13 Nights - 14 Days
Delhi (2N), Agra (1N), Jaipur (2N), Jaisalmer (2N), Jodhpur (2N), Udaipur (2N), Delhi (1N)
The “Forts & Palaces of Rajasthan” tour covers the culturally rich and historically significant forts and palaces of India. Starting in Delhi, a city blending ancient and contemporary elements. Visit the renowned Taj Mahal in Agra and then, explore the valor and gallantry of Rajasthan, with stops in the pink city of Jaipur, desert city of Jaisalmer, the blue city of Jodhpur, and the Venice of the east, Udaipur. The tour concludes in Delhi, offering opportunities for last-minute shopping in famous street markets or modern stores.
Heritage
Cultural
Culinary
Community
Day 1 ARRIVE DELHI
Day 2 IN DELHI
Day 3 DELHI – AGRA
Day 4 AGRA – FATEHPUR SIKRI – JAIPUR
Day 5 IN JAIPUR
Day 6 JAIPUR – JAISALMER
Day 7 IN JAISALMER
Day 8 JAISALMER – JODHPUR
Day 9 IN JODHPUR
Day 10 JODHPUR – RANAKPUR – UDAIPUR
Day 11 IN UDAIPUR
Day 12 UDAIPUR – DELHI
Day 13 DEPART DELHI
Meeting and assistance on arrival at Delhi International Airport
Platinum guests receive a VIP jet-bridge greeting at Delhi International airport. An Airport Representative will meet you at the Aerobridge, and fast track you through immigration and customs. A Platinum by Trans India representative will escort you to the hotel and will arrange for immediate check-in.
Check-in at The Imperial Hotel (Grand Heritage Room)
Delhi – Situated in a strategic position on the west bank of the Yamuna River, between the Himalayas and the Aravalli Hills, Delhi is the gateway to the rich alluvial soils of the Ganges plain and has, according to Indian folklore, been occupied since 2500 BC. New Delhi is an audacious statement of Imperial British control over India. Today the difference between bustling Old Delhi and the calmer, tree lined avenues of New Delhi is striking.
Overnight at The Imperial Hotel (Grand Heritage Room)
This morning, enjoy heritage walking tour of Old Delhi with an expert (generally duration of this tour is approximately 02 hours however can be customized depending upon your interests and how much you want to walk)
Accompanied by your expert, a walk through bustling streets of Old Delhi is the best way to discover the history, and secrets of this busy and seemingly chaotic area. Your expert will introduce you to this vibrant part of the city on a walking tour taking you through narrow streets and lanes of neighborhood, narrating anecdotes and recollecting stories explaining the way people lived in this area.
Sightseeing of Old Delhi: The tour includes visits to the important landmarks and monuments of Old Delhi including drive past Red Fort, the 17th-century fortress of the Mughals which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then visit the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, constructed in 1658, where hundreds and thousands of Muslims offer their prayers even today. Ride a Cycle Rickshaw through Chandni Chowk (Silver Street), a famous shopping street of Old Delhi, and a market for food stalls, textiles, electronic goods, and watches. Also visit the Raj Ghat, set in beautiful gardens, the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948.
Afternoon proceed for sightseeing tour of New Delhi
This tour includes visits to the important landmarks and monuments of New Delhi including Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site said to be the motivation behind the 'wonder of the world' the Taj Mahal. Drive past the India Gate, a free-standing, 42 metre high arch, built in 1931 as a war memorial in the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. Take a photostop outside the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House) the official residence of the President of the India. A highlight will be a visit to the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib – Delhi's largest Sikh temple. Later visit the Qutub Minar, a 72 meter high minaret built in 1199 AD.
Overnight at The Imperial Hotel (Grand Heritage Room)
Breakfast at hotel
Assisted transfer to Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway station to board train
Train Gatimaan Express 12050 for Delhi – Agra (0810 / 0950) – Executive Class
*Your luggage will be sent ahead by road to Agra.
*Alternatively, you can drive to Agra which will take approximately 04 hours.
A Platinum by Trans India representative will be waiting for you with a hand held signage bearing your name as you exit the train compartment.
Agra – Located on the western bank of the Yamuna River, the city of Agra, founded in 1504 by Sultan Sikander Lodi, was besieged in 1526 by Babur the first Mughal Emperor. During the mid 16th and 17th centuries Agra, by now the Mughal capital, witnessed a remarkable spate of expansion and architectural development as each successive emperor tried to outdo the last.
On arrival, visit Taj Mahal (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays)
Taj Mahal – a white-marble mausoleum, one of the world’s most photographed and most beautiful monuments, was constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal, and is said to be an ‘Icon of eternal love”.
