Feel the heart of Rajasthan

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  • Feel the heart of Rajasthan

Duration: 13 days | 12 nights

Location: Delhi - Udaipur - Deogarh - Ranakpur - Jojawar - Jodhpur - Manwar - Jaisalmer - Khimsar - Bikaner - Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra

Highlights of the programme :
  • Rajasthan and its unknown villages
  • Khimsar, jeep safari to meet the gazelles
  • Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost city of India
  • Agra, city of Taj Mahal inseparable, on the banks of the Yamuna

Arrive in Delhi. Reception at the airport and transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

In the morning panoramic tour of the city. Delhi, the capital of India is a city with a fascinating history and dynamic present. First, Old Delhi, the ancient city of the Mughal sultans steep streets teeming with people and New Delhi, the capital of the Indian with wide tree-lined avenues designed and built as a garden city. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in the country built in 1644 by Emperor Shah Jahan and the bustling shopping centre of Chandi Chowk to 1,001 stalls. Between Chandi Chowk bazaar and the Yamuna river, visit the Red Fort which was once the most opulent fort and palace of the Mughal empire. Then, New Delhi, aristocratic residential part of the city with administrative and government buildings. The Rashtrapati Bhawan, the presidential palace, parliament and India Gate. Raj Ghat where Mahatma Gandhi was cremeated. Connaught Place, the “connected” Delhi with its shops, restaurants and nightclubs instead. In the afternoon, transfer to Delhi airport and flight to Udaipur. Overnight at hotel.

Tour of the White City, the most romantic city in Rajasthan, which is a beautiful sight with its marble palace on the edge of the lake, its islands and surrounding hills. Founded in 1559 by Maharaja Udai Singh II, it follows a plan perfectly mastered of defense and beauty. Visit the City Palace and Museum. Continue to Jagdish Temple, Lake Fatehsagar and Sahelion Ki Bari visit, the garden of the bridesmaids of the Maharani, a large ornate flower beds, fountains and kiosks of marble in the garden. In the late afternoon boat ride on Lake Pichola where you can admire the magnificence of the royal palace and the city. Overnight at hotel.

Morning drive to the 108 temples of Eklingji still active. Many pilgrims come to their devotion to the god Shiva, a great place to enjoy the fervor of believers who wash the statue of the god before covering lei. Then on to Nagda, ancient capital defunct kingdom of Mewar. Nagda is still famous for the ruins of three magnificent Jain temples exquisitely carved lost in a magical setting. Continue to Deogarh. On arrival transfer to hotel. A stroll through the village from another time to meet the indigenous is more enjoyable. Overnight at hotel.

After breakfast drive to Ranakpur, one of the most beautiful sanctuaries Jains. Visit the most amazing site, both for the quality of its carved decorations, the complexity of the architecture of its temples, that the charm of the place. The main temple is as big as a cathedral and interior sculptures reminiscent of fine lace. Continue to Jojawar. In the afternoon train ride through the beautiful landscape of Rajasthan. The route follows tunnels and bridges between the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the majestic lake and along the surrounding forests. Then jeep safari to meet the local ethnic groups where you can learn about their customs and their way of life. Overnight at hotel.

Morning departure for Jodhpur, former capital of Mewar, and visit the city known for its over the city from a height of 125 meters fortress. Built in the 15th century, many palaces were built therein by successive rulers. Jodhpur is commonly known as the Blue City due to the houses of the old city painted that color. In the late afternoon, drive to Manwar in the desert. The concept of tented camp seems to date back to the 17th century when the emperor went on battlefields. These existing camps are provided with every comfort and offer memories of a night to remember. At sunset, camel safari in the dunes. Overnight camp

Early departure for Jaisalmer. Upon arrival, explore the fascinating medieval town of yellow sandstone, lost in the desert of Thar. Built on a hill allowing it to monitor the horizon for miles around, this ancient caravan step, however, is surrounded by a rampart of five kilometers with a hundred bastions. Inside the fort, a maze of courtyards and buildings with ornate balconies, the rooms covered with blue faience and a terrace that offers a spectacular view of the city and the walls. Stroll through the old town and visit the magnificent Patwon-Ki Haveli, former home of the brocade merchants. Then Gadisar excursion to Lake, a lake of rainwater conservation of the 14th century. It was at the time, the main source of drinking water for the entire city. Overnight at hotel.

