Your Itinerary
Welcome to captivating India, a country that boasts a vibrant and bustling mix of cities, tranquil landscapes, incredible architecture and tradition, making it truly one of a kind! India’s rich history is etched into every wall, with stories spanning back over 5,000 years. It’s one of the world’s oldest civilizations, being home to the ancient Indus Valley and Vedic cultures to powerful empires like the Maurya, Gupta, and Mughals. Colonised by the British in the 18th century, India finally gained independence in 1947 and has since grown into the world’s largest democracy and a vibrant, diverse nation.
Our journey starts in Delhi, the capital of India, where the past and present seamlessly coexist. This city is a hub of colourful chaos, with rickshaws, cars and pedestrians filling the busy streets adorned with lively markets, street vendors and more. Steeped in history, you'll find ancient monuments and traditional architecture scattered throughout the city, rendering Delhi a diverse and endlessly fascinating metropolis to explore.
We'll kick off the day with a walking tour of Delhi, allowing us to explore this intriguing city on foot. We will stroll through Mehrauli Archaeological Park, stopping to view the impressive Jamali Kamali Mosque. The mosque was built in the 16th century during the reign of the Mughal Empire and is an excellent example of the architectural style of that period. Surrounded by spruced up lawns, the mosque is a popular picnic spot for locals. We’ll then continue to Qutub Minar, the highest stone tower in India and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is a five-story tower with an incredible height of around 73 metres!
Special Experience
Savour lunch with a local family, delve into traditional cooking through a demonstration, and explore the enchanting realm of Indian herbs.
New Delhi houses an array of government buildings and official residences, reminiscent of the British colonial architecture. Our journey will take us past iconic structures such as the Parliament House and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, formerly the Viceroy's abode and now the esteemed residence of India's President. Afterward, we'll pause for a photo stop at the iconic India Gate war memorial, which stands proudly at the Rajpath's terminus, before proceeding to our next destination, Humayun’s Tomb. Built for the emperor of the Mughal dynasty in the mid-16th century, Humayun’s Tomb is a wonderful example of the early years of Mughal structural style. Beautifully blending in Islamic design elements, the tombs façade is complete with white marble and striking red sandstone—a total feast for the eyes!
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
This morning, we’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of India’s past and present. Our first stop is to see the Red Fort, a fascinating structure built from red sandstone by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Next on today’s agenda is a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, a lively street renowned for its vibrant ambiance. This method of transport not only offers an exceptional viewpoint of the city but also plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of locals. Next, we’ll visit one of Asia's largest Mosques, Jama Masjid, also built by Emperor Shah Jahan. The mosque features four towers and two 40-metre-high minarets, constructed with red sandstone and white marble.
Later today we’ll arrive in Agra. Home to the famous Taj Mahal, Agra is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is an enticing city for travellers wishing to see the iconic monument. Yet, the Taj Mahal is not the sole attraction here—the enduring legacy of the Mughal empire has bequeathed a splendid fort and an ample array of captivating tombs and mausoleums.
We’ll start our day with the incredible experience of watching the majestic early morning sun over the Taj Mahal—this is a truly unique opportunity to see what is often hailed as the most beautiful building in the world. An epitome of Mughal art, this monument was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal. Made entirely of white marble, the Taj Mahal took a staggering 22 years to build by over 20,000 workers.
We continue to the Agra Fort, among the finest examples of the fusion architecture that dominated the Mughal period. Designed and built by the great Mughal ruler, Akbar, in the 1560s, it was initially built as a military establishment, but later his successors made many additions to the main structure and converted half of it into a magnificent palace. This is where Emperor Shah Jahan was kept under house arrest by his third son Aurangzeb and spent the last year of his life viewing the Taj Mahal from across the river Yamuna.
Returning to the hotel, we’ll have the remainder of the day to enjoy at leisure.
Optional Excursion
Mohabbat E Taj Show – Watch a magical theatre show that portrays the love story between Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal, revealing the romantic inspiration behind the creation of the Taj Mahal.
