A Maharajah’s Life

Description

This tour has been meticulously crafted to showcase the highlights and essence of India from an exclusive perspective: immerse yourself in history and indulge in the luxury and grandeur of India’s most extraordinary palaces. Discover a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites and diverse landscapes, from the magnificent Taj Mahal to the Blue City of Jodhpur, and unwind in a breathtaking luxury camp. This journey offers a perfect opportunity to experience life like a Maharajah.

Pricing

*In Conjunction with other Travellers / ^Single Room for Travellers on their own

Highlights

• Rickshaw adventure through the vibrant streets of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi
• A room with a view of the Taj Mahal in Agra
• Interactive cooking session followed by dinner, Sari tying and Bollywood music with a local Indian family in Jaipur
• Vintage car ride in Jodhpur
• Relax at the Chhatrasagar Luxury Camp and take a jeep ride into the nearby village
• Experience a boat ride on the romantic Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Itinerary Day by Day

Day 1: Delhi
Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, you will be greeted by a representative from our local operator who will escort you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Day 2: Delhi (B)
This morning, embark on a journey through Old Delhi, navigating its labyrinthine alleys, side streets, and iconic bazaars. Enjoy a rickshaw ride past the impressive Red Fort, a masterpiece in red sandstone, and glimpse the grandeur of Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque (viewed from outside). Wander through the bustling lanes and vibrant markets of Chandni Chowk, soaking in the atmosphere of this oriental bazaar.

Next, explore New Delhi, renowned for its colonial-era architecture and wide boulevards. Visit the 12th-century Qutab Minar, renowned for its intricate hand-carved designs across its entire 234-foot height. Discover the mausoleum of Emperor Humayun, a precursor to Mughal architectural style, and visit the imposing modern Lakshminarayan Temple. Conclude the day with a visit to Raj Ghat, an open-air memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra (B)
This morning, transfer to the railway station for the high-speed train journey to Agra.

Upon arrival in Agra, visit Itimad-ud-Daulah, an exquisite mausoleum situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, often referred to as the “Little Taj”. Proceed to Agra Fort, a monumental structure built alongside the Yamuna River, stretching nearly 2.5 km. The fort's massive double walls rise 20 meters high and span a circumference of 2.5 km. Its impressive towers, bastions, ramparts, and grand gateways reflect the authority and grandeur of the third Mughal emperor. Transfer to your hotel for the night, the Oberoi Amarvilas, where you can unwind in the lounge and enjoy a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.

Day 4: Agra to Jaipur (B)
At sunrise, begin your day with a visit to the Taj Mahal, an exquisite white marble monument constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. Known as the "Crown Palace," the Taj Mahal is renowned as one of the world's most well-preserved and architecturally stunning tombs. English poet Sir Edwin Arnold described it as "Not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones." It stands as a magnificent tribute to womanhood, crafted entirely in marble, offering a truly remarkable sight.

Later, continue your journey to Jaipur, with a stop en-route at Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to water scarcity, Fatehpur Sikri houses remarkably well-preserved and elegant structures within its 'Ghost City'. Highlights include the Jama Masjid, the tomb of Salim Chisti, the Panch Mahal Palace, and other palaces that reflect the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal Empire at its zenith. Continue onward to Jaipur, where you will stay for two nights.

Day 5: Jaipur (B,D)
Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” was meticulously planned and constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Designed as the colonial capital of a vibrant and colourful state, it received its distinctive pink hue in 1853 as a gesture of welcome during the visit of Prince Albert.

Begin your exploration with a visit to the City Palace, centrally located in Jaipur. This sprawling complex now serves as both a royal residence and a museum, showcasing a rich array of textiles, costumes, armoury, manuscripts, and paintings. Adjacent to the palace is the Jantar Mantar observatory, built by the astute astronomer King Jai Singh II. The instruments, crafted from stone and adorned with marble, are positioned strategically to measure celestial harmonies. Each device fulfills a specific purpose and provides precise astronomical readings.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Amber Fort, situated 11 km north of Jaipur atop a hill. This majestic fort served as the Rajput dynasty's ancient capital from the 11th to the 18th century and is renowned more for its palace-like architecture than its defensive structures. The fort boasts a unique blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles and offers leisure time to explore Jaipur's vibrant markets.

In the evening, immerse yourself in a cultural experience with a local Indian family. Participate in an interactive cooking session, followed by a delicious dinner paired with local beer. Learn the art of tying a traditional sari and enjoy lively Bollywood music, gaining insights into the warmth and hospitality of Indian culture.

Day 6: Jaipur to Nimaj (B)
Today, embark on a scenic drive to the Chhatrasagar Luxury Camp in Nimaj, where you will be hosted for the next two nights. This serene retreat features 11 luxurious and elegantly appointed tents situated on a dam, offering breathtaking views of a lake bustling with birdlife. Upon arrival, you will receive a warm welcome from the Rathore family, who have owned this land for 17 generations and are descendants of the Maharajah of Jodhpur.

