Description
You will fall in love with India as you travel through historic Rajasthan. It is in Rajasthan that the history of India comes to life with its rich culture and heritage. With this Romantic Rajasthan tour you will discover the majestic forts and beautiful palaces of Rajasthan. Your tour will take you in bustling, exciting cities like Jaipur, Bikaner, Udaipur, Jaisalmer and smaller Rajasthan villages Mahansar, Pokharan & Kumbhalgarh
This journey will take you to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places in this romantic and colorful state, taking care of all the hassles for a smooth and relaxing adventure.
No tour of India is complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most famous buildings and a highlight of any tour of India. While you will have seen many photographs of the Taj Mahal, nothing will compare to seeing it in person.
You will return from your holiday in Rajasthan with wonderful memories: its sights, its colors and its people.
Delhi is very beautiful and ancient city in india . it is located on the edge of Yamuna in Northern india. Delhi, the capital of India has a strong historical background. It was ruled by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history.
Travelling in Delhi isn’t just limited to history but it’s a step to take past and present hand in hand. Blended with modern advancements, Delhi is the modern-day city of Troy. The amalgamation of all religion and spiritual hubs of different faiths coexisting together in peace is the testament of the unity in diversity. Delhi offers numerous tourist attractions ranging from monuments, museums, shrines to modern day markets. Exploring the city is like witnessing a mini-India, with Delhi Tourism being a reflection of rich culture of India.
Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque. With minarets on all four sides that reach the skies, Jama Masjid, Emperor Shah Jahan’s last architectural indulgence, was commissioned in 1650 and took six years to be built. The enormous courtyard of the Jama Masjid can hold around twenty-five thousand worshippers.
India gate
Situated in the heart of the city, India Gate is one of the most popular and well known monuments in India. It was designed by Edwin Lutyens. With lush green and well-manicured lawns around, the foundation of this historical structure was laid in 1920.
It was unveiled in 1933 and dedicated to all the Indian soldiers of the British Army that were killed in World War 1 .
Humayun’s Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a stunning piece of Persian architecture built in the Mughal era. It was commissioned in 1526, nine years after Humayun’s death, by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. This beautiful monument is made of red sandstone.
The tomb is in the centre of Charbagh-style of gardens with pools that are connected to canals. It has two entrances: a southern side and a western side. The high central arch and the octagonal shape of the structure are important aesthetics of Mughal architectures
Red fort
This enormous red sandstone fort is synonymous with Delhi and is testimony of the glory of the Mughal Empire. Built in 1638 by Shah Jahan, it took around ten years to be completed.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is octagonal in shape with walls adorned with flowers and calligraphy, typically in the style of beautiful Mughal era architecture.
Agra
Agra boasts of having one of the seven wonders of the world and three UNESCO world heritage sites, the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort and the Fatehpur Sikri nearby. Agra is a delight for history and architecture lovers. The medieval city located on the banks of the river Yamuna, it is one of the most visited cities by tourists in India.
Strategically located at the heart of India in the mundane plains between the Ganga and Yamuna, Agra had been a religious and commercial centre for centuries, but it matured and perfected itself only when the Mughals made it their home. Agra is not only famous for its Mughal art and culture but is also known for its food, chat, and the famous Panchi ka Petha. The city even after being one of the hottest cities of the country, is visited in high numbers every day.
Taj Mahal:- Taj Mahal is one of the famous finest architecture of the world. It is in a seven wonders of World and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in (1631-1653) with the orders of Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz. 20,000 workers labored and 32 crore rupees were spent during the construction of the monument and it was built according to Islamic architecture. The meaning of Taj Mahal in English is ‘ Place of Crown ‘. Taj Means Crown and Mahal means place.
Agra Fort
Agra fort is not more than 2 k.ms from Taj Mahal on same river bank. The Emperor Shah Jahan, who built Taj Mahal was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in the Agra Fort where he had a view on the building erected for his deceased wife. Shah Jahan is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a tower with a beautiful marble balcony. From there you probably have the best view on the Taj. Between the many pavilions, you find small well maintained gardens.
