A Grand Cultural Circuit of Rajasthan
Overview
This is a great trip combining the major highlights of Rajasthan with the flairs of North India. Rajasthan is the legendary land of heroism, chivalry, war and romance. The stories of heroism and romance, kings and their warriors, queens and concubines stillresound from the walls of the forts and palaces, castles and havelis. We will visit those forts and palaces and castles which are amazing architecture unequalled in the world. During long drives through the villages of Rajasthan, we are accompanied all the time by the colorful dresses and friendly people. Colorful turbans and long moustaches are the identities of Rajasthan men.
We will sleep in the palace hotels, enjoy elephant and camel rides and dine and dance in sand dunes and discover a whole new world as you meander down the centuries, while you are on following the path. You will also visit the highlights of North India such as Taj Mahal in Agra, the ancient forts of Orcha, Kama Sutra Temples in Khajuraho and the holy city of Varanasi
View Grand Cultural circuits of Rajasthan and North India in a larger map
Outline Itinerary
Day 01-02~Explore the highlights of Old and New Delhi that includes the temples, the Red Fort, mosque, minarets and tombs.
Day 03~Visit the havelis and frescoes of Mandawa.
Day 04-05~Visit the havelis and frescoes of Nawalgarh and advance further to Bikaner where we visit the historic Junagarh fort and experience camel ride and also try camel milk.
Day 06-07~Visit the Citadel City of Jaisalmer and its Fort-the masterpiece of architectural grandeur.
Day 08-09~At Jodhpur, visit the Mehrangarh Fort-one of the largest Forts of India.
Day 10-11~Visit the temples of Rankapur and advance to Udaipur where we visit the lake palace and the temples.
Day 12-13~Visit Pushkar-the City of Bramha-the creator of the universe! Attend the camel festival if your travel date coincides with this festival.
Day 14-15~Explore the Pink City of Jaipur-the capital of Rajasthan. Experience elephant ride in Maharaja style, while we climb to Amer Fort.
Day 16-17~Visit Taj Mahal at Agra-a poem in the marble and the most extravagant monument ever built for love. Overnight train to the holy city of Varanasi.
Day 18~Train journey to Jhansi and then road travel to Orcha-the medieval capital of Bundelkhand.
Day 19~Explore Kamasutra Temples of Khajuraho.
Day 20-21~Fly to the holy city of Varanasi and explore its ghats, temples and markets.
Day 22~Flight to Delhi
Day 23~Tour concludes
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival in Delhi International airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take rest to cope with the jet lag. In the evening, you will be invited for a welcome dinner and enjoy the classical Indian dances. Accomdation in Hans Plaza, a first class property.
Day 02: Delhi Sightseeing
Today, we have a full day to explore the attractions of Old and New Delhi. In the morning, we visit Laxmi Narayan Temple – The Place of Gods, India Gate - The memorial of martyrs, Parliament House – The Government headquarters. In the afternoon, we will visit Jama Masjid - The largest mosque in Asia, Red Fort - The red stone magic and Raj Ghat-the memoir of Gandhi-father of the nation. Also enjoy the sound and light show in the evening. Overnight in Hans Plaza Hotel, a first class property.
Day 03: Drive from Delhi to Mandawa (270 Km / 169 miles, 06 hrs)
Today, you will drive to Mandawa-a compact little town of Shekhavati region. After refreshment, visit havelis and beautiful frescoes. The medieval fort of Mandawa gradually rises on the horizon like a mirage. A painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows leads to the bazaar. Enjoy the royal accommodation in Castle Mandawa Hotel.
Day 04: Drive from Mandawa to Bikaner (230 Km /144 miles,05 hrs)
In the morning drive to Nawalgarh – the town where the finest of the Shekhavati’s frescoes can be seen. Its havelis still bear witness to the rich and prosperous Marwari era of the 19th century. Worth visiting are the Aath Haveli complex, Anandilal Poddar haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat haveli Chokhani haveli. Afternoon, drive to Bikaner – vale of Serenity, upon arrival check in into hotel. Evening free to relax. Accommodation in the former palace-Laxmi Nivas Palace.
Day 05: Explore Bikaner
Today enjoy city tour covering Junagadh Fort – constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh. The fort has a 986 meter long wall with 37 bastions and two entrances, Bhand Sagar Temple – The 16th century Jain temple, is the most important of this temple complex. Visit camel Breeding Farm – a unique experience where you can ride on a camel and try camel’s milk. Overnight at Laxmi Nivas Palace Hotel.
