North India has long been at the epicenter of the nation's history. Whether it's the scenery or the spoken word, diversity abounds, revealing a welcoming blend of peoples, religions, and languages. The romantic state of Rajasthan is known for its striking desert landscape and colorful festivals, and its towns - Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaipur - are resplendent, with stunning forts and opulent palaces. Not a day will go by that you're not treated to stunning photo ops and wooed by the region's whimsical charm and regal past. End your trip with an unforgettable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal!
North India has long been at the epicenter of the nation's history. Whether it's the scenery or the spoken word, diversity abounds, revealing a welcoming blend of peoples, religions, and languages. The romantic state of Rajasthan is known for its striking desert landscape and colorful festivals, and its towns - Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaipur - are resplendent, with stunning forts and opulent palaces. Not a day will go by that you're not treated to stunning photo ops and wooed by the region's whimsical charm and regal past. End your trip with an unforgettable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal!
Explore the Golden City of Jaisalmer and its yellow-sandstone fort, rising from the Thar Desert like a mirage
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Discover the wonders of the Blue City of Jodhpur and Pink City of Jaipur, and behold the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra
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Live like royalty in luxurious hotels ? former maharaja palaces ? and deluxe desert tents
Welcome to India! Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in vibrant New Delhi, meet an MT Sobek representative outside customs, and transfer to your hotel. This evening, you will attend an orientation meeting with the Indian tour leader, followed by a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: The Claridges
Transportation: 45-minute private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Explore New and Old Delhi
Day 2
Today, you will explore the capital of modern India, New Delhi, built by the British when they moved their capital here from Calcutta in 1911. Visit Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb, which pay homage to the mighty Afghan and Mughal empires. Drive past the President's Palace and visit India Gate in the Lutyens' Imperial City. Later, visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in the heart of the city. This is the most prominent Sikh house of worship; the pool inside the complex, known as the Sarovar, contains water considered to be holy by Sikhs.
Continue on to Old Delhi, with its narrow dirt roads, myriad people, and colorful bazaars that keep alive the traditional workmanship for which Delhi is known. Pass the Red Fort, then enjoy a history-themed walk in the heart of Chandini Chowk (silver square). Finish the day at the Jama Masjid, the largest Muslim mosque in India.
Accommodation: The Claridges
Activity: Full day cultural touring and walk through the medieval city of Old Delhi
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Jaisalmer, the "Golden City"
Day 3
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Jaisalmer. Upon your arrival, transfer to your hotel, then spend the late afternoon wandering the lanes and alleyways of the city, which was founded in 1156 by Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Later, drive out to Bada Bagh, where royal family members were cremated, to watch and photograph the striking sunset from the yellow-sandstone Jaisalmer Fort.
Accommodation: Rupal Residency
Activity: Full day cultural touring
Transportation: 90-minute flight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Golden City of Jaisalmer
Day 4
Wander around the old town of Jaisalmer and Jaisalmer Fort, built in 1156. Perched on a 250-foot hill, the golden-hued fort stands like a sentinel in the barren desert landscape. It is the only "living fort" in India. Within its ramparts, find an enchanting maze of narrow lanes dotted with lovely havelis (mansions), palaces, and 12th-century Jain temples. Also see Patwon Ki Haveli, the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis, with unsurpassed stone carvings. The afternoon is free to wander around the city's lanes and alleys. This evening, drive out into the desert and walk up through small hamlets to reach your special dinner location on the dunes.
Accommodation: Rupal Residency
Activity: Full day city tour and special dinner in the desert
Transportation: 3- to 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Venture into the Thar Desert
Day 5
After breakfast, drive to the Thar Desert, where you'll check in to your luxury camp. This is an ideal base from which to explore Indian desert life, culture, wildlife, and the breathtaking landscape. Take a late-afternoon 4WD jeep safari to get an up-close look at the desert (perhaps an Indian gazelle or rare desert fox). Walk through villages, meeting camel herders, shoemakers, weavers, potters, Meghwals, Rajputs, Jogis, and Brahmins. This evening, you'll be treated to a memorable music and dance performance under the stars.