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
This tomb is the first to be built in white marble instead of red sandstone, which officially marked the cessation of red sandstone from Mughal architecture. Itimad-ud-Daula is sometimes referred to as the “baby Taj” or a draft of the Taj Mahal, as it has been constructed with the same elaborate carvings and pietra dura (cut-out stone work) inlay techniques.
The tomb is surrounded by beautiful gardens that make it the perfect site to relax and experience the beauty of an old era that was rich in art, culture, and history.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century, 37 km from Agra. Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in northern India, just west of Agra, founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. Red sandstone buildings cluster at its center. Buland Darwaza gate is the entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby is the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti. Diwan-E-Khas hall has a carved central pillar. Jodha Bais Palace is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, next to the 5-story Panch Mahal that overlooks the site.
Mughal gardens are a group of gardens built by the Mughals in the Persian style of architecture. This style was heavily influenced by the Persian gardens particularly the Charbagh structure. Significant use of rectilinear layouts are made within the walled enclosures. Some of the typical features include pools, fountains and canals inside the gardens.
Jaipur
The city was founded in 1727 by Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amer who ruled from 1699 to 1743. He planned to shift his capital from Amer, 11 kilometres (7 mi) from Jaipur to accommodate the growing population and increasing scarcity of water
Amer Fort: This fort is famous for fascinating Rajputana architecture, splendid sandalwood work and places like Sheesh Mahal and Diwaan-e-Khaas. A unique artistic brilliance is clearly visible in its construction and design and this makes a trip to this palace unforgettable.
Jal Mahal(Water Palace): Also known as Jal Mahal, this palace is situated in the Man Sagar Lake and is flanked by Nahargarh Hills all around. The beauty of the palace lies in its gardens and courtyards built in the royal style displaying Mughal tastes. Various species of birds all around the palace mesmerise the bid lovers to the core.
Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace): Also famous as Hawa Mahal, Wind Palace is one of the most favourite destinations for tourists as it is a beautiful architectural masterpiece which has more than 953 small windows.
City Palace Jaipur : The City Palace, Jaipur was established at the same time as the city of Jaipur , by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who moved his court to Jaipur from Amber, in 1727. Jaipur is the present-day capital of the state of Rajasthan, and until 1949 the City Palace was the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The Palace was also the location of religious and cultural events, as well as a patron of arts, commerce, and industry. It now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and continues to be the home of the Jaipur royal family. The royal family of Jaipur is said to be the descendants of Lord Rama. The palace complex has several buildings, various courtyards, galleries, restaurants, and offices of the Museum Trust. The Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum Trust looks after the Museum, and the royal cenotaphs (known as chhatris).
Mahansar
Mahansar is a village in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, India. It was founded in 1768 by the Thakurs of one of the branch of Shekhawats. It is located in Jhunjhunu district at a distance of 40 km from Jhunjhunu near the trifurcation of Jhujhunu, Churu and Sikar districts.
Bikaner
Bikaner was founded in 1488 AD by Rao Bika. It situated in the northern region of Rajasthan.Later with the initiative of Maharaja Ganga Singh, Bikaner became a noteworthy princely state. Bikaner was also an important trade route that was linked with China and Central Asia. It lies in the Thar (Great Indian) Desert. The city is known for the 16th-century Junagarh Fort, a huge complex of ornate buildings and halls.
Places to Visit in Bikaner
Junagarh Fort- This fort was erected in1593 A.D by Raja Rai Singh, the illustrious general of the army of the Mughal emperor Akbar. The fortress is bounded by a moat and consists of 37 palaces and pavilions including Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Karan Mahal. The museum within the fort encloses priceless miniature paintings and extraordinary antiques that are of great interest for art lovers.
Jain Haveli- Bikaner abounds in beautiful havelis- the ancient luxurious mansions with sprawling courtyards where the nobles or the affluent people of Rajasthan lived. These havelies belonged to the Kotharis, Rampurias,Vaids and Dagas and were located in the regions like Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk and so on.
Karni Mata temple - Karni Mata Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Karni Mata at Deshnoke, 30 km from Bikaner, in Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Temple of Rats. The temple is famous for the approximately 25,000 black rats that live, and are revered, in the temple.
Camel Breeding Farm is located at a distance of 8 km from the city centre of Bikaner. One can see the camel of different breeds and their behaviour.