1 hour – from $40pp USD.
Day 5 - Agra - Dausa – Ranthambore National Park
Departing Agra this morning, we make our way towards Ranthambore National Park. Along the way we’ll stop to visit a local village using a Juggad, colloquially known as ‘The Village Mercedes’ among the locals. This unique mode of transportation is widely used by villagers for various purposes, including the transportation of villagers, fodder, cattle, and goods. Your Juggad ride will take you through expansive grazing pastures and fields, where you'll witness the cultivation of crops like wheat, mustard, coriander and chilies. Upon arrival in the Gothdi village, you'll be welcomed into the homes of the villagers, where you can meet the traditionally dressed residents and observe farmers, herders, and silversmiths as they practice their crafts. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the local school.
Back on the road, we begin our journey into the jungle landscape of Ranthambore National Park, one of the biggest and most renowned natural wonders in northern India. This amazing national park is most famous for its tigers and is one of the best locations in India to see these majestic predators in their natural environment.
We’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at our hotel this evening.
Day 6 - Ranthambore National Park
Special Experience
Set off on an early morning safari adventure through the wildlife haven of Ranthambore National Park.
The search for Bengal tigers begins early as we board a canter vehicle for a morning of shared game drives. Guided by an expert naturalist, we’ll adventure through one of Ranthambore’s ten wildlife zones. As well as tigers, this exceptional national park is home to many other species including leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, jackals, porcupines, wild boars, marsh crocodiles, langur, Indian gazelle, spotted deer, sambar and nilgai. The park is also home to an array of flora with around 300 plant species dotted throughout the landscape.
We’ll return to our hotel for a late breakfast, followed by some time at leisure to relax by the pool or refresh before lunch.
In the afternoon, we will embark on a second game drive, offering another chance to and admire the park’s historic ruins and natural splendour.
Day 7 - Ranthambore National Park – Jaipur
This morning we have our eyes set on reaching stunning Jaipur, the capital city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur is a vibrant and historically rich destination known for its distinctive architecture, colourful culture, and strong royal heritage. Often referred to as the ‘Pink City’ because of the terracotta-pink colour of many of its historic buildings, this unique colour scheme was introduced to welcome Prince Albert to the city back in 1876.
Arriving early in the afternoon, we’ll enjoy some free time at our hotel before coming together for a workshop on tying turbans and sarees. Turbans worn in Rajasthan are referred to as the ‘pagari’, and they vary in style, colour and size - this indicates the wearer’s social class, caste, region and the occasion it’s being worn for! The turban’s shape and size may also vary with the climatic conditions of the different regions. Traditionally worn by women, in Rajasthan Bandhani sarees are most common, made of vibrant tie-dye patterns that showcase the culture of the region. The process of tying these traditional dresses is an artform in itself, which we will hopefully master today!
Optional Excursion
Cinema Hall - We’ll immerse in the local culture by visiting a traditional cinema hall, where we can observe the locals enjoying the movie and watch it with them. 1.5-2 hours – from $8pp USD.
Our day is dedicated to seeing the sites of beautiful Jaipur. This morning we set off on a city tour, beginning with a photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal. The landmark is renowned for its unique and intricate architecture, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and cultural richness of Rajasthan's royal past. Referred to as the ‘Palace of Winds’, this stunning pink sandstone structure was built in 1799 and was designed for royal women to observe street life while remaining unseen.
Our next stop is the Amber Fort, perched atop a hill, overlooking the town of Amer and the city of Jaipur. We will enter the fort by jeep, taking in the timeless beauty and amazing views. Built from red limestone and marble by Raja Man Singh in 1592, the magnificent structure has influences of both Muslim and Hindu architecture. One of the most exquisite creations in the Amber Fort is the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), whose walls are covered in thousands of tiny mirrors – when dark, the room can become a dazzling fantasy with the light of a single match.
We’ll also visit the rich and prosperous museums located inside the elegant City Palace Complex.