Accommodation: Manvar Desert Camp
Activity: 4WD desert safari in the desert, village to village walk in the desert
Transportation: 5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue the Blue City of Jodhpur
Day 6
Transfer to Jodhpur in the morning, the second-largest city in Rajasthan. Check into your hotel, then spend the afternoon visiting the ridge-top Mehrangarh (Majestic) Fort, one of India's most formidable structures. Walk back to the city from the fort and wander about the "Blue City" and its medieval market, and take a traditional auto-rickshaw ride.
Accommodation: Rohet Garh-Rohet, India Accommodation: Taj Hari Mahal-Jodhpur, India Accommodation: Ajit Bhawan
Activity: Walking tour of old city and auto-rickshaw ride
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the Day in a Land of Temples
Day 7
Today, you'll drive to Ranakpur, where you'll find three Jain temples dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. The main marble temple took 65 years to complete! After visiting this magnificent temple, take a 5-mile walk through the nearby Kumbalgarh forest.
Accommodation: Fateh Bagh
Activity: 5-mile flat walk
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A Day of Majestic Forts, Mountain Views & Local Wildlife
Day 8
After breakfast, start the walk toward Kumbhalgarh Fort, located 3,000 feet above sea level in the Aravalli mountain range. Keep an eye out for the forest's myriad birdlife, including peacocks, doves, red spurfowl, parakeets, golden orioles, bulbuls, and white-breasted kingfishers. At the center of the forest, an animal reserve is home to deer, sloth bears, leopards, four-horned antelopes, monkeys, and more. After your hike, drive to Udaipur, where you'll check into your hotel for the night.
Accommodation: Trident Udaipur Accommodation: Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace
Activity: 5-6 hours/9 miles hiking with 2,000' elevation gain
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Udaipur
Day 9
Today, you will have opportunity to discover Udaipur, full of lakes, gardens, temples and palaces - an oasis in the desert. Follow mazes of narrow, winding lanes flanked by houses decorated with Mewar folk art and stained glass, and marvel at massive havelis with large inner courtyards. Visit the City Palace on the banks of Lake Pichola, an impressive complex blending Rajput and Mughal influences; half is still occupied by the Royal family. Move on to the Jagdish Temple, with its stone elephants flanking the entrance, and the Sahelion-ki Bari, an ornamental garden from the 18th century. Take a tour of the city bazaars, then enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake, sailing past Jag Mandir island.
Accommodation: Trident Udaipur Accommodation: Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace
Activity: City tour and boat ride on Lake Pichola
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel from Udaipur to Jaipur
Day 10
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Jaipur. Check into your hotel, then spend the evening on a walking tour of the city.
Start the day with a half-day excursion to Amber Fort, making a photo stop along the way at the Hawa Mahal, "Palace of Winds." Located high in the Aravalli Hills, Amber Fort was the ancient capital of the Kachhawaha Rajputs until 1037. Hike to the top of the fort for the best views. Return to Jaipur to visit the City Palace, which houses the Royal residence and museums full of textiles, costumes, armory, manuscripts, and artwork. You'll have the opportunity to visit the Chandra Mahal, presently the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Stop at the Jantar Mantar, a collection of 19 astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, Rajasthan. This evening, enjoy dinner with a local Rajput family in their home, discovering the secrets to Indian cooking.
Activity: Tour of Jaipur including a short but steep hike to the fort; dinner with a Rajput family
Transportation: 3- to 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue on to Agra
Day 12
After breakfast, drive to Agra, stopping in Abhaneri village along the way to see its 1,300-year-old baoris (step-wells) and temple. Take a camel cart ride or walk through the local villages around Abhaneri before continuing the drive to Agra. Check into your hotel, then meet back up for an evening drive to the other side of the river to enjoy your first views of the Taj Mahal from across the river at Mehtab Bag.