Facilities of camel riding, safari and video/photography are available for the visitors. Camel milk parlour is a special attraction because it vendors unique value added camel milk products like ice-cream, hot and cold beverages.
Pokhran - The Place Of Five Mirages. Pokhran is a heritage city located in the Thar Desert, in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. Bounded by five big salt rocks, Pokhran literally means the place of five mirages. The destination first came into the limelight when India carried out a series of nuclear tests here.
Jaisalmer
It is the largest district of Rajasthan, situated close to the Pakistan Border and stands in the heart of the Thar Desert. It was a former medieval trading center of silk route. Jaisal Bhati founded the city in 1156 AD. Jaisalmer literally means ‘the Hill Fort of Jaisal’. Jaisalmer is also called the "Golden City" because of the golden yellow sandstone used in the architecture of the fort and city.
Jaisalmer fort -The fort was built in 1156 by Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Jaisalmer Fort is one of the few living forts in the world. There are numerous hotels, shops, guest houses, temples, restaurants, age old havelis (homes) and former maharaja's palatial palace inside the fort area. It has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2013. Jaisalmer Fort has 99 bastions of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647 alone! Jaisalmer Fort has 99 bastions of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647 alone!
Jain Temples - The group of intricately carved jain temples within the walls of Jaisalmer Fort is another attraction. These seven Jain temples were built between 12th and 15th centuries and are connected to each other by corridors and walkways.
Patwo ki Haveli - Patwa ki Haveli or Patwon ki Haveli is not one but rather a cluster of five havelis. These were constructed for each of the five sons of an exceptionally rich trader who made his fortune in jewelry and brocade. These havelis have been constructed in the same sandstone as the fort. One of these havelis is out of bounds for public since it is owned privately but the other have been converted into museums. The havelis with their intricate carvings and views of the fort also offer an insight into just how rich the small town of Jaisalmer really was.
Jodhpur
Jodhpur is the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, India. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, the Rajput chieftan of the Rathores. The Rathore kingdom was also known as the Marwar and was the largest in Rajputana. The city of Jodhpur is located around the grand Mehrangarh Fort, which is bounded by a wall and several gates. The city is called the Blue City as it looks completely blue in colour from an aerial view because of its blue walls and blue houses. Apart from the old blue city, Jodhpur has grown as a city with wider and cleaner roads in some parts. Jodhpur is a very popular tourist destination. The landscape is scenic and mesmerizing. Jodhpur city has many beautiful palaces and forts such as Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhavan etc.
Places to visit in Jodhpur
Mehrangarh fort - An architectural masterpiece in itself, Mehrangarh Fort is a magnificent fort and is among one of the largest forts in Rajasthan. The name Mehrangarh is derived from a combination of two Sanskrit words: ‘Mihir’ meaning the Sun god, and ‘Garh’ meaning fort. Built in around 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort is situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. The walls of the fort have a height of 118 feet and a width of 69 feet that protect the massive area of it. The palaces at Mehrangarh Fort are called Sheesh Mahal (the mirror hall), Moti Mahal (glass-painted windows of pearl colours where the Maharajas held their courtroom), Phool Mahal (the extravagant hall of leisure activities of the royal family), and Zenana Deodi (women’s quarters made of sandstone).
Jaswant thada - Jaswant Thada is a royal cenotaph. It is made of pure white marble and known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh of in 1899 in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Along with the memorials, there is also a separate cremation ground of the royal families. Local musicians and folk singers sit on the steps of the monument to greet the visitors with some authentic Rajasthani melodies.
Kumbhalgarh
Kumbhalgarh is a renowned tourist destination located in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. This place lies in the southern part of the state and is also known as Kumbhalmer. Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second most important fort of the state of Rajasthan. It was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Travellers can enjoy the panoramic views of the nearby areas from the top of the fort. The long winding wall was constructed to guard the attacks of enemies. This wall is said to be the second longest continuous wall, next to the Great Wall of China.
Udaipur
Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia clan of Rajput in 1559 AD. The city was established as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom. It is surrounded by Aravali Range, which separates it from Thar Desert. It is also called the "City of Lakes". It has seven lakes surrounding the city. Udaipur is also known for its historic forts and palaces, museums, galleries, natural locations and gardens, architectural temples, as well as traditional fairs, festivals and structures.
