Desert Kingdoms of Rajputana
All Vegetarian

On your Desert Kingdoms of Rajputana adventure, you’ll step back in history and experience first hand the timeless beauty of a regal and meticulously preserved past, where Rajput rulers, colorful-bustling bazaars, ancient marble-sculptured temples, magnificent palaces, caravanning camels, formidable badlands & exotic wildlife are the norm!

ITINERARY

Day 1   Arrival in Delhi

Namaste! Welcome to India! On arrival, your Adventure Leader will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. There are no planned activities for today. After your long flight, you may want to freshen up and relax. If you arrive early and feel like going out to see the city, just talk with your Adventure Leader who will be on hand to assist you with directions, give you information on places to see, organize transport and point you in the right direction. Make sure you get plenty of rest today as we will start early in the morning tomorrow. This evening, there will be a group orientation meeting complete with traditional North Indian snacks and drinks where you'll have the opportunity to get to know your Adventure Leader and fellow travelers. (Snacks/Dinner)

Day 2   Kishangarh

Today, we set out into the desert traveling to the kingdom of Kishangarh. Founded by a Jodhpur prince four centuries ago, the kingdom flourished with its military prowess and fortunes earned as a member of the Mughal court. Here, we’ll be staying at the Maharajah’s monsoon palace that was built in 1870 just outside the walls of the massive Kishangarh Fort. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax before we head into the village exploring the colorful bazaar and centuries old streets of this founded in 1611 AD princely state. During our stay, be on the lookout for kites, peacocks, herons and wild ducks that call the nearby fields and monsoon fed lake home. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 3   Bikaner

Founded in 1488, Bikaner is a lively desert outpost surrounded by scattered sand dunes. Located on the ancient caravan routes, Bikaner was built as a trading center centuries ago. The charm of its golden days is still evident in the forts, palaces and havelis that fill the city.   After freshening up at the hotel, we’ll explore the impregnable Junagarh Fort before setting out for the village of Deshnok to visit the 600-year-old Karni Mata Temple, home to hundreds of rats who roam freely as they are considered sacred. Dinner tonight will be at one of the nearby palaces located just a short distance from our hotel. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4   Jaisalmer

The enchanting walled city of Jaisalmer rises out of the Thar Desert like a scene from a movie. On the crossroads of the ancient trading routes, Jaisalmer is a culturally rich city dotted with dozens of palaces and havelis. The mere sight of the walled citadel takes us back hundreds of years and evokes a vivid picture of the mystery and magic of the desert. After freshening up, we’ll journey together through the storybook-like streets and old bazaars of the walled city, visiting the old Palace of the Maharaja.  You’ll have the evening free to explore the winding narrow streets of this ancient citadel and have dinner on your own. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 5   Jodhpur

Graced by palaces, temples and forts, the 15th century city of Jodhpur is brought to life by its exquisite handicrafts, artisans, musicians and brightly attired Marwari locals.  Exploring the maze of winding narrow streets and coarse stone buildings, we’ll venture to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the blue city on a rocky ridge. After exploring the fort, we’ll head to the bustling old city bazaar where you’ll have the evening free to explore on your own. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 6   Bhadrajun

In the morning, we travel to the rustic yet charming village of Bhadrajun. Here, we’ll be staying as guests of the Raja (equivalent of a Lord) at his 16th century palace residence. In this picturesque village, we have the opportunity to experience Rajasthan well off the beaten track. After a tasty lunch and exploring the streets of Bhadrajun, we’ll head into the desert visiting a nearby village and local Jain temple for aarti (Hindu ritual). At nightfall, we’ll return to the palace for traditional local drinks and a candlelight dinner as personal guests of the Raja’s family. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7   Bhadrajun

After yoga on the palace walls, we’ll visit a local rural school before going to a Bishnoi village. The Bishnois are strict vegetarians and have been strong environmentalists for centuries. Known for their protection of the trees and wildlife that surround their villages, the Bishnois are self-sustaining and many of their villages, like the one we visit today – look similar to the way they’ve looked for hundreds of years. Later, we go by jeeps out to a remote Hindu temple dating back over 3,000 years for their aarti ceremony. In the evening, we meet on the ramparts of the palace with breathtaking views overlooking the village and desert for dinner and a colorful evening of traditional music and dance. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8   Aranyawas

After breakfast, we drive to the magnificent 15th century Ranakpur Jain temple - one of the 5 holiest sites in the Jain religion. This awe-inspiring temple sprawls over 48,000 sq. ft., has 20 domes and is supported by 1,444 pillars. Later, we head up into the Aravalli Mountains to Aranyawas, a serene hillside eco-retreat surrounded by forests, rivers and small villages. This is our home for the next two days, where we stay in cottages with scenic views. The food prepared here is not only vegetarian, but also organic, with many of the vegetables grown in their own garden. At sunset, we hike into the fields where we’ll pick the veggies we’ll be using in tonight’s cooking class. Rolling up our sleeves, we’ll all pitch in under the guidance of the chef, where we’ll not only learn, but also cook, tonight’s meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9   Aranyawas

Today, we journey to the formidable medieval citadel of Kumbhalgarh. This massive fortress, dating back to the 15th century, rises 1,100 meters from a prominent ridge and is encompassed by a 20-mile long defensive wall. It has 7 majestic gates, 7 ramparts, several soaring watchtowers and rounded bastions making it nearly impregnable. It boasts excellent panoramic views of the Shero Mallah Valley. After spending the afternoon at Kumbhalgarh, we head back to Aranyawas for a late lunch before hiking to a nearby village. As the evening approaches, we’ll settle down back at the retreat for a night of traditional Bhil tribal music, dance, drinks and of course - more tasty food! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10 & 11   Udaipur