Accommodation: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre
Activity: Walk or take a camel ride through the rural area of Rajasthan
Transportation: 5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Taj Mahal and Return to Delhi
Day 13
Awake at dawn for your memorable sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, a World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan over a period of 17 years in memory of his beloved late wife. After breakfast, continue to Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress built by Akbar and later added onto by later generations of Mughal emperors. Notice the varying architectural styles within the fort, including the Jahangiri Palace, a blend of Islamic (Persian) and local Hindu influences. After your sightseeing tour of the fort, drive to Delhi, where you'll transfer to the Delhi International Airport in advance of your evening flight homeward or optionally check in to your hotel inside the airport for an early flight tomorrow.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Delhi International Airport
Activity: Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
Transportation: 4-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Delhi
Day 14
Bid farewell to India this morning for your homeward-bound flight.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Ashim A.
A trained mountaineer with a travel bug, Ashim started his career in travel more than 20 years ago. After earning a degree in Japanese language, he was soon organizing tours and leading groups of Japanese, British and Americans all over the Indian subcontinent-from classic destinations to off-the-beaten-track corners. As someone who has seen most of the country, he is in a great position to explain the various contrasts one finds in their journey through India. Ashim looks forward to welcoming you on MT Sobek's India adventures.
Yatish B.
A travel guide for over 30 years, Yatish is one of the most knowledgeable Indiaphiles we know. He was born and raised in Pauri, Garhwal, in the foothills of the Himalayas and studied Indian history and tourism at Garhwal University. Since 1983, Yatish has led innumerable cultural, historical, and wildlife tours-as well as safaris and treks throughout the Himalayas and the Indian subcontinent. He has also been engaged in regional research for books and documentary films. Yatish looks forward to sharing India with you on MT Sobek's adventures in Rajasthan.
Welcome to India! Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in vibrant New Delhi, meet an MT Sobek representative outside customs, and transfer to your hotel. This evening, you will attend an orientation meeting with the Indian tour leader, followed by a welcome dinner.
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Full day cultural touring and walk through the medieval city of Old Delhi
Day 3
Full day cultural touring
Day 4
Full day city tour and special dinner in the desert
Day 5
4WD desert safari in the desert, village to village walk in the desert
Day 6
Walking tour of old city and auto-rickshaw ride
Day 7
5-mile flat walk
Day 8
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Day 9
City tour and boat ride on Lake Pichola
Day 10
Walking tour of the bazaars of Jaipur
Day 11
Tour of Jaipur including a short but steep hike to the fort; dinner with a Rajput family
Day 12
Walk or take a camel ride through the rural area of Rajasthan
Day 13
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Luxury hotels that embody the spirit and history of India, and a deluxe tented camp in the desert.
The Rohet Garh is a well-known heritage hotel offering comfortable accommodations in a serene lakeside setting. Its beautiful gardens, sprawling lawn, and variety of musical birdlife complement traditionally inspired, carefully furnished rooms. Guests can revel in the Tattva Spa's soothing treatments and therapies, and in the mastery of the Rohet Garh chefs, who enthusiastically serve the finest traditional regional cuisine.
The Taj Hari Mahal pulls out all the stops for its guests, celebrating the grandeur of Rajput and Mughal architecture with an arch-shaped swimming pool, latticed windows, and flower-strewn water fountains. Plush suites are filled with miniature artwork and jewel-toned furnishings. Dine on local and globally influenced cuisine, including iconic dal baati and Jodhpuri maas, complemented by world-class wines. Don't miss the chance for a wellness treatment at the peaceful spa.
The Claridges, New Delhi remains true to quintessential Indian hospitality, while surrounding you in modern luxury. The hotel is home to some of the city's best restaurants, a fitness center, elegant guest rooms, a pool with cabanas, and lush, inviting lawns.
The Rupal Residency is within walking distance of Jaisalmer's center, with mesmerizing views of the city's namesake fort. In the style of a traditional Indian haveli (mansion), your guest room features large windows with fort views, and a simple, yet elegant design. The rooftop Godavan restaurant features an open kitchen. The hotel also features a sauna and jacuzzi, ideal for rounding out your day's adventures.
At Manvar Desert Camp, you're treated to miles of nothingness all to yourself. Feel the Thar life of centuries ago, yet relax in well-appointed tents that offer modern creature comforts fit for royalty. Large airy tents are complete with a bathing tent with a hot shower, a comfortable bed to keep warm on cool desert nights, and a private outdoor space with traditional furniture, where you can enjoy the welcoming hospitality of your personal concierge.
