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Day 01
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Arrival / Delhi
Late Night arrival. Traditional welcome with garlands as
your representatives welcome you aboard your Luxury
Coach. The ride to your luxury hotel, The Connaught, is
a 30-minute drive during which time your representative
would introduce, India as well as some common Indian
customs and courtesies.
Upon arrival at the hotel, whilst our representatives
organize your check in, a refreshing welcome drink is
served to you - 'namaste' and welcome to India !
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 02 :
Delhi/ Neemrana
Following a leisurely breakfast, ride out 122 kms to the
obscure village of Neemarana which is dominated by the
majestic Neemrana Fort, which is India's oldest heritage
resort. Situated on a majestic plateau, concealed in a
horseshoe formation of the billion-year-old Aravalli
ranges, Neemrana fort Palace Heritage Hotel has 40
air-conditioned rooms. Each room has its own unique
character and history. On the basis of theme the rooms
have been named as the Malabar room, Barsat Mahal,
Chandra Mahal, Mata Mahal, Surya Mahal, Gopi Mahal and
the Sheesh Mahal.
Afternoon, we visit the adjoining tribal villages where
life has not changed for centuries. We explore the
tribal country surrounding the imperial fort. The
lifestyle here remains unchanged for centuries and
untouched by modern times.
Overnight will be in Fort Neemrana.
Day 03 : Neemrana/Mandawa (200 Kms)
Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and ride
into the heart of the Thar Desert to Mandawa, which used
to be a medieval Indian trade city and still has
beautifully preserved houses of medieval Indian traders
in typical Rajput (Rajasthani) style.
Upon arrival, check into Castle Mandawa which is a
curious mixture of the old and the new. Medieval
turreted towers, palanquin-roofed balconies, blend with
modern comforts in old-world rooms. Family portraits,
antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this
family-run resort where tradition still runs strong.
Even time is measured by a different clock... a huge
brass gong struck by the resident timekeepers at the
fort every hour.
Afternoon, we walk through the main (and the only)
street of the town. We visit some of the ancient and
beautifully preserved 'havelis' (mansions). They would
give us an idea of how families lived in those days. The
havelis have beautiful paintings depicting mythological
themes on the walls. Made from vegetable dyes these
paintings have lasted centuries and still are quite
sharp. Today, the world comes to this storybook town to
see its colourful frescoes on every subject under the
sun, that is, ranging from the religious to the erotic;
from copies of popular English prints to witty social
satire, rendered in the inimitable style of the local
artist
Overnight will be in Mandawa.
Day 04 :
Mandawa / Dundlod (45 Kms)
A short ride through Arabian Night country brings us to
Dundlod, which has beautifully preserved houses of
medieval Indian traders in typical Rajput (Rajasthani)
style.
Upon arrival, check into the Dundlod Castle which is
beautifully built in traditional Rajput style - High
wooden doors, bamboo thatched roofs, mud plastered walls
and floors, ethnic dιcor etc. However, all these
traditional charms encapsulate all the modern luxuries
sought by discerning tourists. The place is an
embodiment of the cultural amalgamation of the Rajputana
and Mughal Schools of Art and Architecture. Its motif of
flowers and foliage, minarets, mythological paintings,
archaic furniture, wall hangings of arrows, and shields
have remained unchanged since ages.
Staying in Dundlod Fort is almost like living through
the days of James Tod who once described the splendors
of Rajasthan. On every dawn the first ray of the sun
falls over the fort as an eternal blessing to this land
of mystique and charisma.
This afternoon we take time to explore the fascinating
town of Dundlod. A cluster of forts, havelis, and baolis
- these words best introduce Dundlod, a small village
situated in the heart of the Shekhawati region of
Rajasthan. Visiting this village is like visiting an
open-air art gallery that has not changed much since the
time it was built
Overnight will be in Dundlod.
