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16 Nights/17 Days

Delhi –Mandawa –Samode village - Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Khimsar – Nagur - Jodhpur
kumbalgarh – Ranakpur - Udaipur -Jaipur – Agra – Delhi

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive Delhi

Arrive Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Meet & Greet at the airport by Recreation Travel’s representatives. Escorted transfer to your hotel by air-conditioned vehicle.

Delhi stands as the capital of Modern India. Here you can see the mingling of the Old and New India, the ancient and the modern. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors, which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages.

Day 02 Old & New Delhi

After Breakfast Proceed to the Old Delhi tour was an ancient walled city. Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in 1650 switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Here you will see Red Fort, the most opulent Fort and Palace of the Mughal Empire. The fort is Shah Jehan's symbol of power and elegance, built behind red sandstone walls. Also visit Raj Ghat, the memorial site of the Mahatma Gandhi; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India;

New Delhi was designed and built by the British in the 1920's-it's a city of wide boulevards impressive Government buildings, green parks and gardens. In 1911 King George V announced the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, past the imposing India Gate and Parliament House & President House. You will visit the monuments Humayun's Tomb and Qutub Minar. Overnight stay.

Day 03 Delhi – Mandawa 260 kms /4-½ hrs

Today drive to Mandawa - The region lies the triangular area between Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner and includes Jhunjhuniun, Sikar and Churu districts of Rajasthan. Upon arrival check in to Hotel.

Afternoon visit the Mandawa (Shekhawati). The semi-desert region of Shekhawati is popularly known as the 'open-air art gallery' of Rajasthan. Shekhawati is unique as no-where else in the world there is such a hundreds of Haveli’s, temples, cenotaphs, wells and forts. Later visit to Havelies in Mandawa notably the Chokhani Saraf & Ladia Havelies, also visit Temples. The terrace of the rugged Fort provides a panoramic view of the town. See the extraordinary frescoes on the walls of the houses and medieval painting of Shekhawati. Overnight stay.

Day 04 Mandawa- Samode 180 KMS/ 4 hrs

After breakfast drive to Samode, with fairy-tale palace. Samode Palace was built in the late 19th century by a kinsman (and Prime Minister) of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Its Rang Mahal ("Palace of Colors") is a little gem of ornamentation, with its gilded and painted walls and mirror-worked ceilings. Beyond this lies Sheesh Mahal, with its dazzling inlays of mirror-work and glass, and painted friezes of hunts and durbar scenes. The palace, now a romantic hotel, was used as a location for a film based on The Far Pavilions

On arrival check-in at hotel. Afternoon camel ride from Samode Palace to Samode Bagh & also visit Palace & nearby village. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 05 Samode - Bikaner 190 kms /3-½ hrs

Morning drive to Bikaner - it lies on the northern point on the triangle of desert cities. It is royal walled city dating back to 1486 AD. It was established by a Rathore Prince, Bika & came to be called to be Bikaner after him. It was, however, a major trade center as it stood on the ancient caravan route which link central Asia & north India with the Gujarat Sea Ports. Afternoon embark on a tour of Bikaner City; visit the Junagarh Fort, built in 1611 AD. The palaces worth visiting are Anup Mahal, Karan Mahal, and Bijai Phool Mahal. Overnight stay.

Day 06 Bikaner – Jaisalmer 300 kms / 6 hrs

After early breakfast to Jaisalmer - Jaisalmer, the ancient citadel on the Caravan route linking India with Persia, Arabia and The Mediterranean. This architectural in the 12th Century by Jaisal, a Bhatti Prince. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Few cities in the world can match the Magnificence. Jaisalmer is renowned for its intricately carved & chiseled Haveli’s (Mansions), which illustrate superb craftsmanship. Overnight stay

Day 07 Jaisalmer – Sam sand Dunes 45 kms

Morning embark half day tour of Jaisalmer fort. Afterwards visit to the Gadisar Tank & large houses of the merchant called havelies, some of them dating to the Premediaval Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Shah Haveli and Nathamal Ki Haveli with their intricately carved screens on the facades and the typical traditional architecture