Check-in at The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel (Premier Room with Balcony)
Afternoon, visit Agra Fort and Mehtab Bagh
Visit the Agra Fort, the huge red sandstone Fort on the bank of Yamuna River, built in 1565 AD. The Fort houses a number of attractive buildings including Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.
Mehtab Bagh is situated on the sandy bank of Yamuna River just opposite the Taj Mahal mausoleum. The place is an ideal spot for it provides picturesque view of Taj Mahal.
Nothing could be more romantic than a candlelit dinner for two on the balcony of your room, against the silhouette of the Taj Mahal. Intuitively served by your personal butler. Choose between a specially curated four course dinner or our recommended Royal Indian ‘thali’.
Overnight at The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel (Premier Room with Balcony)
Morning proceed for a Sunrise visit of Taj Mahal
Start your day very early with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, where you get a chance to see the Taj Mahal in a new light, as well as in a less crowded environment. Gazing at the white marble mausoleum against the rising rays of the sun, makes it a truly magical experience, and also the best time for photography.
Breakfast at hotel
Later transfer by road to Fatehpur Sikri for sightseeing (approximately 01 hour drive)
Located just 35 kms. from Agra is Fatehpur Sikri, another world heritage site, said to be the deserted capital of Emperor Akbar. This city was built in the 16th century and was abandoned after 12 years due to the paucity of water. The entire city is still intact, and a sight of this city is worth remembering. The Buland Darwaza is the main entrance to this city. It is 54 m tall. This gate was constructed in the honor of Akbar’s victory in Gujarat.
Lunch at The Bagh Hotel in Bharatpur (approximately 30 minutes drive)
Continue drive to Jaipur (approximately 04 hour drive)
On arrival in Jaipur, check-in at Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Jaipur – Popularly known as the Pink City, Jaipur (City of Victory) is the state capital and largest city of Rajasthan. It was founded by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727 and was planned according to Indian ‘Vastu Shastra’ principles. A fortification wall was built around the city with 7 gates for entry. Originally, the buildings were painted in a variety of colours but in 1853 when Prince Albert visited, the old city was painted pink, a traditional colour of welcome. It has remained pink ever since.
Overnight at Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Breakfast at hotel
Morning proceed for excursion to Amber Fort
Visit one of the Pink city’s famous landmark the Amber Fort located 11 km away from the city, which was the ancient capital of Jaipur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an excellent illustration of Rajput architecture, impressively situated on a hillside facing a lake, which reflects its walkways and walls. It also contains a museum of the famed woodblock printing on fabric that remains the great skill of Jaipur.
Afternoon, explore the ‘Pink City’, the bustling metropolis that is Rajasthan’s capital, seeing the Observatory and the City Palace
Visit the Jantar Mantar, an 18th century stone observatory, the City Palace, still the home of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur and housing an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons as well as a photostop at the Hawa Mahal, (literally translated to Palace of Winds), the facade of which is all pink windows and filigree screens and is one of Jaipur’s most photographed landmarks.
Royal Splendour is a specially conducted tour of City Palace which gives visitors exclusive access to see the inner quarters and private rooms in Chandra Mahal, with a personal guide of the Palace.
Late afternoon, enjoy a specially curated Hi-tea experience at Taj Rambagh Palace.
The classical afternoon tea served in the alfresco area of the Verandah Café at the Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, is a truly extraordinary experience. You can savour the best teas of the world with an exquisite array of exotic canapés and pastries while watching the resident peacocks strut in the gardens, with the façade of the palace on one side and the visual treat of Moti Doongri on the other.
Overnight at Taj Rambagh Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Breakfast at hotel
This morning, take a Heritage walking tour of old city in Jaipur
A walk through the colourful and vibrant bazaars of the Pink city of Jaipur. The walk starts at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), which is one of Jaipur’s most famous and photographed landmarks, and ends at the Tripolia Gate, one of the entry points to the Jaipur City Palace. On this fascinating walk mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the regions culinary delights, like Pakoras, Aloo Tikki, Samosa and local sweets from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops, Jewellers and Silversmiths, Gold painters and Bangle making experts.
Later, transfer to Jaipur Airport to board flight for Jaisalmer
Platinum guests are booked in Business class on Domestic flights where available. On sectors with Economy class seating only, Platinum guests are booked in front row seats with extra leg room with an enhanced luggage allowance of 50 lbs. Per Person.
Check-in at Suryagarh Hotel (Pavilion Room)
Late afternoon, do a Temple Trail in the vicinity of your hotel.
