Royal Rajasthan: Culture, Architecture, and the Taj Mahal

Daywise Tour Plan

  • day1
    Arrival at Delhi & Transfer to Hotel

    Our representative will meet you at the Delhi airport and transfer you to the hotel.

    Delhi, India’s capital, has witnessed the rise and fall of great empires over millennia, each leaving behind its architectural legacy. The city is adorned with monuments and ruins of stunning diversity, showcasing its rich historical tapestry. As the seat of the world’s largest democracy, Delhi also features magnificent government symbols that reflect the ideals of self-rule and democracy. Amidst these historical treasures, modern Delhi thrives with wide multi-lane motorways, bustling shopping malls, fast cars, and ultramodern steel-glass office complexes, defining its status as a dynamic 21st-century metropolis.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day2
    Delhi Sightseeing

    Post breakfast, proceed for sightseeing:

    Raj Ghat is the famous memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, a testament to the simplicity of the man whose ideas changed the world. It features a simple black stone structure with an eternal flame.

    The majestic Red Fort, commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, served as the seat of the empire for two centuries. Today, the Prime Minister delivers the Independence Day speech from its red sandstone ramparts.

    Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques, impresses with its lofty domes and ornate minarets, reminiscent of scenes from the Arabian Nights.

    Proceed to New Delhi, built by the British in the 1930s as their imperial capital. Lutyen’s Delhi, named after Sir Edwin Lutyens who designed it in 1911, features majestic government and administrative buildings lining wide, tree-lined avenues.

    Begin at India Gate, a red sandstone arch honoring Indian and British soldiers of World War I. Nearby are the Parliament House, seat of the world’s largest democracy, and the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President’s official residence. The Mughal Gardens inside boast ornate fountains and manicured lawns, open to the public during spring.

    Further south, visit Qutub Minar, India’s tallest stone tower built in 1193 by Qutubuddin Aibak, marking the site of the country’s first Muslim kingdom. Opposite stands an iron tower that remarkably never rusts despite centuries of exposure.

    The lotus-shaped Bahai Temple south of Delhi, open to people of all faiths, offers an ideal place for meditation.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day3
    Delhi - Mandawa (By Surface)

    After enjoying breakfast, proceed to the Shekhawati town of Mandawa.

    Upon arrival, complete your check-in formalities at the hotel and take some time to rest. After lunch, embark on sightseeing. Mandawa is renowned for its forts and havelis adorned with exquisite frescoes, built by wealthy merchant families of the region.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day4
    Mandawa - Bikaner (By Surface)

    Enjoy breakfast in the morning and then depart for Bikaner. Complete your check-in at the hotel and then proceed for a sightseeing tour of Bikaner city.

    Visit the impressive Junagarh Fort, which houses several magnificent palaces including Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Anup Mahal.

    In the evening, explore the unique and fascinating camel breeding farm.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day5
    Bikaner - Jaisalmer (By Surface)

    After breakfast, drive to Jaisalmer. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.

    Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage, Jaisalmer is dominated by a commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone, overlooking the amber-hued city.

    According to legend, Lord Krishna foretold that a descendent of the Yadav Clan would establish his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. This prophecy came true in 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput and descendant of the Yadav Clan, founded Jaisalmer. The city is renowned for its forts, sacred shrines, elegant havelis, museums, and a serene lake, all reflecting its vibrant culture and historical richness.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day6
    Jaisalmer Sightseeing

    After enjoying your breakfast, proceed for a full day sightseeing tour of The Golden City - Jaisalmer, nestled in the heart of the Great Indian Desert. Known for its temples, forts, and palaces all crafted from yellow sandstone, the city is a labyrinth of intricately carved buildings, facades, and elaborate balconies.

    Visit the Jaisalmer Fort: Known as the oldest living fort in the world, Jaisalmer Fort stands nearly 30 meters above the city, encompassing a vibrant living area within its massive ramparts. Wander through its narrow lanes, passing through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol, and Hawa Pol. Inside, discover numerous exquisite havelis and a collection of Jain temples dating from the 12th to 15th centuries. The fort's golden-yellow sandstone, over 800 years old and defended by 99 turrets, once served as a crucial outpost on the ancient trade routes to Central Asia.

