India's Rajasthan – Grand Palace & Historic Fort Stays

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To book or for more information please call: 0330 341 1117 and quote RTA

India's Rajasthan – Grand Palace & Historic Fort Stays

REVEL IN GOLDEN-AGE LUXURY

Stride into an opulent period of India’s past by residing in former palaces, traversing across royal hunting grounds, and surveying the ‘Land of the Kings’ from hilltop forts. With a collection of the country’s finest heritage hotels as your base, this journey through sweeping Rajasthan begins in Delhi, where historic sites are aplenty, and a culinary tour will delight. The tightly packed lanes and lakeside ghats of Pushkar then lead to a Hindu ceremony at Brahma Temple, and a Jeep ride through the desert of Jodhpur ensures further insights by visiting a local village. An enlightening cultural performance and dinner amongst the sand dunes of Khimsar provides a contrast to lunching on the veranda of a former maharaja palace in Jaipur. And, from the medieval ramparts of Amber and Agra, the spiralling turrets of palaces and temples can be viewed while a safari cruise down the Chambal River allows for rare wildlife sightings. Finally, a visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most famous and elaborate monuments appropriately concludes this showcase of regal Mughal heritage.

Holiday Highlights

Enjoy a more intimate and smaller group experience of 16 to 24 travellers
Take in Delhi’s most famed historic sites by rickshaw and discover landmarks on the city’s culinary map
Wander the lanes and pass by the lakeside ghats of Pushkar, with a visit to Brahma Temple to witness the Hindu ceremony of light
Survey the City Palace of Udaipur, Jagdish Temple, and the beautiful gardens of Saheliyon-ki of Udaipur
Drift across Lake Pichola on a cruise, viewing Udaipur’s shoreside palaces and temples from a different angle
Spend time in the heart of desert-fringed Jodhpur, venturing by Jeep to a local village
Head into the sand dunes of Khimsar for dinner and a cultural show under the stars
Journey by Jeep to Amber, the ancient capital of the Rajput Empire and the extraordinary hill-top Amber Fort in Jaipur
Lunch in the ornate surroundings of Samode Haveli, the former home of the maharajas, with a backdrop of the ancient Aravali Range
Tour Jaipur’s City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and 18th-century Hawa Mahal, with the option to travel further by rickshaw
Visit historic Abhaneri and its impressive Chand Baori Stepwell
Embark on an excursion to the royal pavilions, palaces, and courtyards of the majestic Agra Fort
Visit the Taj Mahal, encircled by Mughal gardens and glistening in the sunshine

What's Included

11 nights half-board accommodation in a series of heritage hotels in Delhi (two nights), Pushkar (one), Udaipur (two), Jodhpur (two), Khimsar (one), Jaipur (two), Agra (one) and two nights air travel
11 breakfasts, four lunches, and 12 dinners
A guided tour of New Delhi
A rickshaw ride through New Delhi
An evening culinary walking tour through Old Delhi
A scenic train ride to Ajmer
An evening walking tour of Pushkar
A visit to Brahma Temple and arti ceremony
A tour of Udaipur tour with Mewari (local) lunch
A visit to a vintage car museum
A cruise across Lake Pichola
A Jeep safari to Bishnoi village and guided walk
A Jodhpur city tour and visit to Meharangarh Fort
Dinner at a local village amongst the Khimsar sand dunes, with a cultural performance
A tour of Jaipur, including a visit to the Amber Fort by Jeep, lunch at Samode Palace and city tour
A visit to the Chand Baori Stepwell
A visit to Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal
Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transfers and travel
Fully escorted by a friendly, experienced tour manager
Return flights from the UK to Delhi
Tipping is included for airport and hotel porters, restaurant and monument staff, naturalists and rickshaw drivers. Tipping is at your discretion for your tour manager, driver and driver’s assistant
Free Wi-Fi and bottled water is available every day on board the coach journeys

Itinerary

Day 1

Board your overnight flight east for the journey to India.

Day 2

After your overnight flight, you’ll arrive in Delhi, meet your tour manager, and be transferred to the first heritage hotel of your stay, built in a palatial building dating back to 1903. You can spend the rest of the day unwinding, perhaps having a drink on the garden terrace or taking a dip in the outdoor pool, enclosed by manicured lawns. Dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel’s polished restaurant, serving international and Indian dishes.

