Rajasthan (Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Jaisalmer)

Bagore-ki-Haveli:  The palace has over a hundred rooms, with displays of costumes and modern art. The glass and mirror in the interiors are Haveli work. In the evening, the haveli lightens and stages enjoyable performance of traditional dance and music of Rajasthan. The haveli looks marvelous with glowing lights in the night.

Chittorgarh Fort (Day Trip): The Chittorgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. The huge fort complex covers 65 historic structures, which include four palaces, 19 large temples, 20 large water bodies, 4 memorials and a few victory towers. It is truly a majestic fort in India. It is about 115 Km or 75 miles from Udaipur and takes around 3 hours one way.

City Palace: City Palace in Udaipur was built over a period of nearly 400 years. Its construction began in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia Rajput family. It was built in a flamboyant style and was built atop a hill, in a fusion of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, providing a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Overlooking Lake Pichola, several historic monuments like the Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, and Neemach Mata temple, are all in the vicinity of the palace complex.

Crystal Gallery: Nestled inside the Fateh Prakash Palace of Udaipur City Palace, is the Crystal Gallery which boasts of the largest private collection of crystal in the world. The crystal items have been brought from various parts of the world. The items include various household furniture like a dining table, mirrored tabletops, lamps, footstool, crockery set, washing bowls, a sofa set and a crystal bed. The most striking element of the gallery is a crystal embedded carpet, woven with gold and silver threads that shine beautifully in the gallery. There are over 600 unique items and most of them are one of their kinds in the world.

Fateh Sagar Lake: Fateh Sagar Lake is named after Maharana Fateh Singh of Udaipur and Mewar. It was constructed in the 1680s. Within the confines of the Fatah Sagar Lake, there are three small islands; the largest of these is the Nehru Park, the second island houses a public park with an impressive water-jet fountain, and the third island has the Udaipur Solar Observatory.

Jag Mandir Palace: Jag Mandir Palace is an exquisite palace that looks like a floating marble structure in a lake is a sight to behold as one visits the alluring Lake Pichola. One of the striking features of this palace is the life-size elephants made of marbles which guard the palace. So, when you are boating in Lake Pichola, make sure you visit this island.

Lake Pichola: Lake Pichola is world-famous for its picturesque beauty and scenic backdrop of the Aravalli Hills. In the evening, you can take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. With the Aravalli hills on one side and the city palace on the other, this is one of the most romantic boat rides. There are four islands on the lake: Jag Niwas, where the Lake Palace is built. Jag Mandir, which has the palace of the same name. Mohan Mandir, from where the king would watch the annual Gangaur festival celebration. Arsi Vilas, a small island which palace.

Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace: The Monsoon Palace, also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, is a hilltop palatial residence in the city of Udaipur, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. The palace offers a panoramic view of the city’s lakes, palaces and surrounding countryside. It was built chiefly to watch the monsoon clouds; hence, appropriately, it is popularly known as Monsoon Palace.

Mt. Abu (Day Trip): Mount Abu is a beautiful hill station in Rajasthan. With a distinctive blend of the flavours of Rajasthan, Mount Abu has some of the best places to visit like Dilwara Jain Temples, Nakki Lake, Achal Garh, Guru Shikhar, Adhar Devi, Sunset Point, Trevor’s crocodile Park, Wildlife Sanctuary and Gaumukh. It is about 165 Km or 105 miles and takes around 4 hours one way.

Clock Tower and Sardar Market: The Sardar Market is the largest and most famous and colorful markets or “bazaar” of Rajasthan. You can buy a lot of local things from this place. If you are into photography you would get some good clicks for sure! At the centre of the market is the Ghanta Ghar or Clock Tower, which is a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and culture.

Heritage Walk: Some time between visiting different forts, palaces and monuments, a short heritage walk can be a thrilling experience. Our guide will take you to some old parts of the city or any local artisan or to some local food joints. We would like to keep this part flexible. You may discuss your interest and preference with the guide who would be with you. Based on your preference, he is sure to take you around the city’s little corners and secrets. Explore Jodhpur in your own way!

Jaswant Thada: The Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph, which was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur State in 1899 in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It serves as the cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar. The mausoleum is built out of intricately carved sheets of marble. The cenotaph’s grounds feature carved gazebos, a tiered garden, and a small lake.

Mandore Garden: Mandore Garden is famous for its wide green expanses, exquisite architecture and royal cenotaphs. It is a part of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. The garden also has a museum full of artefacts and old relics. The most striking feature of the garden is the gorgeous cenotaphs or ‘dewals’ that can be found spread all across the Mandore Gardens.

