Luxury Tour Of Rajasthan

ARRIVE IN DELHI

Your luxury India honeymoon kicks off on arrival in Delhi, where you will be met by a member of our team at the airport and chauffeured to the splendid Imperial hotel. Tucked away in the heart of New Delhi, this landmark property dates back to 1934 when it was built by the British Raj to accommodate important visitors to the newly announced capital. It’s bursting with colonial charm and elegance, and full of quirky memorabilia. The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure to rest, settle in and recover from your flight, though depending on the time you arrive if you’d like to begin exploring your chauffeur is always on hand. For dinner, we’d recommend the Imperial’s Spice Route – one of a kind, it whisks you on an immersive journey through Southeast Asia; from the Malabar Coast to Vietnam. For a truly exceptional experience, we’d recommend upgrading to The Oberoi New Delhi

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. 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 better suit 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 Imperial in the evening, though your chauffeur’s always on hand if you’d like to dine out.

DELHI TO AGRA (STAY AT THE OBEROI AMARVILAS, AGRA)

This morning you’ll be chauffeured to the city of Agra, home of the world’s favourite monument to love – the Taj Mahal. Upon arriving, you’ll be met by your guide for a tour of the fort, followed by the magnificent Taj Mahal in its most romantic light at sunset. This evening you’ll be staying at the Oberoi Amarvilas. Located a mere 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas is known for its luxury and style, and will undoubtedly be a highlight of your luxury Rajasthan Tour. Soak up an uninterrupted view of the Taj Mahal from your own private terrace, and without the restriction of visiting hours, you can catch the Taj Mahal glowing amber at sunset, glittering in the moonlight after dark, and peachy pink at dawn. From there room you can sit out and soak up the Taj Mahal from the comfort of your own private terrace. For a really fabulous honeymoon moment, a private dinner can be arranged on the balcony whilst you overlook the monument.

AGRA TO RANTHAMBHORE, VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI AND BHARATPUR (STAY AT THE OBEROI VANYAVILAS, RANTHAMBHORE)

This morning your guide will accompany you to Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri (a 16th century Mughal complex that was abandoned by Emperor Akbar after just 14 years). Later, continue to nearby Bharatpur where you’ll catch the train to Ranthambhore. Upon arriving in Ranthambhore in the early evening, your representative will meet you at the platform where you’ll transfer to the Oberoi Vanyavilas for three nights.

The very definition of a honeymooner’s retreat, the Oberoi Vanyavilas is one of our favourite places to stay in Rajasthan and offers just a handful of luxury tents nestled on the edge of the jungle. “Tent” is a bit of a misnomer here: think rich, draping canvas dotted with traditional Rajasthani block-printed motifs and a glamorous free-standing claw-foot bathtub.

IN RANTHAMBHORE

Rise early this morning and you’ll be met by your private Jeep and naturalist, to head off into Ranthambhore National Park on a morning safari. The park’s most famous resident is the majestic Bengal Tiger, though is also home to leopard, peacock, numerous species of deer, crocodiles, sloth bear and much more – pretty much the whole Jungle Book! 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.

RANTHAMBHORE TO JAIPUR

Climb the 10th century Ranthambhore Fort this morning a guided tour, soaking up over a thousand years of history and an amazing birds-eye view of the jungle below. Later, proceed to the next destination on your luxury Tour Of Rajasthan – Jaipur – When arriving in Jaipur later today, you’ll be assisted with checking in to Samode Haveli for a three-night stay. This charming haveli exudes local character and, at over 175 years old, it offers the opportunity to experience one of India’s charming heritage hotels. Samode Haveli is well located too, in the centre of the Pink City. It’s ideal for those who’d like to be in the heart of the action (you may like to read about our own recent stay by clicking here). For a truly royal experience, ask to upgrade to the Taj Rambagh Palace – a former Indian palace. Here you can unleash your inner Maharaja or Maharani at one of the most luxurious hotels in India’s golden triangle. Those who’re seeking more understated luxury would be happier at the Oberoi Rajvilas, while the SUJÁN Rajmahal Palace is a boutique-lovers delight.

IN JAIPUR

Head into Jaipur today for a guided tour, taking in the City Palace and its private rooms, the Jantar Mantar observatory, and Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace). End the day with a walking tour through the colourful markets at Badi Chauper and Jhori Bazaar – here you’ll find a treasure trove of handicrafts; from vibrant textiles to semi-precious jewellery

JAIPUR TO UDAIPUR

After having breakfast at early morning, Your next destination in the route takes you to the romantic, ‘City of Lake’. And at Udaivilas, every guest gets an absolute royal treatment. The majestic property has everything from a spa and a temperature controlled pool to butler services. From Udaipur, the route goes to Jaipur, as it’s another beautiful city which has plenty of luxurious experiences to offer. If you want to experience living in the most stunning castle, then you need to look no further than The Oberoi RajVilas.