Day 3

Following a restful night, you’ll have breakfast and set off on a morning excursion to Humayun’s Tomb, one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments and an inspiration for the construction of the Taj Mahal. The tour will also stop off at the striking Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a minaret and ‘victory tower’ that forms part of a complex. You’ll then drive past the impressive government buildings, including President House, Parliament House, and the India Gate War Memorial. In the afternoon, an informative guided tour of the city’s major historic highlights will commence, encompassing the Jama Masjid Mosque, one of the largest in India, Raj Ghat, Gandhi’s cremation site, Jama Mosque, and Agrasen-Ki Baoli, a centuries-old step well. An exhilarating rickshaw ride around Chandni Chowk, in the heart of Old Delhi, will serve as another memorable moment before the tour continues passing by the Red Fort, with its soaring, scarlet walls. When evening falls, you’ll journey on a culinary walking tour around Old Delhi while learning about how the city has preserved its cultural history and epicurean traditions. During the tour, you’ll call at foodie spots, which are considered landmarks on Delhi’s culinary map and favoured by locals while tasting recipes that have been passed down through generations. Afterwards, you’ll return home for dinner at the hotel and to relax.

Day 4

Rise early this morning as a day of adventure awaits, beginning with a transfer to the railway station to board the train to Ajmer. You’ll travel through the countryside, with a packed breakfast and upon arrival, be picked up and transferred to Pushkar, one of the oldest cities in India. A transfer will then take you to your next old-world hotel, Pushkar Palace, which looks over Pushkar Lake and the surrounding hills. You can then unpack and choose to wander the winding lanes around the lake, a sacred body of water ringed by 52 ghats (flights of steps that provide access for bathing) and over 400 temples. In the evening, you’ll pay a visit to the Brahma Temple for which the city is known. It is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma (the creator of the universe) in the world and a pilgrimage site visited by thousands of devotees every year. Here, you’ll get to witness arti (the Hindu ceremony of light), where worshipers circle a lamp three times in a clockwise direction while chanting a prayer or singing a hymn. You’ll then return to the hotel for dinner, perhaps with a view of the lake.

Day 5

Enjoy breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes’ set around artificial lakes and home to a collection of magnificent royal residences. Once arriving, you’ll check into Shikarbadi Hotel, housed in a former royal hunting lodge, and backed by the Aravali Hills. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, and you can choose to spend it in and around the hotel, perhaps following one of the nearby nature trails while keeping an eye out for spotted deer lurking amongst the trees. Alternatively, you can stroll the warren of streets at your own pace, and make your away around the serene Lake Pichola, bordered by palaces and temples. In the late afternoon, you can cool down in the pool before enjoying dinner at the hotel.

Day 6

Fuel up on breakfast and then venture out for a guided tour of Udaipur, stopping by the majestic City Palace, a grand structure of towers and balconies, and Rajasthan’s largest palace. The tour will also visit Jagdish Temple, a towering Hindu shrine and the beautiful gardens of Saheliyon-ki-Bari, the ‘Gardens of Maidens’, adorned with marble fountains and encompassing lush lawns. For lunch, you’ll visit a charming, local restaurant and sample authentic Mewari cuisine. You’ll then have the chance to visit a vintage car museum, which houses a collection of cars owned by the royal family of Udaipur. Later in the afternoon, you’ll board a boat for a scenic cruise across the waters of Lake Pichola – an ideal way to take in the shoreside attractions from a different angle. When night falls, you’ll join your fellow guests for a special dinner looking out over the palace and riverbanks. While dining, you can view the illuminated, glittering temples and fortresses in the distance.

Day 7

You’ll have breakfast, check out and then travel to desert-fringed Jodhpur, the ‘Blue City’, with its maze of medieval streets, sapphire-hued buildings, and lofty 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort. The coach will drop you at your palatial lake-front hotel, Rohet Garh, and you can unwind and get settled here, perhaps having a cocktail on the terrace. In the evening, you’ll be picked up in a Jeep and venture on a safari to Bishnoi Village. You’ll walk on foot around the village, gaining insights into the culture of the Marwar people and observing them go about their daily lives and occupations. The residents follow a 15th-century religious creed that includes a variety of instructions to preserve the environment – earning them the title of the world's first eco-warriors. Later, you’ll return for dinner at the hotel and to unwind.

