Udaipur and Beyond - 10 Days of Rajasthan Splendor

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Agra, ready for an exciting day of exploration. Begin your Agra city tour with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, an exquisite white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Marvel at its stunning architecture and the love story behind this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Next, visit the imposing Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site, which served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi. Explore its magnificent palaces, grand halls, and beautiful mosques, reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal era.

After your morning tour of Agra, check out from your hotel and embark on a drive to Jaipur. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital of the Mughal Empire. Explore the well-preserved palaces, courtyards, and mosques of this UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, and Jama Masjid. Learn about the fascinating history and reasons behind the city's abandonment.

Continue your journey to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, also known as the "Pink City." Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after the drive.

Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel, savoring regional delicacies. Reflect on the day's experiences and prepare for more adventures in Jaipur, which promises a rich cultural and historical exploration in the coming days.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel in Jaipur, gearing up for a full day of exploring the vibrant "Pink City," renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively markets.

• Amber Fort: Begin your tour with a visit to the magnificent Amber Fort, located about 11 kilometers from the city. This majestic fort, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore its sprawling courtyards, grand palaces, and intricate mirror work in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). You can ascend to the fort on an elephant, by jeep, or by walking up the ramparts.
• City Palace: Next, head back into the city to visit the City Palace, a splendid complex that serves as the residence of the royal family of Jaipur. Marvel at the opulent architecture, which blends Mughal and Rajasthani styles. Don't miss the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal within the palace complex, and take a look at the museum displaying royal artifacts, textiles, and weaponry.
• Jantar Mantar: Adjacent to the City Palace, visit the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses a collection of 19 architectural astronomical instruments, including the world's largest stone sundial.
• Hawa Mahal: Continue your tour with a visit to the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks. This five-story palace features an elaborate façade with 953 small windows, allowing royal ladies to observe street life without being seen.
• Albert Hall Museum: If time permits, visit the Albert Hall Museum, situated in the Ram Niwas Garden. This museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, including paintings, carpets, ivory, stone, metal sculptures, and works in crystal.
• Local Markets: Conclude your day with a visit to Jaipur’s bustling markets, such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, known for their jewelry, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps buy some keepsakes to remember your trip by.

Return to your hotel for a restful night, reflecting on the day's exploration of Jaipur’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Prepare for your journey to Pushkar and Jodhpur the next day.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Jaipur. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for your journey to Bikaner. Embark on a scenic drive to Bikaner, located approximately 335 kilometers from Jaipur. The drive will take around 6 hours, offering a glimpse of Rajasthan’s diverse landscapes.

Upon arrival in Bikaner, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after the long drive. Later in the afternoon proceed for a city tour of Bikaner:

• Junagarh Fort: Begin your exploration of Bikaner with a visit to the impressive Junagarh Fort, an architectural masterpiece built in the late 16th century. Unlike many forts in Rajasthan, Junagarh Fort is not located on a hilltop but at ground level, showcasing a unique blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Explore its beautiful palaces, courtyards, and museums, including the Anup Mahal, Ganga Mahal, and Chandra Mahal.
• Bikaner Camel Breeding Farm: If time permits, visit the National Research Centre on Camel, also known as the Camel Breeding Farm. This unique farm offers insights into the breeding and care of camels, and you can even enjoy a camel ride and taste camel milk products.
• Local Markets: Take a stroll through the vibrant markets of Bikaner, such as Kote Gate and Lalgarh Palace Road Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and Bikaner’s famous sweets like bhujia and rasgulla.

Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant, savoring dishes like ker sangri, bajre ki roti, and gatte ki sabzi. Return to your hotel for a restful night, preparing for more exploration of Bikaner the following day.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Bikaner. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for your journey to Jaisalmer.

En route to Jaisalmer, stop at the unique Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, famously known as the Rat Temple. This temple is renowned for its large population of sacred rats, considered the reincarnations of Karni Mata's devotees. Explore the temple and observe the rats freely roaming around, a sight considered auspicious by devotees.

Resume your drive to Jaisalmer, the "Golden City," located approximately 330 kilometers from Bikaner. The drive will take around 5-6 hours, passing through the arid landscape of the Thar Desert. Upon arrival in Jaisalmer, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after the journey.

Spend the evening at your leisure. You can choose to relax at your hotel, explore the nearby areas, or take a leisurely walk through the streets of Jaisalmer, absorbing the city's unique charm and ambiance. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant, savoring dishes like dal baati churma, ker sangri, and other local specialties. Return to your hotel for a restful night, looking forward to exploring the wonders of Jaisalmer the next day.

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Jaisalmer, preparing for a full day of exploration and adventure.

• Jaisalmer Fort: Start your city tour with a visit to the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. This living fort, made of golden sandstone, houses residences, shops, restaurants, and temples within its walls. Explore its narrow alleys, ancient Jain temples, and the stunning Raj Maha
• Patwon Ki Haveli: Next, visit the intricate Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five havelis built by a wealthy merchant family. Marvel at the elaborate carvings, balconies, and artwork that adorn these grand structures.
• Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Continue to Salim Singh Ki Haveli, another architectural marvel known for its distinctive roof resembling a peacock and beautiful stone carvings.
• Gadisar Lake: Conclude your morning tour with a visit to Gadisar Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by temples and ghats. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and consider taking a boat ride for a unique perspective of the city.

After lunch, head to the famous Sam Sand Dunes, located about 40 kilometers from Jaisalmer. This area is known for its picturesque sand dunes and offers an authentic desert experience. Arrive at your desert camp and check in. Evening embark on a thrilling camel safari, riding through the expansive sand dunes. Experience the beauty of the Thar Desert and enjoy the stunning views as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. As the evening progresses, immerse yourself in the local culture with traditional Rajasthani folk music and dance performances around the campfire.