Udaipur has a romance of setting unmatched in Rajasthan and arguably in all India – snuggling beside tranquil Lake Pichola, with the purple ridges of the Aravalli Range stretching away in every direction. Fantastical palaces, temples, havelis (traditional, ornately decorated residences) and countless narrow, crooked, timeless streets add the human counterpoint to the city’s natural charms. For the visitor there's the serenity of boat rides on the lakes, the bustle and colour of bazaars, a lively arts scene, the quaint old-world feel of its heritage hotels, tempting shops and some lovely countryside to explore on wheels, feet or horseback.
City palace Udaipur - Udaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.
City Palace boasts of the wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture. The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, which add to the flavor of heritage site. Towering on the banks of Pichola Lake, City Palace is truly a feast to the eyes. City Palace is a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Encircled by fortifications, this imposing Palace is wholly built in granite and marble.
City Palace has several gates that are known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) is the main gate to the City Palace complex that will take you to the first courtyard. On passing 'Bara Pol', you will come across a triple arched gate, which is known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, you would see eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Besides Tripolia, there is an arena where elephant fights were staged. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'.
City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers still they resemble each other. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces, you will get amazed. Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) has figures of crystal and porcelain. However, Bhim Vilas flaunts a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna.
The 'Krishna Vilas' is known for the noteworthy album of miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor while Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is known for its breathtaking mirror work. 'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. 'Dilkusha Mahal' (Palace of Joy) is known for the murals and wall paintings.
Bada Mahal is the exotic garden palace that stands erect on a 90 feet high natural rock formation. Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located right to the 'Rang Bhawan'. 'Mor Chowk' has exceptional glass mosaics of peacocks, set in the walls presenting the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon. 'Laxmi Vilas Chowk' is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.
Situated in the premises of City Place complex, Jagdish Temple is the biggest and most beautiful temple of Udaipur. This temple Appeals to the aesthetic sense of the people and we will further discuss it in our other section. You can also trace a Shrine of Dhuni Mata in the complex of City Palace. This part is considered as the oldest part of the Palace where a sage passed his life meditating here.
In 1974, a part of the City Palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) have been transformed into a museum. The museum is open for public and we have discussed it in our other section about museums. One can locate some striking paintings in the 'Zenana Mahal' which further leads to Lakshmi Chowk. 'Lakshmi Chowk' is a beautiful white pavilion. In City palace, the most captivating sight can be viewed from the towers and terraces of 'Amar Vilas' from where you can get a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola.
'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of this Palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces. City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers. Unlike the craggy exterior, City Palace has amazing interiors with delicate mirror-work, marble work, murals, wall paintings, silver work, inlay work and surplus of colored glass. The exquisite work of City Palace cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this palace to capture the real picture of it.
Itinerary
Day 01 - Delhi (Arrival)
You will be arriving at Delhi airport and transferred to the hotel. The first day you will be take rest and over night in your hotel.(Half Day Excursion of Notable Monuments- Depends on your schedule).
Day 02- Delhi
After breakfast you will be exploring for full day the historical walled city of Delhi. The sightseeing tour of Delhi will include the Jama masjid, Red fort (drive past only), Raj Ghat, Gurudwara Bungalow sahib, Humayun Tomb, India gate & President House (drive past only) Over night in your Hotel.
Day 03- Delhi-Agra (230kms/04hrs)
After breakfast drive to Agra, This historical city stands 180 km south of New Delhi, on the banks of river Yamuna. Over three centuries ago, it was a powerful Mughal capital and the most important city of northern India.
you will be check in your pre booked hotel and to visit The Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj Mahal), Also visit the Agra fort – the rusty and majestic red-sandstone fort of Agra stands on the banks of the river Yamuna and the construction was started by Emperor Akbar in 1566. Over Night stay.
Day 04- Agra-Jaipur (240kms/4.30hrs)
Early in morning , will visit the magnificent Taj Mahal in Sun Rise , The most photographed monument in the world, the Taj stands in its splendor of white marble, an imposing citadel on the banks of river Yamuna. Built in 17th century by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is an ode to the emperor's eternal love for his wife. It took over 20,000 skilled workers from across the country, working day and night, for 22 years for this architectural wonder to be created.