Mehrangarh Fort: Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India, which was built in around 1459. The fort is situated 410 feet (125 m) above the city, surrounded by thick walls. Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. The museum exhibits the arms, costumes, paintings and decorated antiques. You should specifically visit one section of the fort museum, which has a selection of old royal palanquins, including the elaborate domed gilt Mahadol palanquin.

Umaid Bhawan Palace: Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the world’s largest private residences. This edifice has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family. A part of the palace also houses a museum. A part of the palace has been converted into a uber-luxury hotel, managed by the Taj Group of Hotels.

Zip Line Tour: Enjoy truly iconic 6 zip line tour over the lakes and battlements of Mehrangarh Fort. Click the link for details: https://www.flyingfox.asia/jodhpur/

Amer Fort: Amer Fort or Amber Fort is constructed of red sandstone and marble. The attractive opulent palace is laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard. Located high on a hill, it is the principal tourist attraction in Jaipur. You can take an elephant ride, which takes you to the entrance of the Amber Fort. Sheesh Mahal is located inside Amber Fort.

Chokhi Dhani: Enjoy the Cultural Theme Park of Chokhi Dhani, which has a distinct Rajasthan flavor. Here you will find puppet shows, pottery, different rides…Its an evening to remember!

City Palace: The City Palace of Jaipur was established at the same time as the city of Jaipur, by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. This was built as a residence for the royal families. The palace has a sequence of gardens, buildings, courtyards, temples and museums, which gives it a grand view and reflects the historical importance and magnificent royal grace.

Elefantastic: Enjoy time with the elephants in this famous elephant farm in Rajasthan. You can have lots of fun playing with the elephants. You can visit their website and check what activities you might want to do when you are here: http://www.elefantastic.in/

Heritage Walk: Some time between visiting different forts, palaces and monuments, a short heritage walk can be a thrilling experience. Our guide will take you to some old parts of the city or any local artisan or to some local food joints. We would like to keep this part flexible. You may discuss your interest and preference with the guide who would be with you. Based on your preference, he is sure to take you around the city’s little corners and secrets. Explore Jaipur in your own way!

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Early morning, enjoy Hot Air Balloon ride in Jaipur. It is an amazing experience as the Pink City of India shimmers in the golden rays of the sun. Website: https://www.skywaltz.com/

Jaigarh Fort: Jaigarh Fort is situated on the Aravalli hills, overlooks the Amber Fort and the Maota Lake. The fort was built by Jai Singh II in 1726. The fort features a cannon named “Jaivana”, which was then the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Don’t miss the palace complex (Laxmi Vilas, Lalit Mandir, Vilas Mandir and Aram Mandir), an Armory and a museum.

Jal Mahal: Jal Mahal or “Water Palace” is a palace located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city. The palace and the lake around it were renovated and enlarged in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber. It is one of the important landmarks of Jaipur.

Nahargarh Fort: Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking Jaipur. The view of the city from the fort is breath taking. Built mainly in 1734 the fort was constructed as a place of retreat. Its walls extended over the surrounding hills, forming fortifications that connected this fort to Jaigarh Fort.

Nahargarh Step Well: Nahargarh Has two large step wells (Baoli) and a smaller step well called as “Kund”. Get mesmerized by the perfect combination of engineering marvel and architecture.

Patrika Gate: The Patrika Gate in Jaipur is a famous monument and tourist attraction in the capital city of Rajasthan. Located 30-minutes outside of the city center, the gate serves as an entrance to Jawahar Circle Garden. It to be one of the most photographed spots in India.

Sheesh Mahal: Sheesh mahal is the most popular and beautiful part of Amer Fort. It is also called as the mirror palace as its refined magnificent piece of architecture is built with beautiful precious stones and glass, coated with beautiful handmade paintings. The construction of the Mahal is a wonderful specimen of Islamic architectural influence on Rajasthani architecture.

Fateh Sagar Lake: Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. It was built in 1156 AD. The fort stands amidst the sandy expanse of the great Thar Desert. The fort’s massive yellow sandstone walls appears to be glittering like gold during sunset. For this reason, it is also known as the Sonar Qila or Golden Fort.

Patwon ki Haveli: Patwon ki Haveli is a combination of five different havelis or mansions, which are renowned for their ornate wall paintings, intricate yellow sandstone-carved balconies, gateways and doorways. Inside the mansion, there is also a museum and shop for antique furniture.

