India Tours: Hidden Gems of Rajasthan

Delhi – Udaipur – Devigarh – Narlai - Johdpur
Nagaur – Jaipur – Ramathra – Agra – Delhi

India Tour Length: 14 nights – 15 days

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

• Arrive at Delhi’s international airport
• Transfer to your hotel
• Overnight stay in Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India!
Our representative will meet you in the arrival area of the airport after you clear all immigration and customs formalities. Depart for your hotel where you will check in for your stay. 

Delhi stands as the capital of Modern India. Here you can see the mingling of the Old and New India, the ancient and the modern. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors that have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles.
Hotel: The Claridges, Deluxe Room

Day 2: Delhi

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Heritage walk with an expert
• Tour of New Delhi
• Overnight stay in Delhi

After breakfast this morning, explore the history of this more than 350 y. o. city of Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. This walk starts from monuments of the Pre-Shahjahan period like Kalan Masjidand the Tomb of Turkman Shah. Walking through the lanes and by-lanes, one comes across different havelis of the rich and famous people of that time like the Haveli of Chunna Mal, the colorful bazars, religious places of all faiths, the famous Jama Masjid mosque, Sis Ganj Gurudwara, churches, the educational institutes and certain buildings of the British period in Old Delhi which came up during the Mughal Rule.

Further proceed to New Delhi for visits that include driving past the Presidential Palace, the one-time Imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war and a drive along the Rajpath past the Parliament House and Secretarial buildings. Visit Qutab Minar, the 12th century tower of victory built by a slave king and prototype of all minars (towers) in India. Also visit the 16th century Humayun’s tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Hotel: The Claridges, Deluxe Room (B)

Day 3: Delhi – Udaipur – Devigarh

• Morning leisurely breakfast at the hotel
• Transfer to airport to connect flight to Udaipur
• Arrival transfer to hotel in Devigarh
• Overnight stay in Devigarh

Morning is at leisure.

In the afternoon, you will be transfered to the airport to board your flights to Udaipur. (9W-707@1450/1550 hrs)

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the beautiful Devi Garh.

Nestled in the Aravali hills, the 18th century Devi Garh palace in the village of Delwara, forms one of the three main passes into the valley of Udaipur. Devi Garh was ready for visitors after years of restoration and rebuilding. The fort palace was conceived as a place where the past meets the future. This is an all suite luxury hotel comprising of 39 suites with an emphasis on design and detail, using local marbles and semi-precious stones. The contemporary design showcased within this spectacular heritage property, complemented by personalized and intimate service, creates a new image of India for the 21st century.
Hotel: Devi Garh, Garden Suite (B)

Day 4: Devigarh – Udaipur - Devigarh

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Morning excursion to Eklingji and Nagda temples
• Afternoon city tour of Udaipur
• Overnight stay in Devigarh

In the morning, visit Eklingji and Nagda temples in the outskirts of Udaipur.
Eklingji temple complex houses 108 temples chiselled out of sandstone and marble. The temple of Eklingji was built in 734 AD. Enclosed by high walls, it is devoted to a form of Shiv deity adored under the epithet of Eklinga.
Nagda is the former capital of the ancient Mewar. Though initially known as Naga-hrada, Nagaditya founded Nagda in the 6th century. The main attraction here is the ruins of the Vishnu, Shiva and Jain temples that reflect the great architecture of the past days.

In the afternoon, take a city tour of Udaipur, starting at Jagdish Temple, built in 1651. Notice the many heritage mansions that line the city boulevards, the art shops and boutiques that lead to the old bathing ghats that fringe the banks of Lake Pichola. Visit City Palace, one of the largest palace complexes in the world and see the gorgeous peacock mosaics, striking blue and white ceramics and Dutch inlaid tile work, glass and porcelain figures and miniature paintings.

Late afternoon drive back to Devigarh (about 40 minutes)
Hotel: Devi Garh, Garden Suite (B)

Day 5: Udaipur – Ranakpur - Narlai

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Drive to Narlai en-route visit Ranakpur
• On arrival transfer to the hotel, Rawla Narlai
• Evening, enjoy a romantic dinner set up near the step well
• Overnight stay in Narlai

The drive today takes you across the Aravalli Hills, the oldest mountain range in the world. The scenery along the way is superb and you will see many vignettes of Rajasthani rural life. Among the sights you see are colorful villages, farms where an ancient system of irrigation using bullocks and a Persian wheel are still in practice, outdoor schools and the sartorially vibrant people who add a splash of color to the countryside. There are endless opportunities for photography. Your destination is one of the architectural gems of the area, The White Marble Temples at Ranakpur.