Later this afternoon we’ll embark on a leisurely stroll through Jaipur's historic old town, meandering along its narrow lanes, basking in the vibrant Old Bazaar's ambiance, and exploring the well-structured old city. Its grid-like layout of broad, straight streets unveils a series of charming bazaars. While the new town symbolises contemporary India, the old city preserves the essence of tradition, vividly narrating the story of India's history and culture.
Following this exploration, we will venture to a traditional tea shop, immersing ourselves in the local tea culture. Here, we'll savour the diverse flavours, much like the locals who often relish their tea at roadside kiosks.
Optional Excursion
Bollywood Dancing – This evening, get a chance to be part of a Bollywood dance class. This fun filled class will let the dancer within you come alive. The dancing itself is a fusion of all dance forms. 1 hour – from $32pp USD.
This morning, we wave goodbye to Jaipur and travel onwards to Pushkar—one of India’s oldest and holiest cities, and one of the five sacred dhams (pilgrimage sites) for devout Hindus. Famed not only for its spiritual significance, Pushkar also hosts India’s largest camel, horse and cattle fair, a vibrant and colourful annual event that draws visitors and traders from across the entire country.
Beyond the spectacle, the fair holds deep religious meaning. On the full moon day, thousands of devotees take a holy dip in the sacred waters of Pushkar Lake, believed to cleanse sins and bring divine blessings and spiritual liberation. The town comes alive with spiritual chants, temple bells, and a deep sense of community in the air.
This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of Pushkar, including visits to the sacred Pushkar Lake and the incredible Brahma Temple—one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. We’ll also stroll through the bustling local market, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere as we browse colourful stalls, smell enticing street food and enjoy the lively sounds of wandering musicians. With its mix of spiritual depth and festive energy, our next two nights in Pushkar promise a memorable experience.
Today, we dive into the vibrant spectacle that is the Pushkar Festival. Over 14 days, more than 400,000 people gather here, and in the first five days alone, around 20,000 camels, horses, and cattle are brought from across Rajasthan for trade. What began as a humble livestock market has transformed into a dazzling celebration of Rajasthani culture—a whirlwind of colour, sound, and energy unlike anything else in the world.
This morning, we’ll enjoy a special camel cart ride through the bustling fairgrounds, where we’ll witness the vibrant cattle market up close and take in the plethora of festivities on offer. From camel races and folk performances to puppet shows, turban tying, and even moustache competitions—at Pushkar, anything goes! Make sure to soak up the lively atmosphere, browse colourful market stalls brimming with textiles and handicrafts and savour traditional delicacies.
After, we’ll have the option to stay and further explore the fair on our own or head back to the hotel and enjoy the afternoon at leisure, before we reconvene for a group dinner at our hotel.
Day 11 - Pushkar – Deogarh
This morning, before departing for Deogarh, we’ll have some more time to further explore the fairgrounds and experience the wonder of this colourful event.
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Deogarh is a hidden gem where history, culture, natural beauty, and heritage come together. With fewer visitors, it provides an excellent opportunity for an authentic and tranquil Rajasthan experience. Along the drive, we’ll traverse Rajasthan’s scenic countryside, enjoying a brief stop along the way to stretch our legs and soak in the rural charm.
In the evening, we’ll walk to Deogarh Village, where the vibrant tapestry of daily life unfolds before us. Here we will have time at leisure to witness villagers during their routines, from women drawing water at the communal well and laundering clothes, to their graceful balancing of clay pots filled with water on their heads. We’ll pass by Krishna Temple, and then visit Manak Chowk, the central square which also serves as the social and cultural hub of the village. From here, we'll explore the village market, filled with charming small shops with sweets, groceries, fruits, vegetables and much more. Finally, we’ll visit the potter’s street, where we will observe artisans skilfully crafting traditional pottery.
Day 12 - Deogarh - Udaipur
Special Experience
Experience local culture on a scenic meter gauge train journey through mountainous Ghats, revealing stunning landscapes, tunnels, and towering bridges.
