Your Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour kicks off on your landing in Delhi. A member of our team will be waiting to welcome you at the airport and accompany you to The Lodhi for a two-night stay. Previously part of the Aman group, The Lodhi is arguably the most elegant hotel in New Delhi. It’s nestled in a busy but green area of the capital, close to the Lodhi Gardens of which it takes its name. The atmosphere here is calm and hushed; the décor is sleek and minimal. Rooms are enormous and come with a private plunge pool. Other favourite hotels of ours in Delhi include The Imperial, The Leela Palace, and The Oberoi. We have a range of beautiful properties to recommend, and having tested them all first-hand, we can offer expert advice. We can discuss the options best suited to your taste once you get in touch.

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).

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. The itinerary we’ve prepared in advance is a guideline and is completely flexible to your preferences on the day. You may let your guide know your interests, and he will tailor the day to suit better your tastes. We’re known for our flexible approach, allowing you complete control over the pace of your trip. After exploring the bustling capital, you’ll return to The Lodhi in the evening, where we recommend dining at their award-winning Indian Accent restaurant. However, your chauffeur is always on hand should you prefer a meal out (Bukhara is a great option).

Today on your Rajasthan Tour with Varanasi, you’ll board a flight to Varanasi for a two-night stay at Taj Nadesar Palace. Nestled in the heart of this bustling city, amongst mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, lies the Taj Nadesar Palace. Built by the East India Company and acquired by Maharaja Prabhu Narain Singh in the 19th century, the palace is named after goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the palace’s front. Stepping into its portico, your journey into the Maharaja’s residence begins. The luxurious suites are generously sized, with large windows overlooking the gardens and spacious bathrooms in cool white marble. Alternatively, to take in the incredible scenes that take place along the ghats, stay at BrijRama Palace – a charming boutique property on the banks of the river Ganges.

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.

Rise early and return to the Ganges this morning for a sunrise boat ride. A sunrise boat ride is a highlight of our Rajasthan Tour with Varanasi when a soft light bathes the temples along the riverfront. The people of Varanasi trickle out of the labyrinthine lanes and head for the ghats at dawn. Later, visit Sarnath (where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment) and the old city – a maze of streets and alleys crammed with derelict palaces, homes, and hundreds of temples and shrines. Here you’ll see funeral processions, cows and goats munching on whatever they can find! You’ll also explore a winding lane known as Vishwanath Gali, lined with many shops selling all manner of religious objects. It leads to the city’s principal shrine, the Vishwanath Temple.

Board a direct flight to Agra this morning. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy your hotel and soak up the delights of The Oberoi Amarvilas. Situated only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas is renowned for its luxury and style. The stunning swimming pool and perfectly manicured gardens make this an ideal hotel to rest and relax. All rooms and suites afford an uninterrupted view of the Taj Mahal. Without the restriction of visiting hours, you can catch the Taj Mahal peachy pink at dawn, glowing amber at sunset and glittering in the moonlight after dark. One night in Agra is sufficient to do justice to the Taj Mahal, instead of the two we’ve suggested (in which case, you’d visit the monument this afternoon or at sunset). Two nights will afford a more relaxed pace and time to enjoy The Oberoi Amarvilas, but if you prefer a swifter schedule, you’ll be happier with one. And, if you like the idea of staying at more Oberoi hotels whilst in India, we can include a couple of nights in Varanasi in our popular Luxury Rajasthan Tour with Oberoi Hotels.

Your guide will introduce you to the highlights of Agra, taking in the fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah and – of course – the magnificent Taj Mahal.

This morning, you have the option of returning to the Taj Mahal at sunrise if you fancy. Later, you’ll visit Fatehpur Sikri before catching the train to Ranthambhore. When pulling into Ranthambhore in the early evening, our representative will be waiting on the platform to meet you. Together, you’ll head to The Oberoi Vanyavilas for a two-night stay in a Luxury Tent. The opulence of The Oberoi Vanyavilas is the perfect contrast to the ruggedness of Ranthambhore National Park. Each tent is draped in fine fabric, dotted with traditional Rajasthani block-printed motifs. The beautiful free-standing claw-foot bathtub is a glamorous touch.

