INDIA: Boutique Grand Rajasthan Small Group Tour - 16 days (Ranthambore National Park)

Destination:  INDIA. Delhi | Agra | Ranthambhore Park | Jaipur | Jodhpur | Jaisalmer | Rohet | Udaipur | Mumbai / Delhi

Tour Commences In:  Delhi

Tour Concludes in:  Udaipur

Number of Days:  16 days / 15 nightd

Tour Style:  Small Group Tour (5 -12)

Accommodation:  Boutique Hotels

Meals:  Breakfasts; 15: Lunches; 1: Dinners; 8:

Leaders: Professional guides

Transportation:  Private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

Tour Grading:  Moderate: Suitable for travellers with an above average level of fitness and mobility

•     Experience New & Old Delhi

•     Discover Raj Gath, Qutab Minar

•     Visit Red Fort, one of the oldest monuments of India

•     Enjoy a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk

•     Be overwhelmed by the Taj Mahal,

•     Discover the history of Agra Fort

•     Visit the Ranthambhore park & spot a Bengal tiger or two

•     Explore the wonderful sites of the ‘pink city’ bazaars

•     Be in awe of magnificent Hawa Mahal façad (Palace of Winds)

•     Visit the Meherangarh Fort and gaze down on the ’blue city’ of Jodhpur

•     Perhaps experience an elephant ride to Amber Fort

•     Enjoy a special ‘cocktail’ moment at one of India’s glorious Palaces

•     Walk Jaipur’s old city and immerse yourself in the buzz of the bazaar

•     Visit the ’golden city’ of Jaisalmer

•     Spend twilight on the sand dunes at Sam Village an perhaps experience a camel ride

•     Enjoy the a ‘glam camping’ moment

•     Be in awe of a brilliant architectural monument comprising of haa, domes and 1444 intricately carved pillars

•     Enjoy a twilight private boat ride on beautiful Lake Pichola

•     Be captivated by Fateh Prakash Palace and visit the unique Crystal Gallery

•     We offer a variety of wonderful hotel experiences

•     Enjoy fabulous regional cuisine

 Day 1:    Arrive Delhi:    (D)
Namaste. Welcome to Delhi; India’s vibrant and chaotic capital city. Upon your arrival at the airport, our team will be there to greet you and ensure your comfortable transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have some free time to begin your exploration of Delhi. Your knowledgeable guide is ready to offer you a range of options, be it sightseeing or shopping.
Later this evening, gather at the hotel lobby to meet your fellow travelers and enjoy dinner at the hotel.
You may wish to arrive a day earlier to shop or maybe just to get your bearings and recover from any jet lag you may have. If you do choose to arrive early, we can extend your hotel booking and provide any information or advice you may need to make the most of your stay even more enjoyable in this exciting city. 

 Day 2:       Delhi:    (B)
This morning, meet the guide for a tour through both the chaotic bustling streets of Old Delhi and the streets of modern New Delhi. Delve into the labyrinthine network of homes, markets, mosques, and winding alleyways that make up Old Delhi. Our journey begins with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in all of Asia. We then embark on a rickshaw ride to explore the vibrant Chandni Chowk, where local artisans still practice their traditional crafts, providing you perhaps with the opportunity to showcase your bargaining skills.
We then drive past the formidable Red Fort, an iconic symbol of the grand Mughal Empire, and take a serene walk through the Raj Ghat, a simple yet profoundly moving memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.
Our journey then continues onto the Khan Market, where you can indulge in some delightful shopping. 
We then traverse Sir Edwin Lutyen's meticulously planned New Delhi, which was inaugurated in 1931 and houses Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the Indian President and the imposing Parliament buildings. As we drive on, we pass by the majestic India Gate, a poignant War Memorial Arch. Our tour also includes a visit to one of the city's most significant World Heritage Sites, the elegantly proportioned tomb of Emperor Humayun. We return to our hotel to prepare for our departure in the morning.

