Lights and Colours of Rajasthan

Day 1: Arrival At Delhi

Traditional welcome upon arrival at Delhi International Airport by our representative, followed by transfer to the hotel (Rooms available from 12:00). Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: N/A)

Day 2: Delhi – Udaipur (Train)

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for the visit of Delhi. Delhi is a cosmopolitan capital, a legacy of the eight cities that have succeeded each other over the millennia. In Old Delhi, the former Mughal capital, you will visit the Red Fort (outside) and then take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk market (shops are closed on Sundays). Visit Gandhi’s house (closed on Mondays), now a museum in his memory. Drive past India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House), and visit the Sikh temple and New Delhi. In the evening, transfer to Delhi Railway Station for the overnight train to Udaipur. Overnight in an air-conditioned sleeper train. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 3: Udaipur

Welcome at the station by our driver/representative, followed by transfer to your hotel. Check-in at the hotel (Rooms will be available from 2 p.m.). Explore Udaipur, the white city. In the morning, visit the City Palace, a massive complex overlooking Lake Pichola. The palace, built during the reign of Udai Singh in the 16th century, consists of numerous rooms, halls, courtyards, gardens, and terraces. Part of it is a museum, part is a hotel (Shiv Niwas), and the remaining part is still inhabited by descendants of the Maharana. From the palace, enjoy a splendid view of Lake Pichola and its two islands, including the famous Lake Palace. Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, an artificial freshwater lake created in 1362, named after the nearby village of Picholi. Visit Saheliyon ki Bari, or "Garden of the Maidens," built by Maharana Sangram Singh in the 18th century for the royal women. In the afternoon (if time allows), visit a miniature painting house. This ancient art form originated in Northern India and was used by kings to record their exploits. Udaipur is one of the primary centers of miniature painting. Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 4: Udaipur – Ranakpur – Jodhpur (250 Kms/5 H)

After breakfast, depart for Jodhpur, the famous Blue City of India. En route, visit the Jain temple of Ranakpur, known for its exquisite architecture and intricate marble carvings. This 15th-century architectural masterpiece is renowned for its finely crafted columns, each unique in design. After the visit, continue your journey to Jodhpur. Known for its historical charm, the city of Jodhpur offers a magnificent view of the blue-painted houses nestled at the foot of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 5: Jodhpur

After breakfast, visit Jodhpur, including Mehrangarh Fort, a majestic fortress offering a panoramic view of the city. Also visit Jaswant Thada, a stunning white marble memorial dedicated to the rulers of Jodhpur. Explore the old Jodhpur market, where local handicrafts and traditional flavors captivate the senses. In the late afternoon, set off on a jeep excursion to discover the Bishnoi way of life and the natural wonders that surround it. Meet the members of this community, known for their unique connection with nature and their dedication to the protection of animals and the environment. The Bishnoi people are deeply respectful of wildlife and vegetation, and this experience offers a chance to explore their authentic lifestyle and age-old traditions. An enriching immersion into local culture awaits you. Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 6: Jodhpur – Pushkar – Shyampura Village (268 Km/5–6 H)

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for the small village of Shyampura, a hidden gem off the tourist radar. Stop en route at Pushkar, a small town located on one of India’s most sacred lakes, surrounded by hills. Visit the only Brahma temple in India. Explore the local market. In the afternoon, continue to Shyampura village. Traditional welcome by the villagers and check-in at the eco-lodge. Dinner and overnight stay at the eco-lodge. (Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included)

Day 7: Shyampura: Immersed In Rural Life

Breakfast before setting out to meet the villagers, offering a glimpse into rural life. We will visit the local public school to interact with the children and learn more about their education and aspirations. We recommend bringing school supplies such as pens, pencils, candies, and books to distribute to the students. Your generous gesture will be greatly appreciated (Note: school visits are not possible during exams or public holidays). We will then continue exploring the village, meeting a family of artisans who make bangles and a local cobbler. Return to the Eco Lodge for lunch. In the late afternoon, head to a farm to meet a farming family. We will visit their farm and enjoy a cup of masala tea, generously offered. In the evening, you are invited to discover local cuisine with a village family, observing their cooking techniques and sharing a warm, traditional dinner. Overnight at the Eco Lodge. (Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included)

Day 8: Shyampura – Kuchaman – Jaipur (125 Km/3 H)

After a delicious breakfast, head towards the magnificent Jaipur, the Pink City. Stop in Kuchaman for a Tuk-Tuk ride through the old town. Explore the lively market, havelis, and enjoy a walk through a fruit and vegetable market for an unforgettable experience. Continue towards Jaipur. In the afternoon, visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, a collection of 19 astronomical instruments built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. The monument, completed in 1734, includes the world’s largest stone sundial and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will also pass by the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its red façade and the "pink city" residential and business district. Take a rickshaw ride through the old city of Jaipur. Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 9: Jaipur – Agra (241 Kms/4h30)

After breakfast, depart for the Amber Fort. In the Mughal era, the region had to be ready for war at all times. Amber was the residence of the Maharajahs. The defensive forts surrounding the site reflect the power of its rulers. Enjoy a jeep ride to ascend and descend the fort (if there are more than 4 participants). Visit the palace, with its mirror-fitted rooms and the old harem, a true labyrinth. Today, you will also visit the textile block printing sites where you can get clothes made on the spot. Block printing is an ancient manual printing technique from Rajasthan, Northern India. Continue the journey to Agra, known for the essence of love. Famous under the Mughal emperors, “Taj City” was once the capital of the Mughal empire. The Mughals were passionate about architecture and built some of the world’s most impressive monuments. Check-in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 10: Agra – Delhi (200 Kms/ 4h)

After breakfast, visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). On the banks of the Yamuna River, Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his favorite wife. It is the finest example of Indo-Persian art and is one of the wonders of the world. It represents a great love story. With its magical charm, the rectangular pool surrounded by cypress trees reflects the monument. Discover the Red Fort, residence of the Mughal emperors. The fort rises along the Yamuna River and is surrounded by a 20-33 meter high wall, with a perimeter of 2500 meters. At the end of the visit, head to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, overnight at the hotel. (Meals: Breakfast included)

Day 11: Delhi – Depart

Breakfast at the hotel. Then transfer to the airport for your flight. End of services. (Meals: Breakfast included)