Enjoy a day of safari, on the trail of tiger, in Ranthambhore National Park. Ranthambhore is well known as one of the best spots in the world to view the majestic Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. Your safaris will be in a private jeep, with only you and your experienced naturalist guide. Between hand, there’ll be time to relax back at The Oberoi Vanyavilas.

Today, your Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour brings you to Jaipur for two nights at The Oberoi Rajvilas – one of India’s most spectacular luxury hotels. There are not many hotels in the world where check-in involves a brightly painted elephant and a fragrant shower of rose petals, but then again, The Oberoi Rajvilas does not settle for anything less than spectacular! The resort is almost a destination in itself, with sprawling gardens and a 250-year-old Hindu temple on the grounds. Ideal for those seeking a royal experience when in Rajasthan, The Oberoi Rajvilas is a highlight of any luxury India tour. Alternatively, those who prefer history and grandeur would be happier at the Taj Rambagh Palace, while the comparably luxurious Rajmahal Palace has a boutique feel.

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.

Today, you’ll be exploring the best of the Pink City on a guided tour. Jaipur is, for many, quintessential India at its best: expect a cacophony of sights and sounds, from splendid forts and glittering palaces to sauntering camels and brightly painted elephants, twirling moustaches and hot pink saris! Highlights you’ll take in include Amber Fort, the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (aka the Palace of Winds), the Jantar Mantar Observatory, and the Jal Mahal water palace.

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. There’ll be the opportunity to return to the hotel for breakfast and a little time at rest.

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.

A guided tour of Jodhpur today takes in Jaswant Thada, Mehrangarh Fort and a walk through the labyrinthine lanes of the old city. This evening, soak up a private Bhopa performance – a rare Rajasthani art form that combines dancing, singing and painting. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional thali dinner (a bit like tapas, a thali presents you with several small plates. It’s a great way to get a taste of Rajasthan and try things you perhaps wouldn’t have otherwise ordered). Our past guests have found this a very culturally rich experience and a highlight of their stay.

This morning you’ll continue to Udaipur. The romantic, fairy-tale-like, and easy-going town of Udaipur is a wonderful place to wind down at the end of your Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour. On the way, we recommend breaking the drive in Ranakpur to explore an exquisite 15th-century Jain temple (with 1,444 uniquely carved pillars, it’s an amazing sight to see and a fascinating place to stretch your legs). When arriving in Udaipur later today, the evening is at leisure to relax and enjoy your hotel. There are three fabulous options to choose from; The Oberoi Udaivilas, Taj Lake Palace, and The Leela Palace. Our specialist will discuss the option best suited to your taste once you get stuck into planning with us, or it might be that you’d like to spend a night in each! As experts in private luxury tours of Rajasthan and having tested first-hand all the properties we recommend, we offer helpful advice while listening carefully to your needs and wants. Meanwhile, you may find a detailed comparison between the three insightful.

A guided tour of Udaipur today begins at the magnificent City Palace – this sprawling palace is the largest in Rajasthan. It 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 contain decorative art: beautiful paintings, colourful enamel, inlay glass-work, and antique furniture. Later continue with a walking tour through the old city, where narrow, winding streets teem with shops selling clothing, silver jewellery, and leather-bound journals. Other highlights include the Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon ki Bari (a beautiful rose garden), and the Crystal Gallery.

The morning is free to relax and enjoy your superb lodgings or explore the easy-going town of Udaipur further at your own pace. This afternoon, you’ll board a flight back to Delhi for an overnight stay at The Oberoi, Gurgaon.

Your Rajasthan with Varanasi Tour concludes today as you’re chauffeured back to Delhi airport, in time for your onward flight. This additional stop is optional – you might prefer to connect directly from Udaipur, especially if your international departure is scheduled at night or in the early hours. We’ll fine-tune this together to best compliment your international flight arrangements.

Our journeys are inclusive of accommodation with breakfast, a private car with driver throughout, experienced guides, internal flights, 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 fabulous 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 and The Oberoi Vanyavilas close annually from 1st July – 01st September.