Rajasthan

Adventurers gather in Toronto for the overnight flight to Delhi.

Arriving in the evening in Delhi, we are met and transferred to our hotel.

Le Meridien Hotel (3 nights)

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day, allowing yourself time to relax. Our tour of Old Delhi starts with a visit to the bustling laneways and shops of Chandni Chowk Bazaar, followed by the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque designed by Shah Jahan. In complete contrast to Old Delhi, we will head to Raj Ghat, a serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Lastly, we will marvel at the Red Fort, yet another 17th-century masterpiece by Shah Jahan. Unfortunately, the fort was plundered by the marauding armies of Nadir Shah and British soldiers after its construction.

We begin our exploration of the planned city of New Delhi with a visit to the Qutab Minar, a towering stone monument built to symbolize the rich Islamic heritage and architectural brilliance of the time. Nearby is Humayun's Tomb, a wonderful example of Mughal architecture. Passing through the capital, we shall view India Gate, the Presidential Palace, and Parliament. After lunch, we will visit Akshardham Temple, a sprawling 100-acre complex featuring well-maintained lawns, water fountains, carved pavilions, and 234 ornate pillars.

Today we fly to Jaisalmer, the legendary fortress city that rises majestically from the desert. High walls and towers of yellow sandstone surround the Golden Fort, which has protected the city from invaders for centuries. Visit the Lodurva village, once the thriving capital of the Bhatti Rajputs during the 12th century. Today, it is renowned for its Jain temples, carved from bright yellow sandstone. The magnificence of these Jain temple ruins is truly inspiring.

Rang Mahal (3 nights)

Jaisalmer Fort and the Old Town are known for their traditional havelis (palaces), adorned with delicate jali(lattice wood screens), elegantly carved doors, and elaborate Jain temples dating from the 12th to 16th centuries. Walk through the narrow streets of the fort, visiting a few of the finest havelis. Explore the local bazaars and venture outside the walls to the oasis of Gadi Sagar. This afternoon, we will have free time, giving us the opportunity to explore the Old Town on our own or relax at our hotel.

Step into a realm of rustic charm as we head beyond the city to catch a glimpse of rural life in the villages of Kuldhara and Khaba in Rajasthan’s desert. Prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Desert Festival, brimming with vibrant colors and mesmerizing splendour. Cheer on the swift camels as they race to victory and witness the incredible Dhora Dhor (Ox Cart) races. End the night with an electrifying showcase of folk music, dance, and fireworks.

Drive into the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert, where we will stay in Samsara, a permanent camp nestled by the dunes. Here we will have the rare opportunity to experience desert life, nomadic culture, wildlife encounters, and beautiful landscapes. In the late afternoon, a jeep safari will take us to a tribal village, where we can watch local artisans at work and appreciate the captivating desert sunset. This evening savour dinner under the stars, accompanied by local folk music and kalbelia dances.

Samsara Desert Camp (1 night)

Rising early, we can view the sunrise on a scenic camel ride before breakfast and departing for Jodhpur. During our walking tour, we will explore the lively bazaars of Jodhpur, filled with textiles, jewellery, leather works, lacquer, food and more.

The Ummed Hotel (2 nights)

Overlooking Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort boasts soaring archways, palaces decorated with carved stoned lattice balconies and mirrored walls. Other highlights include Jaswant Thada, the Clock Tower and the Sardar Market, known for its spices. Taste delectable Rajasthani cuisine at
Khas Bagh a boutique hotel exuding Victorian elegance, featuring Raj Period memorabilia and vintage cars.

Departing early, we head south to the Jain Temple of Ranakpur. Built in the 15th century, this is one of the five holiest places for Jains. It contains over 1,444 hand carved marble pillars, each unique and exquisite. One pillar, carved from a single stone, has 108 snakeheads and bodies. This afternoon we arrive in the City of Lakes, Udaipur, cradled in the hills of the Aravalli Range.

Fateh Niwas Hotel (2 nights)

Visit the impressive City Palace, the focal point of the city, and Fateh Prakash Palace containing the world’s largest collection of crystals. After lunch, we set out on a heritage walk through the dynamic markets, offering a glimpse of modern India with roots steeped in tradition. This evening we cruise on Lake Pichola, surrounded by the splendid hills of the Aravalli Range, magnificent palaces and temples. At the heart of the lake is Jag Mandir, the Lake Palace where we will stop for a visit.

Our journey takes us to Deogarh's rural hub, where we partake in the thrilling escapade of the Rural Ramble—an off-road vehicle expedition. Traverse the countryside, observing the locals tending to their fields and cattle. Encounter a cave temple with a shrine devoted to Lord Shiva. Enjoy panoramic vantage point views of the countryside, then pause by a lake for refreshments and bird watching. Tonight, we will stay in one of the magnificent castles of Rajasthan.

Deogarh Mahal (1 night)

After breakfast, we head north along the Amjer Highway to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Known as the Pink City for its rose-colored buildings, Jaipur is home to the famous Amber Palace and revered craftwork in jewelry, enamel, and printed textiles.

Radisson Jaipur City Center 

(3 nights)

Take an elephant (if available) to the Amber Palace fortress, featuring elegant rooms like the Jag Mandir and the stunning Sheesh Mahal. Marvel at the intricately carved Hawa Mahal, known as the Palace of Winds. Later take a guided walk through the Pink City’s offbeat streets and markets where the authentic way of life remains undisturbed. Tonight, we will be treated to a home-hosted vegetarian dinner with a local family where we will share stories about life in modern India.

Following a leisurely start to our morning, we depart on a short drive into the country. We arrive in the village of Sanganer, noted for its local textile block printing and handmade paper. The results are unique for their bright colours printed on white backgrounds. Back in Jaipur, we will have free time to explore the local bazaars, followed by a visit to Raj Mandir, a well-known Indian theatre to watch a Bollywood movie.

Enjoy lunch at the Bagh in Bharatpur and admire the lovely parklike setting. Nearby is the legendary Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and deserted merely 14 years later due to water scarcity. This ghost city displays the magnificence and opulence of the Mughal Empire. We arrive in Agra this afternoon, one of the most important centres in Moghul India.

Grand Mercure (2 nights)

Built by Emperor Akbar between 1565-1573, Agra Fort displays the Mughal talent of blending exquisite design with defensive architecture. Visit the intricately crafted Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in 1630 to house the remains of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This architectural masterpiece, sculpted from pristine white marble, stands as a testament to the 17 years of dedication by 20,000 artisans from Persia, Turkey, France, and Italy who contributed to its completion - a true "Love Poem in Marble". Enjoy another view of the Taj from the Itimad-ud daulah, across the River Yamuna.

The final resting place of Akbar the Great, located 13 km from the Agra Fort, Sikandra Fort is one of the best preserved monuments in India. Surrounded by a lush garden, the fort houses a tomb that reflects the legacy of the great emperor. With beautiful and intricate carvings marking a phenomenal beginning to his end. We then head back to Delhi to an airport hotel where we will have rooms to freshen up (four people per room). This evening we transfer to the airport to begin our journey back to Canada.

Pride Plaza Aerocity (rooms to refresh)

We arrive Toronto in the morning and continue to our homes across Canada.