    Nathmal Ki Haveli: Built in the 19th century by two architect brothers, this haveli showcases symmetrical architecture with miniature-style paintings adorning its interior walls. Outside, yellow sandstone elephants stand guard.

    Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Constructed around 300 years ago, this haveli features a beautifully arched roof adorned with carved peacock-shaped brackets. Originally taller, it was reduced in height at the order of the maharaja.

    Patwon Ji Ki Haveli: Among the largest and most elaborate havelis in Jaisalmer, this five-story structure is extensively carved and divided into apartments and craft shops. It retains remnants of paintings and mirror work.

    Tazia Tower: Rising from the Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace) in a pagoda-like structure with delicately carved balconies on each tier, Tazia Tower was a gift from Muslim craftsmen to their royal patron.

    Godi Sagar Lake: South of the city walls, this historic tank once supplied water to the city and is surrounded by temples and shrines. The Tilon-ki-Pol gateway, built by a famous courtesan named Tilon, adds to its architectural charm.

    Jain Temples: These temples, built between the 12th and 15th centuries within Jaisalmer Fort, are renowned for their intricate carvings and dedication to Rikhabdevji and Sambhavnathji. The Gyan Bhandar, a library housing ancient manuscripts, is located within the temple complex.

    Enjoy exploring these historical marvels before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.

  • day7
    Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (By Surface)

    After enjoying your breakfast, drive to Jodhpur.

    Reach and check-in at the hotel.

    Set on the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is an imperial city steeped in history. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, claiming descent from the epic hero Rama of the Ramayana. Dominating the skyline is the massive 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, perched atop a rocky hill, surrounded by a long wall with eight gates and numerous bastions.

    Proceed for sightseeing in Jodhpur:

    Mehrangarh Fort: Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh Fort is one of India's largest forts. Its palaces, carved from hard sandstone by skilled Jodhpuri sculptors, exude beauty and grandeur. Spread over 5 km and standing 125 meters above the plains, the fort offers majestic views of the city. Explore its exquisite architecture, including Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal. The fort's museum houses a remarkable collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture, and cannons.

    Jaswant Thada: Located near the Mehrangarh Fort complex, Jaswant Thada is a 19th-century royal cenotaph built in white marble to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and other rulers. Inside, rare portraits of the Jodhpur rulers can be found. Experience the reverence of the local villagers for their brave kings as you explore this serene monument.

    Walk through the old town: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan as you stroll through the colorful streets of Jodhpur's old town.

    Optional visit to Bal Samand Palace: Drive to Bal Samand Palace for a late lunch by the lake, enjoying its serene surroundings.

    Evening visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace museum:

    Umaid Bhawan Palace: Built during a famine to provide employment, Umaid Bhawan Palace still houses the Jodhpur royal family. Part of it is a well-maintained museum showcasing a fascinating collection of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family, including weapons, antiques, clocks, crockery, and trophies.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day8
    Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur (By Surface)

    After enjoying your breakfast, proceed to Udaipur. En route, stop at Ranakpur for lunch and a visit to the Jain Temples.

    Ranakpur Temples: Acclaimed worldwide for their intricate and superb architectural style, the Ranakpur Temples are one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains. Built in the 15th century by SETH DHARNA SHAH with the aid of Rana Kumbha, these temples are the largest and most important in the Jain cult. Located in an isolated valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range, the temple complex is constructed entirely in light-colored marble and covers an area of 48,000 square feet. The highlight is over 1,350 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple structures.

    Continue your journey to Udaipur and check-in at the hotel. Relax and unwind.

    Udaipur: Known as the "City of Dawn," Udaipur is a picturesque city nestled around the azure waters of Lake Pichola, surrounded by the lush hills of the Aravallis. Its white marble palaces, temples, gardens, and narrow lanes evoke a sense of romance and beauty. Udaipur has been an inspiration for poets, painters, and writers, offering a blend of historic sights and vibrant experiences.

