A colourful mélange of cultures from both sides of River Indus, Rajasthan is diverse in every sense of the word. So much so that by the time you finish exploring it, you might become a little bit of a Rajasthani yourself. Indeed, it’s beautiful and infectious.

It was hard to squeeze in the best of this princely state in just a fortnight but we’ve managed here, a feat nothing less than incredible. Jaipur, Chhatra Sagar, Jodhpur, Udaipur– this is a perspective of Rajasthan, we haven’t put together, ever. Sightseeing tours, splendorous temples, beautiful fortresses, village walking tours, rural storytelling sessions, and a life sans complexities, the way a rural Rajasthani lives – we wonder if you’d ever want to leave Rajasthan and return to normal life. We certainly had a hard time doing it.

Program Duration (15 Days)

Welcome to wonder land that is INDIA. A life time journey through India with The Indian Way blends all the elements of travel, culture, people, places and experience begins here.

• 1
  

  Arrive Delhi

  Meeting on arrival and transfer to hotel Pullman.
  

• 2
  

  Delhi

  Today your tour begin with visiting Old Delhi where you can explore spice market, silver market and experience short ride of cycle rickshaw (man puller cycle). Also pay visit Jama Masjid (masque) Raj Ghat, enjoy drive past to India Gate and President house.
  
  

  Chandani Chowk Enjoy cycle rickshaw ride in the street of Chandni Chowk (Silver Street), once the imperial avenue down which Shah Jahan rode at the head of lavish cavalcades, it is today bustling with shops, stalls and silversmiths' ateliers.
  
  

  Jama Masjid A magnificent architectural gift by Emperor Shah Jahan, it is built of red sandstone and white marble and was completed in 1658. This is India's largest mosque; its courtyard can hold 25,000 people. This mosque has three gateways, four angle towers and two minarets. One can also climb to the top of the minarets for a bird’s eye view of Delhi.
  
  Visitors are requested to remove their shoes before entering the mosque and must be properly dressed, no shorts or sleeveless shirts
  
  

  Drive past Red Fort, built in 1648 during the reign of Shah Jahan, this was the seat of the Mughal Empire. It is a huge red sandstone fort, housing within its precincts imposing palaces and impressive public buildings.
  
  

  From here, drive past the Government buildings including India Gate, Parliament House and the President’s Residence.
  
  

  India Gate This modern memorial arch was built in homage to the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I and whose names are inscribed on it. Also referred to in history as an All India War Memorial, an eternal flame - the Amar Jawan Jyoti has been lit to honour the Unknown Soldier.
  
  

  Parliament House An impressive circular colonnaded building 171 meters/561 feet in diameter, it houses the Indian Parliament.
  
  

  Rashtrapati Bhawan Formerly the Vice Regal Palace, Rashtrapati Bhawan is currently the residence of the President of India.
  
  

  In the afternoon, visit Sikh Temple, Huyamu Tomb and Qutub Minar.
  
  

  Gurudwara Bangla Sahib Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most popular place of worship in Delhi. Its gold-plated dome and white façade towers above Bangla Sahib road effortlessly. It is built on the site of a house where Guru Harkishen Dev, the eight guru of the Sikhs, had stayed when he visited Delhi in 1664. Enthusiasts of Sikh history can visit the Baba Baghel Singh Museum within the Gurudwara complex.
  
  

  Humayun's tomb in the capital Delhi is a fine specimen of the great Mughal architecture. Built in 1570, the tomb is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. Its unique beauty is said to have inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the unparalleled Taj Mahal. In many ways, this magnificent red and white sandstone building is as spectacular as the famous 'monument to love' in Agra. This historic monument was erected by Humayun's queen Hamida Banu Begam (Haji Begam) at a cost of about 1.5 million. It is believed that she designed the tomb.
  
  

  Qutab Minar which is among the tallest and famous towers in the world. The minaret is 234 feet high and the highest individual tower in the world. Other towers in the world are the Great Pagoda in Peking, China and the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy but these towers are not as high as the Qutab Minar in Delhi.