 Day 3:      Delhi - Agra:    (B/D)
Following an early breakfast, we drive to Agra stopping en-route at Sikandra, (4 hours) the impressive tomb of the Mulghal Emperor Akbar. Built in 1605–1613. From here it’s a short drive to Agra. On arrival, we tour the imposing Agra Fort, a fort established by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565. A spectacular hilltop citadel with fabulous courtyards, fountains, gates, opulent chambers and it has breathtaking views of the River Yamuna. We then stopover in a shopping area to view some of Agra’s major handicrafts products including Zari embroidery work, Brassware, Carpets, Jewellery and inlay work on Leather-ware. Agra is also well known for its sweets ’Petha’ and ’Gajak’ and saltish snack ’Dalmoth.
We cross the river to visit the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula, sometimes known as the ‘Baby Taj’  and the least visited of Agra’s three great monuments. It was the first to be covered in white marble and pietra dura.  
Later this afternoon we continue onto visit magnificent Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bag across the river. We shall witness sun set from Mehtab Bag enjoying the stories of love and sacrifice that gave birth to Taj Mahal as the setting sun casts its orange orb on the whitest white dome of Taj Mahal. You will pinch yourself to believe you are here!!

Optional Tour: ( Mohabbat e Taj Show )Mohabbat e Taj Show Ticket Price Time:18:30 to 20:00 

Mohabbat E Taj is a play that depicts the saga of love. The drama is set in the 16th century and portrays the lavishness and grandeur of Mughal era. It also portrays the true and immortal love of Shah Jahan and his beautiful wife Mumtaz. Conceptualized by Ashok Kumar Jain, chairman of Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Centre, it will help in rebuilding the interest in Indian history and culture. The credit of the script and dialogues of the dance drama goes to Jalees Sherwani. The ghazals are sung by Kavita Krishnamurthy and Roop Kumar Rathod. The 80 minute show of the Mohabbat the Taj will be an absorbing experience for the audience. The remarkable performances of the various artists will make you feel very close to the era. 

Day 4:     Agra - Ranthambore:    (B/D)
This morning experience an early morning visit to the Taj Mahal. It’s a mesmerizing site to see, the golden rays of sun bathe  the translucent marble of the Taj Mahal. WOW. It’s an experience of a lifetime. Wander through the serene gardens as our expert guide shares fascinating tales and architectural insights, bringing the monument vividly to life. There will be countless opportunities to capture that perfect photograph of the Taj Mahal with the rising sun as your backdrop. Later return to the hotel for a late breakfast. 
After breakfast we check out and drive to Jaipur. On the way we visit another World Heritage Site of Fatahpur Sikri, now ghost city. It was once the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 – 1585 when it was abandoned. The city was founded in 1569 by the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
We continue our drive to Ranthambhore National Park, which is well known as one of the best spots in the world to view Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. On arrival, check into our wonderful lodge.

Day 5:   Ranthambore:    (B/D)
We’re up early this morning for our jeep safari into the Ranthambore National Park. Our quest is definitely the Royal Bengal Tiger, 75 of them in this jungle. The Park also has other wildlife like leopards, sloth bears, spotted dear, Barah Singha, Kakar, Wild Boar and langur monkeys. In the middle of park, on top of mighty hill is Ranthambore Fort, lending perspective to this beautiful and serene forest. Scores of Banyan trees, (one of them is over 3000 years old) abound the forest. A variety of birds can be seen, like the painted stork, golden Oriole, three different varieties of Kingfisher, white headed Ibis, Peacocks and more. Once the hunting grounds for the Maharaja of Jaipur, the park is now protected area. The park with its Sal forest, grasslands and water bodies is home to a very large variety of wildlife.
We later return to our Lodge for a brunch.
The rest of the day is at you leisure and later this afternoon there is an option for another Safari Tour :Optional:  (extra cost)

Day 6:  Ranthambore - Jaipur:    (B/D)
Optional:  (extra cost)
This morning there is an another optional safari for you.
After brunch we depart Ranthambhore and drive (3 hours) to the fabulous 9th century stepwell, Abhaneri, which is one of the deepest stepwells in India. 
We continue our drive to Jaipur (2 hours) the ‘Pink City’. It is the state capital of Rajasthan. Founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is a highly distinctive and a colourful city characterized by fine bazaars, intricately carved palaces, havelis and powerful forts. It is famous for its handicrafts and precious and semiprecious stones. It is now also famous as it was featured in both Exotic Marigold Hotel movies. Tonight, enjoy a delicious Rajasthani dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7:     Jaipur:    (B)
Arise early this morning for our excursion to the majestic Amber Fort. A magnificent fort palace which sits on top of a hill. In the background on a higher hill is the military fort of Jai Garh. Amber was the capital of the rulers of this area before Jaipur was founded. It is a beautiful Palace with ornate mosaics, mirrors, coloured stone inlays, intricately painted murals, temples and cooling courtyard watercourses and it is now a world heritage site.
Later relish in an expertly curated architectural tour through the old city to explore the colourful markets and bazaars where one can shop for jewellery, beautiful gems, semi-precious stones, kundan (gemstones set in gold) and meenakari work, (enamel work) cotton fabric including sanganeri prints, tie-dye, and fine kota doria, These items and exotic blue pottery and brass ware, make excellent souvenirs and gift items. The bazaars between the Badi (Large) and Chhoti (Small) Chaupar (Square) in the old city of Jaipur feature some of the best photo opportunities that the city has to offer. Our guide will lead us through the labyrinth of colorful alleys where artisans make puppets, bangles, and other local handicrafts.
Discover the magnificent Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its pink sandstone. This five-story high façade is just stunning. We will visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory, a UNESCO World heritage site, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century.

