Classic Rajasthan

Day 1:  UK Departure

Overnight flight to Delhi

Day 2: The Claridges, Delhi (BB)

Upon arrival at Delhi airport you will be met at the arrival lounge by our representative who will assist you to your hotel. Today is spent exploring the sights of Delhi with the bustling shops and markets in New Delhi or palaces and forts of Old Delhi. Alternatively, relax in the hotel in the refurbished temperature-controlled swimming pool, with uplifting music and ambient lighting with sun decks, cabanas, loungers and a bar, where you can savour exotic cocktails and snacks.

Day 3: The Claridges, Delhi (BB)

Explore Old Delhi. Visit the 17th century Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. See Chandni Chowk, old Delhi’s most famous shopping centre and drive past the Red Fort for a photo stop. Visit Raj Ghat where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated. Later drive past the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhawan a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war and a drive along the Rajpath past the Parliament House and secretarial buildings. Return to your hotel after sightseeing. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel's facilities or to explore more of what this vast city has to offer.

Day 4:  The Claridges, Delhi (BB)

Today you’ll visit Humayun’s tomb, a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Also visit Qutab Minar, the 12th-century tower of victory built by a slave king and prototype of all minars (towers) in India. Later proceed to the Garden of five senses. This twenty-acre site, located at Said-Ul-Azaib village, close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi, is spectacular. Majestic rocks stand silhouetted against the sky, others lie strewn upon the ground in a casual yet alluring setting. Return to your hotel after sightseeing. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the hotel's facilities. You can relax by the swimming pool or indulge in a treatment at the fabulous spa.

Day 5: ITC Mughal, Agra (BB)

Today after breakfast you will drive to Agra, On arrival, proceed to check-in at your hotel. In the afternoon visit the Mehtab Bagh and Ram Bagh Gardens.

Day 6: ITC Mughal, Agra (BB)

At dawn proceed to visit the Taj Mahal, where you’ll witness one of the world’s most iconic sunrises. After which you’ll enjoy a city tour of Agra including visits to Agra Fort, the Baby Taj and local markets.

Day 7:  ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (BB)

After breakfast you will drive to Jaipur, visiting Fatehpur Sikri en-route. Fatehpur Sikri, is the deserted red sandstone city, built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. On arrival in Jaipur, proceed to check in at your hotel. The rest of the day you have to explore Jaipur, known as the pink city due to its alluring pink coloured buildings adding to its unique charm. Whether you want to barter for that special souvenir at the numerous markets that line its streets or take a visit to Jaipur's iconic Palace of the Winds, Hawa Mahal which sits on the edge of the city palace to learn about its rich history. Alternatively, rejuvenate with a peaceful Yoga session or indulge in exotic therapies at the Kaya Kalp spa at the hotel. You can even try your hand at croquet or water polo if you like.

Day 8:  ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (BB)

You will have the morning to relax or explore more of what Jaipur has to offer. In the afternoon visit the City Palace, which is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings. Jaipur's Jantar Mantar is the most famous of five observatories.

Day 9: ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (BB)

Following buffet breakfast you will proceed to visit the capital of Amber to see the fabulous Amber Fort. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravali hills and sprawling crenulated walls lattice the surrounding area. An elephant or alternatively a jeep will transport you up to the fortress. Once on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls.

Day 10:  Vivanta by Taj Hari Mahal, Jodhpur (BB)

Today after breakfast you will drive to Jodhpur. Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, lies at the entrance to the Thar desert in a region called Marwar. The old city, founded in 1459, is surrounded by a 10 km long wall. The massive Meherangarh Fort overlooks the city and the red sandstone palaces within the fort form one of the most impressive complexes in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is also known as the ‘blue city’ because of the indigo-washed houses of the old town. On arrival, proceed to check-in at your hotel. Relax in this opulent, heritage hotel and indulge in a treatment at its JIva Spa or explore this brightly coloured city.  Jodhpur is full of winding medieval streets, which never seem to lead where you expect them to, scented by incense and roses with shops and bazaars selling everything from temple decorations to saris.

Day 11: Vivanta by Taj Hari Mahal, Jodhpur (BB)

Proceed for a half-day city tour visiting the Meherangarh Fort, situated on a low sandstone hill. The palace apartments are beautifully decorated with jewellery, costumes, armoury, palanquins, howdahs and other remnants of the past. See the Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II built in 1899.Later the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs were also built here. Also visit the museum located in the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Later proceed to Mandore - 8 km from Jodhpur, the old capital of Marwar. The extensive gardens with high rock terraces contain the red sandstone chhatris (cenotaphs) of Rathore rulers. The Shrine of 33 Crore Gods is painted with figures of deities and spirits, and in the Hall of Heroes you can see figures of local heroes and Hindu deities carved out of a rock wall.

Day 12: Trident, Udaipur (BB)

Today you will drive to Udaipur visiting Ranakpur Jain Temple en-route. This is the largest Jain temple complex in India and dates to the 15th century. There are 1444 ornately carved marble pillars in the complex all distinctly decorated. The beautiful lace-like interiors of the domes are a superb example of western Indian temple style. Surya temple and other Jain temples are side attractions. Later drive to Udaipur, proceed to check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. Whether you want to unwind and take in the beauty of this enchanting lake city or explore its many sights you will find the pace of life here very relaxed.

Day 13:  Trident, Udaipur (BB)

Today your half-day sightseeing tour of Udaipur begins with the City Palace and Museum. The largest palace complex in India, it is a blend of Mughal and Rajput influences. Also visit the 17th century Jagdish temple, and drive around the Fatehsagar Lake. Your final stop will be the Sahelion ki Bari (the Garden for the Maids of Honour), an ornamental pleasure garden with fountains and marble kiosks. In the afternoon take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, which is fringed with hills, palaces, havelis, ghats, embankments and temples and offers spectacular views of the city. Visit the Jag Mandir Island with its exquisite Gul Mahal Pavilion. With all of these wonderful sights it is no wonder that people refer to Udaipur as "Venice of the East."

Day 14:  Trident, Udaipur (BB)

Today you can have free time to explore Udaipur at your own pace. Stroll along the streets filled with markets selling unique jewellery and exquisite silks and shop till your heart's content. Alternatively, try a yoga class at sunrise overlooking the lake, there is something truly magical about Udiapur. Alternatively, enjoy a walk in the hotel's sprawling gardens or relax by the pool while admiring the view of the Aravallis mountain range.

Day 15:  Trident, Delhi (BB)

Today after breakfast, you will be transferred to Udaipur airport to board your flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. You may want to buy those last minute souvenirs at the many shops and markets Delhi is renowned for or alternatively do some sightseeing that you didn't manage at the start of your trip. Delhi is full of interesting museums and palaces and is a culture lovers' heaven.

Day 16:  Departure

Today you will be transferred to Delhi airport to board your flight back home.

Inclusions

All flights, transfers, meals, accommodation and activities as specified, local English speaking guides throughout

Exclusions

Transfers, meals and activities not specified, visas, insurance, gratuities and items of a personal nature.

Cleveland Collection tailor makes all itineraries to include highlights of your choice. Speak to one of our travel experts to create your perfect holiday based on your travel requirements.

*We try to keep our 'from prices' as accurate as possible, but please do be aware that when travelling in peak times such as Christmas and school holidays, prices shown will vary considerably.