Day 05 :
Dundlod/ Samode(145 Kms)
Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and drive
we ride to Samode Bagh. Built more than 400 years ago,
it is modelled on the geometric style of the Mughal
Garden. Members of the Samode family came here to enjoy
rare moments of privacy and relax in the airy pavilions,
surrounded by rippling water fountains. A special
feature of the stay here is the accommodation being
provided in the tents. Meeting point at the Bagh is the
elegantly furnished Durbar tent. Dune coloured tents,
all luxuriously furnished with every comfort, the lawns,
fruit trees, grape vines, and the flowering shrubs make
the stay here a memorable one. Evenings come alive with
local folk music and dances in the magic of a campfire.
One can swim in the private pool or take camel rides to
explore the countryside.
We will use our time here to explore at a leisurely pace
the adjoining tribal villages. Also, for those
interested, a visit can be arranged to the Samode
Palace, now a heritage hotel. Built in the
characteristic pattern of an open courtyard with rooms
leading off the arched corridor that runs along all the
four sides of the building. The Sultan Mahal is on the
first floor-an exquisite room with a marble pillared
verandah. It has the famous Jaipur blue tile
decorations. Every inch of the ceiling and the walls are
covered with floral, paisley and geometric motifs
painted in vegetable colors
Overnight will be in Samode.
Day 06 :
Samode / Jaipur (48 kms)
Following a leisurely Breakfast, we ride to Jaipur. In a
land steeped with heritage , picturesque with exquisite
architecture , in a state vibrant with heroic memories
and romance ,lies the dream city of Jaipur . The people
are dynamic, martial and, need we say it, colourful.
Here every walk through the by lanes is a walk through
history. Indeed, Jaipur could be compared to a vast
open-air museum. Pink turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis'
(ladies scarves). Camel's buggies and elephants are as
commonly found as motor cars and buses
Upon arrival check into Hotel.
Afternoon is designed for escorted walks with our guide
in Jaipur's shady animated streets - or for independent
discovery. The city is best explored on foot and only
the inquisitive visitor willing to go into the rastaas
(streets) and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of the
city. Jaipur's colorful bazaars tantalize the eye with
enameled blue pottery, exquisite gem-studded jewelry,
engraved brass work, traditional block-printed fabrics
and brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together with
traditional crafts and miniature painting.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 07 :
Jaipur
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of
the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic
Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km
north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills,
and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace
straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota
Lake, and its sprawling crenellated walls lattice the
surrounding hills.
We ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned,
painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate
where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred
years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this
architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded
alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that
delight today's visitors as they did their former royal
residents.
We visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a
five-storied structure of pink sandstone with
semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows
overlooking the main street of the old city. It was
built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down
unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.
Following lunch, a tour Of City Palace & Observatory.
The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend
of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The center of the
palace is a seven storied building called Chandra
Palace, with fine vies over the gardens and the city.
The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies
the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven
gates and was built for protection from invading armies
and animals that lived in jungles which surrounded the
wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory -
an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that
give accurate predictions till date. The Palace Of
Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone has
semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows
overlooking the main street of the old city.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 08 :
Jaipur/ Pushkar (145 Kms)
Following breakfast, drive to Pushkar . Upon arrival
check in to Pushkar Palace.
Afternoon, walk through this amazingly fascinating
religious town. According to legend, the origin of
Pushkar dates back to the time when Lord Brahma was on
his way in search of a tranquil land to perform a 'Yagna'.
A lotus fell from the hand of the Lord into this valley.
A lake sprang up on this spot and was dedicated to him.
A Brahma temple located here which is supposed to be the
only temple dedicated to this God, is a popular place of
pilgrimage. It would be fascinating to walk along the
maze of narrow lanes and streets.
Overnight will be in Pushkar.
Day 09 :
Pushkar / Gajner (285 Kms)
After break fast, we drive to Bikaner. We would have
opportunities to stop on the way for pictures as well as
to interact with local tribes.
