Forts, Palaces and Desert Tour of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the colourful desert state, in the North West of India, is amongst India’s most popular tourism destinations, and quite rightly so – it’s centuries old history of Rajput kings and their bravery, it’s forts and palaces, and the deserts of Rajasthan, all put together make it an attractive destination. This two week Forts and Palaces tour takes you through some of Rajasthan’s best sights, from the painted havelis of Mandawa, to Rajasthan’s desert cities of Bikaner and Jaisalmer, to the forts and palaces of Khimsar and Deogarh, to the lake city of Udaipur – this is truly Rajasthan at it’s best. Your Rajasthan Forts and Palace tour begins in Delhi, and ends in Mumbai, giving you a chance to experience India’s two most culturally and historically significant gateway cities.

Duration of Rajasthan Forts and Palaces Tour – 13 Days

Destinations - Delhi, Mandawa, Bikaner, Khimsar, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Deogarh, Udaipur, Mumbai.

Day 01: - Arrive Delhi, India

Arrive at Delhi International Airport.

Delhi – India’s Capital Delhi, is a bustling metropolis, with almost 20 million inhabitants. Delhi is a city of contrasts, often called a perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, Delhi has monuments that are over 500 years old, and also has modern shopping malls, nightclubs and golf courses, Delhi truly is India’s crown jewel, and a perfect gateway for your Forts and Palaces tour.

On your arrival at Delhi International airport, you will be met by our representative, who will arrange for your transfer to your chosen hotel, and also hand you over the detailed itinerary for your Rajasthan tour and answer any questions that you may have. No activity is scheduled today, since most International flights arrive into Delhi, late evening, or close to midnight only. Overnight in Delhi.

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Day 02: In Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. Tour include visits to the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, the President’s House, Birla Mandir and Qutub Minar.

Evening at leisure, you could choose to relax and enjoy the hotels restaurants and facilities, or the more adventurous, could perhaps venture out for some independent sightseeing and shopping. The city of Delhi also has several fine restaurants offering India as well as a variety of International Cuisines. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 03: Delhi – Mandawa

This morning you drive to Mandawa (250 kms/05 hrs), the first stop in Rajasthan, on your Forts and Palaces tour.

Mandawa - In the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan lies the beautiful small town Mandawa, known throughout the state for its painted havelis (mansions) is also called as " Open-Air Gallery of Rajasthan". It’s havelis still bear witness to the rich & prosperous Marwari era of the 19th century. The structure of this place reminds one of the cultural and social hotspot this place used to be in the bygone era.

Afternoon guided sightseeing tour of Mandawa. Tour include visits to Aath Haveli complex, Anandilal Poddar haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat haveli & Chokhani haveli.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at the Mandawa Castle.

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Day 04: Mandawa – Bikaner

This morning drive to Bikaner (190 kms / 3 ½ hrs)

Bikaner - The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal. Lying in the north of the desert state, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. Bikaner retains the medieval splendour that pervades the city’s lifestyle. More popularly called the camel country, the city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. The magnificent forts and palaces, created with delicacy in redding-pink sandstone, bear testimony to its rich historical and architectural legacy. Undulating lanes, colorful bazaars and bright and cheerful folks make Bikaner and interesting experience.

Upon arrival check-in to the hotel. Afternoon guided sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Tour include visits to the Junagarh Fort, Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple, and Camel Breeding Farm.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 05: Bikaner – Khimsar

This morning drive to Khimsar (145 kms / 04 hrs.).

Khimsar - Perched high on the edge of the Great Thar Desert reflecting the rural India, the unique Khimsar fort offers a wide range of experiences to the tourist. The battle-scarred walls and turrets remind one of the glorious past in India. The experience of staying at the Khimsar Fort is something you will always remember as one of the highlights of your Rajasthan Forts and Palaces tour.

Upon arrival in Khimsar check-in to the Khimsar Fort. Overnight at the Fort.

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Day 06: Khimsar – Jaisalmer

This morning drive to Jaisalmer (295 kms / 05 hrs.).

Jaisalmer -A fascinating city rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage. A visit to Jaisalmer is a must for any traveler to Rajasthan. Jaisalmer, located very close to India’s North Western border with Pakistan, is a desert town, where one can see and even walk across vast stretches of Sand Dunes. At the centre of Jaisalmer sits the Jaisalmer fort, said to be the world’s oldest living fort, with over 5000 inhabitants still living within its walls, and over a dozen temples, where pilgrims from all over the country come to pray each day. Walking through the fort, one can witness the medieval pattern of life, where craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, making of silver jewelry and embroidery.

Upon arrival in Jaisalmer check-in to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 07: Jaisalmer

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer. Tour include visits to the Jaisalmer fort, the Gaddisagar Lake, and the various intricately carved and sculptured Havelis (merchant’s homes) around the fort.

