Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour
Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour
Our Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour is an extended journey through northern India, carefully crafted to reveal the highlights of this fascinatingly diverse region. This immersive journey invites you to soak up many different facets of Indian culture, beginning with the majestic capital, Delhi. The ancient and sacred city of Varanasi is next, before arriving in Agra – home of the world’s favourite monument to love, the Taj Mahal.
Continue your journey by exploring what we do best – the regal state of Rajasthan, whose fascinating history is told in innumerable legends and evidenced by its towering forts and dramatic scenery. Take your time to soak up the rich heritage and splendid architecture of Jaipur and Jodhpur, and track wild Bengal tigers in Ranthambhore National Park. The easy-going lake city of Udaipur is the perfect place to end your journey, with its fairy-tale-like palaces and romantic lakes.
No two stops on this culturally rich journey are alike. Together, they span many centuries of Indian history, forming the backdrop to landmark events such as the birth of Buddhism, Mughal invasion and rule, epic Rajput battles and British imperialism. However, our Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour is merely a suggestion to share a flavour of the possibilities. You can treat it as a starting point, and together, we’ll refine it into your ideal experience.
The rest of the day, if any, is yours at leisure. Depending on how early in the day you arrive, you can let us know anytime if you’d like to begin exploring this afternoon. Your chauffeur is always on hand, and we’re only a quick call away on your complimentary mobile phone (or WhatsApp, if you prefer).
In the early evening, your guide will meet you for a tour of the Ganges and its ghats by boat, culminating with the evening aarti ceremony. These ancient rituals have changed very little over hundreds and hundreds of years. The scent of sandalwood and incense swirls around while the sounds of prayer chanting and clashing symbols rise to a crescendo. Hundreds of little oil lamps flickering on the river are a beautiful sight.
Later, continue to Dera Amer for 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 interested in spending time with elephants, Dera Amer is a fantastic and ethical place to do it.
When you’re ready, we’ll drive you to Jodhpur, the Blue City, for two nights at RAAS. This glorious little hotel lies at the foot of the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, in the heart of Jodhpur’s Walled City. It is the only luxury hotel in the old town, and the views of the fort looming above are quite spectacular. Strolling away from the excitement and the hustle and bustle of the old town and walking under RAAS’ imposing gateway is like entering a blissfully peaceful, hidden oasis. Alternatively, stay at the palatial Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur – another of our favourite hotels in Jodhpur. Those who prefer to stay in a central location and immerse themselves in the city will be happier at RAAS, while someone who values history, space and grandeur will prefer the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Optionally, rather than retrace your steps back to Delhi, you may prefer to end with a stay in Mumbai (here’s how we recommend you spend 72 hours in Mumbai). Those with a keen interest in architecture may like to include a stop in Khajuraho, famed for its extraordinary carvings (in which case, our Luxury Rajasthan Tour with Varanasi and Khajuraho could be up your street). Or, experience Rajasthan’s golden dunes with a visit to Jaisalmer on the edge of the great Thar Desert. 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. For more like this, you might find our Golden Triangle with Varanasi tour inspiring and our Luxury India Tour: to the Golden Triangle & Beyond.
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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