Not on the usual tourist map of Jaisalmer, the Temple Trail features desert and high plateau locations rich in tradition and folklore. A short drive from the hotel, the Nabdhoongar temple is located on a high plateau overlooking the vast expanse of the Thar. This entire area is a treasure trove of ancient craftsmanship, some hidden and some exposed. A mighty monsoon-fed lake and lush overgrown gardens with peacocks and fruit trees make up this decaying, enchanting complex. Vast landscapes and ever changing terrains offer a rare insight into the traditions and beliefs of the hardy people of Jaisalmer.
Overnight at Suryagarh Hotel (Pavilion Room)
Breakfast at hotel
This morning, proceed for half day sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer city
This half day tour of the Golden city of Jaisalmer includes a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort. Constructed in 1156 AD, dominating the city’s skyline, this golden sandstone Fort is said to be the oldest and largest living Fort in the World, housing over 5000 people within it’s walls, and home to many beautifully carved Jain Temples constructed in the 12th and the 15th century. Also visit the Gyan Bhandar, a library established in 1500 A.D., which stocks some of the priceless manuscripts and other displays like the astrological charts. Later visit the Havelis, which served as the dwelling place of the ministers and the landlords in the bygone era. Prominent among these, and included in the sightseeing are the Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli.
Sunset visit to Sam Sand Dunes
Just outside the city of Jaisalmer, lie the panoramic dunes of Sam, a visit to which will remain in your memory as one of the highlights of a visit Jaisalmer. The spirits of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a fascinating mirage that stretches for miles and miles. The tour includes a short camel ride, giving you wonderful views of the sunset over the dunes.
Overnight at Suryagarh Hotel (Pavilion Room)
Breakfast at hotel
Morning transfer by road to Jodhpur (approximately 05 hour drive)
On arrival, check-in at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Afternoon at leisure
This evening, we have arranged a special Curator Tour of Mehrangarh Fort followed by Dinner Experience Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort and Museum without the crowds. Early evening visit the Mehrangarh Fort and Museum accompanied by a museum curator, who will bring the Fort, Museum and the exhibits to life with his personal stories and anecdotes. The museum features many fascinating artefacts, including an array of weapons from every period, with emperors’ swords bejewelled with jade, rubies and emeralds, paintings that exhibit the finest samples of Marwar-Jodhpur artistry and elaborate royal palanquins used by kings as a means of transport. Admire the knowledge of the curator as he shares his keen insight and unrivalled knowledge of the Fort, its war-torn history and the empires that ruled over it. End your private tour with an exquisite dinner on the ramparts of the Fort.
Overnight at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Breakfast at hotel
This morning, visit the iconic sites of Jodhpur city – Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada
This half day tour of Blue city of Jodhpur begin with a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort. Set on a hilltop, and towering over the city’s skyline, Mehrangarh, built by Maharajah Jodha Rao, after who the city is named, is considered by many as the most striking fort in Rajasthan. Of the seven huge gates to the fort, a few like Jayapol and Fatehpol were built to celebrate Marwar rulers' victories over countless enemies. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces, as well as a Museum with various artefacts, arms and ammunition, textiles etc.
The next stop is the Jaswant Thada: Located close to the Mehrangarh Fort, it is the white marble war memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. This is followed by a fascinating walk around the colorful Sardar market and the Clock Tower.
Early evening, transfer to MharoKhet for farm experience
An experiential farm in the outskirts of Jodhpur spread over 40 acres that grows over 100 varieties of crops – indigenous, native and exotic, the gamut ranges from Brussels sprouts to moringa, strawberry to chamomile, oyster mushroom to fig, and many more. From immersive walking tours in the farm to pre-plated, multicourse, plant-forward culinary dining, the hosts have tirelessly curated experiences for the guests. An unparalleled experience that combines everything the farm offers – immersive farm tour, dining experience and submersion in nature. Guests also have time to roam the farm and soak in the surroundings. For example, relaxing under the straw canopies on charpoys and observing cloud formations, flying kites etc.
Overnight at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel (Palace Room)
Breakfast at hotel
Morning, transfer by road to Ranakpur Jain temple for sightseeing (approximately 03 hour drive)
Ranakpur, in the heart of the stunning Aravalli Hills is one of 05 holy Jain sites and is a popular pilgrimage centre. The temples of Ranakpur were built in the 15th century and are beautifully crafted and well preserved. One of the biggest and most important Jain temple complexes in India, the site is dominated by the Adinath Temple, which is supported by 1,444 exquisitely carved pillars; no two of which are the same. The temple is open for visitors between 12-5pm.
Lunch at The Mountbatten Lodge
Mountbatten Lodge offers an experience of serenity and is a rural haven away from the noise and bustle of Rajasthan’s major cities.
