Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels

Delhi – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ranthambhore – Jaipur – Jodhpur – Narlai – Ranakpur – Udaipur

Our Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels is ideal for first-time visitors to India, taking in highlights of the region as well as its more hidden gems. The itinerary kicks off in Delhi by exploring the sights of the capital city, with its vast marketplaces, ancient tombs and historical mosques. Move on to Agra to take in the world’s favourite monument to love; the Taj Mahal. Travel to the Pink City of Jaipur to soak up its vibrant palaces and bazaars, before moving on to the edge of the Thar Desert in Jodhpur, with its imposing mountain-top fort. Next, make your way to the sleepy village of Narlai to experience life in rural Rajasthan. End your adventure in the elegant city of Udaipur, with its shimmering lakes and extraordinary island palaces. Experience all this while staying in some of the region’s most charming and quirky hotels. It would be a crime to visit Rajasthan without experiencing one or two of its heritage hotels, and here we suggest a handful of our favourites based on those that our past guests and we have loved.

Day 1

Arrive in Delhi (stay at Maidens, Delhi)

Your Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels begins on your landing in Delhi. Here, a member of our team will be waiting to welcome you at the airport, and accompany you to the charming Maidens hotel. One of Delhi’s few heritage hotels, it was built in the early 1900s and evokes colonial charm. Spacious guest rooms are surrounded by eight acres of stunning lawns, with mature shady trees and a swimming pool. Maidens hotel escapes the noise of Delhi’s city centre while remaining within easy access of its most magnificent sights.

The rest of the day, if any, is at leisure to settle in, and recuperate from your international journey. Depending on how early in the day you arrive, if you’d like to begin exploring this afternoon, you can let us know anytime. Your chauffeur is always on hand, and we’re only a quick call away on your complimentary mobile phone (or WhatsApp, if you prefer).

Day 2

In Delhi

A guided tour of both Old and New Delhi today will introduce you to the Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate, Parliament House, Humayun’s Tomb and the Sikh temple. These sights are purely suggestive. You’re very welcome to tweak them with us in advance to best suit your interests, or even on the day itself by discussing with your guide at the time. We’re known for our flexible approach, allowing you complete control over the pace of your trip. After exploring the bustling capital, you’ll likely be exhausted and opt for dinner at the hotel. If you’d like to eat out, we recommend the award-winning Indian Accent or Bukhara (an advance reservation is highly recommended, and this is just one example of the finer details we’ll take care of when you choose Indian Excursions Co).

Day 3

Delhi to Agra (stay at the Trident, Agra)

Today we’ll drive you to Agra. There’ll be the chance to freshen up at the Trident and have lunch before you’re met by your guide to explore the fort, followed by the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunset. Although not a heritage hotel, as Agra is rather devoid in that department we find the Trident offers a great sense of location, comfort, service, and value. Set amidst beautiful gardens and only a few minutes drive from the Taj Mahal, the hotel is built of red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era, designed around a landscaped courtyard.

Day 4

Agra to Ranthambhore via Fatehpur Sikri and Bharatpur (stay at Sawai Madhopur Lodge, Ranthambhore)

This morning you have the option of returning to the Taj Mahal at sunrise if you fancy. Later, you’ll drive to Bharatpur to catch the train to Ranthambhore. On your way out of Agra, stop at Fatehpur Sikri – a 15th-century Mughal court built by Emperor Akbar, abandoned after just 14 years. When pulling into Ranthambhore station in the early evening, our representative will be waiting to welcome you on the platform and accompany you to Sawai Madhopur Lodge. More than 80 years ago, the Maharaja of Jaipur would pitch tents on these grounds before setting off to hunt. Today 36 guestrooms have replaced the royal campground. The original 1930s lodge contains the Dining Room and the Tiger Bar, a dark wood-panelled watering hole decorated with mounted tiger heads and hunting trophies. The lodge’s airy guestrooms – outfitted with bold animal print linens and hardwood furnishings – are a minimum of 350 square feet, and come with Ayurvedic toiletries by Forest Essentials, fully stocked minibars and cotton robes.

