After exploring the sights of old and New Delhi as well as the spectacular Taj Mahal, journey through the princely state of Rajasthan to take a closer look at the region’s magnificent forts and explore cities that are full of atmosphere and character, set against stunning desert scenery.

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our Tour Manager at the airport lounge with a TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS signboard. Transfer to hotel where you will receive a traditional welcome with Garland and Tilak while hotel formalities are completed. Rest of the day is at leisure with an overnight stay in Delhi.

Delhi is a cosmopolitan city with multi-ethnic culture. Being the capital city of India and having influences of the Mughals, Rajputs, Afghans and other rulers, one can see a rich cultural diversity here. Several magnificent monuments built by the Mughals are prime attraction of this place and includes the - Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Parliament House and Qutab Minar (tallest stone-built tower in the world). The capital of India, Delhi blends an historic past and a vibrant present. The temples, the mosques and the remains of the Mughal period depict the great history of Delhi. The city has rich culture and tradition with people from all religions living in peace and harmony. The Imperial city planned for the British by Lutyens is set in parks and shaded avenues. Legend has it that Delhi, then called Indraprastha, was originally founded around 1200 B.C. by the Pandavas, the august heroes of the epic Mahabharata. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities. Stay overnight in Delhi. (B,D)

After breakfast travel to Agra, the city that flourished under the patronage of Mughals who ruled India for more than 300 years and attracted artisans from many countries to built amazing monuments including the one and only Taj Mahal. Here layers of history are peeled away to reveal an amazing tapestry of life – of wars waged, of great architectural magnificence and above all a testimony of the undying love of a king for his queen. Start your sightseeing tour with Agra Fort; built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, which was the hallmark of the Mughal period, this sprawling fort stretches 2.5 km along the banks of the Yamuna River, followed by sunset visit to incomparable monument of love the Taj Mahal; the ceaseless labour of 20,000 workers led to the construction of this geometrical miracle in India. An exceptional exhibit of Piedra Dura (stone inlay work), the Taj Mahal displays three major elements of the Muslim decorative art and architecture - the Ayatein (sayings) from the Quran which is the use of various geometrical shapes and a variety of plant forms and flowers which are dominant in the borders. The breathtakingly beautiful landscape around the Taj Mahal adds to the magic of Mughal architecture. Stay overnight in Agra. (B,D)

Travel to Jaipur, built of pink stucco and planned in a grid system with wide avenues. The origins of this gorgeous city can be traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Maharaja Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Today, Jaipur epitomizes the spirit of Rajasthan, retaining its character and history. Afternoon is free to course the bazaar trails and witness the timeless appeal in its colourful markets, the ambling camels and cheerful people in multi-hued costumes. One can find weather beaten faces with huge colourful turbans, fierce moustaches and lips that spontaneously crease into a heart warming smile. The city presents a unique synthesis of culture that has to be experienced in order to be appreciated. With its origin buried deep into the pages of history, the city still exudes a magical old world charm; an aroma of chivalry and romance is evident, despite having evolved into a city that is the hub of modern commercial activity in the region. Stay overnight in Jaipur. (B,D)

Enthral yourself on a journey up the rampants to Amber Fort, through a succession of vast gates, on the back of an elegantly painted elephant – ‘The Maharaja style’. Inside are the ruins of what was once a great palace, a wonderful example of Rajput architecture with Mughal influences. Visit the City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Hawa Mahal. Witness a wonderful combination of Mughal and Rajput forms of architecture and museum housing miniature paintings, manuscripts, Mughal carpets, musical instruments, royal costumes and weaponery, giving invaluable insight into Jaipur's royal past. Settled in the rugged hills of the Aravalli, Jaipur is the pristine jewel in the desert sands of Rajasthan and is remarkable for its marvellous architecture and town planning. Packed with history, art and culture, this princely state is a treasure – trove of some exquisite palaces, forts, temples and haveli’s standing a testimony to the imperial grandeur. It is one of the most vibrant and colourful cities of India. Stay overnight in Jaipur. (B,D)

Travel by road to Kota, once the part of the erstwhile Rajput kingdom of Bundi which later became a separate princely state in the 17th century and a hallmark of the Rajput gallantry and culture. This city has a wealth of impressive forts, opulent palaces and splendid temples dating back over several centuries retaining its past glory. The present day edifices and today has industries making it the industrial heartland of Rajasthan. Stay overnight in Kota. (B,D)

Before travelling to Udaipur, enjoy the city sightseeing tour and visit City Fort Palace to see excellent collection of Rajput miniature paintings of Kota school. The Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate) is the beautiful to this fort which houses bastions and massive rampants studded with elegant cupolas and balustrades where the Mughal elements of decoration are superimposed on Rajput structures. Continue the tour to the Jagmandir Palace built by Prince Dher Deh of Bundi in 1346 AD, standing on a small island, made up of red sandstone and the azure water around it enhancing its beauty. Stay two nights in Udaipur. (B,D)

Proceed for a guided sightseeing tour and visit City Palace museum; which houses a remarkable collection of ancient sculptures, curios, antiques and inscriptions of the bygone era and also unusual assortment of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, portraits and wall-paintings with each room beautifully ornamented and decorated. The Jagdish temple, built in 1651 is a perfect example of Indo-Aryan style of architecture. The three storied temple comprises of beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls, Saheliyon-Ki-Bari (garden of the maids); according to legend this beautiful pleasure park was built by Maharana Singh II mainly for the recreation of 48 maids of his wife who had accompanied her as her wedding dowry. We also visit the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir which is an Indian folk arts museum and has interesting exhibits that include folks dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folks musical instruments, folk deities and paintings followed by a visit too Jag Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Jagdish. Spend your afternoon on the banks of Lake Pichola or at the numerous shops that dot the narrow windings streets of Udaipur. This city has a fascinating blend of sights, sound, experiences and inspiration catering for the imagination of numerous poets, painters and writers. Optionally you can take a sunset cruise at Lake Pichola. Stay overnight in Udaipur. (B,D)

Today we travel to a tiny tranquil town of Pushkar, lying along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, in a narrow dry valley, overshadowed by impressive rocky hills, offering the most spectacular views of the desert during sunset. It is one of the five most sacred places of pilgrimage of Hindus. As per Indian mythology, the city was created when a lotus leaf fell from Lord Brahma’s hand and the holy lake sprouted up there. It is surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on one which makes it the most fascinating. In the afternoon we visit Pushkar Lake and Brahma temple; the only one of its kind in the world. A red spire marks the temple, and over the entrance gateway is the Hans (goose), the symbol of Brahma who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as his place of abode. This is a city of pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and Ghats, with each Ghat having its own miraculous qualities and healing powers. Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage and radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality. Evening is at leisure with an overnight stay in Pushkar. (B,D)

After leisurely breakfast we then travel back to Delhi, your tour will culminate by late afternoon with direct transfer to international airport. (B)

Private Car Guided Tour

Starts in: Delhi Ends in:Delhi Grade: Easy Paced Tour
Departs: Daily

Overland travel by private car with driver
Itinerary can be customised to suit your requirements
Order sightseeing may vary according to local conditions
Jama Masjid and Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday
Red Fort Delhi is closed on every Monday
Hotel check-in/out 1200 hours
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Electricity: Current is 220V, 50Hz
Time Zone: 5.5 hours ahead GMT

Ask for pre and post accommodation