Afternoon Desert Camel Safari starts for Sam Sand Dunes on edge of Desert National Park. Located in the midst of Thar Desert this camp recreates the magical atmosphere of a traditional Mediaeval Desert Camp on a trade route. The Camp provides for all the comforts. The accommodation consists of Swiss Cottage Type tents with attached baths having running hot & cold water. After spending few hours on a camel safari in the Thar Desert, Guests can relax & spend the evening around the campfire, enjoying live music and dance performances by “Langha” Tribe of Professional singers.

Day 08 Jaisalmer – Khimsar 310 kms

Morning countryside drive to Khimsar – perched on the edge of the Great Thar Desert in the heart of rural India. “Khimsar Dunes Village” is newly developed Desert resort is situated in outskirts of Khimsar. This resort lies in the heart of seven Dunes measuring 8 kms in circumantnce and a reservoir in the center makes it a perfect Oasis of Peace. Village Hutments known as Dhanis- the interiors of the Cottages are truly ethnic mud plastered walls with an earthen color palette. Khimsar fort – it offers a wide range of experiences. The battle-scarred walls and turrets remind you of its glorious past as a center of much warfare, as well as commerce and trade. The initial construction began in 1523, but the family moved in during the 18th century when a new ‘zanana’ (ladies wing) was constructed. Thakur Onkar Singh built a regal wing for himself in the 1940s. Today, the Khimsar Fort ranks high among the premier classified heritage hotels of India. Today enjoy the silence and tranquility of the Thar Desert. Overnight stay.

Day 09 Khimsar – Nagaur 43 kms

After breakfast drive to Nagaur – a fortified city amidst the Thar Desert is one of the fascinating towns of Rajputs having a past as chivalrous as the inhabitants of yesteryears. The Mughal Emperor Shahjahan granted the town to Raja Amar Singh Rathore. Some exquisite architectural creations can be seen in this tiny town including a fort, palace, temples and mansion. Especially famous are the exquisite frescoes and lovely murals, which are a blend of Persian and the typical Nagaur Styles. Besides its exquisite architectural creations, Nagaur is the venue of and annual Cattle Fair held in January-February. The town comes alive during the seven-day festival, when cown, bullocks, horses; oxen and camels throng here accompanied by turbaned sellers and eager buyers. Cock and bull fights, camel races, folk dances and music make the fair a major tourist attraction. Among the popular handicrafts of the town are dyed and printed sarees ‘odhnis’ and glittering brass souvenirs. Places to visit Nagaur fort, Cenotaph of Rao Amar Singh and Tarkin Ki Dargah. Overnight stay.

Day 10 Nagaur – Jodhpur (135 kms)

Morning drive to Jodhpur. Jodhpur – the Great Indian Desert, sites on sand stone hill surrounded by a strong wall, approximately 6 miles long with 7 entry gates. Upon arrival check in hotel. Half day sightseeing of the city includes visit to Meherangarh Fort, drive through the old city and past the Clock Tower near the largest spice bazaar in the sub-continent, visit the Jaswant Thada Cenotaph, the royal cremation site and then proceed to see the most magnificent, modern 20th century Palace, the Umaid Bhavan Palace and its museum – a treasure trove.

Village Safari (By Jeep)- A memorable outing in Jeeps visit various traditional villages seeing local handicrafts viz. stone makers, pottery, hand weaving and also men in their traditional attire, women clad with ancestral silver jewellery, etc. Overnight stay.

Day 11 Jodhpur – Kumbalgarh 270 kms

After breakfast drive to Kumbalgarh – The second principal fortress in Rajasthan after Chittaurgarh, it is perched atop the Aravallis. Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, it extends over 12 km and encloses many temples, palaces and gardens. The fort renovated in the 19th century. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace offers a spectacular bird’s eye view of the surrounding countryside. Close by is the Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary with a rich variety of wildlife. The Fort is accessible only by jeep from Kelwara through the seven gates. Overnight stay.

