Rajasthan: Laneways & Local Villages

There are no activities planned until tonight's welcome meeting.

This morning, drive to the desert town of Mandawa in the Shekhawati region. Established as a trading hub along ancient caravan routes, Mandawa is dotted with havelis (traditional houses) which often featured lavish courtyards that once belonged to traders who made their fortunes here. This afternoon, head out on walking tour to view the beautifully frescoed havelis and the old town.

Settle in for the morning drive to Jodhpur, called the “Blue City” for the many houses painted that colour. Stark desert landscapes meet a riot of palaces, forts, and temples, all enclosed within imposing city walls. Six enormous gates provide entry to the city centre and overlooking it all stands the imposing shadow of Meherangarh Fort. In the afternoon take an orientation walk of the old walled city and view the the clock tower. Continue on to bustling Sadar Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in India.

Enjoy a free day to continue exploring this fascinating city. Opt to hike up to Mehrangarh Fort in the morning for stunning views. In the afternoon, choose to embark on an open jeep excursion to the neighbouring hamlets–explore the countryside and meet local carpet weavers, potters and other artisans.

Journey southeast with the option to visit the beautiful Ranakpur Temples. Continue to Udaipur, famous worldwide for its plethora of breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. Get to know the old city on an orientation walk, then opt to enjoy a Rajasthani cultural show at the Bagore-ki-Haveli Folk Museum on Gangaur Ghat.

Enjoy a full free day to explore this Royal city. Opt to visit the Jagdish Temple which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation, or the stunning City Palace and Museum, followed by a boat ride on Pichola Lake. Or, relive life as royalty at Sajjangarh Fort, also known as the Monsoon Palace, sitting atop a hill with a panoramic view of the city’s lakes.

Enjoy another full free day. Opt to enjoy the early morning serenity of Udaipur cycling along the city's picturesque lakes as the sun rises. Then choose to take a Rajasthani cooking class and enjoy your creations for lunch. Or, continue exploring forts and palaces–the options are endless.

Today drive to Pushkar, en route opt to visit the Chittorgarh Fort–a Unesco World Heritage site. Travel over Snake Mountain to the holy city of Pushkar, a place so sacred that no meat, alcohol, or eggs are allowed within the city. Take an orientation walk and visit the 14th century Brahma Temple–the world’s only temple dedicated to the Hindu god of creation.

Rise early for a hike and enjoy sunrise from Savitri Temple overlooking the surrounding Thar desert. Spend the rest of the day freely exploring the ghats (stone staircases) where pilgrims come to bathe in the holy lake, visit some of the hundreds of temples or get into bargaining in the bustling markets. This evening, opt for a traditional dinner with entertainment in the desert.

Drive to the desert village of Tordi Garh and step back in time and stay the night in a restored heritage property. Take a stroll through the village to catch a glimpse of daily life, in markets, shops and homes and keep an eye out for a local cricket game as visitors are always welcome to join in. Later, opt for a camel cart ride, or jeep ride into the countryside for sunset.

Opt to join a morning hike up to the old fort. After, travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, clothed in pink stucco and commonly known as the "pink city." One of the most important heritage cities in India, begin with an afternoon orientation walk, then continue exploring on your own. A visit to Jaipur wouldn't be complete without catching an optional Bollywood film in the spectacular Art Deco film house — the Raj Mandir Cinema.

Rise early for optional morning cycling then embark on an included tour of Amber Fort–another UNESCO World Heritage site to check off your list. Wander through the halls, courtyards, and palaces and admire the intricate details. Afterward, enjoy a free afternoon to visit the Hawa Mahal ("Palace of the Winds") or the city Palace Museum. Or, choose to explore the Jantar Mantar Observatory or take a cooking class to "spice up" your culinary skills. This evening, for your big night out, head to a rooftop bar and enjoy a drink on us to cheers the adventures you've just shared.

Continue on to Agra, visiting the impressive Abhaneri stepwell en route. Opt to visit the stunning Agra Fort, a 16th-century fortress of red sandstone.

At sunrise, check the famous Taj Mahal world wonder off your bucket list as you marvel at the iconic Mughal architecture. Immerse yourself in a guided tour and learn of the mausoleum's unique history. After drive back to Delhi for your final night.

Depart at any time.