Surrounded by tangled forests with monkeys abounding in the courtyard, Ranakpur is one of the five important pilgrim centers for the Jain community. Noted for its grandiose scale and elaborate ornamentation, of the three temples, the Adinatha saint. The whole, including the extraordinary array of 1144 pillars each distinct in design, carved ceilings, and arches decorated with friezes depicting scenes from the lives of the Jain saints, is fascinating.

Post lunch in Ranakpur continue your drive to Narlai. On arrival, you will check into Rawla Narlai.

Upon entering the Rawla Narlai, there is a palpable sense of detachment from the outside world. Situated in Rajasthan midway between Jodhpur & Udaipur, it exudes an unmistakable, inimitable experience that has become to be a signature of this 17th century villa.

In the evening, enjoy the magical setting at the stepwell that is brought to life by dimly lit oil lamps that illuminate the setting through flickering lights. The private dinner is laid out in a traditional manner. It promises to remain an unmatched experience to anything you will ever experience for a long time.
Hotel: Rawla Narlai, Classic Heritage Room (B, L)

Day 6: Narlai - Johdpur

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Enjoy the Jeep safari to explore the beautiful countryside
• Drive to Jodhpur
• On arrival transfer to your hotel
• Evening, explore the colorful market of Jodhpur
• Overnight stay in Jodhpur

Wake up to the sounds of this 17-century village and take in the spiritual energy from the invigorating air descending from the Shiva temple, lodged deep in a primal cave high on the hill. The village is caught in a time warp since the Royal family moved back to the Kingdom of Jodhpur. Life has continued much as it was then in Narlai.

After breakfast, enjoy a jeep safari to explore the beautiful countryside.

Afterwards, drive to Jodhpur.  On arrival in Jodhpur you will be transferred to the Raas hotel.

Johdpur is known as the ‘Blue City’. Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan of the Rajputs, founded Johdpur on the edges of the Thar Desert in 1459AD. It was the capital of the Rathore Kingdom, which was the largest in the Rajputana. Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur, and is encircled by a high 10 km long wall. 

Bright colors are an integral part of the lives of the people in Jodhpur. The locals wear a variety of artistically designed costumes, aflame with bright colors and mirror work. The women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip-length jacket with three quarter length sleeves and the men sport colorful turbans on their heads! Jodhpur has a very strong tradition of folk art, where the figures are mainly robust warriors and dainty women.

Late afternoon, visit the old city where the clock tower is a prominent landmark. The main attraction is the Sadar Market. The market has kept alive the old 'haat bazaar' culture. Sadar market is a lively, bustling, colorful market that runs from Sojati Gate to the Clock tower (which is late 19th century). In the distance you can see the vast bulk of the Meherangarh Fort that dominates the skyline for miles around. These colorful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city and are popular for a wide range of handicrafts, making them the favorite haunt of shoppers. 
Hotel: Raas, Luxury Room (B)

Day 7: Johdpur

• Breakfast at hotel
• Morning visit to Mehrangarh Fort
• Later City tour of Jodhpur
• Afternoon Bishnoi village safari with lunch at Rohet
• Overnight stay in Jodhpur

In the morning your guide will meet you for a guided tour of Jodhpur City. The Mehrangarh Fort is the most impressive fortress in Rajasthan. The 5 km long ramparts of the fort, perched on a 125 meter high rocky cliff in the middle of the city, has four gates which can be approached by a winding road. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Inside the fort, one can see magnificent palaces adorned with intricately carved panels and latticed windows. The palaces have evocative names, like Moti-Mahal, Phool-Mahal, Sheesh-Mahal, Sileh-Khana and Daulat-Khana that match their character. These Palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty: palanquins, elephant howdahs, miniature paintings of various schools, music instruments, costumes and furniture.

Later visit Jaswant Thada memorial. This cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It also houses the portraits of various kings who ruled Jodhpur in the past.
Early afternoon drive to Rohet (approx. 1 hour one way) for lunch and a village Safari.

Post lunch proceed for Village Safari by jeep that Showcases the best of the land. It is a complete cultural experience, which encompasses all that this region has to offer. From the warm and hospitable people, to the various customs and ceremonies and the abundant wildlife, guests have the rare privilege of being welcomed into people's homes and interacting with them. They get to experience and understand a way of life that takes them closer to their roots. Here you meet the 'Premier ecologists of the world', the Bishnois, who have protected nature for more than 500 years and are responsible for the very survival of species like the Black Buck antelope (India's most beautiful antelope and a rare and protected species today). They share a beautiful relationship with this special animal, wherein the antelope stays close to Bishnoi habitation, never leaving it, and displays complete trust in the Bishnoi people. 
Hotel: Raas, Luxury  (B, L)

Day 8: Johdpur - Nagaur

• Breakfast at your hotel
• Drive to Nagaur
• On arrival transfer to your hotel
• Rest of the day at leisure
• Overnight stay in Nagaur

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you start for your drive to Nagaur.  On arrival in Nagaur you will check into the exclusive Ranvas.

