Essence of Rajasthan Tour: Forts, Palaces and Dreamy Deserts
Essence of Rajasthan: Forts, Palaces and Dreamy Deserts
Our Essence of Rajasthan tour represents the kaleidoscopic colours that swirl through the region. Beginning in the capital city of Delhi, you’ll explore the stark contrasts of both Old and New; from the narrow streets of Chandni Chowk bazaar to the tree-lined lanes around colonial Connaught Place. Next, onwards to Agra, home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. Heading into Rajasthan, the colours will begin to jump out from all directions; from the hot pinks and flaming oranges of the ladies saris to the vibrantly painted houses and buildings. After taking in the splendid forts and palaces of Jaipur (aka the ‘Pink City’), steer off the beaten track to Nimaj for a two-night stay in rural Rajasthan, at a stunning lake-side camp. Continue into the Thar Desert in Jaisalmer, before journeying to the ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur to take in the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, colourful spice markets, vibrant textiles and traditional puppets. Your sojourn ends in the fairy-tale-like lake city of Udaipur, making a stop in the sleepy village of Narlai en-route to experience the slow pace of life in rural Rajasthan. Our Essence of Rajasthan is designed to give you an idea of what’s possible and is simply a starting point when designing your tailor-made itinerary. Every detail can be tweaked or completely transformed to best suit you.
Later, your Essence of Rajasthan tour steers you off the beaten track to Nimaj, for a two-night stay at the charming RAAS Chhatrasagar. Sprawling over the banks of a century-old dam in rural Rajasthan, RAAS Chhatrasagar is an elegant and peaceful camp once used as a hunting lodge for the Nimaj Estate. There are 20 luxurious tents all overlooking the reservoir, tastefully decorated with splashes of colour. The waterbody is the seasonal home to flocks of migratory birds, and your terrace is a wonderful spot for bird-watching as you are served tea at sunrise, or for sundowners and birdsong with your sunset. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge for a couple of nights, away from the throng of the busy cities.
When arriving in Udaipur, the evening is free to enjoy Rajasthan’s most romantic city. The true essence of Rajasthan, Udaipur is abundant with lakes and old water palaces. Resting on the banks of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas is unashamedly opulent and the stuff of fairy-tales. In both 2015 and 16, it was named the ‘Best Hotel in the World’ by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine in the US. While The Oberoi Udaivilas is fabulous, those who prefer history and would like to experience a real palace hotel will be happier at the Taj Lake Palace. That’s the one that looks to be floating in the middle of Lake Pichola. Another top choice in Udaipur is The Leela Palace. You can check out our comparison of the three by clicking here.
The Essence of Rajasthan tour we’ve described here is merely a starting point to share a flavour of the possibilities. It can be tweaked or completely transformed until we’ve created your ideal Indian getaway. For inspiration, we recommend taking a look through our Insider’s Guide to Oberoi Hotels in India, our popular Luxury Rajasthan Tour with Oberoi Hotels, and our charming Rajasthan with Boutique Hotels tour. You might also enjoy browsing through 25 of our favourite luxury experiences in Rajasthan. All our tours are private, and tailor-made to complement your taste and interests. In essence, the itinerary described above is just a starting point, and together we can refine it into your ideal Indian experience.
Like what you see? Contact us today to find out more about our exclusive itineraries. But remember: each of our trips is tailored exactly to who you are and what you want to do, so tell us about yourself, and we'll create something that's entirely you.
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