• 3
  

  Delhi-Jaipur

  In the morning, drive to Jaipur 6 hrs. On the way stop at Shahpura for Lunch (optional), after lunch continue drive to Jaipur which 1 hour away. Up on arrival, check-in at Hotel.
  
  

  Rest of day free to enjoy facility of resort.
  
  

  Jaipur's past is never too far from hand. The city of victory, Jaipur presides over the fascinating desert state and its people: surrounded by rugged hills, each crowned by a formidable fort; and beautiful palaces, mansions and gardens dotted throughout its precinct s. The palaces and forts of yesteryear that were witness to royal processions and splendour are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of the people of the "pink city". Except for the busy traffic of bicycles, cars and buses, little seems to have changed.
  
  

  In the evening enjoy your dinner with Elephant (optional)
  A short drive from tree of life jaipur to bring you foothill of Aravali range. Your elephant welcome you while you feed it with Bananas. sitting atop, it takes you through small villages and hillside, with multiple of birds. A meal with local delicacies follows.

• 4
  

  Jaipur

  In the morning, attend yoga classes
  The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which means ‘to unite’ or ‘to join’. It is about connecting the body and the mind physically, mentally and spiritually. While the best time to practise Yoga is early in the morning or in the evening, you can practice it any time, any where. It is as much a work out of the mind, as of the body. After a personalized consultation, your gentle teacher will take you through a series of body and mind postures.
  
  

  After breakfast, get ready for city tour of Jaipur.
  Jaipur's past is never too far from hand. The city of victory, Jaipur presides over the fascinating desert state and its people: surrounded by rugged hills, each crowned by a formidable fort; and beautiful palaces, mansions and gardens dotted throughout its precinct s. The palaces and forts of yesteryear that were witness to royal processions and splendour are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of the people of the "pink city". Except for the busy traffic of bicycles, cars and buses, little seems to have changed.
  
  

  Start the day with a visit the capital of Amber Fort to see the fabulous Amber Fort. An elephant (alternatively by jeeps) will spare you the trouble of reaching up to the fortress. Once on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls.
  Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room..
  
  

  En-route to Amber Fort you will stop and see the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. It is really an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily goings on in the street below.
  
  

  City Palace, which is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings.
  
  

  Jaipur's Jantar Mantar is the most famous of five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh in India. Jai Singh was a great admirer of progresses and research made in the fields of science and technology, but he was passionate about astronomy.
  
  

  In the evening, we will take you special venue Rambagh polo club for drink & meals (direct payment).
  
  

• 5
  

  Jaipur/Chhatra Sagar

  In the morning, enjoy your drive towards Chhatra Sagar which is 5 hours away. On arrival, check in to the luxury tent.
  
  

  Camp: Luxury tents have always been an important part of Rajput lifestyle. Constant campaigns in far flung lands meant long stays in tents under inhospitable conditions.
  
  

  Tents were the only luxury available and soon these "homes away from home" evolved into mobile, mini-palaces. Chhatra Sagar captures the essence of this romance.
  
  

  Rest of day free to enjoy beauty of place.

• 6
  

  Chhatra Sagar/Manvar

  In the morning, proceed for Village Tour followed by bird watching.
  
  

  Village tour: A visit guided by the members of the family to these settlements makes one undertsand the traditional, rural Rajasthani lifestyle, which lays stress on harmony, conservation and the full utilization of natural resources.
  
  

  Bird Watching, Pristine wetlands, scrub forests, grasslands, and farms have made Chhatra Sagar a haven for birds. With a checklist of over 200 species, guests can enjoy birdlife from close quarters almost everywhere in the camp.
  
  

  Later drive to Manvar which is 5 hours away. On arrival, check-in at Manvar Desert camp.
  
  

  On arrival, check-in at Manvar Camp. Later enjoy the sun set on sand dune on the back of Camel. In the evening, enjoy Gala dinner with musician.

• 7
  

  Manvar/Jodhpur

  In the morning, proceed for Jeep safari to explore Manvar. Later drive to Jodhpur which is 2 hours away. On arrival, check-in at Hotel. Rest of day free to admire local market of Jodhpur on foot. Rest of day free to explore local market on foot.
  