Upon arrival check in to Gajner Palace, a summer resort
of Bikaner Maharajas. The palace situated on the
embankment of a lake, has often been described as ' an
incomparable jewel in the Thar desert'. Afternoon is at
leisure to enjoy the incredible charm of your hotel
Afternoon, proceed on a guided tour of the city. Bikaner
was founded in 1486 A.D by the Rathore prince, Rao
Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner.
Bikaner, has many magnificent buildings made of Reddish
Pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren
wilderness. Unlike other cities of Rajasthan, Bikaner
has been able to preserve its traditional aura of the
medieval era. We visit the Junagadh Fort. One of the
most imposing forts of northern India-- Junagarh Fort--
has remained unconquered till date. This fort was built
in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted
generals of Akbar.
We also visit the Camel Breeding Farms . Take a ride on
one or watch the calves gamboling, or submit to a Raika
or a Rebari from traditional camel breeder, over a cup
of camels milk at the camel breeding farms just eight
Kms away from the city. This farm is the only of its
kind in Asia.
Overnight will be in Gajner.
Day 10 :
Bikaner / Jaisalmer (335Kms)
Following break fast, we drive to Jaisalmer. The drive
is through desert country with scantly vegetation and
life stock in view.
Upon arrival, check in to Hotel. Rest of the day is at
leisure. We suggest you walk along the old city to
explore traditional and typical Jaisalmer. The havelis
(mansions) in a beautiful state of preservation are a
fascinating sight.
Overnight will be in Jaislamer.
Day 11 :
Jaisalmer / Sam / Jaisalmer
Morning, we visit the residential portions of the fort
where one third of the population of the old city lives.
The design of houses remains as they were a couple of
centuries back and so are the lifestyle of people
occupying them. This is because most of the families
continue to work for generations for the rural (though
only titular now) hence there is a sense of continuity.
The houses are arranged in narrow lanes and have small
windows from where the shy child or the girl peeps. This
is the city believed to be the home of the most handsome
men and women in Rajasthan.
Afternoon, we drive to Sam, a dessert outpost. Enroute
we visit a few typical dessert villages, which have a
sprinkling of huts. The rough terrain here does not
support cultivation, hence the entire village work as
causal labourers in road works or community projects.
Inspite of their poverty and hard life the people are
very friendly and seem to be aware that they are proud
owners of very expressive and beautiful faces. We move
on to Sam where we explore the dessert. Against the
backdrop of the setting sun and the huge expanse of the
dessert the camels with their long shadows would be
excellent pictures.
Evening drive back to the Hotel in Jaisalmer.
Overnight will be in Jaislamer.
Day 12 :
Jaisalmer/Jodhpur (310 Kms)
Following breakfast, we drive to Jodhpur.
Upon arrival, check into the legendary heritage hotel.
Afternoon, ride horse carriages to the Clock Tower
Bazaar. This is one of India's largest and most
colourful whole sale market especially with respect to
clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables etc.
Overnight will be in Jodhpur.
Day 13 :
Jodhpur/Rohet (62 Kms)
Following breakfast, proceed on a guided tour of
Jodhpur. Our tour includes the massive fort. In olden
days this must have been impregnable since its rocky
base is scraped straight down making it nearly
impossible to ascend. Once inside, royal palaces abound
with fascinating history and priceless jewels, on to the
armoury and Jaswant Tara - the Royal Crematorium.
Following the tour we ride out to Rohet. Upon arrival
check into the Rohetgarh fort.
At Rohet, one is transported in to a world of the past,
a world of honour and of chivalry, of glory and of
pride; a world of vibrant colours and spectacular
magnificence. Past centuries come to life at the
historic boundary walls of Rohet- the 16th century
fortified deserted home of a Rajput clan. Within the
precincts of these time weathered walls is our hotel,
the impressive Rohetgarh Fort- a bastion of proud Rajput
traditions bathed in the ambience of unmistakable
Rajasthani culture where one can, even today experience
the famed warm and courteous Rajput hospitality.