The enchanting oasis city of Udaipur, often referred to as the Venice of the East, is one of the most romantic cities in India. Surrounded by lakes and rich in history, we’ll spend our time here taking in the alluring princely charm of Rajasthan visiting stunning palaces, ancient temples and vibrant bazaars. One of the highlights of our stay here is our visit to a very special animal rescue organization known as Animal Aid. Located in a nearby village, they not only offer a hospital, but a home for the abused and neglected animals of the city. On our last night, we’ll sample the tastiest cuisine the oasis town has to offer – a Mewari feast at a local Rajput family’s house while enjoying traditional live music and sipping on a juice or a cold beer. (Breakfast (x2), Lunch (x2), Dinner (x2))

Day 12   Khempur

From Udaipur, we make our way to the remote Khempur Haveli. Nestled on the edge of a scenic village awarded to the ancestors of the noble family who reside here almost four centuries ago by the Mewar King for saving his life, the history of Ravla Khempur, as the haveli is also known (Ravla is the title given to the house of a village chieftain), dates back to 1628 AD. While in Khempur, we’ll visit the former seat of power of the Mewari people, Chittorgarh. Founded in the 7th century, this massive citadel echoes with tales of valor being conquered 3 times, each time the outcome was “jauhar” where the women and children emolliated themselves while the men rode out to certain death. Later, we return to Khempur to explore the village before settling down for sunset drinks and an evening of traditional village music, dance and a feast of local Mewari cuisine. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13   Roopangarh

After our morning yoga, we’ll travel to the historical village of Roopangarh, once a hub of activity as it was located strategically on one of the main routes of the Mughals. Built by Maharaja Roop Singh in 1648, we’ll be staying at Roopangarh Fort Palace, a captivating example of Rajput defensive architecture. Inside its intimidating 9 turreted fortifications are underground passageways, armories and medieval granaries, all evidence of its chivalrous past. The Maharajas here were also patrons of the arts and the area’s miniature paintings are well known throughout India. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 14   Bharatpur

In the morning, we set out for Bharatpur, home of the World Heritage Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. After checking in to our hotel and freshening up, we’ll head into the national park. A haven of wetlands and forests, the sanctuary is home to over 400 species of birds including a selection of herons believed to be among the best in the world as well as a wide variety of other wildlife. We’ll explore the park by bicycle traversing the back trails of the sanctuary with our naturalist before returning to our hotel for snacks, drinks and dinner around the campfire. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 15   Bharatpur

In the morning, we’ll visit the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar, the well-preserved ruins were the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585 AD before being deserted. After exploring this ancient city, we’ll head out for Agra where we’ll visit India’s most famous landmark – the stunning Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal of course needs no introduction, and is a remarkable mausoleum built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his favorite wife – Mumtaj Mahal.  In the evening, we’ll gather around the campfire back at the hotel for snacks, drinks and a farewell dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 16   Delhi

Today we travel to Delhi where our adventure ends after lunch. If you would like to extend your stay at the hotel here or for any onward assistance, please contact your Adventure Leader who will be more than happy to help. (Breakfast, Lunch)

All prices listed for each adventure are per person in US Dollars. The tour prices do not include international airfare, airport taxes, visa fees, travel insurance, tips, items of personal nature, laundry, still/video camera fees at sites (as applicable) or any additional transport, meals, drinks and/or other activities outside and which are not listed in the adventure itinerary or details section of each tour.

It is compulsory and the responsibility of all  travelers to obtain their own travel insurance. The travel insurance must provide coverage against personal accident, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability. We also recommends that the traveler obtain additional coverage for flight cancellations, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal affects.

Please forward your confirmed arrival details at least 3 weeks before your adventure dates, including arrival time and flight number to us via email or post so we can arrange to meet you at the airport. All arrival airport transfers are already included in the tour price. The departure airport transfer is not included as many people like to stay on for a few extra days longer. However, we can help to arrange a taxi transfer from the hotel to the airport for you upon request.

Due to flight schedules, you may require additional accommodation at the beginning and/or at the end of your adventure. Please let us know once you get your airline confirmed if you will need additional night’s accommodation so we can make the arrangement for you. Additional night’s accommodation per room (double occupancy) per day is as follow:

• US$53 in Delhi
• US$55 in Kuala Lumpur

Adventures run on a twin share basis so single travelers don’t have to pay a single supplement. If you are a single traveler, we will pair you up with another group member of the same sex, who you would share a room with throughout the tour. However, if you are a single traveler and would like to have a room to yourself, a single supplement would be charged. Single supplement charges are as follows:

• US$360 for Desert Kingdoms of Rajputana
• US$495 for Buddhas, Beasts, Badlands & Beaches
• US$425 for Rainforests, Reefs, Cultures & Cuisines

Please make sure your passport is valid for 6 months beyond the duration of the scheduled tour, as this is a standard requirement of most countries. Also, please make sure that you have obtained all the appropriate visas needed for your travels. We cannot accept the responsibility if you are refused the entry to a country because you lack the correct visa documentation. Please consult your physician for vaccinations and other personal medical necessities including preventative medicines as may be recommended by your doctor.

We do not use animals on our tours for expeditions, rides and/or safaris. Laws concerning the humane treatment of animals are lacked and rarely enforced in the countries our tours go to. Although there are exceptions, many animals such as horses, camels & elephants are often mistreated, forced to work long hours and live in poor conditions without proper care. Should you individually decide to engage activities where animals are used - such as safaris - please check to see that the animals you are renting have been treated well and that their living and working conditions are humane. Thank you for your understanding.

*  We can arrange your international flight at very affordable prices. From $800 to $1200

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