This stunning hotel lies within the ramparts of Nagaur’s magnificent Ahhichatracharh fort on the edge of the Thar Desert. Over many years, this exquisitely beautiful fort has been painstakingly and brilliantly restored to its former glory, through the efforts of the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Ranvas (formerly the ‘abode’ of the queens) comprises 10 very private havelis surrounding a large courtyard and pool area, within a palace complex inside the fort walls. Each haveli is entirely different in shape, size and design and comprises 2 suites, a spa room, inner courtyards, covered verandahs and upstairs terraces.

They have all been decorated in soft colors and entirely in keeping with their origins, use and design, whilst at the same time modern bathrooms, comforts and amenities have been installed.

Afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the stay at this exclusive property.
Hotel: Ranvas Haveli, Deluxe Queen (B)

Day 9: Nagaur

• Breakfast at hotel
• Full day city tour of Nagaur
• Overnight stay in Nagaur

Nagaur, 135 km northeast of Jodhpur, was once a center of Chishti Sufi saints. The old city has several examples of pre-Mughal and Mughal architecture including temples, havelis and mosques, one of which was commissioned by Emperor Akbar. The ancient Ahichhatragarh fort has excellent murals and is currently being restored. Nagaur, 135 km northeast of Jodhpur, was once a center of Chishti Sufi saints. The old city has several examples of pre-Mughal and Mughal architecture including temples, havelis and mosques, one of which was commissioned by Emperor Akbar. The ancient Ahichhatragarh fort has excellent murals and is currently being restored.

Post breakfast explore some of the interesting sites in the town starting with visiting the Nagaur Fort which is an important building and it is the main tourist attraction. The fort is built with sandstone and has been the epicenter of many battles and skirmishes. The fort was built in the 2nd century and there are many exquisite temples and buildings inside the Nagaur Fort.

Another important place in the city is the Tarkeen Dargah. It is an important site for many Muslims in the area and the town has a strong community of Muslims. The town also has a Jain Temple that has been built from glass and this is an important and sacred center for many Jains in the area as well.
Hotel: Ranvas Haveli, Deluxe Queen (B)

Day 10: Nagaur  - Pushkar – Jaipur

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Drive to Jaipur en-route visit Pushkar
• On arrival transfer to your hotel
• Overnight stay in Jaipur

Today depart by surface for Jaipur and en-route visit Pushkar, an important religious place for Hindus. This little town is hugely known for the "Pushkar Fair' (where the mass trading of camels takes place), "the Lord Brahma Temple", and "picturesque lake'. Pushkar houses as many as 400 temples and 52 ghats and  includes the Brahma temple. This is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the country.

After your visit, continue your drive to Jaipur.

Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City, thanks to the color of the buildings in the city. The city, built in 1727 A.D by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, followed a grid system, which made it the only planned city of its time. A young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya designed the city in accordance with Shilp Shastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture.

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan province is known for its arts and crafts, jewelry, hand-painted fabrics and stone sculptures.
Hotel: Samode Haveli, Deluxe Room (B)

Day 11: Jaipur

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Morning visit to Amber Fort
• Later visit to City Palace and observatory
• Evening cooking demo at Dera Mandawa
• Overnight stay in Jaipur

In the morning visit Amber Fort. Morning visit Amber Fort (Elephant (subject to availability)/jeep ride). With its honey-colored fortress-palace in the Aravalli Hills Amber has been described as the sleeping beauty of Rajasthan. The somber exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open on to striking views of the gorge.

Afternoon stop for a photo of Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an elaborate building encrusted with delicate honey - comb screens and carved balconies from which the royal ladies, confined to their quarters, could view the world outside.  Visit Jai Singh’s Observatory, built in the 17th century by the founder of Jaipur who, besides being a prince was also a soldier, astronomer and builder. Visit City Palace, a part is now a museum that contains Rajput and Moghul paintings, rare manuscripts and an armory, old carpets, and embroidered clothes of the Maharajas and the Maharanis.

Evening is reserved for special cooking lesson/dinner with Thakur Durga Singh, the current custodian of Dera Mandawa who is a keen observer of history, culture, religion, current affairs, and is a bank of knowledge so vast that he has a point of view on anything under the sun.

