RAJASTHAN’S FORTS, PALACES & DESERTS
- 8 hours ago
- 12 min read
Date
Freely selectable
14 Days
13 Nights
from € 1.460,00
per Person
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of India, where royal heritage, fascinating desert landscapes and timeless architecture merge into a unique experience.
Starting in Delhi, the vibrant capital that combines historical traditions with modern flair, the journey takes you to the artfully decorated with frescoed Havelis of Mandawa and on to the desert city of Bikaner. Discover the golden magic of Jaisalmer, where mighty sandstone fortresses rise from the vastness of the Thar Desert before you reach the blue shimmering city of Jodhpur, which is overhan a hill by its majestic fortress.
Afterwards you will experience the romantic atmosphere of Udaipur with its glittering lakes and magnificent palaces. We continue to Pushkar, one of India's most important spiritual places, known for its sacred lake and special atmosphere.
The journey then takes you to the royal "Pink City" Jaipur, famous for its impressive fortresses and palaces. The crowning conclusion is Agra with the world-famous Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love, before you return to Delhi.
This intense travel experience combines royal history, vibrant culture, fascinating desert adventures and architectural masterpieces into an unforgettable journey of discovery through the splendor of Rajasthan and beyond.
What to expect during your trip
Marvel at the Indo-Islamic architecture of the Qutb Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover the impressive architecture of the Junagarh Fort in Bikaner.
Experience a camel ride through the golden dunes of Jaisalmer and gain exciting insights into the life of the desert villages.
Explore the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, which towers high above the Blue City of Jodhpur.
Visit the holy city of Pushkar, one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India.
Ride up to the imposing Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hill.
Explore the historic Mughal capital Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, the world-famous symbol of eternal love.
DAY 1:
Welcome to Delhi! Upon your arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Unfiltered Experiences and taken to your hotel.
Delhi, the fascinating capital of India, uniquely combines its rich historical heritage - visible in the impressive monuments and lively old town districts - with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. This exciting mix makes the city an ideal entry into your journey through India.
After check-in you have time to recover and relax from the arrival. Explore the surroundings at your own pace or enjoy the amenities of your hotel.
Overnight stay in Delhi.
DAY 2:
After breakfast you will set off for a sightseeing tour of Delhi.
First, explore Old Delhi and visit the Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, which was built in 1656. The spacious courtyard can accommodate up to 25,000 believers. Then you will visit Chandni Chowk, the oldest and largest market in Old Delhi, which inspires with its colors, fragrances and busy hustle and bustle.
Afterwards, enjoy a rickshaw ride from the Fatehpuri Masjid to the impressive Red Fort, a monumental red sandstone building. There your driver will wait for you and take you on to the Raj Ghat, the memorial and cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, the "Father of the Nation".
Afterwards you will visit the Humayun Mausoleum, an outstanding example of early Mughal architecture in India. The mausoleum, built in 1565, is considered the architectural inspiration for the later Taj Mahal.
During a tour, you will also see the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the Indian president), the parliament building and the India Gate - a war memorial dedicated to the approximately 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.
At the end of the day, you will visit the Qutb Minar, an imposing victory tower. Its construction began in 1193 under the supervision of the Muslim ruler Qutb-ud-din Aibak. The structure, built of red sandstone and marble, is almost 73 meters high and tapers from a diameter of 15 meters at the base to only 2.5 meters at its top.
Overnight stay in Delhi.
DAY 3:
After breakfast you check out of your hotel and drive to the picturesque town of Mandawa in the heart of the Shekhawati region.
Known for its artfully painted Havelis and its traditional merchant history, Mandawa offers a fascinating insight into Rajasthan's artistic heritage. After your arrival you check in at the hotel and have time to relax.
Later, you will explore the charming city with its lively bazaars and winding alleys, which are full of local atmosphere and history.
Afterwards you will discover the magnificent, frescoed Havelis of the Shekhawati region. These impressive manor houses were built in the 18th and 19th centuries. Century by wealthy merchants and tell stories from past times with their detailed wall paintings and their extraordinary architecture.
During the day you will have the opportunity to talk to locals and experience the special charm of this unique "open-air art gallery".
Overnight stay in Mandawa.
DAY 4:
After breakfast, you will go to Bikaner, a desert town known for its rich cultural heritage and impressive royal architecture.
After your arrival you check in at the hotel and you can first relax.
Later you will undertake a half-day sightseeing tour, which begins with the impressive Junagarh Fort. This fortress from the 16th century Century was built by Raja Rai Singh. Unlike many other fortresses in Rajasthan, it does not rise on a hill, but impresses with its magnificent palaces, artfully designed balconies and elegant pavilions.
During your tour, you will also visit the Fortress Museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of royal robes, valuable textiles and historical artifacts, offering exciting insights into the cultural development of the region.
Afterwards, you will visit the National Research Centre on Camel, a unique research and breeding center for camels in Asia. On the extensive site you will learn interesting facts about the importance of these animals for the life and culture of the desert region of Rajasthan.
After an eventful day you return to your hotel and let the impressions end relaxed.