Morning drive to Khimsar, a former 16th century fort built at the edge of the Thar Desert. Built for military reasons, it became a royal residence two centuries later when the Thakur of the time settled there with his family. Today, the fort is partially occupied by the descendants of Thakur and the other has been converted into a hotel. By late afternoon, jeep ride around to explore the fauna and flora. Overnight at hotel.

Departure by road to Bikaner. Visit this desert city crossed by caravans from the Far East and Arabia, which today is known for its camel farms considered to be part of the best camels in the world. Camel Research Farm is a leader in medical and genetic research. Visit the fort of Bikaner and the old palace. Junagarh Fort in the 16th century features beautifully decorated palaces and temples of red and yellow sandstone. Inside, there is a museum dedicated to arms that surprises with the excellent state of conservation of jewelry. Overnight at hotel.

Starting Jaipur, stop at the Temple of Rats Deshnoke. It houses hundreds of rodents revered evolving freely in the temple and are hardly offensive. A cook is their particular dedicated and ensures their good health. Continue to Jaipur and enjoy the beautiful scenery during the ride and crossing the villages of the region. The city is renowned for the manufacture of carpets in silk and is also the city of gems. Many major international jewelers and recognize the professionalism of its tailors and especially the quality of its stones. Arrive Jaipur and transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Full day visit to the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur, built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, is known as the “Pink City” because of the color of its walls. Morning visit the Amber Fort situated a few kilometers from the city. Amber was the capital of Rajasthan before being dethroned in 1728 by Jaipur This former fortress built atop a rocky outcrop, is available on elephant back or jeep. In the afternoon, visit the City Palace, the royal palace combines Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and sumptuous museum containing many treasures. Then, in front, visit the Observatory, Jantar Mantar Observatory, built in 1700, still regarded as rather futuristic. End of the visit, stop in front of the legendary Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal, with multiple openings. It was built for the women of the royal families so they can attend the processions without being seen. Overnight at hotel.

Depart for Agra and en route stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the red sandstone ephemeral capital built by Emperor Akbar to commemorate the long-awaited birth of his son. It was completed in 1574 but the city was abandoned 15 years later due to lack of water. It was a city “fairy tale” and remains in perfect condition, witness the splendor of the imperial court of the time. Continue to Agra. Arrival at the hotel. In the afternoon, visit the Red Fort of Agra which is the largest fort in India declared cultural heritage of UNESCO since 1983 Mentioned for the first time in 1080, it was only in a simpler time red brick fort. In 1558, Emperor Akbar decided to Agra his capital and rebuilt in order to make it a residential palace fort. Overnight at hotel.

At sunrise visit Taj Mahal, the majestic white marble mausoleum that stands at the bottom of a huge garden on the edge of the river Yamuna. The Emperor Shah Jahan, mad with grief at the death of his beloved in 1653, made him build this tomb which was completed after 23 years of titanic work. An architectural gem, it is a symbol of perfection rarely equaled huge and crazy love of an emperor for his wife. It is inside the Taj Mahal, in an underground crypt, they both rest for eternity. In the afternoon, return to Delhi and evening transfer to the international airport for the flight home.

SUGGESTED HOTELS

You will find below our selection of hotels for this trip. Hotels indicative subject to availability. The choice of the class of accommodation to you. You will be able to specify it in your quote.

Le Roi – Delhi

Team and cozy enough for this modern hotel. Rooms very clean and well appointed. Wifi access. Complete small lunch.

Amarkothi Hotel – Udaipur

A good 3 * very well maintained with rooms elegantly decorated. Courteous and friendly staff. More: Most sights are near the hotel.

Deogarh Mahal – Deogarh

Beautiful stage for this huge palace like this. Very welcoming, smiling and friendly. Maze of corridors leading to spacious rooms and period decor. Nice pool and spa. Magnificent view of the lake from the terrace.

Rawal Jojawar – Jojawar

A nice hotel with impeccable pool in an authentic little frequented tourist village. Nice reception. The hotel offers a variety of activities including horseback rides and picturesque train. A quiet and peaceful country.

Manwar Desert Camp – Manwar

This is an absolutely charming and relaxing place to enjoy the atmosphere of the desert. Courteous and prompt service. The rooms / tents are spacious and comfortable. Dance and music every night.

The Gulaal – Jaisalmer

Comfortable hotel in a quiet area. Very warm, welcoming  and helpful staff. The decor is successful in all areas. Rooms and bathrooms are spacious and very clean. Efficient service. Delicious refreshments served on the terrace with a magnificent view of the Fort in the city.

