Rajasthan Royal Odyssey: Palaces, Forts & Deserts

Your royal odyssey begins in India's capital. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The day is at leisure to rest and acclimatize. Delhi, with its layers of Mughal and British history, is the perfect prologue to the Rajput kingdoms you are about to explore. We recommend a quiet evening, perhaps enjoying a meal that introduces you to the robust flavours of North Indian cuisine.

Leaving the metropolis behind, you drive into the arid landscapes of Rajasthan, reaching the Shekhawati region. Your destination is Mandawa, a small town that was a vital trading post on the ancient camel caravan routes. Its legacy is not in forts, but in havelis (merchant mansions). In the 19th century, wealthy Marwari merchants competed to adorn their homes with breathtaking frescoes. Today, walking through Mandawa is like wandering through an open-air art gallery, where walls depict everything from Hindu mythology and local folklore to whimsical visions of trains and Englishmen. Your stay tonight is in one such beautifully restored haveli, a living museum.

The journey deeper into Rajasthan continues to Bikaner, a desert city founded by a Rathore prince. It is a city of stark beauty and resilience. The afternoon is dedicated to the colossal Junagarh Fort, an architectural masterpiece that was never conquered. Its unique blend of Mughal and Rajput styles, along with exquisitely carved jharokhas (balconies) and courtyards, tells a story of strategic acumen and patronage of the arts. Later, visit the bizarre and fascinating Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, popularly known as the "Rat Temple," where thousands of holy rats are revered and fed—a truly unique cultural encounter.

A long but fascinating drive brings you to the heart of the Thar Desert and the magical "Golden City" of Jaisalmer. The entire city, including its magnificent fort, is built from yellow sandstone that glows like honey in the sunlight. Unlike other forts in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort, with shops, hotels, and homes nestled within its walls—a bustling medieval community frozen in time. As you arrive in the late afternoon, the setting sun sets the entire city ablaze in golden light, a sight that defines the romance of Rajasthan.

Dedicate the morning to exploring Jaisalmer Fort. Walk through its narrow lanes, visit the ornate Jain temples within, and see the Raj Mahal (King's Palace). Descend to the city to see the intricate facades of Patwon-ki-Haveli and Salim Singh-ki-Haveli, testaments to the wealth of ancient merchants. In the late afternoon, drive to the Sam Sand Dunes. Here, you will mount a camel for a gentle safari into the rolling dunes to witness a spectacular desert sunset. The day culminates at your luxury desert camp, where you'll enjoy traditional Rajasthani music and dance around a bonfire, followed by dinner under a celestial canopy.

After a serene desert morning, journey east to the "Blue City" of Jodhpur. Dominating the skyline is the formidable Mehrangarh Fort, one of India's largest and most impressive forts. Perched on a sheer cliff, its walls tell a brutal history of warfare. Inside, however, lies an astonishing collection of palanquins, howdahs, miniature paintings, and royal costumes in museums of unparalleled quality. After exploring the fort, wander into the old city below, a labyrinth of narrow lanes washed in shades of blue, originally meant to denote Brahmin households and keep homes cool.

Leaving the desert plains, you enter the fertile, green Aravalli Hills. En route, stop at Ranakpur, home to one of Jainism's most important and spectacular temple complexes. The Chaumukha Temple (15th century) is an architectural symphony in white marble, with 1,444 exquisitely carved pillars, no two alike. The play of light and shadow within its hallowed halls creates an atmosphere of profound peace and awe. Continue to Udaipur, the romantic "City of Lakes." Your first glimpse of Lake Pichola with its floating palaces is unforgettable.

Udaipur is a city of grace. Begin at the City Palace, a sprawling complex of buildings that offers breathtaking views over the lake. Its delicate mirror work, ornate balconies, and museum collections reflect a refined aesthetic. Later, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, gliding past the Jag Mandir and getting a close-up view of the iconic Taj Lake Palace. The evening is best spent at a rooftop restaurant, watching the palaces and ghats light up at dusk, a scene of pure enchantment.

Travel north to the sacred town of Pushkar, nestled around a serene lake believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. It is one of Hinduism's holiest sites. The atmosphere is uniquely spiritual and laid-back. Walk around the holy lake, visiting the many ghats and the rare Brahma Temple. Pushkar's main street is a vibrant mix of temples, shops selling religious paraphernalia, and charming cafés. The town has a distinct, bohemian vibe, a stark and peaceful contrast to the royal grandeur experienced so far.

A short drive brings you to the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, the "Pink City." Founded by the astronomer-king Sawai Jai Singh II, the city is a grid of wide avenues. The afternoon is for first impressions: visit the Jantar Mantar, the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world, and explore the City Palace, still the home of the Jaipur royal family, which showcases a magnificent fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

No visit to Jaipur is complete without a trip to the hilltop Amber Fort. Enjoy a jeep ride up and explore its grand courtyards, halls, and the famous Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). On the way back, stop for a photo of the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). The afternoon is for immersion in Jaipur's living crafts. Visit a workshop to see block printing, gemstone polishing, or blue pottery being made by master artisans. Conclude your royal journey with a special farewell dinner at a heritage property, accompanied by soulful folk music.

On your final morning, there may be time for some last-minute exploration or shopping in the colourful Johari Bazaar for jewellery and textiles. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Jaipur Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the golden dust of the desert and the indelible spirit of Rajputana.