Enjoy a sumptuous Rajasthani dinner at the camp, featuring local delicacies and freshly prepared dishes. Spend the night in the comfort of your desert camp, sleeping under the starlit sky and experiencing the tranquility of the desert.

Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the sand dunes at Sam. The golden hues of the rising sun casting a soft glow over the vast desert landscape create a serene and picturesque setting. Enjoy a light breakfast at the camp while taking in the morning beauty. After breakfast, check out of your desert camp and prepare for the drive to Jodhpur - known as the "Blue City" for its distinctive blue-painted houses. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel through the arid regions of Rajasthan.

Arrive in Jodhpur and check into your hotel. Take some time to relax and freshen up after the long drive. Later in the afternoon embark on a city tour of Jodhpur covering

• Mehrangarh Fort: Begin your city tour with a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest and most impressive forts in India. Perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the city. Explore its palaces, courtyards, and museums that showcase royal artifacts, armory, and paintings. Don't miss the stunning Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace).
• Jaswant Thada: Next, head to the nearby Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. This serene monument is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Marwar" and is surrounded by picturesque gardens.
• Clock Tower and Sardar Market: Explore the bustling Clock Tower and the vibrant Sardar Market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. This market is a great place to experience the local culture and try some traditional Rajasthani snacks.
• Umaid Bhawan Palace: Visit the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace, a grand palace that is part museum, part hotel, and part royal residence. The museum displays an impressive collection of vintage cars, clocks, and royal memorabilia. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the palace's stunning architecture.
• Mandore Gardens: If time permits, visit the Mandore Gardens, which house a collection of temples, memorials, and high rock terraces. The gardens are a historical site with beautiful architecture and lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Return to your hotel for a restful night, looking forward to exploring the enchanting city of Udaipur the next day.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Jodhpur. After checking out, set off on a scenic drive to Ranakpur, which is approximately 150 kilometers away and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road.

Upon arrival in Ranakpur, visit the renowned Ranakpur Jain Temple, a stunning example of Jain architecture. This 15th-century temple is famous for its intricate marble carvings, 1,444 uniquely decorated pillars, and serene ambiance. Spend some time exploring the temple’s stunning craftsmanship and tranquil surroundings.

Continue your journey to Udaipur, which is approximately 90 kilometers from Ranakpur and takes around 2 hours by road. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Aravalli hills and the picturesque countryside. Arrive in Udaipur, often referred to as the "City of Lakes" or the "Venice of the East." Check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up and relax after the journey.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can dine with a view of the illuminated City Palace and the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. Savor local Rajasthani dishes and other Indian delicacies.

Return to your hotel for a restful night, looking forward to exploring the enchanting city of Udaipur the next day.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Udaipur, ready to explore the enchanting "City of Lakes," known for its palaces, lakes, and vibrant culture.

• City Palace: Begin your city tour with a visit to the majestic City Palace, an architectural marvel that reflects the grandeur of the Mewar dynasty. Explore its various palaces, including the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, and Zenana Mahal. Admire the intricate peacock mosaics, stunning courtyards, and museum artifacts that showcase the royal heritage.
• Jagdish Temple: Next, visit the Jagdish Temple, a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Marvel at its beautifully carved stone pillars, impressive sculptures, and the temple’s serene ambiance.
• Saheliyon Ki Bari: Visit Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of the Maidens), a charming garden adorned with fountains, lotus pools, and marble elephants. This historical garden was built for the royal ladies and offers a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle.
• Bagore Ki Haveli: Explore Bagore Ki Haveli, an exquisite mansion that has been converted into a museum. The haveli showcases a rich collection of artifacts, costumes, and traditional Rajasthani art. If time permits, you may catch a cultural performance in the evening, featuring traditional dance and music.
• Lake Pichola: After lunch, take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Pichola, one of Udaipur’s most famous lakes. Enjoy views of the picturesque surroundings, including the Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, and the City Palace from the water. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of Udaipur’s beautiful architecture and landscape.
• Fateh Sagar Lake: Visit Fateh Sagar Lake, another picturesque lake in Udaipur. You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and the cityscape. The lake also features three small islands, with one housing the beautiful Nehru Park.
• Vintage Car Museum: Explore the Vintage and Classic Car Museum, which houses an impressive collection of vintage cars and vehicles owned by the royal family. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the beautifully maintained vehicles and their historical significance.
• Shilpgram: If time permits, visit Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex located a few kilometers from Udaipur. This cultural village showcases traditional crafts, arts, and performances, offering a glimpse into the rural life and heritage of Rajasthan.
• Sunset at Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace): Conclude your day with a visit to the Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace), located on a hilltop overlooking Udaipur. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the landscape.

Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening. Rest well at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences cherishing the memories of your Udaipur city tour.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel in Udaipur, savoring the final moments of your stay in this enchanting city. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and prepare for your departure. Ensure you have all your belongings and travel documents.

If time permits, you might have a few hours to explore more of Udaipur. You could visit a local market for some last-minute shopping or take a final stroll through the city. Alternatively, relax at a café or enjoy the amenities of your hotel.

Proceed to the airport or railway station for your departure. Udaipur has an airport (Maharana Pratap Airport) that connects to major cities, or you might be taking a train or other transportation depending on your travel plans.Complete your check-in and security procedures. Bid farewell to Udaipur, taking with you the memories of its beautiful lakes, palaces, and vibrant culture. Safe travels as you continue your journey, and we hope you have had a memorable and enriching experience on your tour of North India.