Khimsar Fort – Khimsar

Magnificent building service and superb hospitality. The rooms are very elegant and tastefully decorated. A great pool in the garden. The view from the ramparts is magical.

Maharaja Ganga Mahal – Bikaner

Nice and close to the old town. Nice setting, in a quiet and relaxing place. Exceptionally large rooms. Good restaurant. Friendly staff.

Khandela Haveli – Jaipur

Former residence of the Maharaja converted into a hotel, this beautiful haveli combines traditional royal hospitality with modern comforts. Spacious rooms with refined decoration surrounding a patio. Restaurant and rooftop pool. A charming place where it feels good.

Taj Vilas – Agra

Modern hotel with a good price / quality ratio. Friendly staff. Bright and spacious rooms with a mini fridge and a safe. Modern bathrooms.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES

You will find below our suggestion for activities to do throughout your journey. Do not hesitate to contact an advisor Aryavrit Travels for any specific request.

Horseback ride

Expect a complete change: in the saddle on the beautiful Marwari horses with amazing earrings shaped like a crescent moon, discover the breathtaking surroundings and go out to meet the locals. A walk to discover treasures, off the beaten path.

Bike ride

We invite you to immerse in unusual: a bike ride on the roads of India, Nepal and Bhutan. Cycling is a way to meet people, a tool to reach out to the population, which allows you to be closer than at the window of an air conditioned car. Let yourself drift along with your meetings, you will appreciate the paths which reserve surprises, all more enjoyable than the other.

Ballooning

Take a step back to admire the pink city Jaipur, it is possible. Climb aboard the platform of your balloon and fly over the capital of Rajasthan and the impressive Amber Fort which is necessary not far from it. In the early morning light, the emotions are at their peak by the glipse by the history of vastness and beauty which has exisred here for last many centuries.

Polo match

Polo on horseback or elephant, a unique show in Jaipur, Jodhpur or Delhi. Sport in vogue in India, polo on horseback is still today one of the spearheads of the sport in the Indian aristocracy. Polo on elephant back, meanwhile, is not a sport as such. Nevertheless, it attracts large crowds because of the originality of a rapid game with elephants struggling to move on the ground. Very entertaining!

Cricket match

Catch a game of cricket, a sport that is truly thrill the crowds in India. Unknown in France, cricket crystallizes all the passions in the Indian subcontinent, where millions of fans follow live matches of their national team. The best players are idolized as real stars, like Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev considered one of the best cricketers of all time.

Vintage car

Experience the charm side with a vintage ride in Rajasthan. These old cars of the maharajahs take you as a prince through the main streets of the cities. A timeless adventure not to be missed.

Local family

What could be more authentic than sharing a moment with a local family? An opportunity to understand the Indianess from very close which is worth reading several books on India. A unique opportunity to learn about the customs of your hosts, with whom you share a traditional meal. A moment of conviviality, memorable exchanges that will only add magic to your stay.

Film show

Indians like to say that what unites them is a passion for cricket and love of cinema. India is the largest film industry in the world in terms of production and the number of entries. Attend the screening of a film, it’s a unique experience and share a moment of jubilation.

Yoga

Immerse yourself in the practice of Yoga and meditation which helps you to know your body and mind. An experienced yoga teacher will teach you the various techniques of “pranayama” (breathing), “asanas” (positions) and ‘dhyana’ (meditation). A unique opportunity in the purest tradition.

Henna session

Mehndi usually refers to the art of drawing with henna on the skin. It is an ephemeral equivalent of tattooing. In Rajasthan, mehndi is an fplk art and it is common for women to get as sophisticated as those of newlyweds drawings. Attend a session to decorate your hands with henna and why not take the opportunity to keep track of your visit!

Cooking lessons

You fell for tandoori chicken, Kerala fish curry, samosas, the thali, the dal, biryani? Do not leave without having learned to cook these dishes. We offer courses in vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine. At the end of the session, you are invited to examine and taste your own the prepared dishes.

Ayurveda massage

Ayurveda invites us to stay in harmony with nature, in touch with the elements of nature by practicing yoga and meditation which help us to purify and nourish our body and mind. A massage on the eye helps to rebalance the body and its functions. Enjoy your visit to the birthplace of Ayurveda to experience a massage in the purest tradition.

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