Day 8:    Jaipur  – Jodhpur:   (B)
After breakfast, we drive to Jodhpur, (5 hours) the gateway to the Thar Desert and the one-time capital of ‘Marwar’. The city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, who chose the site due to its strategic location on the influential Delhi – Gujarat trading route and it is home to the dominating Meherangarh Fort.
On arrival, check into our hotel for two nights. This evening is at your leisure.

 Day 9:     Jodhpur:    (B)
We explore the city of Jodhpur including a visit to the Mehrangarh Fort. The Mehrangarh Fort stands high above the blue painted houses of the town below and is protected from the desert by a huge 10km wall, guarded by towers and fortified gateways. 
We then visit Jaswant Thada, built for Maharaja Jaswant Singh ll in 1899; this imposing white marble memorial marks the site of a royal crematorium. Jodhpur is famous for its bangles, local shoes or mojris, pickles, colourful clothing etc. A stroll through the bustling bazaars with our guide gives an amazing photo and shopping opportunities. 

Day 10      Jodhpur:    (B/L)
This morning we visit the arid countryside on a jeep safari. The scrub land is dotted with villages with mud and thatched homes. The Bishnoi’s people are dessert  “The essence of India lies in her villages” – Mahatma Gandhi.
We will stop at a potters house and a weavers place in villages and farms to witness the village life. We later return to Jodhpur in time for a late lunch. (There is also a fabulous jewellery shop next door) After lunch we shall visit one of the biggest collectors of handmade textiles in this region. Their clients include a long list of fashion house like Hermes etc. Their passion for what they do and their knowledge on textiles is amazing. 

Day 11:   Jodhpur – Jaisalmer:    (B/D)
This morning, depart from Jodhpur and drive to the heart of India’s desert to the ancient city of Jaisalmer. (4 ½ hours) Founded in 1156 AD by Racal Jaisal, it is basically a fortified city. Beautiful buildings made of locally mined yellow sandstone give it the nickname of the “Golden City”. Jaisalmer is situated in the great Thar Desert atop the roughly triangular-shaped Trikuta Hill. It has an extraordinary medieval feel and a unique atmosphere. Founded in 1156 by Prince Jaisal, the town grew to be an important stopping point on the trade route across the Thar Desert, to the west, Europe and to the east, China. It was from this trade that Jaisalmer’s wealth and renown grew. On arrival check in to our hotel. Dinner is at our hotel.

Day 12:       Jaisalmer:   (B/D)
The original Jaisalmer is the yellow sandstone fort. It is an imposing sight as it towers magnificently over the new city. Discover the painstakingly latticed havelis and mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver’s skill. We visit some of the beautiful palaces, temples and havelis. Its bazaars are a reminder of the old camel caravans when the region was a trading emporium for splendid carpets, horses from Arabia and wines from Shiraz. You can shop for fine pattu shawls, mirror work and embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewellery and curios. 
This evening enjoy dinner and a cultural program in the desert before returning to our hotel.
Optional:  (extra cost)
Enjoy a sunset camel ride in the surrounding sand dunes. (AU$30.00)

Day 13:      Jaisalmer – Rohet:    (B/D)
This morning we drive to Rohet.  The Homestead  "Rohetgarh" is situated on the banks of a lake and set in the midst of rural surroundings is a magnificent classified Heritage Hotel that has been home to the current owner’s ancestors since 1622. The homestead has sprawling lawns and manicured gardens that invite a multitude of birds and dancing peacocks. The family is proud owner of many horses, which in ancient times were a symbol of royalty.  Here we have a ‘glam-camping’ experience. 