    Udaipur is the jewel of Mewar, a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1,200 years.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day9
    Udaipur Sightseeing

    After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Udaipur, starting with a visit to the City Palace.

    City Palace: Located on the east bank of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a sprawling complex of palaces built over centuries, starting from 1559 A.D. The palace offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola and landmarks like Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and Jag Mandir. Entry is through the triple-arched Tripolia Gate, built in 1725. The palace complex includes courtyards, terraces, gardens, and several palaces such as Suraj Gokhda (Sun balcony), Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard) adorned with glass mosaics, and Chini Chitrashala known for its Chinese and Dutch tiles. Other highlights include Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, and Krishna Vilas, each showcasing antique articles, paintings, and decorative furniture.

    Saheliyon Ki Bari: Built by Maharana Sangram Singh in the mid-18th century, Saheliyon Ki Bari is known as the 'Garden of the Maidens.' It reflects the lifestyle of royal ladies with its four pools, kiosks, flowerbeds, lawns, and fountains. The garden operates solely on water pressure, featuring a lotus pool, painted sitting rooms, and glass mosaics, creating an ambiance of elegance and nostalgia.

    Jagdish Temple: Situated in the heart of the city, Jagdish Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was completed in 1651. It features a tall terrace, a double-storied mandapa (hall), and a sanctum with a pyramidal spire. The temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and cultural significance, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

    In the evening, enjoy a motor launch cruise on Lake Pichola. The serene waters offer stunning views of Udaipur's skyline against the backdrop of the Rajasthan desert. Visit Jag Mandir Palace, another island palace on the lake, and explore its historical significance and architectural beauty.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day10
    Udaipur - Pushkar (By Surface)

    After breakfast, drive to Pushkar.

    Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Proceed with sightseeing in Pushkar.

    Visit the famous Pushkar Lake, believed to be the only worship place of Lord Brahma in the entire universe. Explore the Lord Brahma Temple and the Cattle Fair Ground, where the world-famous Pushkar Cattle Fair is held annually.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day11
    Pushkar - Jaipur (By Surface)

    After breakfast, drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel.

    Jaipur, known as the ‘Pink City,’ received its distinctive color in 1853 to welcome Prince Albert, symbolizing hospitality. This city is adorned with havelis (traditional mansions), bustling bazaars, magnificent palaces, and imposing forts that reflect the rich heritage of the Rajputs, its former rulers.

    The Rajput princes were renowned for their valor and some forged alliances with the Mughals, contributing significantly to the empire’s strength. King Jai Singh II, honored by the Mughals with the title Sawai Maharaja (King and a quarter), lends his name to Jaipur.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day12
    Jaipur Sightseeing

    Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Proceed for a morning excursion to the Amber Fort, enjoying the ascent to the fort on elephant back in a royal manner.

    Amber Fort Palace: Amber Fort is a classic example of Rajasthani fort-palace architecture. Construction began in 1592 under Man Singh I and was completed by his descendant Jai Singh I. Despite its imposing exterior, the fort houses an inner paradise where Mughal and Hindu architectural styles blend harmoniously.

    In the afternoon, continue the sightseeing tour of Jaipur, visiting:

    City Palace: A splendid blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace occupies one-seventh of the walled city area. It includes the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

    Jantar Mantar: Built by Jai Singh II, this is the largest and best-preserved among the five astronomical observatories he constructed across India. Its oversized instruments are still used for astronomical observations.

    Hawa Mahal: Known as the "Palace of Winds," this ornamental facade is a prominent Jaipur landmark. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the five-storey palace is adorned with pink sandstone and features intricate trelliswork and balconies. It served as a royal grandstand for palace women.

    Enjoy free time in the evening for exciting shopping experiences.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day13
    Jaipur - Chand Baori Step Well (Abhaneri) - Ranthambore (By Surface)

    After breakfast, drive to Ranthambore. En route, visit the Chand Baori Step Well.

    Chand Baori Step Well: Chand Baori is a famous stepwell located in the village of Abhaneri near Jaipur. It is one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India, known for its intricate architecture and historical significance.

    Upon arrival in Ranthambore, check-in at the hotel.