Day 7: Nimaj (B)
Take a day to unwind and indulge in delightful home-cooked meals. You have the option to join a farm and village excursion or embark on a bird-watching tour by Jeep ride through the nearby village. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings at your leisure.

Day 8: Nimaj to Jodhpur (B)
Morning drive to Jodhpur, situated on the edge of the Thar Desert, the second largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur. This ancient settlement, over five hundred years old, was the hub of Rathore Rajputs, renowned for their tales of valour. Jodhpur is famed for its formidable, fortified bastions, particularly Mehrangarh Fort, which has witnessed numerous battles and holds deep historical significance for the region. The subsequent era of peace led to the construction of palaces sprawled across expansive grounds, reflecting an elaborate European influence.

Explore the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, established by Rao Jodha in 1459 on a sandstone hill. From its lofty vantage point, enjoy panoramic views of the old city, where the predominant blue houses, known as Brahmin houses, symbolize the high caste. Visit Jaswant Thada next, an imposing marble cenotaph erected in 1899 for Maharajah Jaswant Singh II, featuring smaller memorials to other Maharajahs of Jodhpur. Conclude your tour with a vintage car ride in Jodhpur. Your accommodation will be at either Raas Jodhpur or Umaid Bhawan Palace, depending on your chosen package, with Umaid Bhawan Palace being one of the largest and most luxurious residences globally.

Day 9: Jodhpur to Udaipur (B)
Depart from Jodhpur for Udaipur. Along the way, stop to explore the renowned Jain temples of Ranakpur, renowned for their exquisite sculptures. Afterward, proceed to your hotel in Udaipur, where you will stay for the next two nights based on your selected accommodation package. You can choose between Rass Devigarh or Taj Lake Palace, a stunning marble palace seemingly floating on the serene blue waters of Lake Pichola.

Day 10: Udaipur (B)
Udaipur is nestled in the Girwa Valley amidst the Aravali hills of southern Rajasthan, celebrated as a city of romance with its lakes, gardens, temples, and palaces—a veritable oasis in the Thar Desert. The old city is a meticulously planned fortified enclave, characterized by a labyrinth of narrow winding lanes lined with houses adorned with Mewar folk art doorways, windows adorned with stained glass or lattice screens, grand havelis with expansive inner courtyards, and bustling shops.

Begin your exploration with a visit to the City Palace, once the royal residence of Mewar’s rulers and now predominantly a museum administered by the Maharana Mewar Foundation. It comprises four major palaces and several smaller ones, all forming an impressive facade overlooking Lake Pichola. Next, visit the Jagdish Temple and explore the vibrant local market. In the evening, enjoy a romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola. Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 11: Udaipur to Delhi (B)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi, from where you will proceed with your onward arrangements.

Inclusions

• 10 nights accommodation in chosen accommodation category (Luxury Hotels/Palaces and Luxury Camp) with private facilities
• Meet and assist at airports/railway stations by English speaking assistant
• Transfers, sightseeing, excursions as per itinerary in air-conditioned vehicle (Toyota Innova Crysta or similar)
• Train from Delhi to Agra in air-conditioned executive class chair car
• Economy airfare Udaipur to Delhi (max. 25kg check-in baggage allowance)
• Breakfast Daily
• Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
• Monument Entrance Fee (single visit) as per itinerary
• Rickshaw ride in Chandani Chowk during Old Delhi tour with local guide
• Interactive cooking session followed by dinner (with local beer), Sari tying and Bollywood music with a local Indian family in Jodhpur
• Jeep ride into the nearby village during stay in Nimaj (duration approx. 2-3 hrs)
• Vintage Car ride in Jodhpur during city tour (duration approx. 30mins)
• Boat ride at Lake Pichola in Udaipur
• Mineral water available in transport during inter-city transfers and city tours
• India government service tax
• 24/7 local opeartor support in India
• Assistance of local representatives

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Optional tours and excursions
• Meals othe than those specified
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Departure taxes
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
• Important Information
  • Flight Udaipur to Delhi: Economy class ticket with 25kg check-in baggage allowance.Flight prices may vary and are confirmed at the time of confirmation - additional deposits may be payable to secure flights.  
  • Hotels: The hotels listed in the itinerary may vary due to tour scheduling. Your final itinerary will contain full details of any changes where possible.
  • National Holidays / Peak Periods:Surcharges may apply. Prices will be confirmed at time of booking.
  • Sightseeing: Taj Mahal: closed on Fridays / Delhi Red Fort: closed on Mondays
  • Transportation - Private Holidays: The vehicle used on your private tour will be an air-conditioned Toyota Innova Crysta or similar.

Terms and Conditions

Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers maybe subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are valid for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please contact your World Travellers consultant. Professional Service Fees may apply.