Overnight stay in Bikaner.
DAY 5:
After breakfast, your trip to Jaisalmer, which is often referred to as the "Golden City" of India, begins. The further you penetrate into the Thar Desert, the more the landscape changes. Wide sand dunes, endless horizons and the fascinating strea of the desert characterize the path.
After your arrival you check in at the hotel and have time to relax.
Above the golden sands of the desert rises the impressive Jaisalmer Fort, one of the few still inhabited fortresses in the world. Especially in the light of the setting sun, the fortress glows in warm gold tones and offers an unforgettable sight.
The rest of the evening is at your disposal. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the desert or explore the charming streets of the city at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
DAY 6:
After breakfast, you will set off for a full-day exploration of the Jaisalmer Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the last still inhabited fortresses in the world.
The fortress, built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, impresses with its gold-colored sandstone walls, which shine particularly impressively in the sunlight of the desert. That is why it is also called "Sonar Quila" - the Golden Fortress.
Within the fortress you will discover numerous architectural treasures, including the magnificent Maharaja Palace, artfully decorated Jain and Hindu temples, and the famous Havelis Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, known for their filigree stonemason and extraordinary architecture.
In the evening you will go to the famous Sam Sand Dunes, where an unforgettable desert experience awaits you. On a camel ride through the golden dunes you will experience the sunset over the Thar Desert - a fascinating natural spectacle.
Afterwards you can enjoy an atmospheric cultural performance with traditional music and folklore dances from Rajasthan. You also have the opportunity to get in touch with locals and experience the special atmosphere of desert life under the sparkling starry sky.
After a day full of history, culture and adventure, you will return to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.
DAY 7:
After breakfast you drive to Jodhpur, the fascinating "Blue City" of Rajasthan.
After your arrival you check in at the hotel and have time to relax.
Later you will take a guided tour, which begins with the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. The fortress was built in 1459 and sits spectacularly on a rock about 150 meters high above the city. From here you can enjoy impressive views of the blue painted houses of Jodhpur.
Inside the fortress you will discover magnificent palaces such as the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). Artful carvings, royal artifacts and the impressive architecture give a vivid impression of the former glory of the rulers of Marwar.
Afterwards, you will visit the quiet Jaswant Thada, an elegant white marble kenotaph built in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere, the building impresses with its filigree ornaments and harmonious architecture.
After an eventful day full of history and cultural discoveries, you return to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Jodhpur.
DAY 8:
After breakfast, you will check out of the hotel and continue to Udaipur. Along the way, you will make a picturesque stopover in Ranakpur, which is world famous for its impressive Jain temples.
These architectural masterpieces were built in honor of Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, and impress with their artistic marble work and extraordinary craftsmanship. The temple complex, which has been built over several decades, is considered an outstanding example of symmetry, richness of detail and architectural elegance.
Particularly impressive are the filigree carved columns, the fine ornaments and the geometric patterns that make the temple a true work of art. The peaceful prayer hall and the statue of Adinath, which is aligned in four cardinal directions, give this sacred place a special spiritual atmosphere.
After visiting Ranakpur, you will continue your journey to Udaipur, the romantic "City of Lakes".
After your arrival you can check in at the hotel and relax. The rest of the evening is at your disposal - enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city or explore the surroundings at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
DAY 9:
After breakfast, you will set off to discover the timeless charm of Udaipur, where every corner reflects royal elegance and cultural depth.
You start with the magnificent City Palace, which was built in 1559 and sits picturesquely over Lake Pichola. The complex combines Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and takes you through impressive courtyards, artfully designed balconies and important areas such as the Durbar Hall, the Crystal Gallery and the Palace Museum. Each of these places tells exciting stories from the history of the Mewar dynasty.
Afterwards you will visit the Jagdish Temple, an artfully designed sanctuary and an excellent example of Indo-Arian architecture.
Then continue to Saheliyon Ki Bari, an enchanting garden with fountains, marble pavilions and lush vegetation, once serving as a retreat for the royal ladies.
In the Lok Kala Mandal you will immerse yourself in the lively popular culture of Rajasthan. Traditional costumes, dolls, masks and musical instruments are presented here, complemented by cultural performances that bring the rich heritage of the region to life.
Afterwards you will visit Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts center that impressively presents the traditions and crafts of the villages of Rajasthan.
In the late afternoon you stroll through the narrow streets of Udaipur down to the Ghats at Lake Pichola and enjoy the special atmosphere of the old town.
The day ends with a quiet boat trip on Lake Pichola, while the setting sun dips the palaces and water in golden light.
Overnight stay in Udaipur.
DAY 10:
After breakfast you drive to Pushkar, one of the most sacred and atmospheric pilgrimage towns in India.
After your arrival you check in at the hotel and you can first relax.
Later you explore the spiritual charm of Pushkar. You begin at the holy ghats of Lake Pushkar, which is surrounded by temples and is credited with a purifying and healing effect.
Afterwards, you will visit the revered Brahma Temple, the only temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma – an extraordinary spiritual landmark.