Day 8

Today, after breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Jodhpur. You’ll begin by exploring Mehrangarh Fort, with its sandstone butte protecting a complex of ornate palaces, courtyards, and museum. You’ll then visit the white marbled Jaswant Thada memorial, with its assortment of domes and Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, positioned on Chittar Hill, the highest point in Jodhpur. The rest of the day will be free, so you can explore at your own pace. Perhaps take a stroll around the old city, with the clock tower, Ghanta Ghar in the centre of it. Next to the tower, you’ll find the market, with its traditional bazaar-like atmosphere and assortment of handicrafts, spices, and tea. In the evening, you’ll travel back to the hotel for dinner.

Day 9

Enjoy breakfast and then board the coach for Khimsar, a small village in Rajasthan, surrounded by a desert landscape. Here, you’ll check into the luxury heritage hotel, Khimsar Fort, a sprawling 16th-century property, positioned on the edge of the Great Thar Desert with a backdrop of sand dunes. After you’ve settled in and perhaps had a tipple at the poolside bar, you’ll be picked up and driven out to a Rajasthani village bounded by sand dunes. A special dinner of local dishes will be served under the stars and overlooking a lake with the accompaniment of a cultural performance featuring dancing and music. Later in the evening, you’ll be driven back to the hotel.

Day 10

You’ll have breakfast at the hotel this morning, check out, and be driven to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’, where another beautiful heritage hotel awaits. Housed in a former haveli, this property is a quiet oasis of calm close to the bustling city. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, and you can choose to take advantage of the facilities, like the spa and swimming pool, or head out to explore. As night falls, you can join your fellow travellers for dinner.

Day 11

After breakfast, you’ll journey by Jeep to Amber, the ancient capital of the Rajput Empire and the extraordinary hill-top Amber Fort. You’ll get to explore the Royal Hills of this 6th-century hilltop structure and take in the magnificent views from the red sandstone ramparts. An included lunch will be served in the ornate surroundings of Samode Haveli. The former home of the maharajas, this luxurious 16th-century palace hotel looks over landscaped gardens and the Aravali Range. The tour will then continue to the City Palace complex, with its temple, museums, and courtyards. Next up is Jantar Mantar, the city's ancient astronomical observatory, followed by the many windows and screened balconies of the 18th-century Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of the Winds’, with its red façade. If you’re keen to sightsee further, you can join an optional evening rickshaw ride through the old part of Jaipur, passing by the market, awash with sights and sounds before dinner at the hotel.

Day 12

This morning, after breakfast, you’ll check out of the hotel and travel to ancient Abhaneri with its amazing, symmetrical stepwell. Take in the weaving staircases of this 13-story structure, a vital well to inhabitants of Rajasthan for over one thousand years, and explore its connecting temple. After having lunch, you’ll continue to Agra for one night's stay.

Day 13

Wake up in a serene paradise and have breakfast. You’ll then embark on an excursion to the royal pavilions, palaces, and courtyards of the majestic, red sandstone Agra Fort. From this 16th-century fortress set on the Yamuna River, you’ll experience your first view of the incomparable Taj Mahal and its gardens. The tour will continue to the Taj itself, and you’ll, of course, get to see the famed monument of love up close, glistening in the sunshine. This ivory-white marble mausoleum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, encircled by expansive Mughal gardens, is one of the greatest architectural achievements and wish-list spectacle. After lunch at the hotel, you'll depart and begin the drive to Delhi. A final and celebratory dinner will be served in Delhi, as you bid farewell to your newfound friends and travel to the airport for your overnight flight home.

Day 14

Arrive back in the UK this morning.

India Rajasthan – Grand Palace and Historic Fort Stays Touring Hotels

Maidens Hotel, Delhi (nights 2-3)

Dating back to 1903, this iconic Delhi landmark encompasses an old-world elegance, traditional service, and modern comforts, including a famously deep swimming pool. Guestrooms boast high ceilings, air conditioning, tea/coffee-making facilities, and views of the garden. Sprawling lawns are dotted with fountains, the restaurant features a terrace, and there is a polished bar.