Thar Desert: Welcome to the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Enjoy the camel and jeep safaris in the sand dunes during sunrise and sunset.

Evening Camel Safari: Evening in the Thar desert is very interesting. There is the hustle and bustle of the locals and the tourists. Take a camel ride or on a camel cart. Catch the local musicians play instruments like sarangi on the dunes. Its a memorable experience.

Cultural Program in Desert Camps: In the evening, in your desert camp, enjoy Rajasthani cultural program of song and dance around a bonfire. This is truly mesmerizing. Experience the culture and colors of Rajasthan. The evening concludes with a dinner buffet of typical Rajasthan dishes.

Desert Night Safari: After dinner, set out for a night safari in the desert. Watch out for the animals that come out in the dark. Under a starry sky, light a bonfire and feel yourself under the sky, amidst the great Indian Thar desert. It is a thrilling experience.

Morning Camel Safari: Watch the sunrise in the Thar desert. It is such a blissful experience. You can take a camel safari and watch the sun rise from a distant horizon in a desert.

Jeep Safari at Thar Desert: Enjoy Jeep safari in the Sand Dunes of Rajasthan. The ride is fun and exciting in the open Jeeps.

Kuldhara Village: Kuldhara is an abandoned village in Jaisalmer. There are several mystical stories on why the village was abandoned. Visit the place for some great photographs for your album!

Gadisar Lake: This lake is one of the most valuable assets of Jaisalmer and the Rajasthan desert. Around the lake, you will find temples, holy shrines and chattris. You can spend some peaceful time in the serene surroundings of the lake. You can also choose to go boating around the lake.

Bara Bagh: Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (meaning, “grand garden”) is a garden complex situated on a small hill. The memorial chhatri cenotaphs have been carved out of sandstone blocks for the ruling kings, their queens, their princes, and other royal family members. Each cenotaph has a marble slab with inscriptions about the deceased royal and a symbolic image of a man on a horse.

Vyas Chhatri Sunset Point: Vyas Chhatri is made of golden sandstones, in of honour Sage Vyasa, who compiled the 300,000 verses of the epic Mahabharata. His cenotaph is situated on the north of the structure. It is a scenic spot for visitors who would love to catch a sunset in a desert among the golden sandstone structures.

Junagarh Fort: Junagarh Fort has palaces and temples made of red sandstone (Dulmera) and marble, inside it. The fort has seven gates and several palaces and pavilions. The major palaces are Karan Mahal, Phool Mahal, Anup Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Ganga Mahal, Badal Mahal, Bikaneri Havelies. The palaces are picturesque with their assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows.

National Research Centre on Camel: Visit this place to enjoy seeing camel calves gamboling around one another during afternoon hours, or camels gathering in sand dunes during sunset. There is a camel museum. You can also enjoy camel riding, desert safari, camel milk and ice cream (locally known as kulfi), souvenir shops selling various decorative items like bags, purses, artwork, shawl, small chains, etc. It is something you should not miss during your visit to Bikaner.

Prachina Museum: Explore Bikaner’s cultural history with exhibits ranging from art to royal fashions and armor. It is located in Junagard Fort.

Seth Bhandasar Jain Temple: Bhandasar Jain Temple or Banda Shah Jain temple, in Bikaner is famous for wall painting and art work. This temple is protected by Archaeological Survey of India.

A Day Among the Havelis in Mandawa: Mandawa is famous for Havelis. Havelis are traditional, ornately decorated residence. There are quite a few Haveli’s in Mandawa which you can visit during your stay in Mandawa. Some of them are: Goenka Double Haveli: This Geonka-family-owned double haveli has two wings – the southern Vishwanath Goenka Haveli and the northern Tarkeshwar Goenka Haveli. There are monumental pictures, including elephants and horses, on the facade. Chokhani Double Haveli: The grand Chokhani Double Haveli, dating from 1910, is famous for the paintings inside include floral arabesques and peacocks above the archways, as well as the Krishna legends and some mournful British soldiers. Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli: This haveli features a depiction of a maharaja grooming his bushy moustache on the south wall. There’s fine mirror- and mosaic-work around the door to the inner courtyard, and Surya, the sun god, can be seen over the lintel. Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli: This haveli features a faded picture of a man enjoying a hookah, and a good procession frieze on its western wall. Other pictures include that of Rama slaying Ravana. Mandawa castle: Though turned into a heritage hotel, Mandawa castle is well worth a visit.