Spend the rest of the day strolling through the vibrant Bazaars of Pushkar, which delight with colorful handicrafts, local art, and traditional Rajasthani culture.
Overnight stay in Pushkar.
DAY 11:
After breakfast you check out of the hotel and drive to the beautiful city of Jaipur, which is known as the "Pink City" of India.
The journey takes you to a region full of royal history, where culture and tradition come alive at every corner.
After your arrival you check in at the hotel and can get some rest.
Jaipur is famous for its characteristic pink architecture, magnificent palaces and impressive fortresses that impressively reflect the royal life of the Rajputs.
Equally fascinating are the lively bazaars of the city, offering a varied shopping experience with traditional handicrafts, textiles and fine jewelry.
In the evening you have the opportunity to explore the local markets and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this colorful city.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
DAY 12:
After breakfast, you will set off for a full-day tour of Jaipur, the royal "Pink City".
Your day begins with an impressive ride up to the Amber Fort, where you climb the magnificent fortress and experience its fascinating mix of Rajput architecture, Halls of Mirrors and wide views of the Aravalli Hills.
Afterwards you will visit the Nahargarh Fort, which was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as a strategic defense. Located high above the city, it offers spectacular panoramic views over Jaipur, especially in soft evening light.
Continue to the mystical Galta Ji Temple, also called "Ape Temple", embedded in the hills of the Aravalli. Known for its natural springs, sacred water basins and the macaques living there, this place combines spirituality with living nature.
Afterwards, you will explore the magnificent City Palace Jaipur, which reflects the royal heritage of the city with its mixture of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture to this day.
Afterwards you will visit the Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory from the 18th century. Century with impressive instruments for observing time, stars and movements of the sky.
The end of the day is the famous Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of the Winds", an architectural masterpiece with 953 windows that once allowed the royal ladies to observe life on the streets unobserved.
After a day full of history, architecture and cultural impressions, you will return to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Jaipur.
DAY 13:
After breakfast you go to Agra. On the way you will make a fascinating stopover in the historic town of Fatehpur Sikri, a masterpiece of the 16th century. Century, which was built by Emperor Akbar.
You will explore the impressive buildings of this former Mughal capital, including the elegant Panch Mahal, a five-story palace, and the imposing Buland Darwaza, one of the tallest palaces in the world. It was built to celebrate Akbar's victory over Gujarat and reflects the architectural brilliance and vision of the Mughal era.
Then you will continue your journey to Agra, a city on the banks of the Yamuna River, known for its rich Mughal heritage and timeless monuments.
After arrival you check in at the hotel and can relax. The rest of the day is at your disposal to let the impressions work or to explore Agra at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Agra.
DAY 14:
Start your day early with a visit to the world-famous Taj Mahal, a timeless symbol of love and one of the most impressive buildings in the world.
Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this masterpiece made of ivory-white marble impresses with its special light effect: soft pink at sunrise, bright white by day and golden in moonlight. The sunrise at the Taj Mahal is considered a particularly magical and unforgettable moment.
Then you return to your hotel for breakfast.
Later you will visit the majestic Agra Fort, an imposing Mughal fortress that fascinates with its impressive architecture and rich history. You will explore important areas such as the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audiences), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audiences) and the beautiful Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors).
Afterwards, you will be supported by our representative with a smooth transfer to Delhi Airport, from where you will take your return flight home.
With the end of your journey you will not only take memories with you, but also the essence of an unadulterated India - rich, touching and unforgettable.
YOUR HOTELS
Dehli: *****LaLiT New Delhi
Mandawa: *****LaLiT Mandawa
Bikaner: *****LaLiT Bikaner
Jaisalmer: *****Luxury Tent Camp Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer: *****Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa
Jodhpur: *****Ajit Bhawan
Udaipur:*****The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace
Pushkar:*****The Ananta Spa & Resort
Haipur: *****The LaLiT
Agra: *****Grand Mercure
INCLUDED SERVICES
Accommodation in a double or twin room (twin/double sharing) with breakfast in the above hotels or equivalent accommodation.
Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi.Camel ride with traditional folklore dance show and dinner at the Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer.
Enjoy a picturesque boat trip on Lake Pichola with stunning views of palaces and Ghats.
Jeep/Elephant ride to climb to Amber Fort in Jaipur.
Arrival and departure assistance at the airport and train station.
One bottle of water per person daily throughout the trip.
All visits and transfers in the private, air-conditioned sedan vehicle according to itinerary as well as a professional, well-kept
English-speaking (easy understandable) driver for the entire trip.
Full support by representatives of Unfiltered Experiences on arrival and departure.
All applicable state taxes.
NOT INCLUDED
Insurance of any kind.
Entrance fees for monuments.
Flight costs (national and international).
Indian visa (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/index.html)
Personal expenses.
Anything that is not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary or is considered "optional" or "at your own expense".
GOOD TO KNOW
Subject to change
The offer is valid without flight - but this is available
Upgrade to 5-star hotels possible
Implementation and organization of the trip through our unfiltered experiences
T&C