Check-out and proceed to Jaipur enrout visit famous world heritage UNESCO site Fatehpur sikiri (The abandon mughal city or also called ghost city). The historical town built by Mughal emperor Akbar. Arrive at Jaipur check-in at pre booked hotel. Overnight stay.
Day 04 Jaipur
After break fast take a visit full day sightseeing include Amber Fort , It is one of the finest and the best preserved forts, having served as the royal capital for seven long years before the city of Jaipur was built. It has a complex of several palaces, meeting halls, pavilions, gardens and temples. The Fort was built in the later half of the 10th century by Raja Man Singh.
The fort displays a beautiful mix of Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture. Jal Mahal (Palace of water), Hawa mahal also known as Palace of Winds (façade only). Rickshaw ride in local market.The beauty of Jaipur is that its unique architecture and town planning is visible at even the most common places such as its squares and lanes. City Palace, Observatory (Jantar Mantar) Overnight Stay.
Day 05 - Jaipur – Mahansar(200kms/3.45hrs)
After breakfast drive to Mahansar. Mahansar is a village in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, India. It was founded in 1768 by the Thakurs of one of the branch of Shekhawats. It is located in Jhunjhunu district at a distance of 40 km from Jhunjhunu near the trifurcation of Jhujhunu, Churu and Sikar districts.On arrival check in at your pre booked Mahansar Fort and later in evening enjoy local Village excursion. Overnight Stay.
Day 06 - Mahansar – Bikaner(188kms/3.30hrs)
After breakfast drive to Bikaner. . After Arrival check in & Freshen up in your pre booked hotel and later in Afternoon visit the Junagarh Fort and enjoy the tuk-tuk ride in old market. Overnight stay in Hotel.
Day 07 - Bikaner-Pokhran(225kms/4hrs)
After breakfast drive to Pokhran. Pokhran - The Place Of Five Mirages. Pokhran is a heritage city located in the Thar Desert, in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. Bounded by five big salt rocks, Pokhran literally means the place of five mirages. The destination first came into the limelight when India carried out a series of nuclear tests here. On arrival check in at your pre booked The Fort Pokhran and later in evening enjoy local Village excursion. Overnight stay in Hotel.
Day 08 - Pokhran-Jaisalmer(110kms/2.15hrs)
After breakfast drive towards Jaisalmer then on arrival you will be exploring for full day the historical city of Jaisalmer. Visit Jain temples, Fort and Palace complex and Old Havelis. Later in the evening drive to Sam sand dunes for camel ride and lovely sunset. Check in at Camp/Swiss Tent and overnight stay.
Day 09 - Jaisalmer-Jodhpur(283kms/4.30hrs)
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur. On arrival at Jodhpur visit Mehrangarh Fort and Royal cenotaph (Jaswant thada). You may explore local market. Check in at Hotel, Overnight stay.
Day 10 - Jodhpur-Kumbhalgarh(180kms/3.45hrs)
Afteer breakfast drive to Drive to Kumbhalgarh. Kumbhalgarh fort is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills, in the Rajsamand district near Udaipur of Rajasthan state in western India. It is a World Heritage Site included in Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Built during the course of the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. On arrival visit Kumbhalgarh Fort. Overnight stay.
Day 11 - Kumbhalgarh–Udaipur(110kms/2.30hrs)
After breakfast drive to Udaipur. On arrival check in at Hotel and leisure, in evening enjoy Boat Ride in Lake Pichola. Overnight stay.
Day 12 - Udaipur
After breakfast proceed for city tour of Udaipur, a splash of color in Rajasthan that is brighter when tinged with the tones of local lore and legends. Visit the City Palace, built in 1725, which hours the
Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal - studded with glittering Belgium Mirrors, Moti Mahal and the Palace of Lord Krishna all of which are ornately decorated. Later visit the Jagdish Temple. This temple built in 1651 is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver in gardens of the maids-of-honour, with beautiful lawns, gardens and fountains. Later visit Sahelion ki Bari In the evening, Overnight at hotel.
Day 13 - Udaipur-Delhi( by flight)
Early morning transfer to Udaipur airport to board Delhi