, RANTHAMBORE TO JAIPUR
Morning jeep safari, after breakfast drive to Jaipur (about 167kms/04hrs)
also known as pink +
the colourful Rajasthani bazaar. O/n Hotel.
Day 6, JAIPUR
This morning we drive to nearby Amber, ascending by elephant to
see the 16th century hilltop fortress - Palace and its richly decorated
apartments. In the afternoon we tour Jaipur, a city of glowing pink
sandstone buildings, visiting the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds),
the city palace complex, and the Jantar Mantar Observatory. O/n
Hotel.
Day 7, JAIPUR TO BIKANER
After an early breakfast drive to Bikaner (about 310kms/07hrs) through
the Shekhavati region, known for the beautiful frescoes which adorn
many of the buildings. Upon arrival in Bikaner, check into the hotel.
Rest of the day free to relax. O/n Hotel.
Day 8, BIKANER TO JAISALMER
Today leave early, for a longish drive to Jaisalmer (about 340kms/08hrs)
but rewarding. Enroute stop at local tea shops for cold drinks or
a hot cup of sweet milky Chai (Indian tea)!! Jaisalmer, the most
perfect of the walled cities of Rajasthan, rising out of the desert
like a mirage. Overnight in hotel.
Day 9, JAISALMER
Morning after breakfast sightseeing in Jasilmer, a medieval city
of elaborately carved mansions (havelis) in yellow sandstone, built
by rich merchants at a time when the city was a key stopping place
on the caravan routes from the Middle East. Jaisalmer has been described
as an open air museum, and to enter its narrow cobbled lanes is
to step into a bygone age. In the evening we have arranged a desert
barbecue. Evening we make a short camel ride at Sam Dunes to enjoy
the beautiful sunset on desert. O/n Hotel.
Day 10, JAISALMER TO JODHPUR
Today we drive south to the historic Jodhpur (about 310kms/08hrs),
second city of Rajasthan. we stay 2 nights at charming Chanwa Fort
at nearby LUNI. O/n Hotel.
Day 11, JODHPUR
After breakfast we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the colourful streets
and bazaars of Jodhpur, including a visit to the vast 15th century
hilltop Meherangarh Fort. Afternoon we enjoy a glimpse of traditional
Rajasthani village life.
Day 12, JODHPUR TO UDAIPUR
After breakfast drive through Aravali hills, and temples to the
Romantic Lake city of Udaipur (about 275kms/06 ½ hrs). Arrive
and stay in delightful heritage hotel located on the lake side.
O/n Hotel.
Day 13, UDAIPUR
A day free to enjoy this lake city and boat ride at Lake Pichola.
Overnight in hotel.
Day 14, UDAIPUR TO DELHI
After an early breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Delhi
by 9W 3301 at 08.10 - 10.45hrs. Upon arrival, transfer to hotel
located at the city centre. Rest of the day free to relax or stroll
around the avenues for last minute shopping. Late night departure
transfer to the International airport.
Day15, DELHI
Early morning fly to your home Country.
This is a private tailormade trip for small groups. The cost will
depend on the number in your group.
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The best season to visit India is from October to April when
it is sunny and warm although temperatures can be low at night
during the winter. In the high mountains there is snow and
ice all year but a tropical climate prevails in the foothills.
Monsoon period is June until September.
Accommodation as specified on bed and breakfast basis and
twin /double share room
Local English speaking guide
Private vehicle with English speaking driver
Private transfers to and from airports
Other meals where indicated
Entrance fees to museums etc
Local agent support
Guide, porters, cook and camping equipment when trekking.
International flights. Meals other than breakfasts and those
indicated
Airport taxes payable locally
Travel insurance
Personal items such as laundry, drinks, tips
Optional trips and visits
Visas.
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