RECOMMENDED
DURATION

10 Days, 9 Nights
MOST PROMINENT
THEMES

Classic
BEST TIME
TO TRAVEL

September - March

In the Land of Palaces and Kings

A Gateway to India's North

A wistful melody pervades the corridors of an ancient palace, as a folk artist romances his harmonium. The hustle and bustle of a city market reveals flavours of local cuisine, indigo drapes that have travelled from the countryside. An artisan recites chants that translate to a Mughal carpet’s weave. At the facade of an exquisite mausoleum, a historian narrates tales of conquest and eternal love.

The journey begins in the capital of India, Delhi, from where it moves to Udaipur, the idyllic city of the moonlit lakes. The path then leads to the blue city of Jodhpur and then makes its way to the city of opulence, Jaipur. The journey comes to a rest in the forgotten city of Fatehpur Sikri, hidden amidst the present day Agra, an exemplary reminder of Mughal glory.

A city of multiple identities, Delhi has seen empires rise and fall over centuries. Walk through the narrow streets of the old city to witness customs long forgotten in its charming bazaars and ancient houses. Marvel at the splendid architecture built by various conquerors, or dig into some delicious Mughlai cuisine. Delhi holds a place for everyone and offers something new with every journey.

Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur seems to be taken right out of a fairy tale. With the undulating Aravalli hills as a backdrop, the charming palaces decorate the many lakes with their reflection. Mewar architecture gives Udaipur a distinct aesthetic, seen most impressively aboard a boat looking toward the east bank where a series of glorious palaces stand.

The city of Jodhpur is immortalised in time in varying hues of blue amid a sea of golden sand. Overlooked by a massive fort perched atop a hill, the city holds in it long traditions of crafts and folk art. Visit the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, or take a stroll through the old markets where you will find craftsmen making lac bangles in one and the strong whiff of spices in another.

Jaipur is a celebration of all things royal and glorious, represented in its exuberant forts and palaces. Admire the exquisite blend of Rajput and Islamic architecture in the Amber Fort and Palace. Walk through the lively markets of the old city taking in the monochromatic walls and savouring local dishes along the way.

The city of Agra, in the midst of modernisation, preserves its magnificent past in iconic mausoleums, elaborate forts, and narrow old-city lanes. Early morning, observe the colours change on the white marble façade of the Taj Mahal. Retrace your steps in history as you walk in the compounds of the Agra Fort and examine the exquisite work of marble inlay in a Persian nobleman’s tomb. End your journey in this magnificent city before heading back to Delhi.

Cities

Agra

Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, Agra is an ornate chest containing the riches and heritage of Mughal era. Known widely for its cherished monument, the city often is cascaded by the magnificence of Taj Mahal. A UNESCO heritage site, Agra is home to sandstone forts and mausoleums, pleasant gardens that stand as relics of a glorious past. Busy cacophonous marketplaces surround these remnants, filling them with life.

Delhi

Delhi is an enchanting medley of influences, one foot deeply grounded in time-revered traditions, whilst the other steps forth confidently into the future. The country's capital is a labyrinth of old structures speckling the suburbs juxtaposed with concrete blocks and crowded avenues. It is one of India's multifaceted cities, embracing diversity, while simultaneously offering the traveller historic masterpieces and a taste of contemporary India.

Jaipur

The gateway to India’s most flamboyant state, Jaipur is peppered with regal palaces, pink sandstone structures, and imposing forts. There is a sense of opulence and opportunity surrounding the city, which has enough palatial hotels, restaurants, and bazaars to satisfy both the locals and tourists. Home to a long tradition of handicrafts, Jaipur is the perfect centre to explore the crafts of Rajasthan, starting with the iconic indigo dyes and block prints.

Jodhpur

Under the protective gaze of the mighty Mehrangarh fort, sprawls languidly the city of Jodhpur. The egg-blue walls of the houses have earned it the name 'Blue City'. Once the capital of the Marwar region, the city prides itself as the incubator of multiple traditions handed down through the centuries. Its heritage, architecture, handicrafts and art traditions have been well-preserved, unsullied by the vagaries of time, providing us a long glimpse into the past.

Udaipur

Amidst the sparse ranges of the Aravallis and the desert, and surrounded by serene lakes lies Udaipur, the romantic getaway of Rajasthan. As the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, it was a high seat of political power, reflected in the grand City Palace on the banks of Lake Pichola. Its long royal history has made it home to several pleasure palaces of princes, some of which have now been converted to opulent heritage hotels.
HOSPITALITY

Ajit Bhawan

Traditional and elaborate in design and theme,
Ajit Bhawan Palace welcomes one into the heart of Rajasthani royalty. With beautifully decorated heritage suites, sumptuous meals, and pleasant hospitality, the Palace is a treat for those who have a penchant for the finer things in life.

Alsisar Haveli

Located in the royal city of Jaipur, Alsisar Haveli is a heritge hotel fit for royals. Built in traditional architecture, the mansion holds regal charm with warm hospitality. Renovated to preserve its culture in its lush gardens, it is at the same time providing modern amenities.

The Claridges

In a combination of 19th-century British aesthetics and the luxuries of the contemporary emerges the Claridges in the capital, located in the colonial Lutyens’ Delhi. Spacious rooms designed to suit the needs of the modern traveller, an array of gastronomic options, and impeccable service have made this one of the premier hotels of Delhi.
EXPERIENCES

Discover the Blue City on foot

Overlooked by a mighty giant called Mehrangarh, Jodhpur retains the glory of its past in its rustic streets. Walk through this blue walled city, built out around the foothills of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort and leading to vibrant and chaotic markets or explore the rocky trails of Rao Jodha Desert Park at sunset.

Spices of the Old Market

Walk through the spice market of Delhi with a historian and discover aromas, tastes, textures, uses of the various spices, at the end of which you get samples to take back home. A gourmet's delight, this journey is bound to stay with you long after you have left the sights and sounds of this historic old city quarter.

Watch a master weaver at work

Visit a village famous for woven dhurries or carpets and observe an artisan performing this meditative craft. Carpets, animal covers and other items are woven in colourful motifs and reversible patterns using cotton fibre, which has replaced the traditional use of animal hair.

Witness the Taj at sunrise

Wake up early to witness the subliminal beauty of the Taj Mahal, as the rays of an early morning sun fall on the faded white walls of the marble monument, creating a
colourful hue.