Evening visit to Sam sand dunes including a short camel ride. The incredible views of the sand dunes stretching for miles and miles, as far as the eyes can see, will long be remembered by you as one of the highlights of your Forts and Palaces tour.

Overnight at hotel.

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Day 08: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur

This morning drive to Jodhpur (290 kms/05 hrs.).

Jodhpur – The second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is often called the Blue city, and an oasis in the arid Thar Desert. The city has a rich history, it is known for its imposing forts and palaces, colorful bazaars, and the not to be missed Museums. The imposing Mehrangarh Fort towers above the city like a sentinel, and a visit there will be a highlight of your Rajasthan Forts and Palaces tour.

Upon arrival in Jodhpur, check in to your hotel and rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 09: Jodhpur

Breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. Tour include visits to the Meherangarh Fort, the Jaswant Thada and the Sardar Market. In addition to the regular city sightseeing tour, Jodhpur now offers some interesting touring options as well. While in Jodhpur, it is possible to do a Heritage walking tour, it is also possible to do a thrilling zip line Flying Fox tour, and even a Hot Air Balloon ride.

Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 10: Jodhpur – Deogarh

This morning you drive to Deogarh (170 kms/04 hrs).

Deogarh --- Deogarh Mahal, set in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, has been loving restored and converted into a heritage hotel by the ruling family of the area. Now known an one of Rajasthan's finest heritage hotels, the Deogarh Mahal has beautifully decorated traditional rooms and suites, a stunning swimming pool, dining room, endless roof terraces, and above all, the erstwhile ruling family of the area are always at hand, to ensure that their guests are well looked after. The Deogarh Mahal also offers opportunities to walk through the local village, which is one of the friendliest and safest in the area. The neighboring countryside boasts wonderful secluded picnic spots, and vintage car rides are also possible.

Upon arrival check-in to Deogarh Mahal.

The rest of the day is at leisure to either relax or explore the surrounding village town with its colorful bazaars on your own. In addition to exploring the surrounding village and bazaars on foot, Deogarh also offers other exciting leisure activities like Horse rides, village walks, Vintage Car rides. Overnight at the Deogarh Mahal.

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Day 11: Deogarh - Udaipur

This morning you drive to Udaipur (140 kms/04 hrs).

Udaipur – also called the Venice of India, Udaipur, perhaps because of its many water bodies, is perhaps the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, and it is a complete contrast from the other desert cities of Rajasthan. Udaipur founded in the 16th Century by Maharana Udai Singh (one of the Mewar Rulers) is built around shimmering blue lakes and is surrounded by the green hills of the Aravali Ranges. The James Bond film “Octopussy” was shot extensively in Udaipur.

Upon arrival check-in to hotel.

Afternoon guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Tour include visits to the City Palace, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari and the Jagdish Temple.

The day ends with a Sunset boat ride on the shimmering waters of the Lake Pichola, and the view of the sun setting into the shimmering waters of the lake, will long be remembered by you as one of the highlights of your Rajasthan Forts and Palaces tour.

Overnight at hotel.

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Day 12: Udaipur – Mumbai

Morning met by our representative and escorted from your Hotel to the Udaipur airport in time for your flight to Mumbai.

Mumbai: Mumbai or Bombay, as it was earlier called is still famous as being the commercial capital of India. Mumbai is a city of entrepreneurs, concrete towers, clubs and discos, cricket, Bollywood and more. It was during the days of the British Raj, that Mumbai became a major trading port for the East India Company, and till date, it remains the most important sea trade link for India. Mumbai is also the country’s financial capital, with the National Stock Exchange, major Banks and Brokerage Houses being head quartered there. It is also the centre of the Indian Film Industry, popularly known as Bollywood.

Upon arrival you will be met and escorted to your hotel for check-in etc.

Afternoon guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Tour include visits to the Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan, the Marine drive, the Prince of Wales museum, the Hanging gardens & Victoria rail station.

Evening at leisure to perhaps venture out and discover the city or its many restaurants on your own. A visit to one of Mumbai’s famous night spots would be a good way to end your Rajasthan Forts and Palaces tour. Overnight at hotel.

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Day 13: Depart Mumbai

Met by our representative and escorted from your hotel to the Mumbai airport in time for your flight home. The Rajasthan Forts and Palaces tour, can also be combined with a tour of Kerala, or you could even choose to add on a few days of relaxation in Goa at the end of this tour.

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Package Rates

All prices are per person and in US Dollars -

Note – * Small supplements may apply for travel between 25th October and 31st October, 20th December and 05th January and during the month of February.

Inclusions:-

#   Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis at the selected category of hotels.
#   All arrival-departure transfers and land transportation exactly as per the itinerary using an aircon Car.
# Sightseeing tours along with an English Speaking Guide and including entrance fee to monuments as mentioned above in the Itinerary.