The last meter gauge train operating in Rajasthan, this unique journey gives us a glimpse into the history of train travel in India. We’ll travel through a portion of the stunning Ghats, a huge mountain range that stretches over 1,600 kilometres through five Indian states. As we traverse the picturesque countryside in the same way the locals do, we’ll admire rural life and interact with both fellow passengers and villagers.
After our short train trip, we continue onto the city of Udaipur by road. The former capital of the Mewar Kingdom, this charming city was founded in 1559 and is often called the ‘City of Lakes’. Situated amid the lush green hills of the Aravalli Range, Udaipur is known for its beautiful regal palaces, serene lakes, and rich history, offering a unique sense of serenity and charm. Situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, the city is renowned for its performing arts, crafts, and its famed miniature paintings. After arriving in Udaipur, we’ll enjoy the evening at leisure.
This morning we’ll explore beautiful Udaipur during a city tour, first visiting the majestic City Palace. This architectural masterpiece comprises a series of palaces, courtyards and gardens, showcasing a perfect blend of Rajasthani, Mughal and European architectural styles. Afterward, we’ll walk down the road to the Clock Tower, passing the famous Jagdish Temple, a significant Hindu place of worship. Surrounding the Clock Tower are vibrant markets where you can explore a wide array of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and more.
The afternoon is free, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace or simply relax and soak in the ambiance of Udaipur.
In the late afternoon, we'll reconvene for a shared boat ride on Lake Pichola (subject to water levels). An artificial freshwater lake created in the 14th century, Lake Pichola is home to several islands and even the impressive Pichola Palace, which appears to be floating on the lake’s surface. Our cruise will take us past these islands, as well as the many incredible palaces, temples and mansions which dot the shoreline.
Day 14 - Udaipur – Ranakpur – Luni
We say goodbye to Udaipur this morning, setting our sights on Luni. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit Ranakpur Jain Temple. Known for its intricate marble carvings, 1,444 uniquely designed pillars, and exquisite internal and external architectural details, the Ranakpur Jain Temple is a symbol of Jain art and devotion. Built in the 15th century and taking over 50 years to complete, this magnificent structure was dedicated to Adinath, the founder of the Jain religion.
Luni is a charming town located in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan. It is renowned for its historical heritage, exemplified by the majestic Fort Chanwa, a splendid example of Rajput architecture. The town is nestled alongside the Luni River—the largest river in the Thar Desert—adding to its picturesque appeal. While here, we’ll see everyday life unfold, with locals in vibrant traditional dress going about their routines.
On arrival in Luni this afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 15 - Luni – Jodhpur – Manvar
The Thar Desert and it’s three regions—the sand covered Thar, the Plains and the Hills—covers western India and south-east Pakistan.
This morning, we'll journey to the eastern edge of the Thar Desert, where Jodhpur is nestled. We'll begin with a city tour of Jodhpur, delving into the grandeur of Mehrangarh Fort, one of the biggest forts in all of Rajasthan. Built on a rocky hill called Bhakurcheeria, also known as ‘the hill for birds’, the fort is adorned with exquisite palaces like Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal. Our next stop will be the serene marble cenotaphs at Jaswant Thada, offering a glimpse of remarkable marble craftsmanship. Here, we’ll also be able to enjoy the sweeping views from the terrace!
Our adventure will then lead us to Manvar, where we'll settle into our desert accommodation.
Special Experience
Explore the sandy dunes of the Thar Desert on a camel safari, before enjoying a delicious desert dinner.
Beginning right at our accommodation, our camel safari will take us through the desert, stopping at a vantage point that allows us to soak in the beauty of the sunset. After plenty of time to capture the perfect photo, we’ll return to our accommodation for a delicious dinner under the stars.
Day 16 - Manvar – Jaisalmer
We will continue exploring the heart of the Thar Desert this morning, with a journey across its spectacular sweeping sand hills on the agenda.