Day 06: Bikaner to Jaisalmer (325 kms/203 miles,and 6.5 hrs)
In the morning drive to Jaisalmer – The Citadel City. Upon arrival, check in hotel. Afternoon free to relax or enjoy the city atmosphere. Overnight at Gorbandh Palace Hotel.
Day 07: At Jaisalmer
Today we enjoy a city tour covering Jaisalmer Fort – built on the highest point of the Tricuta hill, Sun Gate. Outstanding features are Megh Durbar and various temples, Salim Singh-Ki-Haveli & Patwon–Ki-Haveli – some of the beautiful mansions with stone carving and lattice work of breath taking intricacy, Lodurva – A masterpiece of architectural grandeur. Overnight at Gorbandh Palace Hotel.
Day 08: Drive from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur (308 km /193 miles,06 hrs)
Today morning drive to Jodhpur – The desert enchantment. Upon arrival, check in hotel and take rest. Enjoy the royal retreat at Taj Hari Mahal Hotel.
Day 09: Explore the forts and palaces of Jodhpur
Full day city tour covering Mehrangarh fort – unsurpassed in beauty and grandeur, it is one of the largest forts in India. Innumerable palaces in the fort, interspersed with sprawling courtyards, are intricately carved Jaswanthada – The 19th century royal cenotaph, a creation in white marble, Clock tower – The timely treasure of Jodhpur. Overnight at Taj Hari Mahal Hotel.
Day 10: Jodhpur to Udaipur (266 km /166 miles, 5-6 hrs)
In the morning drive to Udaipur, en route visiting Ranakpur temples – the pilgrimage centre of Rajasthan; a few of the numerous temples are Chaturmukh temples. Upon arrival, check in hotel and take rest.Hotel Shiv Nivas Palace.
Day 11: Explore the City of Lakes- Udaipur
Today, visit the highlights of Udaipur that includes, Saheliyon – Ki – Bari – The garden for the maids of honor of the queen, Jagdish Temple – dedicated to Lord Vishnu & approachable by a broad flight of steps, the shrine is a rectangular platform on the lines of Indo-Aryan style of architecture, City Palace – located amidst Lake Pichola, Eklingji & Nagda Temples – built in white marble with a double storied porch. Accommodation in Shiv Nivas Palace Hotel
Day 12: Drive from Udaipur to Pushkar (290 km /182 miles,05 hrs)
Today drive to Pushkar – the city of Brahma, on arrival check in into hotel. Rest of the day free to visit the Camel Market and admire the Largest Cattle Market anywhere in the World. Accommodation in Jagat Palace Hotel. If your trip coincides with Pushkar Camel Festival, you will sleep in tented accommodation.
Day 13: At Pushkar
In the morning visit the only temple of Brahma in the world. Bramha is one of the trinity gods of Hindus and is the father of the universe. Visit Apteshwar Mahadeo Temple – Dedicated to Lord Shiva .Overnight at Jagat Palace Hotel. If your trip coincides with Pushkar Camel Festival, you will sleep in tented accommodation.
Day 14: Pushkar to Jaipur (135 km /85 miles, 2.5 hrs)
Morning head towards Jaipur. Do not miss visiting the Dargah of Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishti, entered through a high gateway with silver doors. The grave of the saint is surrounded by a silver railing. Upon arrival in this Pink City, check in hotel and after some rest, browse the markets of Jaipur. Accommodation in Jaipur Trident Hotel.
Day 15: Explore the pink city of Jaipur.
In the morning take an excursion to Amer fort. We take a joy ride on an Elephant from the base of the fort to the top, which is an amazing experience in itself. In the afternoon take a city tour covering City Palace –that occupies a large area divided into a series of courtyards, gardens and buildings and a perfect blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, Royal Observatory – an observatory with some rare qualities to its credit, Nawab Sahab Ki Haveli – and the Bazaar etc. Accomodation in Jaipur Trident Hotel.
Day 16: Drive from Jaipur to Agra (260 km /163 miles, 06 hrs)
Today morning drive to Agra, en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri (Old Deserted town of Mughal Dynasty), Jama Masjid, the Buland Darwaza, Palace of Jodha Bai, Birbal Bhawan and Panch Mahal. On arrival check in into hotel and take rest for the day. Accommodation in Jaypee Palace Hotel or similar.
Day 17: Visit Taj Mahal
Today, we visit Taj Mahal – a poem written in white marble, the most extravagant monument ever built for love. A visit to the Agra fort is must since so many of the events which lead to the construction of the Taj took place here. We also visit the Itmad-ud-daula’s Tomb which is of a a particular interest since many of its design elephants overshadow the Taj.Accommodation in Jaypee Palace Hotel or similar.