    Ranthambore Tiger Reserve: Located at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas in eastern Rajasthan, Ranthambore is renowned for its natural and historical richness. The reserve features a varied topography ranging from gentle slopes to steep hills, flat valleys to rocky gorges. The ‘Great Boundary Fault’ running through the reserve marks the meeting point of the Vindhya and Aravali ranges. The reserve is home to tigers, which dominate the ecosystem as apex predators. Sightings of tigers, though frequent, are a matter of chance, and evidence of their activities is always exciting for visitors.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day14
    Ranthambore
    Reach & check-in at the resort.
    • Morning Jungle Safari
    • Afternoon Jungle Safari (sharing Jeep)

    Afterwards, you can relax at the resort.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day15
    Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (By Surface)

    Post breakfast, drive to Agra and en route visit Fatehpur Sikri.

    Fatehpur Sikri is located 37 km west of Agra. Jalal-ud-din-Muhammad Akbar, Humayun's son, ascended the throne at the age of 14. While hunting around Sikri, he heard songs by minstrels praising Khwaja Mu'inu'd-din Chisti, the founder of the Chisti order of Sufis. In 1568, Akbar visited Saint Salim Chisti who blessed him with three sons. In gratitude, Akbar ordered the construction of the great mosque of Fatehpur Sikri under his supervision. Akbar shifted his capital to Fatehpur Sikri and built various secular buildings including the Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodhabai Palace, Birbal's House, Mariam's House, and the Panchmahal.

    Continue the drive to Agra. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

    Agra, once a small village, was transformed into the second capital of the Mughal Empire by two great monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan. They adorned it with contrasting edifices of red sandstone and white marble, narrow alleys, and quaint buggies, preserving the city's Mughal charm. A stroll through Agra's bustling streets introduces visitors to the tantalizing aroma of Mughlai cuisine.

    Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex in Agra, situated north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort on the opposite side of the Yamuna River, in the flood plains. The square-shaped garden, measuring approximately 300 by 300 meters, is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day16
    Agra - Delhi (By Surface)

    Proceed for a sunrise visit to the monument of love – the Taj Mahal.

    Taj Mahal (CLOSED EVERY FRIDAY): Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder, the soul raison d'être for every tourist’s visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to complete and was designed and planned by the Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens, and some of the best inlay work ever seen. Return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast.

    Proceed for day sightseeing in Agra.

    Agra Fort – This red sandstone structure is surrounded by a chahar-bagh, a formal foursquare garden. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly made of red sandstone. Ensconced within is the picture-perfect Pearl Mosque, a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel between 1563 and 1573 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone, and a moat.

    After visiting Agra Fort, we will visit Baby Taj or Itmad-Ul-Ullah – The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj. It is one of the most beautiful Mughal tombs, built by Nur Jahan, the Empress of Jahangir, for her father in 1628. The tomb is the resting place of the powerful personality in the Mughal Court, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, whose life story is very interesting. Formerly a poor Persian merchant named Mirza Ghiyas or Ghiyas Beg, he became a minister and trusted treasurer in Akbar’s court. After Akbar’s death in 1605, his son Jahangir rose to power. Jahangir made Ghiyas Beg his chief minister and honored him with the title of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the Pillar of the State. Later, Jahangir married Ghiyas Beg's beautiful daughter Mehr-Un-Nissa, who played a significant role in his court and was known as Nur Mahal, the light of the Palace. Due to her influence, her father and brother were granted privileges at court. When Ghiyas Beg (Itmad-Ud-Daulah) died in 1622, Nur Mahal decided to build a mausoleum for him. Queen Mumtaz Mahal, the lady of the Taj, also came from this distinguished family. The mausoleum is entirely made of white marble and adorned with intricate decorations of inlay work and marble-screen work in the Islamic style. With its tranquil small garden on the bank of the Yamuna River, the tomb stands impressively elegant from a distance.

    Later, drive to Delhi. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.

    The rest of the time will be spent at leisure.

    Overnight stay at the hotel.

  • day17
    Delhi Airport Departure

    Transfer to Delhi airport and board the flight to your home country.


    'TOUR ENDS WITH MEMORIES'

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