Frescoes on the tall gateway, brightly painted in the
traditional style, using traditional motifs and colour
schemes herald your entry to this charmed world the
bygone era.
The gateway leads to a compound where a profusion of
flowers frame the archways in welcome. The portico is a
warm and informal place decorated with the artifacts and
trophies of many years. Exquisitely carved furniture,
delicate hand block prints, original paintings and
photographs decorate your rooms, which though redolent
with the romance of a bygone era, provide all the modern
amenities. Antique hunting riffles, shields &
spearheads, daggers and original paintings form the
backdrop of the dinning room. The swimming pool here is
in beautiful settings and is an oasis in a dessert.
The food at Rohetgarh is special; each recipe is both
traditional and typical, handed down the generations and
jealously guarded to retain its pristine flavours. You
savour only the very best of Rajasthani cuisine's, food
favoured by the Royalty. The 16th century descendants of
the Rathore ruling family still live here and host the
guests. The members of the Royal family interact with
the guests and interesting stories and anecdotes are
narrated.
This afternoon, we would explore Rohet, which is a
fascinating small feudal town, which seems to be
straight out of the Arabian Nights. There is no proper
road here - only one main dust trail. On either side are
typical thatched houses and shops of all kinds -
colourful bangles, silver jewellery, potters, fruit
vendors on carts, dress shops, tailors etc.
Overnight will be in Rohet.
Day 14
Rohet / Sodawas (65 kms)
Following breakfast we travel to Sodawas. Upon arrival,
check into Sodawas Kot.
Sodawas was given in Jagir (Fief) to Late Thakur Bishan
Singhji by His Late Highness Maharaja Shri Umaid Singhji
of Jodhpur in the Year 1943 along with two other
villages, before which it was a 'Khalsa' Village,
meaning for Three Decades it was under the direct rule
of Marwar State(Jodhpur). Upon arrival you enter through
a grand gateway into the Sodawas Kot, which is still
owned by the family of Thakur Bishan Singhji.
The Kot has ten bedrooms and every modern amenity. The
family drawing and dining rooms have been opened to
receive guests in true Rajput Hospitality. Traditional
Rajasthani Cuisine for which the House is well known
for, is served with a mild and delicate blend of spices
adapted to your taste. The family will join you and will
give you an opportunity to discuss their traditions,
culture and the rich heritage of Marwar erstwhile State
of Jodhpur. Folk Music and dance are performed in the
evening specially for us. The beautifully designed
stables will interest Horse lovers. Once the much loved
stallion and mare of the Late Thakur Sahib were stabled
here.
Beyond the Kot walls the guest encounters breath taking
green fields of mustard and wheat; and in the village,
one can see artisans working on the local crafts of the
region.
This afternoon we walk through the main boulevard, which
is wide enough to take a bullock cart. We visit the
local school here to witness the kids sitting in rows on
cotton mats. We also visit the colourful bazaar as well
as the village temple to witness the day to day. Life
here is very simple and uncomplicated and traditional
virtues still intact. People here may be very poor, but
they are extremely friendly and hospitable, willing to
share out their meagre possessions with you.
Overnight will be in Sodawas.
Day 15 :
Sodawas/ Narlai (45 Kms)
Following breakfast we ride to Narlai, stopping several
times for photos and walks through the countryside to
interact with and witness the life styles of the
natives.
Upon arrival check into Rawla Narlai.
Situated in the Narlai village, Rawla Narlai, is a 17th
century fortress renovated over the years to have 15
exquisite double rooms. Rawla Narlai is full of
surprises; it is situated in the heart of a typical
Rajasthani village bustling with activity and bursting
with colours. But, inside the Rawla (fortress) there is
only serenity and stupendous view of a gigantic350 ft
single rock of granite dotted with caves and temples and
crowned by a statue of a white elephant - proud guardian
to the open desert on one side and the crumbling Aravali
hills on the other. Maharaja and Rani Swaroop Singh, and
their sons oversaw the careful restoration of this
hunting lodge, with aesthetics, comfort, and atmosphere
that will embrace your senses. Comfortable rooms and
modern bathrooms blend with the ancient way of Narlai,
while offering a warm and homely atmosphere.