  

  Jodhpur: The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a 10km long wall, which was built about a century after the city was founded. Eight gates lead out from the walled city. It’s one of the more interesting cities in India and those baggy-tight horse riding trousers, jodhpurs, took their name from this locale. The Mehrangarh Fort is sprawled across a 125-meter high hill and is the most impressive and formidable fort in the fort-studded Rajasthan. On the wall adjacent to the Lahapol or “Iron Gate” are 15 handprints, the sati marks of the widows of Maharaja Man Singh who threw themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843. Inside the fort, which is still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, there is a whole series of courtyards and palaces.
  
  

• 8
  

  Jodhpur

  In the morning, visit get ready for thrilling experience Zip line tour followed by visit of Mehrangarh fort.
  
  

  Mehrangarh Fort (citadel of the Sun) that evokes the very spirit of the Rathores, the ruling local Rajput clan Visit its various palaces with their delicate friezes and respective museums, displaying treasures of the royal family. North of Meherangarh Fort, and connected to it by road, Jaswant Thanda is a pillared marble memorial to the popular ruler Jaswant Singh II (1878-95), who purged Jodhpur of dacoits, initiate d irrigation systems and boosted the economy. The cenotaphs of members of the royal family who have died since Jaswant are close by his memorial; those who preceded him are remembered by chhatris at Mandor. This south-facing spot is also the best place from which to photograph the fort, looming above the sheer rocky Meherangarh plateau.

• 9
  

  Jodhpur/Udaipur

  In the morning, enjoy a drive to Udaipur, which is 6 hours away from Jodhpur. En route, experience enticing rural train ride later also pay visit to the Jain temples of Ranakpur.
  
  

  Rural Train Ride Chugging on Train no 222 - you will have the opportunity to go on the train safari in Deogarh and Kamlighat area.
  
  

  It’s an amazing one and a half hours spent on a meter gauge train which is the lifeline of locals. This train ride is a dramatic way to come in contact with the locals. Dadul Nath, the man who has been selling “salads” to the locals for the past 20 years.The train was originally started by the British to unite the regions of Mewar and Marwar, The journey starts from Kamblighat (150 kms drive from Jodhpur) where the station master single handedly mans everything. The ride ends at Phulad and you drive continue towards Udaipur (120 kms). This is also the highest track on the Western Railways, one can hardly believe how Rajasthan at such a height. The train doesn't have a name. It just has a number – 222. So you chug on train no 222 through tunnels and bridges, past quaint railway stations where the famous book and movie “The Man Who Would Be King” of Rudyard Kipling unfolds. The landscape is rugged, yet stunning, cinematic and has a “in the middle of nowhere” feeling to it.The train makes two special stops.
  
  

  The survey of the Udaipur-Marwar Junction railway was carried out more than 75 years back by Iron Henry Williams and the rail line was got constructed by the Maharana of Mewar who used it for his visits to Delhi to meet the Viceroy. After the Independence the rail line continued to be in use -- as a link between two regions, Marwar and Mewar. Kamlighat railway station, also the entry point to Raoli-Todgarh wildlife sanctuary, used to be an important station in the past as every train used to stop here for at least half an hour to check the engine and steam pressure before entering mountain track.
  
  

  Ranakpur Jain Temples: The Jains are a sect of Hindus known among other things for their asceticism and absolute nonviolence. The temple was built in the 15th century and is the largest Jain temple in India. No two of the 1444 white marble columns are alike!
  
  

  In the evening, pamper yourself with relaxing 60 minutes SPA.
  
  

  Spa offers an unmatched array of therapies, rituals and journeys designed to renew, refresh and replenish the soul. Our therapies are inspired by ancient Indian traditions of health and healing that have evolved for over 5000 years and incorporating international influences. Awaken the senses with stimulating beauty and body therapies in exquisitely appointed spa suites. Unwind in the steam and get infused with a new vitality. Pay tribute to the grandeur of the Mughal era with a session of self indulgence at the Oberoi spa. We provide limitless ways to heal the mind and body and rejuvenate your spirit.