Built in 1927, Ajit Bhawan Palace was once the residence of the prime minister and the younger brother of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Every room and suite tells a story of Jodhpur's legacy with local aesthetics and modern facilities. Your Luxury Room features free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen television, a spacious closet, and a private patio area. The esteemed hotel offers a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.
You'll feel like you've arrived at your own 18th-century, Romantic Age palace upon seeing Fateh Bagh for the first time. The arresting palace is adorned with intricately carved pillars and beautiful domes, traditionally appointed rooms with period furnishings, a swimming pool, an immaculate lawn, and a grand dining room serving sumptuous lunches and leisurely dinners
The award-winning Trident, Udaipur is a luxurious home base from which to explore the "City of Lakes." On the banks of Lake Pichola, the hotel is close to the City Palace, the Crystal Gallery, the Monsoon Palace, and the Jagmandir. Dine on authentic local cuisine at Aravalli, known for its dishes from the Kingdom of Mewar. Renovated rooms and suites are inspired by the architectural and cultural heritage of the city, with classic charm and modern creature comforts. A beautiful outdoor pool and the Trident Spa are perfect for your downtime.
Built by His Highness Maharana Fateh Singh in 1911, The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace overlooks the Fateh Sagar Lake, with the undulating Aravalli hills as a backdrop. Royal elegance exudes from every guest room and public space, which reflects the heritage of the princely state of Rajasthan. Just 55 rooms and suites make for an intimate ambience. The hotel offers several restaurants, a quiet spa, and in-room dining.
The Trident, Jaipur is perfectly positioned for enjoying the city's landmark monuments and bustling bazaars. Located en route to the Amber Fort, the hotel offers stunning views of Mansagar Lake and Jal Mahal. Tastefully appointed guest rooms feature modern amenities and panoramic views. Restaurants serve local delicacies, pan Indian, and international cuisines. Wellness and recreation facilities include a scenic swimming pool, the Trident Spa, and a fitness center.
In the heart of the city, the Hilton Jaipur features a swimming pool and spa, contemporary Indian cuisine at the Chaandi restaurant, room service, and drinks in the lounge bar, Krystal. A rooftop lounge, Nebulae, boasts cocktails, gourmet food, and incredible bird's-eye views of Jaipur.
Just a short walk from the Eastern Gate of the Taj Mahal, the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre features a rooftop infinity swimming pool, an invigorating spa, a fitness center, and a number of dining options. The Daawat-e-Nawab is one of Agra's finest Indian restaurants. Your Superior Room is a retreat of soothing colors, wood flooring, large windows, and plush seating.
Conveniently located within Terminal 3 of the Delhi International Airport, the Holiday Inn Express offers modern, air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV and double-glazed windows that eliminate outside airport noise. Your stay includes free Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast buffet.
Weather
Daytime temperatures range between 70°F and 95°F while nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s. The weather should be dry and clear.
Feb
Mar
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jaipur
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Jaipur
78
52
89
61
93
67
84
56
76
48
New Delhi
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
New Delhi
76
51
86
60
91
67
83
55
73
46
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
Our MT Sobek representative will meet you at the Delhi Airport.
Do I need a visa for India?
Yes, you do, but you can go online to apply for an Indian e-visa, which is fast and convenient.
Is my transfer included even if I arrive early?
Yes, your transfer is included even if you arrive early.
Can I book an extension to this trip?
Absolutely! Please contact your Adventure Coordinator to learn more about our pre-set extensions in India.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
"A spectacular adventure in a marvelous and diverse country. The trip is designed for each traveller to experience first-hand the beauty and spirituality of this complex society. The guides and itinerary are outstanding. You will come home and want to learn more of this beautiful culture."
Diane S. MT Sobek Guest
"I've taken six MT Sobek trips and they have all exceeded my expectations. The staff, the food, the logistics and the communications have always been exceptional. Thank you for being my "go to" adventure travel company!"