The charming rooms are all stylised from references from
the past adding more to your experience at Rawla Narlai.
The chef prepares you a delicious meal, garnished with
care made from Secret Recipes handed down for
generations to the Royal family. In the evening bathe in
the moonlight under the starry sky, listening to
hypnotic and chanting rhythms by local musicians who
will rekindle the sprit in you. The peace and calm of
the gentle rustling leaves, the sun bathed courtyards
and the star lit nights adds an air of romanticism to
this wonderful fortress.
Afternoon, we would have an escorted stroll through the
small town, bustling with activity and bursting with
colour- perhaps pausing to see the rich handicrafts or
even to design your own silver Tabiz, a ancient lucky
charm, both for women and men- worn around the neck, at
the silversmith.
Overnight will be in Narlai.
Day 16 :
Narlai/ Kumbhalgarh (85 Kms)
Wake up to the sounds of this 17-century village, and
take in the spiritual energy from descending from the
Shiva Temple, deep in a primal cave, on the hill
overlooking your room. You may hear whispers of the
early morning chanting coming from the many temples and
mosques. At breakfast you are encouraged to feed the
harmless monkeys, if they come down from the hills, as a
token of prayer to Lord Hanuman. After breakfast we have
an escorted stroll through the small bazaar, bustling
with activity and bursting with colour.
Following breakfast, we drive to Kumbhalgarh. We would
have photo stop several times as we walk through the
countryside as well as interact with primitive tribals.
Upon arrival we check into the fine Aodhi Lodge - a
property of the Royal family of Udaipur.
Afternoon, we explore the beautifully preserved and one
of the most majestic forts of India. 13 mountain peaks
surround the impregnable fortress of Kumbalgarh (54 Kms)
at a height of 3281 ft. Seven towering gateways pierce
the massive walls of this prominent fortress of Mewar.
The young Udai Singh founder of Udaipur took shelter
here from his treacherous uncles. These impregnable
walls dotted with cannonballs defeated Emperor Akbar.
Overnight will be in Kumbalgarh
Day 17 :
Kumbhalgarh / Udaipur (100 Kms)
Following breakfast a two-hour drive to Udaipur. We
would have an opportunity to explore the feudal village
of KumbhalGarh. The people here are extremely friendly
and hospitable. We witness their ethnic tribal
lifestyle.
Upon arrival check into the hotel.
Welcome to Udaipur, the famed "City of sunrise ".
Founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, from the lineage
of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar - the decedents of
the sun God. A city where the sun truly never set, where
tradition and a strict code of heroism were happily
united with a love of fine living. A city that has come
to be an oasis of romance in the warrior state of
Rajasthan.
Afternoon is at leisure for nature walks or for visits
to the bustling bazaars or just to enjoy your charming
heritage hotel overlooking the tranquil Lake Pichola.
Overnight will be in Udaipur.
Day 18 :
Udaipur
Morning, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City".
Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan.
It is probably the most romantic city in a state where
every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The
huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the
largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a
conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers,
it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design
and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from
the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city
palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and
his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass
image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan
Art.
Overnight will be in Udaipur.
Day 19 :
Udaipur/Delhi (9W 708 /1520/1630 Hrs)
Morning at leisure. Afternoon, transfer to the airport
to connect you to Delhi flight.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at Delhi airport and
check into Hotel Imperial.
Home Visit & A Farewell Dinner: This evening we visit
and Indian family for an Indian home experience. The
evening is designed to give you a 'feel' and insight
into Indian family life as well as experience typical
Indian hospitality and home made Indian food.
Overnight will be in Delhi
Day 20 :
Delhi/ Departure
The main group departs to the airport for their onward
flight. |
