Delhi to Rajasthan & Tigers - 14 days

On arrival in Delhi, you will be greeted and transferred to our hotel (check-in from 13:00). For centuries, Delhi has served as a seat of power, blending the historic Islamic influences of Old Delhi with the grand British-planned architecture of New Delhi. The rest of today is free for you to settle in, or to head out and start exploring.

After breakfast, we explore Delhi’s iconic landmarks. We visit the Red Fort, built by Shah Jahan in 1638, followed by a rickshaw ride through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk. Next, we stop at Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and pay respects at Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.

We continue to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, renowned for its holy water, and pause for photos at the President’s House. Driving past Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan, we then visit Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture. Back at the hotel, your second and final evening in Delhi is at leisure.

Delhi - Jodhpur. Say goodbye to the Indian capital as we head to the airport for our included flight west to Jodhpur. From here, we drive to Manvar, a remote desert retreat in Rajasthan. Here, we soak up traditional desert life, culture, and wildlife in an untouched setting. Later, we enjoy an unforgettable camel ride through the Thar Desert, guided by local camel owners who share folk stories and desert insights. The day ends with dinner under the stars at the desert camp, creating a truly memorable evening.

Today begins with a fun jeep safari to visit desert villages and meet the Bishnoi people, renowned for their historic traditions. Along the way, we hope to spot wildlife such as chinkara, nilgai, and peafowl.

Later, we drive back to Jodhpur, Rajasthan’s "Blue City," dominated by the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. We explore this vast fort with its palaces, courtyards, and museum. Afterwards, we take a walking tour of Jodhpur’s old city, including Chandpole Gate, Toorji Ka Jhalra stepwell, and the bustling Sardar Market, famous for its lively atmosphere. After our night of camping yesterday, we check in to a hotel in Jodhpur for tonight.

Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur. We drive to Udaipur, pausing to visit Ranakpur Jain Temple, an architectural marvel famed for its 1,444 uniquely carved pillars.

After our visit, we continue to Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," founded in 1559. This historic city blends grand palaces, ornate temples, and serene lakes. Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel. Your first evening in the city is free to head out and take in the scenic beauty of Udaipur, set along the banks of Lake Pichola.

The highlight of Udaipur is undoubtedly the City Palace, and it's where we begin today's sightseeing. This magnificent complex features grand courtyards and sweeping views over Lake Pichola. Inside, we explore the Crystal Gallery, home to the world’s largest private crystal collection.

In the afternoon, we enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, gliding past historic monuments and lakeside scenery. After our day of exploring, your evening is at leisure.

Udaipur - Deogarh. Today we drive to Deogarh, a city best known for its former royal residence now transformed into a heritage hotel. Perched atop a hill, the palace offers breathtaking views of the Aravalli hills and surrounding lakes. We take a guided walk through Deogarh village, observing daily life, local crafts, and traditional wells where women gather water. Along the way, we engage with villagers, exchanging stories about everything from politics to family life. We stay the night at a hotel in the Deogarh area.

We experience a ride on the local metre-gauge train, winding through scenic landscapes dotted with tunnels, bridges, and rural villages. Later, we embark on a "Rural Ramble," a countryside drive that explores local life, visits a cave temple, and includes a stop at a lake where migratory birds can be seen against the sunset. This journey offers a genuine glimpse into Rajasthan’s authentic rural charm. We spend a second night at our hotel in Deogarh.

Deogarh - Jaipur. After a couple of days experiencing a more rural side of Rajasthan we get back on the tourist trail, making our way to the Pink City of Jaipur, renowned for its rich history and carefully planned layout.

Founded in 1727 by Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur was painted pink in 1876 to welcome Prince Albert, the Prince of Wales, during his visit. In the evening, we join a local family for a cooking demonstration and dinner, where we learn about Indian spices and traditional dishes while enjoying warm hospitality.

We start the day at a bustling milk market, where traditional dairy sellers trade fresh milk. Next, we explore Amber Fort, a grand fortress with seven levels, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. We pause for photos at Hawa Mahal, famous for its 953 latticed windows. Then, we ride a pink rickshaw through Jaipur’s old city, stopping for chai at a renowned tea shop. The day ends with a Bollywood movie at the iconic Raj Mandir cinema.

Jaipur - Ranthambore National Park. We begin with a visit to Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory featuring massive instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II.

It's then time to leave Jaipur as we drive to Ranthambore National Park, set amidst the Aravalli and Vindhya hills. Ranthambore is one of the top safari spots in northern India, home to Bengal tigers, leopards, and other diverse wildlife. On arrival, we check into our hotel and enjoy dinner.

We enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safaris in Ranthambore National Park, exploring its rugged terrain and searching for wildlife. While the park is famed for its tiger population, we may also spot deer, hyenas, sloth bears, and langurs. The combination of scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse flora makes each safari a unique experience. We return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

Ranthambore National Park - Agra. After breakfast, we drive to Agra, pausing en route for a countryside excursion that includes a ride on a Jugaad, or village Mercedes. This inventive local vehicle carries us through fields of wheat, mustard, coriander, and chillies as we make our way to Gothdi village, where you may meet warmly dressed villagers, visit family homes, and observe daily rural life – an ideal opportunity for photos.

We then continue to Agra, a historic city on the banks of the Yamuna River and best known as the home of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Once a Mughal capital, Agra is filled with grand forts, mausoleums, and palaces that showcase the architectural brilliance of the empire. On arrival, we transfer to the hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Agra - Delhi. We've saved the best until last as we visit the majestic Taj Mahal at sunrise, when its golden hues create a breathtaking sight. This UNESCO-listed world wonder comprises a white marble mausoleum, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

After our visit to the Taj, we return to the hotel for breakfast before visiting Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Mughal emperors.

It's then time to return to Delhi, where our tour ends with a transfer to the airport.