Camp Land's End, Pushkar (night 4)

Set in the valley of the Aravalli Range and near the holy town of Pushkar, 13 luxury cottages are constructed in a traditional thatched-roof style by local artisans. On the grounds, there is an outdoor infinity swimming pool with views of the mountains and a restaurant serving local dishes with regional produce. Each handcrafted cottage has expansive windows, a private veranda with seating, tea/coffee-making facilities, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can choose from a range of activities such as Jeep safaris.

Chunda Haveli, Udaipur (nights 5-6)

An ornate boutique heritage hotel, inspired by a traditional Rajasthani palace and overlooking the City Palace and Lake Pichola. A rooftop swimming pool looks out over Udaipur, there's a multi-air restaurant serving international cuisines, and 24-hour room service. Refined guestrooms, with marble floors, have TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, air conditioning, mini-bars, safes, and free Wi-Fi.

Rohet Garh, Jodhpur (nights 7-8)

Enclosed by desert landscapes, this heritage hotel has 32 uniquely designed guestrooms, with frescos lining the walls and antiques. Peacocks wander the manicured lawns, the outdoor pool is set located in a charming courtyard, and there is a serene spa and a traditional restaurant, which opens to an expansive terrace.

Khimsar Fort, Khimsar (night 9)

A palatial hotel in a converted 16th-century fort fringed by sand dunes. Guestrooms are bright with tiled flooring, elaborate d'ecor, and modern amenities. Inside the palace tower, a caf'e can be found, a poolside bar serves cocktails and snacks, and the main restaurant, with a terrace overlooks ancient ruins. Guests have access to a well-equipped fitness room and spa services.

Alsisar Haveli, Jaipur (nights 10-11)

This grandiose heritage hotel was originally built as a private haveli in 1892, and now offers regal accommodation, with Rajput architecture, four-poster beds and rich fabrics. Courtyards, with seating, are backed by verdant greenery, and the outdoor swimming pool and spa is fringed by gazebos. The opulent restaurant is illuminated by ornate chandeliers and serves Rajasthani dishes.

ITC Mughal, Agra (night 12)

Ringed by sprawling landscaped gardens, this sophisticated resort is a tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. There are four restaurants serving local and international cuisines, and two polished bars. Guests have access to a plush spa, fitness centre, and outdoor swimming pool. Elegant guestrooms have mini-fridges, marble bathrooms, safes, tea/coffee-makers, TVs and Wi-Fi.

Passports and visas

British citizens require machine-readable passports when travelling overseas. Your passport must contain two blank pages and be valid for 180 days after your return date from India.

British CITIZENS and most other European nationals satisfying certain conditions may use the online e-Tourist Visa application process at a cost of $10 (US) per person for entry to India for arrivals in the months of April, May and June or $25 (US) per person for arrivals in other months. Fees are subject to change. Other passport holders must apply for a full visa.

Note that all travellers of Pakistani descent, regardless of citizenship, will generally be subject to more detailed processing by the Indian authorities, which can take up to four months from application.

Hotel transfer times

The transfer time from the airport to your hotel is approximately one hour.

Foreign Office Travel Advice

Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.

On your flight

All outbound flights leave in the evening and land at your destination the next day. All return flights leave in the morning and land in the UK on the same day. On-board meals will usually include dinner and breakfast on outbound flights, and lunch and a snack on the flight home. Drinks are complimentary.

Luggage allowance

You are permitted to take one suitcase per person on the aircraft, which should not exceed 23kg.

Special requirements

If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.

Disabled access

The majority of our tours involve a certain amount of walking, including a short walk from the coach stop to the town, attraction or venue you're visiting. If you are bringing a wheelchair, please let us know at the time of booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made. In many developing countries access is sometimes not as easy as at home. Should you have walking difficulties, getting around monuments and attractions may be harder and, in some cases, impossible. Should you have any concerns whatsoever please do contact us prior to travel.

Travel vaccinations

Requirements and advice can vary over time, and from person to person, so please contact your GP about eight weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or any other preventive measures.

Road Conditions

In developing countries road networks are continually being improved and expanded, which can mean that, from time to time, roadworks and rough road surfaces can extend journey times. Many roads do not have separate pavements or safety barriers, and great care should be taken when crossing or walking alongside roads.

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