Essence of Rajasthan

India, 12 Nights

Stay in tented camps and converted palaces as you explore the magical state of Rajasthan. From the forts of Jodhpur to the romance of the desert, Rajasthan is best explored by road so that you can also see local life, unchanged for centuries, in the rural villages that you will pass by.

Day 1 London/Delhi
Depart London on your overnight flight to Delhi.

Day 2 Delhi/Jaipur
On arrival this morning, connect to your flight to Jaipur where you will stay at the regal Rambagh Palace.

Day 3 Jaipur
This morning make your ascent by jeep to view the extravagantly decorated halls and chambers of the Amber Fort, followed later on by some time perusing the unique collection of astronomical instruments at the Jantar Mantar Observatory and visit the Palace of the Winds.

Day 4 Jaipur/Nimaj
Drive through the Indian countryside to reach your luxury tented accommodation at Chhatra Sagar, with opportunities en route to explore local villages (a journey of around 5 hours).

Day 5 Nimaj/Osian
Take another scenic drive to the ancient village of Osian in the Thar Desert which is famous for its magnificent 6th and 8th Century temples (a journey of around 4 hours). The ideal base to explore this village is the Camel Camp where you can take a camel safari into the Thar Desert as the sun sets.

Day 6 Osian/Jaisalmer
Drive to Jaisalmer and check in to the Serai Hotel (a journey of around 5 hours). Founded in 1156, the desert city of Jaisalmer was an important defence and trade town for centuries due to its strategic position on the camel trade routes. Head out into the desert late afternoon to watch the sun set on the timeless dunes.

Day 7 Jaisalmer
A morning tour introduces the wonderful temples and palaces of this desert city. The Jaislamer Fort is over 800 years old and has nearly a hundred turrets to defend it. Inside its walls lie the narrow lanes of the old city as well as Jain temples. In the afternoon take time to explore further or simply relax at your hotel.

Day 8 Jaisalmer/Jodhpur
Drive through rural India to Jodhpur (a journey of around 7 hours) where you will stay at the Taj Hari Mahal. This impressive hotel is set in a lush oasis with rooms that echo the colourful tradition of Rajasthani design.

Day 9 Jodhpur
Take a morning tour to see some of Jodhpur's greatest monuments. The mighty 15th century Mehrangarh Fort dominates the historic 'Blue City' of Jodhpur and is one of the largest forts in India. We can arrange a private viewing of Mehrangarh museum which has galleries showcasing treasures from the royal collection. The afternoon is yours to continue explorations.

Day 10 Jodhpur/Ranakpur
Today's drive takes you to Ranakpur (a journey of around 4 hours). Explore the small interesting museum and temples before settling in to Fateh Bagh for the night.

Day 11 Ranakpur/Devi Garh
Devi Garh is the next stop on your journey. Just 40 minutes from Udaipur, this spectacular hotel in the fortress itself will be your home for the next few nights.

Days 12 to 13 Devi Garh
Spend these days in the fortress of Devi Garh and take a day trip to the romantic city of Udaipur. With beautiful lakes surrounded by the Aravali hills, Udaipur is a must stop on any journey through Rajasthan. Explore the courtyards, pavilions and terraces of the 11 palaces that are encircled by fortifications at the City Palace. We can arrange a private dinner on a pontoon on the spectacular Lake Pichola surrounded by its many waterfront palaces.

Day 14 Devi Garh/Mumbai/London
Fly from Udaipur to Mumbai, where you will have a day room before your overnight flight back to London.


Pricing
At A&K all of our journeys are individually tailored to suit your needs and timescale. However, as a guide, a 12 day journey in India will cost from £4,035 per person based on two adults sharing with flights from the UK and subject to availability.