IN UDAIPUR

Day 9 of your luxury Rajasthan Tour invites you to discover the best of Udaipur, accompanied by our experienced guide. To begin, a walking tour through the narrow streets of the old city will take you through winding lanes 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). Later, you’ll take a short boat-ride over Lake Pichola.

IN UDAIPUR

Day 10 of your luxury Rajasthan Tour invites you to discover the best of Udaipur, accompanied by our experienced guide. To begin, a walking tour through the narrow streets of the old city will take you through winding lanes 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). Later, you’ll take a short boat-ride over Lake Pichola.

UDAIPUR TO JODHPUR (STAY AT TAJ UMAID BHAWAN PALACE, JODHPUR)

Continue to the Blue City of Jodhpur today for a two night stay at the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, and upon arrival the remainder of the afternoon is free to relax and soak up your spectacular lodgings. Dating back to the early 20th century, the fabulous Umaid Bhawan Palace is known as the last of India’s great palaces, and is today one of the world’s most luxurious hotels (in fact, it was recently announced by TripAdvisor as their Best Hotel in the World for 2016). The Maharaja of Jodhpur still resides here in a private wing. We’d recommend a tour of the palace this evening with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by a drink in the Trophy Bar, to imagine you’ve stepped back in time.

IN JODHPUR

A guided tour of Jodhpur today takes in Jaswant Thada, Mehrangarh Fort and a walk through The old city. This evening, soak up a private Bhopa performance – a rare Rajasthani art form which combines dancing, singing and painting. Afterwards, move on to a rooftop restaurant for a traditional Rajasthani thali dinner with fabulous views of Mehrangarh Fort behind. Our past guests have found this a very culturally rich experience, and a highlight of their stay. The thali dinner is a lovely way to experience many different tastes of Rajasthan, as you’re presented with a small amount of several different authentic dishes.

JODHPUR TO JAISALMER (STAY AT THE SERAI, JAISALMER)

Your luxury Rajasthan Tour continues into the heart of the Thar Desert for a three night stay at The Serai – an oasis in the desert, The Serai offers a truly luxurious experience in Rajasthan. There are 21 tents, though much like the Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambhore the word ‘tent’ is a bit of an understatement; each offers a private veranda, a drawing room, and an en-suite shower room. Combining locally sourced products, such as traditional dhurries (rugs) and Jaisalmer stone tiling, with state of the art technology, The Serai offers all the facilities one would expect of a luxury hotel whilst remaining at home in the surroundings. For a truly exceptional experience, we’d recommend upgrading to Suryagarh Jaisalmer

IN JAISALMER

Relax and unwind with a day of leisure at The Serai today. Lazing by the pool with a book is heavenly, or why not indulge in a spa treatment? The Suján spa offers a diverse menu of therapies; from reflexology to a relaxing massage. This evening, embark on a magically romantic Sundowners experience at the nearby private sand dunes. After a gentle camel ride, your private butler awaits you on the dunes with a picnic and champagne, looking out towards the sun setting over the Thar. Unforgettable.

IN JAISALMER

Today you’ll head into Jaisalmer for a private guided tour of the gargantuan Jaisalmer Fort. It rises like a fabulous mirage out of the sands of the Thar Desert, the awesome contours of its 99 bastions softened by the golden hue of the stone. After the fort, Jaisalmer’s havelis (intricately carved houses) are its greatest attraction. Built in the 19th century by the town’s merchants and ministers, these mansions dominate its labyrinthine lanes. The havelis of Salim Singh, Nathmalji and Patwon are the finest examples of this type of architecture, their golden stone facades so finely carved that they could be made of lace. You’ll also visit Gadisagar Lake before retiring back to The Serai.

RETURN TO DELHI (STAY AT THE TRIDENT GURGAON, DELHI)

Today you’ll board the daily direct flight from Jaisalmer back to Delhi. Upon landing, you’ll be chauffeured to the Trident Gurgaon for a last night’s stay. Conveniently closer to the airport and away from the bustle of Delhi’s centre, the Trident Gurgaon is a great choice when you have to be up for a flight the following morning.

DEPART FROM DELHI

Today your luxury Rajasthan Tour comes to an end as you’re chauffeured back to Delhi IGI airport, in time for your onward flight. This additional stop is optional – you might prefer to connect directly from Jaisalmer. We’ll fine-tune this together to best suit your international flight arrangements.