Day 18: Train from Agra to Jhansi and then by car to Orcha
Today, we experience the train journey in India. Its about 2 ½ hrs train ride from Agra to Jhansi. Upon arrival at Jhansi train station, we meet our transport and drive about 4 hours to Orcha- a medieval capital of the kingdom of Bundelkhand and are situated on the banks of the river Betwa. Visit its famous palaces and temples including the Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Ram Raja Temple and Chaturbhuj Temple etc. Overnight in Amar Mahal Hotel.
Day 19: Drive from Orcha to Khajuraho (220km/138 miles, 4 hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Khajuraho-a small city of Madhyapradesh, known for its temples with erotic Kamasutra sculptures. An amalgamation of science and art of architecture, these 10th-11th century temples have a very interesting legend behind them that connects them to the origin of Chandela dynasty. It is said that in a fit of passion and lust, the Moon God seduced and ravaged a beautiful Brahmin girl known as Hemvati, resulting in the birth of Chandravarman (the founder of the Chandela dynasty). Later, Chandravarman had a dream where his mother requested him to make a temple, which would reveal all aspects of the treasure of passion and erotic fantasy to the world. The temples are divided in the Western, Eastern and Southern Group. Check in hotel and after some rest, visit the Western Group of Temples, which are the best known as the largest and the most typical Khajuraho temples belong to this group. Overnight hotel in Radisson.
Day 20: Flight from Khajuraho to Varanasi
After breakfast, visit the Eastern Group of Temples which largely constitute the Hindu and Jain Tempels and are near to Khajuraho village. In the afternoon, board on flight to the holy city of Varanasi. Varanasi- As old a city as Babylon, is one of the holiest pilgrimage centers of India. Here, mornings begin with prayers at the ghats, a holy dip and the tinkling of temple bells. It bustles with people whose lives are concentrated on being good Hindus. Social events mean religious festivals. This is a city soaked in devotion. Overnight in Radisson Hotel.
Day 21: Explore the holy city of Varanasi
In the morning, we explore the ghats of Ganges River by boat. Varansi has more than one hundred ghats (river landings) which the life in the city of Varanasi revolves around. Thousands of pilgrims come to bathe and worship in the river at the first light of dawn. Boat rides down the river in the morning are a very popular excursion.
Later visit other highlights of Varanasi such as Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple, Vishwanath Temple etc. Time permitting, also visit Sarnath. It was the place, where lord Buddha set forth, for the first time, wheel of law.
Day 22: Flight to Delhi
Take flight back to Delhi. Transfer to hotel. In the afternoon, pursue your own interest.
Day 23: Depart Delhi
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home.
Trip Info
Cost Includes
- Accommodation in first class hotels on twin or double sharing
- All transfers and sightseeing by a private car or coach
- English speaking local escort
- Sightseeing admission fees
- Train ticket
- Elephant and camel ride and boating trips
Cost Does Not Include
- Lunch and dinner ( Please allows $10-12 per meal in standard restaurants)
- Drinks, tipping and expenses of personal nature such as laundry, phone etc.
- India visa
- Airfares and airport taxes
- Admission fees for camera
- Extra expenses due to nature and unforeseen events
- Travel Insurance
Guaranteed departure with minimum 2 sign ups
We guarantee departures with sign-up of minimum two persons. Group of family and friends booking and traveling together are entitled good amount of saving. Sometime, there are early bird booking discounts and other offers are also available. Please, give us call to find out if there are any discounts available.
Trip Difficulty Level
This is basically motor vehicle based tour, suitable for travelers of all ages with normal health condition. Some monument, fort or castle visit might require climbing flight of stairs. Please, do not expect elevators or escalators! Subject to availability, we might experience elephant and canoe rides and trip to Udaipur may involve boating trip as well.
No strenuous hiking or climbing or any altitude issues on this trip. Although, no major preparation is necessary for this trip, it’s recommendable that you start a soft training program such as walking, jogging, cycling or aerobics about a month ahead of the trip to keep yourself optimally fit. About a month ahead of trip departure, we will mail you final trip dossier that includes the list of hotels and contacts, detailed pre-departure information including clothing recommendation, money matter and health and safety updates and some do’s and don’ts.
Life on the Trip
A sightseeing day, depending on the season, starts between 8.30 am to 9 am. We are picked up at our hotel by our guide and driver. We visit the sights and monuments or participate in activities and we will have lunch break around noon to 1 pm. After lunch, we again embark on the tour for 2 to 3 hours and we are brought back to our hotel late afternoon and our guide will generally leave us free. We will have time to take rest, write diaries or wander about ourselves. When we are moving from once city to another, we usually spend 4-5 hours on the road with occasional stops for photography and drinks and snacks. Some days can be longer.