He is what one could call a modern traditionalist, actively seeking the use of modern technology and methods to support the principles of traditional living. The inquisitive can have endless conversations with him on a number of his projects like rain -water harvesting, biogas plant, solar heating and, even, healthy cooking. He would be more than delighted to share his experiences with you.
Hotel: Samode Haveli, Deluxe Room (B, D)

Day 12: Jaipur - Ramathra

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Drive to Ramathra
• On arrival transfer to your hotel
• Afternoon boat ride on the Lake
• Overnight stay in Ramathra

In the early morning experience the spiritual side of the locals by visiting colorful temples, interact with residents over a cup of tea in their homes and discover some of the architectural wonders of this fascinating area of Jaipur. The walk has been carefully designed to offer a rewarding and enriching experience. Uncovering some of the best kept secrets of the walled city of Jaipur the city take pride in sharing a warm association with the resident artisans, shop owners, temple priests and local citizens. This association makes the walking tours more engaging; here one have a genuinely interactive experience getting to meet the residents and gain an insight into their traditional way of life. Chand Pol’ gate, one of the original seven gateways into the old walled city of Jaipur, is the point at which this 2 and a half hour walk begins.

Enjoy breakfast before you start for your drive to Ramathra.  On arrival in Ramathra you will be transferred to your hotel.

Ramathra Fort lies in a beautifully un-spoilt and pretty area of Eastern Rajasthan, southeast of Jaipur. Ramathra Fort was originally the 17th century stronghold of the Jadoan Rajputs and today belongs to their descendants, who are your highly affable, energetic and involved hosts.  Today, Ramathra Fort belongs to Thakur Brijendra Raj Pal and his family who are descendents of the founder. The fort has a strong perimeter wall crowned with parapets. Its ramparts are wide and offer a spectacular view from the hilltop. Inside there is a multi-story palace, parts of which are being restored using traditional building techniques and local craftspeople. Stone lattices and a painted ceiling ornament the otherwise simple facilities. It was, after all, designed to be a battle fort. The lake was formed over 50 years ago when the Kalisil River was dammed for an irrigation scheme that now benefits farmers in Ramathra and its neighboring villages along the canal. The lake is fed by monsoon rains and when full, its spreads 17 kms from the dam all the way to the holy town of Kailadevi. Even when the monsoon is light there is sufficient water for boating. A two to three seater boat equipped with paddles and life-vests is available for rent with or without a guide to bird watch, search for crocodile dens and possible crocodile sightings. Evening enjoy boating (depending upon water levels in the lake)
Hotel: Ramathra Fort, Suite Category 2, (B, L, D)

Day 13: Ramathra

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Explore the area with your host
• Overnight stay in Ramathra

Today morning, proceed for a complete walking tour of the Ramathra village, a small hamlet of farmers and herders, which takes about 2-3 hours. You see all kinds of work associated with tending crops and animals, and caring for children. Absent is a bazaar with commercial traffic or food stalls. After the sun goes down, singing and community activities are more common than radio or television. Among its numerous shrines, the Ganesh Mandir and Shiva Mandir give the best flavor of local religious life. The pure white marble idol of Lord Shiva, the great Ascetic, is a masterpiece of early 18th century craftsmanship.  
Hotel: RamathraFort, Suite Category 2 (B, L, D)        

Day 14: Ramathra – Fatehpur Sikri - Agra

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Drive to Agra
• En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri
• Hi Tea with local family
• Evening, Kachhpura walk
• On arrival transfer to your hotel

After breakfast, you will be driven to Agra. On the way you will visit Fatehpur Sikri,  the deserted red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was dramatically abandoned a few years after it was built. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in a pristine condition.

Upon arrival in Agra you will check into your hotel.

Agra, best known as the city of the world’s most famous monument of love, is situated along the banks of the River Yamuna and attracts thousands of visitors every day from all over the world, to visit Taj Mahal, a seventh wonder of the world, built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Late afternoon enjoy Hi Tea with a local family and proceed for a walk in Kacchpura Village.  A narrow bridle path through agriculture fields near Mehtab Bagh takes you into the ancient village of Kachpura and Humayun’s Mosque. The walk through Kachpura starts with explaining the paintings (sanji art) on the walls done by community girls under the youth program.

Humayun’s Mosque is another monument that is situated inside the village. This is a strange peculiar kind of mosque built by Mughals. It has one deep narrow, great central ricer or compartment entered by a high arch and domed in the center with one recess in its weak wall. At each side of this central compartment the building is lower and broken up into the smaller chambers. After regular meetings with government authorities, they have now been renovated as well.