Afternoon, transfer by road to Udaipur (approximately 02 hour drive)
On arrival, check-in at Taj Lake Palace Hotel (Palace Room – Lake View)
Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh, in 1567. Still very much a traditional Rajput town, it is one of the most picturesque and romantic towns in India. It has an impressive selection of world-class hotels and the city glows in the early evening as dusk falls over Lake Pichola. This is an ideal time to enjoy a boat ride to Jagmandir Island Palace. The second island on the lake is Jag Niwas Island, now more commonly known as the famous Lake Palace hotel, which featured in the James Bond movie Octopussy.
Early evening, do an insightful and entertaining walk around the Lake Palace.
The Palace historians keep guests enthralled with rich and varied stories, some history of Udaipur, and anecdotes of the kings and princes who reveled at this palace.
Overnight at Taj Lake Palace Hotel (Palace Room – Lake View)
Breakfast at hotel
Morning, proceed for city tour of Udaipur including visit of Crystal Gallery
This half day tour on the Lake city of Udaipur begins with a visit to the City Palace, the biggest palace complex in Rajasthan, towering above the Lake Pichola. The Palace houses a museum with an enormous collection of glass, ceramic figures and small canvases. Also visit the Jagdish Temple, a fine Indo-Aryan Temple constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651. This temple treasures a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the universe. A brass image of Garuda the Hindu divinity is in a monument in front of the temple. The next stop would be the Saheliyon Ki Bari, or the garden of the Maids of Honor. It is a small exquisite garden with fountains, stone elephants and a beautiful lotus pond.
Housed in the Fateh Prakash Palace is the Crystal Gallery, the largest private collection of crystal in the world. Many of the items were custom made for the royal House of Mewar. See dazzling objects d’art, perfume bottles, dinner services, decanters and furniture.
Afternoon at leisure for independent activities
Early evening transfer to the lake side for a private Boat Cruise on the Lake Pichola
An enchanting way to end your day in Udaipur is by taking a boat ride on the beautiful Lake Pichola, Udaipur’s major attraction. When the City palace in the background unites with the sparkling lake water. This lake is fenced by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and ridges. There are two island palaces in the Lake Pichola, the Jag Niwas and the Jag Mandir. Jag Niwas was built as the summer residence of Prince of Mewar and is now the famous Lake Palace hotel.
Later this evening, visit the home of Major Durgadas and his wife for a cooking demonstration and see what all the excitement about Rajasthani cuisine is about!
During this interactive demo, you'll watch a culinary demonstration, enjoy tastings of the items prepared, and take home the recipes. End the evening with a gourmet dinner Your hosts for dinner (and the cooking demonstration) would be Major Durga Das and his wife Ms. Jyoti Jasol. They both hail from very traditional and well-educated families of the Mewar and Marwar regions of India. Their home is perched on a hill offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Aravalli hills and the town of Udaipur and a 400-year-old Temple.
Overnight at Taj Lake Palace Hotel (Palace Room – Lake View)
Breakfast at hotel
This morning, meet a master artisan of Miniature paintings
The art of Miniature painting was introduced by the Mughals, who brought the much-revealed art form from Persia. In the sixteenth century, the Mughal ruler Humayun brought artists from Persia, who specialized in miniature painting. The succeeding Mughal Emperor, Akbar built an atelier for them to promote the rich art form. This is an interactive experience, where you not only learn about this indigenous style of Mughal painting, but you also get to do it yourself with the guidance of the master artisan.
Afternoon, transfer to Udaipur Airport to board flight for Delhi
Platinum guests are booked in Business class on Domestic flights where available. On sectors with Economy class seating only, Platinum guests are booked in front row seats with extra leg room with an enhanced luggage allowance of 50 lbs. Per Person.
Check-in at ITC Maurya Hotel (Executive Club Room)
Dinner at Bukhara Restaurant at ITC Maurya Hotel
Bukhara – world famous for its cuisine, from the North-West Frontier of India, Bukhara brings alive the rustic flavors of North-West Frontier cuisine, traditionally prepared in a clay oven (tandoor). The ambiance is decidedly rugged and you can even watch your meal being prepared through the open display kitchen. Rated amongst the top 50 restaurants in the world and the finest restaurant in Asia by ‘’Restaurant” magazine.
Overnight at ITC Maurya Hotel (Executive Club Room)
Breakfast at hotel
This morning, transfer to Delhi International Airport to board flight for onward destination (Flight details to be advised)
Platinum guests receive a VIP departure assistance at Delhi International airport with a friendly meet and greet host who provides luggage assistance, expedited security check and immigration.