Rajasthan

Members gather in Toronto for the overnight flight to Delhi.

Upon arrival in Delhi, we transfer to our hotel for dinner.

Le Meridien Hotel or similar (3 nights)

Our afternoon tour of Delhi begins with a visit to Akshardham Temple, a sprawling 100-acre complex featuring well-maintained gardens, water fountains, and 234 ornate pillars. Afterward, we’ll visit the bustling 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. We will end the day with a photo opportunity at the 17th-century Red Fort.

Drive past iconic landmarks such as the India Gate, the Presidential Palace, and the Old Secretariat en route to Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO site showcasing exquisite Mughal architecture. After lunch, explore another UNESCO gem, Qutab Minar, featuring India's tallest masonry tower at 72.5 meters, and projecting balconies for the Muadhdhin's call to prayer.

Fly to Jaisalmer, a historic fortress city nestled in the Thar Desert. The majestic Golden Fort, built in the 12th century, has towering yellow sandstone walls that have stood as a bastion against invaders for centuries. Discover Lodurva village, once the vibrant capital of the Bhatti Rajputs, renowned for its Jain temples intricately carved from golden sandstone. 

Rang Mahal (3 nights)

Our captivating tour starts with the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, boasting 99 bastions and steeped in history from battles between the Bhattis, Mughals, and Rathores of Jodhpur. It’s considered the oldest inhabited fort globally, housing over 5000 residents and adorned with Jain and Laxminath Temples. Discover nearby Havelis, beautiful merchant homes, and visit the revered Gadi Sagar Tank, a former lifeline for the city, enveloped by sacred shrines and temples. Enjoy free time this afternoon.

Experience the rustic allure of Rajasthan's villages with visits to Kuldhara and Khaba. An unforgettable evening at the colourful Desert Festival awaits. Cheer on camels as they race to victory and witness the thrilling Dhora Dhor (Ox Cart) races. End the night with an electrifying showcase of folk music, dance, and fireworks.

Onward to the Thar Desert, we arrive at Samsara, a serene camp amidst dunes. Immerse in desert life, nomadic culture, and beautiful vistas. In the late afternoon, an exhilarating jeep safari leads us to a tribal village for sunset views and artisan encounters. Dine under the starlit sky, serenaded by local folk music and mesmerizing Kalbelia dances. 

Desert Camp or similar (1 night)

Rising early, we will view the sunrise on a scenic camel ride. En route to Jodhpur, indulge in a delightful lunch. In the Blue City, join a walking tour through vibrant bazaars teeming with textiles, jewelry, leather goods, lacquerware, and delectable treats. 

Novotel Jodhpur (2 nights)

Marvel at Mehrangarh Fort's grandeur, adorned with intricate lattice balconies and mirrored walls, offering panoramic views of Jodhpur. Explore the Jodhpur Museum and Jaswant Thada. Drive past the Clock Tower and Sardar Market, famous for spices. Indulge in Rajasthani cuisine at Khas Bagh, a Victorian-style hotel showcasing Raj Period memorabilia and vintage cars.

Today, we head to the sacred Jain Temple of Ranakpur, one of Jainism's holiest sites. Admire its 15th-century architecture, featuring 1,444 intricately hand-carved marble pillars, including a remarkable pillar with 108 snakeheads and bodies sculpted from a single stone. Later, we arrive in the picturesque City of Lakes, Udaipur, nestled amidst the Aravalli Range hills. 

Fateh Niwas (2 nights)

Explore the majestic City Palace, dominating the lakefront, with a museum showcasing a diverse collection of glass, porcelain, and miniature paintings. Next, discover the intricately crafted Jagdish Temple and Saheliyon Ki Bari, a serene garden adorned with fountains, stone elephants, and a lotus pool. After lunch, embark on a scenic cruise on Lake Pichola, passing by the enchanting Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir, both iconic island palaces.

We journey to Deogarh's rural heartland for the exhilarating Rural Ramble; an off-road adventure through the countryside. Marvel at panoramic vistas as locals tend to their fields and cattle. Take a serene break by a lake for refreshments and birdwatching. Tonight, experience the splendour of Rajasthan by staying in one of its magnificent castles. 

Deogarh Mahal (1 night)

The Pink City of Jaipur, India's first planned city, captivates with its forts, splendid palaces and gardens, all built from pink plastered stone.

Radisson City Center or similar (3 nights)

We begin our exploration at the Amber Fort, showcasing exquisite Rajput architecture. Next, we delve into Jaipur's regal history at the City Palace and Museum, residence of former Jaipur royalty. Later, we visit the Jantar Mantar observatory, revealing ancient instruments that measure the positions of stars and planets, and calculate eclipses. Tonight, savour a home-hosted vegetarian dinner with a local family, exchanging tales of modern Indian life.

Enjoy a relaxed morning before setting off on a brief drive to the countryside. Arrive in Sanganer village, celebrated for its traditional textile block printing and handmade paper. Marvel at the vibrant colours against white backgrounds. Return to Jaipur for leisure time to explore. Cap off the day with a visit to Raj Mandir, a renowned Indian theatre, for a Bollywood movie screening.

En route to Agra, we pause at the legendary Fatehpur Sikri, constructed in 1569 by Emperor Akbar. Abandoned after just 14 years due to water scarcity, its architecture showcases a fusion of Hindu and Islamic styles.

Grand Mercure (2 nights)

Explore Agra Fort, a testament to Emperor Akbar's architectural prowess, blending exquisite design with defensive structures. Admire the Taj Mahal, a masterpiece crafted by Shah Jahan in 1630 to honour his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Sculpted from pristine white marble, it stands as a symbol of enduring love, crafted over 17 years by 20,000 artisans from Persia, Turkey, France, and Italy. Experience another perspective of the Taj from Itimad-ud Daulah, across the River Yamuna. Conclude the day with a visit to Sikandra Fort, the final resting place of Akbar the Great. This well-preserved monument, surrounded by lush gardens, houses the tomb of the revered emperor, reflecting his enduring legacy in Indian history.

We will proceed to a Delhi airport hotel to freshen up (four people per room). Later tonight, we transfer to the airport to commence our journey back to Canada.

Pride Plaza Aerocity or similar

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