We try our best to adhere to the itinerary but it should be taken as a general guideline or scope of activities rather than an inflexible series of events and depending on the local conditions or time factor; it can change from the exact sight to see to the exact city to stop. During the tour, we will have time enough for photography, interact with the locals or enjoy bargaining with the street vendors. Our guide and driver are flexible and will do their best to help you enjoy the trip the way you like. You may consider bringing some small gifts such as cigarettes for adults, candies or pencils for kids, in order to get along with them.
Indian Visa
You need to obtain Indian visa before hand as India does not grant visa upon arrival. Travisa Outsourcing handles all the India visa requests from inside the United States as a private contractor to the Indian Embassy and Consulates. For more information and application process, please follow the link below.
https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/get-a-visa
Besides Indian visa, some areas of Ladakh, Himachal, Arunachal, Sikkim may require additional permits that we will take care of.
If you are traveling multiple countries and returning to India within 60 days after your previous visit, you will also need to request for re-entry permit.
Accommodation
Rajathan has choice of accommodation for every budget but our choice of accommodations is first class to deluxe properties with all modern amenities that includes private bathroom with hot and cold shower, central air-conditioning, phone, mini refrigerator, restaurant etc. Our accommodation in Rajasthan is usually in former castles or havelis turned hotels with Rajasthani architecture and hospitality.
Tour Guide
All our trips are lead by local guides who are university graduate, trained and certified by Indian tourism authorities. They are knowledgeable, friendly and flexible. They will show you the wonders of the areas that you would never discover on your own and share their knowledge on Indian history, culture and religion. Your guide carries necessary vouchers for the hotels and buys admission tickets where necessary. Tour guide and driver is not the same person.
Transportation
Depending on the group size, we use air-conditioned Sedan Cars, SUVs, Mini Van or coaches for all transfers and tour. Our drivers are friendly locals with years of experience in driving vehicle in tourism and hospitality industry. Driver may have limited English.
International and Internal Airfares
You can purchase your international airfare to India and return on your own. If you need any help on this, certainly feel free to contact us. We will take care of the internal airfares for you. Local airport taxes may or may not be included in the airfare.
Booking
When you are sure you are traveling, it advisable to initiate reservation as early as possible so that we can secure reservation in the preferred hotels and flight.A deposit of US$200 is requested along with complete trip application form and passport copies.
Balance payment is due 60 days prior to your departure. Depending on the number of applicants, we may set an early payment date. Credit card payment attracts additional fee.
Cancellation fee
- 90 days prior departure: Administrative fee US$ 50 per person.
- 60-89 day's prior departure: US$ 250 or 25% of the land cost whichever is higher.
- 45 days to 59 days prior departure: US$ 450 or 50% of the land cost whichever is higher.
- 30 days to 44 days prior departure: US$ 600 or 75% of the land cost whichever is higher.
- Less than 30 days: 100%
Highland Asia Travel, Inc.
We are an active adventure travel company, based in Minneapolis, USA with destination management offices in Kathmandu, Thimphu and Lhasa. We are BBB accredited business and an active member of American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). We have set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Our managers and guides have more than 15 years of experience in organizing and leading adventure trips in the highlands of Asia. For us travel is not just a business, but a way of life.
Travel Protection Plan
While we plan and do our best to make your trip smooth and seamless, there may be chances of unforeseen events and conditions such as illness, accident, inclement weather, and flight cancellation or missed connection or loss of baggage etc. that may cause interruption or delay or total cancellation of your trip putting your hard earned travel investment in jeopardy. It’s also possible that you may need medical assistance, emergency evacuation or medical transportation when you get ill or involve in an accident when you are traveling in remote areas. Highland Asia’s Tour cost does not cover any of these expenses or losses and so we strongly recommend you that you should protect yourself and your travel investment against those unfavorable conditions.
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Trip Snapshot
- Difficulty Level
Moderate: This is moderate trip ! - RatingPopular
- Destination(s)India
- Group Size2-10 Person
- Trip Price
US$ 3280 (2-3 pax)
US$ 3175 (4-6 pax)
US$ 2850 (7-10 pax)
US$ 300 (approx) Internal airfare extra.
US$ 750 (Single Room Supplement) - Trip Start FromDelhi
- Trip Ends atDelhi
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Tel: 1 612 605 4428
Toll Free: 866 838 5818 (from USA and Canada)
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