Special Experience
Navigate the Thar Desert on an exhilarating jeep safari, then stop by a Dhani village to discover how communities thrive in the heart of the desert.
Our 90-minute adventure will take us across the ridges and over the crests of one of the most beautiful and untouched wildernesses in the world. The arid sands of the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, are home to a unique array of wildlife including gazelle, blackbuck and the fennec fox. We’ll encounter some of the rare flora and fauna as we explore the desert ecosystem. Visiting a rural village in Dhani, we’ll gain insight into the rich heritage of the region.
We'll reach Jaisalmer in the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day for your leisure. As you wander the streets of Jaisalmer, it's no wonder that this remote city is often referred to as the 'Golden City.' Its narrow streets are adorned with traditional houses crafted from golden sandstone, leading to the city's main attractions: the sandcastle-like fort, a UNESCO World Heritage listed-site, as well as its beautiful havelis (ornate mansions), desert dunes, and vibrant culture.
This morning, we embark on a city tour of Jaisalmer. After a steep walk, we'll first explore the majestic UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort. Constructed in 1156 by king Rawal Jaisal—its namesake—this palace was situated on the caravan route that connected India and central Asia to the Middle East and north Arica. Today, more than 2,000 locals live within the Jaisalmer Fort complex walls, making it the last living fort in India.
Next, it’s onto the exquisite Jain temples and the opulent sandstone mansions, known as havelis, belonging to the city's affluent merchants. These lavish homes were meticulously designed in sandstone, featuring intricate details and assembled in various artistic patterns.
Later, enjoy a stroll through Jaisalmer's old town. As we stroll the narrow lanes, we'll encounter magnificent havelis and buildings, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the region. Admire Nathmalji Ki Haveli, a masterpiece with its dual-sided design and intricate wall paintings. We’ll see Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five havelis, the first of its kind in Jaisalmer, commissioned by the wealthy trader Guman Chand Patwa for his sons. Finally, be amazed by Salim Singh Ki Haveli, commissioned by Prime Minister Salim Singh, celebrated for its distinctive peacock-shaped roof.
After our sightseeing we’ll enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 18 - Jaisalmer – Khimsar
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Golden City and make our way east towards Khimsar. A quaint village perched on the fringes of the Thar Desert, it boasts a history dating to the mid-15th century intertwined with the iconic Khimsar Fort. Once an independent realm governed by the Thakurs of Khimsar, the village bears the marks of past battles, evident on the fort's walls and parapets. Today, the current Royal Family of Khimsar still calls the fort their home.
Upon reaching Khimsar, we check into our hotel, The Khimsar Fort Hotel. A heritage hotel which still serves as the home to the royal family, we’ll have the evening at leisure to soak in the regal ambience or stroll through the nearby bazaar to experience the local culture.
Day 19 - Khimsar – Mandawa
This morning, we will travel to Mandawa, a small town nestled in the Shekhawati region, renowned for its opulent havelis and intricately adorned forts. Once a key stop on ancient trade routes, Mandawa flourished under wealthy merchant families who commissioned lavish mansions adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting mythology, colonial influences, and daily life. Often referred to as an ‘open-air art gallery,’ the town beautifully captures the artistic legacy and grandeur of Rajasthan’s bygone era—we’re in for a real treat!
In the afternoon, we’ll take a walking tour of Mandawa Town, wandering through a multitude of old houses and havelis that recount tales of years gone by. Highlights include the imposing medieval fort and renowned havelis, such as the Chokhani and Ladia havelis. The colourful frescoes that adorn the walls of many of the town’s buildings have even served as a popular setting for many Bollywood classics.
Settling into the coach this morning, we’ll watch the scenery change as we leave wonderful Rajasthan and make our way back to bustling Delhi. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our final hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
In the evening, we'll get together for a group farewell dinner—a great way to reminisce on the incredible adventures we have shared.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our incredible journey through Rajasthan. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
