Nowhere else in India is the romance of the Maharajahs as strong as in Rajasthan, the land of kings. Impressive forts and castles, opulent palaces, and the simpler havelis built around courtyards dot this desert state. In this very special tour, we take you to some stunning examples of the royal past of India. Most of the overnight halts on this tour are spent in castles and princely homes, which are still the residence of the erstwhile royal families.
Day 1 - Delhi
Arrive in Delhi where you are met and transferred to your hotel near the airport.
Day 2 - Dungarpur
Take the flight to Udaipur from where you are transferred to Udai Bilas Palace in Dungarpur, a fabulous 19th century palace overlooking a lake backed by green hills.
Day 3 - Dungarpur
Today you can visit the 13th century Juna Mahal, situated on a hill above the village. It has excellent frescoes, miniatures, glass and mirror inlay work.
Day 4 - Udaipur
Drive to the beautiful `White City' of Udaipur, arguably the most stunning of Rajasthan's cities, situated on Lake Pichola.
Day 5 - Udaipur
Today enjoy a guided morning tour of the intricate palaces and temples, followed by a boat trip on Pichola Lake. Afternoon at leisure to seek out a bargain in the markets or relax in a friendly cafe overlooking the lake.
Day 6 - Shahpura
Drive to Shahpura, a small town in cental Rajasthan. It houses the Shahpura Bagh, a 120 year old estate, set in 45 acres of garden and pasture and surrounded by lakes, and now a wonderful boutique hotel.
Day 7 - Shahpura
The charming owners take you on a jeep safari to show you their eco farm or their old ancestral fort.
Day 8 - Nimaj
Drive to Nimaj, a small town in central Rajasthan. Just outside town is a small luxury tented camp called Chhatra Sagar. Based on a broad dam overlooking a lake, the site offers some of the best bird watching in Rajasthan.
Note: The deluxe tented camp of Chhatra Sagar is closed from April to October. During this period you can stay at Nimaj Palace.
Day 9 - Jaipur
Drive to the `Pink City' of Jaipur. In the afternoon you visit the magnificent Amber Fort.
Day 10 - Jaipur
Today enjoy a guided morning orientation tour of Jaipur including the amous `Palace of Winds'.
Day 11 - Samode
Your next stop is the small village of Samode where you stay in the fairy tale palace which was put on the map by its starring role in the 1984 mini-series `The Far Pavilions'.
Day 12 - Delhi
Return to Delhi airport to connect with your onward travel.