Day 5

In Ranthambhore

Rise early this morning and you’ll be met by your Jeep, to head off into Ranthambhore National Park on a morning safari. The park’s most famous resident is the majestic Bengal Tiger, though it’s also home to leopard, peacock, numerous species of deer, crocodiles, sloth bear and much more. After the morning safari, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and a few hours at leisure. Here you can relax, explore the local area, or discuss sightings with staff and other guests. In the afternoon, you’ll head back into the park for a second Jeep safari, to observe the jungle in a different light.

Day 6

Ranthambhore to Jaipur (stay at Samode Haveli, Jaipur)

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the lodge today (while most other guests of the hotel are on safari this morning, you’ll likely have the pool to yourselves!). Or, if you’re feeling active, explore the 10th-century Ranthambhore Fort for a spectacular birds-eye view of the jungle.

Later, your Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels brings you to Jaipur, where you’ll check in to Samode Haveli for a two-night stay. This charming haveli in the centre of Jaipur exudes local character and is one of our favourite heritage hotels in Jaipur. It is ideal for those who’d like to be in the heart of the action and explore further on foot. For a truly royal experience, ask to upgrade to the Taj Rambagh Palace. A former Indian palace, here you can experience the life of a maharaja and maharani. Heritage hotels in Rajasthan come in all shapes, sizes and budgets, and the Taj Rambagh Palace is certainly one of the finest. We also love the Rajmahal Palace.

Day 7

In Jaipur

A full day of guided sightseeing in the Pink City today. You’ll begin at the splendid Amber Fort, later taking in the City Palace and its little-known private rooms, the Jantar Mantar observatory, and the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). To end the day, continue to Dera Amer to spend a memorable evening with elephants. It’s a magical place on the outskirts of the city, where you can spend time up close with elephants by helping to feed and bathe them, before taking a gentle walk together through the surrounding forest at sunset (Dera Amer do not encourage rides). If meeting elephants isn’t your thing, this can certainly be removed or replaced. Perhaps with a private cooking class or a special dinner recommendation. For those who are interested in spending time with elephants, Dera Amer is a fantastic and ethical place to do it.

Day 8

Jaipur to Jodhpur (stay at Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur)

Optionally, with an early start this morning you’ll head to the markets with your guide to experience the flurry of activity here as the Pink City wakes up. Stops would include the fragrant flower market, the wholesale milk market, the vegetable market, and the Govind Dev Ji temple, finished off with a delicious cup of chai (spiced tea) from a famous but inconspicuous chai shop.

Later we’ll drive you to Jodhpur, the Blue City, for two nights. It’s a long drive today (about six hours), so do let us know if you’d like to include an overnight stop in the country en-route (we recommend Lakshman Sagar or Fort Barli). When you arrive in Jodhpur after a long drive, the evening’s at leisure to relax at Ajit Bhawan. This characterful property was one of India’s first heritage hotels, and formerly the palace of the Maharaja’s younger brother. Today, descendants of the royal family manage the hotel. Rooms are set in gardens around the main building and decorated with colourful pops of Rajasthani colour. We recommend dining at Dhani, their village themed restaurant, for authentic local flavours. RAAS is another of our favourite hotels in Jodhpur to consider, or for something extraordinarily special, Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace.

Day 9

In Jodhpur

Explore the sights of the Blue City this morning, taking in Jaswant Thada and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. This afternoon, head out to the arid countryside on a Jeep safari. Villages dot the scrubland south of Jodhpur, their mud and thatch huts inhabited by the Bishnois and communities of potters and weavers. A tour of the area provides a memorable opportunity to observe the rhythm of daily life in these hamlets, experience the warm hospitality of the villagers, and see beautiful traditional crafts practised.

Day 10

Jodhpur to Narlai (stay at Rawla Narlai, Narlai)

Steering off the beaten track, today you’ll head deep into the Aravali hills for a stay in the sleepy 15th-century village of Narlai. One of our favourite heritage hotels in Rajasthan, Rawla Narlai is a beautiful 17th-century fort, converted into a small, friendly, yet very stylish, hotel. The rooms are all different but traditionally furnished and surround an inner courtyard, blooming with fragrant frangipani and brilliant pink bougainvillaea. Upon arriving in Narlai, your time here is at leisure to relax, explore the local area, or take part in activities according to your interests. The property offers many excursions; from bird-watching by the lake to walks around the village.