Day 14:     Rohet – Udaipur:    (B)
We depart this morning for Udaipur. Our scenic drive brings us to the beautiful Ranakpur Temple set in a remote and peaceful valley of the Aravalli Hills. (2hrs 15 min) it is one of the biggest and most important Jain temples in all of India. The main temple is the Chamukha Temple with its 29 halls supported by 1,444 pillars and no two of which are alike! We shall have lunch at local Hotel, five minute’s drive from Ranakpur Temple.
Post lunch we continue our journey onto Udaipur. (2hrs 15 min) Udaipur is amongst the most romantic cities of India and is surrounded by the magnificent landscape of the Aravali Hills. It’s also known as the Venice of the East. Udaipur is enchanting. It has a glorious history and is home to the grand palaces, beautiful lakes, temples and ancient forts, traditional Rajasthani cuisine and the traditional architecture providing a true insight to the local culture and heritage. This evening is at your leisure.

Day 15:    Udaipur:    (B/D)
This morning, tour the picturesque city of Udaipur. It begins with a visit of the City Palace, an impressive complex of several palaces standing atop the banks of Lake Pichola. Of interest is the attractive Mor Chowk court, the Manak Mahal or ‘Ruby Palace’, the Chini ki Chitra Mahal and the Queen’s Palace. Continue onto the Fateh Prakash Palace to visit the unique Crystal Gallery overlooking the grand Durbar Hall. We meander through the old town to view the impressively carved Jagdish Mandir temple. In the afternoon we rendezvous and enjoy a cruise on Lake Pichola to admire the serene beauty of Udaipur. Rest of the afternoon is free to browse around the narrow lanes of Old Udaipur. Your guide will be happy to suggest the best local shops.
We also have the option of visiting a painting gallery run by a priest. The gallery was established with the sole purpose of preserving Udaipur School of painting and its last remaining few artisans. You will have the opportunity to interact with many an artisans and appreciate their work. Later this evening we will enjoy our farewell dinner.

 Day 16:   Depart  Udaipur:   (B)
Our small group tour concludes on after breakfast. For most guests today it is time to say farewell to new-found friends and India. 

Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute shopping. We are able to organise our private guide to accompany you.

(Or you may wish to stay here longer ?)

Transfer to the airport for your onward or homebound journey.

Please advise to arrange flights to Delhi / Mumbai (Costs not included in Tour)

Please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.

Our specially curated itineraries are carefully planned and well thought out and we often can find some wonderful surprises. The magic of travelling in such a small group allows us to cater for this spontaneity and it is sometimes these unplanned occurrences that can be the most memorable. The rich tapestry of experiences and the characters you meet along the way will make this guided tour something special and one you will remember for a lifetime. 

Flexibility
The itinerary can be flexible, sometimes due to weather or on-going events which guests may want to see. If there is something else you’d like to do or see on your trip please contact us and we’ll try our best to ensure it can be done. 

A 3 day tour of Mumbai is also available. 

Or join our 

INDIA:  Boutique Gujarat Foodie & Textile Tour – 13 days: Contact us for Information

• A specially curated itinerary for Boutique Tours & Travel

• A Small Group Tour (8- 12 Guests)

• Private international airport arrival and departure transfers for all guests

• Hand selected modern & boutique hotel accommodation

• Meals as indicated in Itinerary; B = Breakfast: L=Lunch: D=Dinner:

• Internet Access where possible 

• Private services of local bilingual cultural foodie & textile tour guide

• Concierge / Bellhop services throughout tour

• 24 hour on call support service 

• Luxury private chauffeur driven luxury air- conditioned vehicles for transfers & sightseeing

• Admission fees to all monuments, activities, excursions and shows as per the itinerary

• Bottled water whilst touring in vehicle

• Porterage, tipping and gratuities

• An exclusive BT&T Travel Information App

• Room Sharing options for singles / solo travellers available  

Not Included:

• International airfares

• Arrival & Departure Taxes, levies or other charges

• Internal Domestic flight ; departing Udaipur

• Passport & Visa Fees

• City Taxes for hotels if required

• Personal Travel Insurance

• Excess baggage charges

• Cost of any ‘luggage delivery’. – via FedEx or postal services

• Late check-out at hotels

• Porterage and gratuities on your arrival at airport and hotel and in free time

• Extra gratuities to tour guides and drivers and others.

• Meals and Alcoholic beverages not included in the itinerary

• Expenditure of personal nature

• Optional activities not included in tour