• 10
  

  Udaipur

  In the morning, city tour of Udaipur followed by boat ride on lake Pichola.
  
  

  City Palace Museum - The impressive complex of several palaces is a blend of Rajput and Mughal influences. Half of it, with a great plaster facade, is still occupied by the royal family. Between the Bari Pol(Great Gate, 1600) to the north, and the Tripolia Gate(1713), are the eight toranas (arches), under which the rulers were weighed against gold and silver on their birthdays, which was then distributed to the poor. Beyond the Tripolia the Gane sh Deori Gate leads south to the fine Rai Angan(Royal Courtyard, 1571), with the Jewel Room. From here you can wander through a number of picturesque place enclosures of the Mardana, some beautifully decorated.
  
  

  Jagdish Temple - built in 1651 AD was built by Maharana Jagat Singh. The temple, currently being renovated, is a fine example of the Nagari style. A shrine with a brass Garuda stands outside and stone elephants flank the entrance steps; within is a black stone image of Vishnu as Jagnnath, the Lord of the Universe.
  
  

  Sahelion Ki Bari – (Garden of the Maids of Honour) Attractive and restful, this ornamental pleasure garden is a very pleasant spot. An elegant round lotus pond has four marble elephants spouting water. To the north is a rose garden with over 100 varieties.

• 11
  

  Udaipur/Bijaipur

  After breakfast, drive to Bijapur -4 hrs, en-route visit Chittorgarh Fort.
  
  

  Chittorgarh Fort is a massive and majestic fort situated on a hilltop near Chittorgarh town in Rajasthan state in India. It is one of the most historically significant forts not only in Rajasthan but whole of North India. The fort stands on top a 180m-high hill and is on about 280 hectare site.
  
  

  After the visit, continue your drive to Bijapur. On arrival, check-in at hotel. In the evening, we will take you Pangarh near Bijapur for sun set tea later attend one more time cooking where opportunity to learn and unfold secret of typical Rajasthani cuisine.

• 12
  

  Bijapur/Bundi

  In the morning, attend meditation yoga program. after breakfast, Explore Bijaipur followed by Jeep ride discover rural India. We will take you to the villages of Biajaipur where opportunity to see day to day life routine life.
  
  

  Bijapur is a old fashioned but attractive village. It is famous for the 200-year-old Bijapur Castle, now converted to a heritage hotel. Bijapur is a perfect tourist destination for relaxation from busy urban life. Its roads are very much empty except some farm vehicles and shepherds with their cattle's. The major attraction is its castle which was built in the 16th century by Rao Shakti Singh ji the younger brother of the great warrior Maharana Pratap. Now it is converted into a beautiful heritage hotel. This castle is a perfect blend of Mughal and the Gothic style architecture.
  
  

  In the afternoon, departure to Bundi- 3 hrs journey en route visit Bijolia Temple.
  Bijolia : An ancient fort and the city of Bijolia is situated on the Bundi- Chittaurgarh road. A high paved courtyard on the side of the fort has a large temple of Lord Shiva in its centre with a fine image of Lord Ganesha standing as a guardian at the entrance. A carved archway leads to the temple.
  
  

  After the visit continue your drive towards Bundi. On arrival, check in at hotel.

• 13
  

  Bundi/Ranthambhore

  In the morning, explore Bundi, a celebration of rich and pristine culture of Rajasthan.
  The Taragarh Fort, or 'Star Fort' is the most impressive of the city's structures. It was constructed in AD 1354, the fort is a popular tourist viewpoint over the city.
  
  

  The fort contains three tanks which never dry up. The technique with which they were built has been long since lost but the tanks survive as a testament to the advanced methods of construction and engineering in medieval India.
  
  

  The Bundi Palace is situated on the hillside adjacent to the Taragarh Fort and is notable for its lavish traditional murals and frescoes.
  