Day 11

Narlai to Udaipur via Ranakpur (stay at Jagat Niwas Palace, Udaipur)

Enjoy the morning in Narlai today. We recommend waking early for a sunrise walk up Elephant Hill – a huge granite rock looming over the property. There are 756 steps to the top, but the spectacular views are well worth it! Later, continue to the fairy-tale city of Udaipur. On the way, we recommend stopping in Ranakpur to explore the elaborately carved Jain temple (one of the five great holy places of the Jain faith, this ornate temple boasts 1,444 uniquely carved pillars. It’s a fascinating place to stretch your legs). Upon arriving in Udaipur, the evening is at leisure to relax and soak up the view from your lake-side hotel, Jagat Niwas Palace. This lovely little haveli has to have one of the best locations in Udaipur – it overlooks the lake, the town, the City Palace and the Lake Palace. The rooms have lots of charm and character, with simple yet tasteful décor. The pretty rooftop restaurant is one of the most sought after dining spots in town. To end your visit with a bang, we recommend upgrading to the Taj Lake Palace. One of the most famous heritage hotels in the world, it’s a magical experience.

Day 12

In Udaipur

Today you’ll be accompanied by your guide to explore the city of Udaipur. To begin, a walking tour through the narrow streets of the old city will take you through winding streets teeming with shops selling clothing, silver jewellery, and leather-bound journals. You’ll shortly approach the City Palace – this sprawling palace is the largest in Rajasthan and stands on a ridge overlooking the lake. Cupolas crown its octagonal towers, which are connected by a maze of narrow passageways. The rooms inside the City Palace all contain decorative art: beautiful paintings, colourful enamel, inlay glass-work, and antique furniture. You’ll also explore the Crystal Gallery, the 17th-century Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon-ki-Bari (a beautiful rose garden).

Day 13

Fly back to Delhi (stay at JW Marriott, Delhi)

The morning’s free in Udaipur. With Jagat Niwas Palace as your base, you may like to stroll around the narrow streets of the Old City. In the afternoon, you’ll be chauffeured to Udaipur airport to board a direct flight to Delhi. We recommend spending the night at the JW Marriott. Though lacking in character, it’s a convenient location for flying in and out of Delhi as it’s just a five-minute drive from Terminal 3. Alternatively, if your flight is departing in the evening, you may prefer to head straight to the airport – or, if you have more time in Delhi, something more centrally located (such as Maidens where we began) would be more appropriate.

Day 14

Depart from Delhi

Our Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels comes to an end this morning as you’re chauffeured back to the airport, in time for your onward flight.

2022/23 Guide price:

₹241,000 ($2,939; £2,585) pp

Our journeys are inclusive of accommodation with breakfast, a private car with driver throughout, experienced guides, entrance tickets and excursions. In other words, we offer a seamless and hassle-free experience where the only thing you need to worry about is soaking up the sights and enjoying your heritage hotels! This indicative cost is per person, based on a couple travelling between October 2022 and March 2023, sharing a double or twin room. The cost would reduce significantly during the low-season months of April to September, while it will be noticeably higher during the peak Christmas and New Year period. We can arrange this itinerary at any time of the year, though it’s best between October and March. Ranthambhore National Park is closed annually from 1st July – 30th September.

This Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels is merely a suggestion. Every part – from the destinations to the heritage hotels, to the length, to the sightseeing – can be adjusted to better suit your taste. We’ll design every detail around you and your requirements. For example, those with more time in hand may like to venture out to the Thar desert in Jaisalmer. Or, head up to the Himalayan foothills in Shimla. A stop in Bikaner, or the Shekhawati region, would make for a complete exploration of the Rajasthan region. If you like the idea of experiencing heritage hotels while in India, you may also enjoy our Luxury Golden Triangle Tour, and our Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi. 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.

Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels

Classic Rajasthan Tour with Heritage Hotels

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