Day 12 Kumbalgarh – Ranakpur - Udaipur 140 kms

After breakfast leave for Udaipur. Enroute visit to Ranakpur temples of the Jains, built in the 15th century in the lovely valley of Aravallis. It has grand structure & beautiful Sculptures. The 1444 pillars in the temple are different from each other. The magic of light & shade is really awe- inspiring. Later proceed to Udaipur. Upon arrival checking Hotel. Afternoon is free to explore colorful Bazar & Shopping. Over night stay.

Day 13 Udaipur city Tour

Today sight seeing of Udaipur includes The City Palace, drive around Fateh Sagar Lake, Sahelion-ki-Bari (The fountain and flowered garden of Maidens), Partap Smarak: A memorial to the legendary warrior Rana Pratap, Bhartiya Lok Mandal Museum. Remainder of the day is at leisure. Evening is free for own activities. Overnight stay.

Day 14 Udaipur - Jaipur 310 kms

After breakfast country side drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival check in hotel. Rest of the time is free for won activities. Overnight stay.

Day 15 Jaipur city Tour

After early breakfast, Journey back in time at deserted 17th century fortress of Amber Fort. 11 Kms. from Jaipur, Amber Fort is a marvelous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. Go up the fort on the back of a gaily-caparisoned elephant true to the style of the Maharajas of the past. The interiors of the fort have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glasswork complemented by exquisite wall paintings.

Afternoon venture back into the city tour: Visit the City Palace Museum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. The museum is resplendent with its collection of robes of royal princes, carpets, an armory of old weapons, miniature paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes and processions, Also visit the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar (an accurate observatory built in 1726 AD). Also included is a photo visit at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Overnight stay.

Day 16 Jaipur – Agra 232 kms / 5 hrs

After breakfast proceed to Agra. On the way you will visit Fatehpur Sikri- the deserted red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was dramatically abandoned a few years after it was built. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in a pristine condition. It is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur of Shah Jehan, mastermind of the unforgettable Taj Mahal. Upon arrive check in Hotel. Overnight stay.

Taj Mahal 7 wonder of the world

Day 17 Agra – Delhi 200 kms / 4 -½ hrs - Onwards

Today morning drive to Agra. Later visit to Agra Fort – built by the great Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D., the fort is a masterpiece of design and construction. Within the fort are a number of exquisite buildings, including the Moti Masjid, Diwane-I-Am, Diwane-I-Khas and Musamman Burj, where the Emperor Shah Jahan died in imprisonment, besides Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal. Itmad-ud-Daulah built by Empress Noor Jehan in the memory of Her Father

Afternoon drive to Delhi. Say good-bye to this fascinating Land with sweet and memorable memories. Transfer to Indira Gandhi International airport to board the for onward Destination/ Hometown

Inclusion & Highlights

• 16 Nights air conditioned first class Heritage hotel s & Palace with private bath and shower.
• Inclusive of all Hotel Taxes and service charges

• Daily full Buffet Breakfast at hotel restaurant
• During stay in tent Dinner will be served
• Inclusive of Taxes.

• All transfers & sightseeing by First class Air conditioned vehicle.
• Services of English Speaking local Guides.
• All State taxes, toll taxes & Parking Charges.
• All monument entry fees wherever applicable.

• “Traditional Indian welcome” upon arrival in Delhi
• Enjoy comprehensive tours of Experience Princely
• Stand before the world’s most famous monument to love, the Taj Mahal.
• Travel by brightly caparisoned elephant to Jaipur’s Amber Fort.
• Drive down Delhi ’s impressive Rajpath to the India Gate.
• Short Camel safari at Sam Dunes.
• Rajasthani cultural show at Sam dunes in Jaisalmer.
• Village safari in Bishnoi Village to see and meet the Indian people and their cultural
• ort and palaces sights of Heritage Rajasthan