  

  The largest of Bundi's Baoris or step wells is the intricately-carved Raniji ki Baori. Some 46 m deep, it was built in 1699 by Rani Nathavatji. The steps built into the sides of the water-well made water accessible even when at a very low level. The Baori is one of the largest examples of its kind in Rajasthan. The Nawal Sagar is a large square-shaped artificial lake in the centre of Bundi containing many small islets. A temple dedicated to Varuna, the Vedic god of water, stands half-submerged in the middle of the lake. the lake feeds the numerous bavdis in the old city by creating an artificial water table. The Nagar Sagar twin step wells are identical step wells crafted in pristine masonry on either side of the main spine of Bundi town. The kunds (pools) are currently full of waste from the ancient vegetable market in the vicinity.
  
  

  After breakfast departure to Ranthambhore – 3 hrs .On arrival, check-in at hotel.

• 14
  

  Ranthambhore/Agra

  Early morning, departure by exclusive Jeep to discover the fauna and flora of the park.
  Ranthambhore National Park is one of the largest national parks in northern India. It is situated in Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan. Ranthambhore wildlife sanctuary is known for its tigers and is one of the best places in India to see these majestic predators in the jungle. Tigers can be easily spotted even during the day time.
  
  

  The park lies at the edge of a plateau, and is bounded to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River. There are several lakes in the park. It is named for the historic Ranthambhore fortress, which lies within the national park. The park covers an area of 392 km², and is known for its tiger population, and is one of India's Project Tiger reserves. Other major wild animals include the tiger, leopard, wild boar, sambar, hyena, sloth bear and chital. It is also home to wide variety of trees, plants, birds and reptiles. Ranthambore is also the site for one of the largest banyan trees in India.
  
  

  After ride return to hotel for breakfast and thereafter drive enjoy countryside drive to Agra which is 5 hours away. On the way visit Fatehpur Sikri.
  
  

  Fatehpur Sikri – the deserted red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its ‘ruins’ are still in a pristine condition. It is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. the deserted red sandstone city, built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. It was abandoned soon after it was built when the local wells went dry and it remains today in much the same condition that it was over 300 years ago. It is complete with palaces and mosques and used to be a town larger than London when it was originally constructed. Now it is an extraordinary place to wander around with its buildings in near perfect condition.
  
  

  After the visit, continue your drive towards Agra. on arrival, check-in at hotel. Rest of day free to enjoy facilities of hotel or stroll around with your pace.

• 15
  

  Agra/Delhi

  Enjoy an early morning visit to the world famous Taj Mahal to experience it’s splendor and beauty in the glow of rising sun.
  
  

  (Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday)
  Taj Mahal That magnificent monument to love – The Taj Mahal, was built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had Lahori's hands cut off, and blinded, so he would never be able to duplicate the structure. What makes the Taj Mahal unique is its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. It is impossible to visualize the Taj Mahal in any surrounding others than its paradoxical garden. Paradise, in Islam, is visualized as a lush garden where running streams flow. When the Mughals brought this concept to India they elevated it to heights of incomparable artistry.
  
  

  Later visit Agra Fort.
  Agra Fort – There are many fascinating buildings within the massive walls, which stretch for 2.5 km. The fort is a city within a city - the seat and the stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. This was the seat of Mughal rule and administration and the present structure owes its origins to Akbar who erected the walls and gates and the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. Shah Jehan added the impressive quarters and the mosque while Aurangzeb added the outer ramparts. Visit its Hall of Public Audience and its Royal Pavilions.
  
  

  After the visit, drive to Delhi-4 hrs. On arrival, check-in at Hotel for shower. In the evening, step in to magnificent live theatre show at Kingdom of dream.
  
  

  Kingdom of Zangoora or Jhumaroo show the Crown of the Kingdom, where an opulent, cinematic theatrical experience of the World’s biggest Bollywood long-playing musical show is staged daily. Famous names from the Indian film industry collaborate to create this electrifying, on-stage magnum opus spectacle. This is also an exclusive & upscale address for day-time.
  
  

  In the evening, transfer to Eaton airport lounge (located into the airport) for wash & change, later report on time to the check-in counter to board your flight back home.