Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive in the morning into Delhi airport where you will be met by our representative. Transfer to hotel. Freshen up and relax. Half day tour of Delhi. Drive by India Gate, the Presidential Palace, lunch en-route, and then on to Old Delhi – visit impressive Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site – a symbol of India’s Mughal past, and now of India’s sovereignty. Immerse yourself in the chaos of Chandni Chowk on cycle-rickshaw. Stroll around magnificent Humayun’s Tomb and its gardens, and watch it change colour as the sun starts to set. Evening to relax and enjoy sumptuous North Indian cuisine. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 02: Delhi to Nawalgarh (Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan).
Early start for drive to the Shekhawati region with breakfast en-route. Check in to your thatched cottage at a renowned heritage hotel. Freshen up, relax. Escorted tour of the local area, where you will witness stunning havelis and walk through the bustling village marketplace. Lunch in the market area. A visit to a local craft workshop can also be organised. Overnight in Nawalgarh.
Day 03: Nawalgarh to Bikaner.
Early breakfast at the eco-lodge, then set off for Bikaner. Check-in to a heritage hotel around lunchtime. Afternoon sightseeing – Junagarh Fort, the Jain temple and if you’re not feeling too squeamish, the Deshnok “Rat Temple”. Evening free to relax in the comfort of the heritage hotel. Overnight in Bikaner.
Day 04: Bikaner to Jaisalmer.
After breakfast set off for the desert city of Jaisalmer with lunch en-route. Arrive for sunset at the Royal Cenotaphs which has fantastic views over Jaisalmer. Evening free. Overnight in the Jasmin Haveli (or similar), a converted haveli just outside ancient Jaisalmer Fort.
Day 05: Jaisalmer.
Full day tour of Jaisalmer. After breakfast visit picturesque Gadesar Lake and spend the rest of the day exploring the myriad alleyways of Jaisalmer Fort. In particular, admire intricate temples and havelis. Bargain in local shops for beautiful handmade artefacts. Evening to relax and soak in the atmosphere of your ancient surroundings. Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Day 06: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur.
Relaxing breakfast, then leave for Jodhpur, aka ‘The Blue City’ and check into a heritage hotel on arrival. Visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort with stunning views of Jodhpur’s blue buildings. Stop off at the peaceful Jaswant Thada (royal cenotaph) and the impressive Clock Tower. Famous for its textiles, wander around the market for Rajasthani fabrics and handicrafts. Overnight in Jodhpur.
Day 07: Jodhpur to Rohetgarh.
After breakfast, depart for Rohetgarh. Lunch on arrival, followed by a village safari where you will observe rural desert life. Venture into the Thar Desert on camel-back. Early evening check into your luxurious tent at the Wilderness Camp settled on the peak of a sand dune in the Thar desert. Evening to enjoy an excellent meal and a night of stargazing. Overnight at Wilderness Camp.
Day 08: Rohetgarh to Udaipur.
After an early breakfast set forth for Udaipur, possibly Rajasthan’s most picturesque city. Arrive in Udaipur early afternoon. Check in to your hotel on the bank of Lake Pichola. Rest of day free to relax and unwind. Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 09: Udaipur.
After breakfast leave for sightseeing – visit the intricate 17th century Jagdish Temple and the stunning City Palace, the largest palace in Rajasthan. Visit the ‘Saheliyon ki Bari’ (Girl friend’s Gardens), renowned for its splendid gardens, water fountains and flowers. In the evening take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Pichola. Evening free to relax. Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 10: Udaipur to Delhi. Depart Delhi.
Early breakfast, then transfer to airport for flight to Delhi. Connecting flight to onward destination.
Date and price to suit individual arrangements based on 2 people sharing. Breakfast included. Private air-conditioned car and driver with English speaking guides for sightseeing.