The central courtyard of the village is a major attraction of Kachhpura. The courtyard was redesigned under the project that offers a view of activities taking place in and around the information center: street theatre/henna tatto making etc. One can also visit the village school situated near courtyard. The walk ends in Mehtab Bagh from where you will have the opportunity to watch the Taj Mahal during sunset.
Hotel: ITC Mughal, Mughal Room (B)

Day 15: Agra  - Delhi

• Transfer to the international airport
• Sunrise visit to Taj Mahal
• Breakfast at the hotel
• City tour of Agra
• Drive to Delhi international airport for your flight back home

Catch the magic of Taj Mahal at sunrise this morning.  The sun comes up from the side of the Taj and the morning light that cast on the marble literally lights it up. During this time the Taj Mahal changes from various hues from pink to light yellow to bright white. (Taj Mahal closed on Fridays)

Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, visit Agra Fort that was originally started by Emperor Akbar in 1565, but his son, Jahangir, and grandson, Shah Jahan, later made valuable additions to it. It houses the Dewan-e-Khas and Dewan-e-Aam (Halls of Private and Public Audience).  Its walls and palaces are a silent witness to the rise and fall of the Imperial Mughal Empire and feature a variety of ingenious Islamic inspired devices (some decorative, some more practical) within the fabric of the buildings. It’s a citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves, and terrace pavilions.

In the afternoon you will be driven to Delhi (about 5 hours). Upon arrival, you will directly transferred to the international airport to board your flight back home.

Tour Quote:

December 2012 – April 15, 2013
From $7000 for 1 person
From $3920/person based on 2 people
From $3435/person based on 4 people

April 16, 2013 – September 2013
From $5920 for 1 person
From $3360/person based on 2 people
From $2875/person based on 4 people

October 1, 2013 – December 20, 2013
From $7850 for 1 person
From $4395/person based on 2 people
From $3882/person based on 4 people

Inquire for quotes that include December 21, 2013 – January 3, 2014

 

 TERMS & CONDITIONS

Quote Includes:

• Breakfast on all days except in Ramathra where on full board basis (All Meals)
• Meals as specified in the itinerary.
• Heritage walk tour in Delhi.
• Nizamuddin Basti Walk.
• 1 Jeep safari in Narlai.
• Dinner set up near the step well.
• 1 Jeep safari to visit the Bishnoi village in Rohet.
• Lunch at Rohetgarh.
• Cooking demo with dinner at Dera Mandawa in Jaipur.
• Heritage walk in Jaipur. 
• Hi Tea with local family in Agra
• Kachhpura walk in Agra
• Tonga ride in Agra
• Transfers and meeting services right through the program at each destination provided by our office staff in Major Cities.
• All transfers, excursions and sightseeing tours will be in very comfortable air-conditioned Toyota Innova (01-03 people) AC Tempo Traveller (Mini Van) (04-06 people) and AC Mini Van (07-08 people)   
• Entrance fees at all monuments listed in the itinerary for one visit only, road taxes, parking fee, fuel charges, interstate taxes, and porter age during all airport transfers
• All sightseeing and visits to places of interest, and sites as given in the itinerary, conducted by well qualified, good English speaking local guides.
• Domestic airfare subject to availability until booked.
• All taxes, tolls, parking fees and service tax

Quote Does Not Include:

• Christmas and New Year’s Eve dinner supplement.
• International airfare, Airport Tax, Passport and Visa fees for India
• Any meals OR options mentioned as a supplement
• Any Insurance
• All personal expenses such as gratuities, meals, medical expenses, laundry, drinks, telephone and fax services, video or camera fee at the monuments and all other services not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary

Special Notes:

• The airfare quoted is on current basis, and will be revalidated when tickets are issued. This is subject to fluctuations at the time of ticketing
• Rates include only those items specified in your itinerary.
• Geringer Global Travel reserves the right to modify itineraries and/or substitute hotels of a reasonably similar quality, when available, should circumstances beyond our control deem it necessary
• Deposits imposed by OUR suppliers (e.g. hotels, motor coach companies etc.) will be charged when they occur. Full payment of deposits is due as per deposit invoice. Non-compliance with the deposit requirements can result in change or loss of services. All deposits are non-transferable.
• Please note, the names of hotels mentioned above only indicate that our rates have been based on usage of these hotels. It is not to be construed that accommodation is confirmed at these hotels until and unless we convey the confirmations to you on receipt of your acceptance. However in the event of any of the above mentioned hotels not becoming available at the time of initiating the reservations, we shall book alternate accommodation at a similar or next best available hotel and shall pass on the difference of rates (supplement/reduction whatever applicable) to you.