Forts & Palaces Tour

Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrival at Delhi. On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to hotel. The capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 02: Delhi
Breakfast at hotel.
Full day sightseeing of old Delhi & New Delhi that includes visiting the Raj Ghat - the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent fort and palace of the Moghul Empire,the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial avenue - Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House, the President's Residence, Lotus Temple etc.Also enjoy the cycle rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 03: Delhi - Gwalior
Transfer in time to railway station to board air - conditioned train for Jhansi. Arrive Jhansi. Met with and contune driving to Gwalior en route stopping at Orchha for lunch. Gwalior may have been held by the Guptas or some of their subordinates, but the oldest historical evidence shows the fort was conquered by the Hunas in the early sixth century. The evidence for this is a stone inscription of the time of Mihirakula recording the construction of a temple to the sun god. It is now in India Museum, Calcutta. [3] Subsequently, the Gwalior was taken by Gurjar Pratihars of Kannauj.[4] From inscription found such as Rakhetra stone inscription, scholars assert that Gwalior was under the possession of Gurjara Pratiharas till at least 942-43 A.D.
Arrive Gwalior and check into hotel.
Overnight in Gwalior

Day 03: Gwalior - Agra
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit Gwalior Fort - At the heart of Gwalior is Gwalior Fort, built by Raja Man Singh Tomar, of the Tomar dynasty. This formidable structure was reputed to be one of the most invincible forts of India. It occupies an isolated rock outcrop. Massive Gwalior Fort, popularly called the Gibraltar of India, overlooks the city. Jai Vilas Palace in Lashkar is a marvellous palace museum, part of which is open to the public and gives a glimpse into the life of the royal family. The Fort area is also home of the Scindia School, a well-regarded institution founded by the late Maratha Maharaja Madhavraoji Shinde of Gwalior in 1897.
Continue driving to Agra (approx 110 kms / 2 hours).
Arrive Agra and check into hotel.
Overnight in Agra

Day 04: Agra - Jaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Agra is a medieval city situated on the banks of the river Yamuna. It is generally accepted that Sultan Sikandar Lodi, the Ruler of Delhi Sultanate founded it in the year 1504. After the sultan's death the city passed on to his son Sultan Ibrahim Lodi. He ruled his Sultanate from Agra until he fell fighting to Babur in the First battle of Panipat fought in 1526.

Visit Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
Also sometimes called the Red Fort, was built by Akbar in 1565. The red sandstone fort was renovated and converted into a palace during Shah Jahan's time, and reworked extensively with marble and pietra dura inlay.
Taj Mahal is a beautifully crafted white marble monument of India, a memento of love that was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Continue driving to Jaipur (approx 256 kms/5 hours).Arrive Jaipur and check into hotel.
Overnight in Jaipur

Day 05: Jaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Jaipur is the first planned city of India, located in the desert lands of Rajasthan. The city that once had been the capital of the royalty, now serves as the capital city of Rajasthan. The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal family. The city of Jaipur, painted in pink, grasp the appreciation of every visitor.
Visit Amber Fort on elephant back.

Afternoon - city sight seeing visiting the City Palace, the observatory and Hawa Mahal.
Evening: Drive to Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort for dinner and cultural show.
Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 06: Jaipur - Pushkar
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Pushkar (approx 55 kms / 3 hours).
IF YOU ARE TRAVELING TO PUSHKAR DURING Pushkar Mela - THEN WE RECOMMEND ATLEAST 04 NIGHTS STAY AT PUSHKAR. Nestled between Jaipur and Ajmer, Pushkar comes alive every year with the start of Pushkar Mela - an internationally acclaimed largest camel fair, also known as Pushkar Camel Festival held every year during Karthik Purnima, the eight month of Hindu calendar and the holiest. It is time when Hindu pilgrims take a holy dip in Pushkar's sacred waters.
Arrive and check into hotel.
Overnight in Pushkar.

Day 07: Pushkar - Nimaj
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Nimaj (approx 150 kms / 2 hours).
Nimaj is considered a bird's paradise and one can enjoy the serene retreat in this desert city. A cool break and the relaxing atmosphere will surely lift your traveling spirits.
Arrive and check into hotel.
Overnight in Nimaj.

Day 08: Nimaj - Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Udaipur (approx 150 kms / 2 hours).
Arrive and check into hotel.
Evening enjoy the Boat Ride on Lake Pichola with Jag Mandir - Jag Mandir is another beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola, built by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1615 AD. The palace once sheltered the Mughal prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jehan, who built the world-famous Taj Mahal) who rebelled against his father Jehangir in the 1620's. The Palace has a giant stone sculpture of elephants and an impressive chattri (cenotaphs) that add to its beauty.
Overnight in Udaipur

Day 09: Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit most beautiful city in the world Udaipur firstly with City Palace - One of the largest royal complexes in Rajasthan, the City Palace is situated on a promontory on the picturesque Lake Pichola. The complex has 11 beautiful Mahals (palaces) with balconies and towers, offering a breathtaking view of the lake and the city. Its Durbar Hall, which had been used as a venue for formal occasions like state banquets and meetings, has most luxurious interiors highlighted by some of the largest chandeliers in the world. The Palace also houses a Museum exhibiting a rich collection of artifacts. Jagdish Temple: Jagdish Temple is the largest and the most beautiful temple in Udaipur, built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 AD. Dedicated to lord Vishnu, the temple is famous for its beautiful sculpted images and towering Shikara. Saheliyon-Ki- Bari: The Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden was built in early 18th century AD as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful Garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to visitors. One of the largest royal complexes in Rajasthan, the City Palace is situated on a promontory on the picturesque Lake Pichola. The complex has 11 beautiful Mahals (palaces) with balconies and towers, offering a breathtaking view of the lake and the city. Its Durbar Hall, which had been used as a venue for formal occasions like state banquets and meetings, has most luxurious interiors highlighted by some of the largest chandeliers in the world. The Palace also houses a Museum exhibiting a rich collection of artifacts. Jagdish Temple: Jagdish Temple is the largest and the most beautiful temple in Udaipur, built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 AD. Dedicated to lord Vishnu, the temple is famous for its beautiful sculpted images and towering Shikara. Saheliyon-Ki- Bari: The Saheliyon-ki-Bari Gard en was built in early 18th century AD as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful Garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to visitors.
Overnight in Udaipur

Day 10: Udaipur - Chittorgarh - Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Drive to Chittorgarh for excursion about 112 kms i.e.2.5hrs drive to visit the Chittorgarh Fort - One of the most formidable forts in India, Chittorgarh Fort is the symbol of the Rajput valiancy and supreme sacrifice. Standing majestically on a steep180 m high hill, the massive Chittorgarh Fort is approachable through a 1 km long zigzag road. The road leads through seven gates to the main gate Rampol. On the climb between the second and third gate you see two chattris (cenotaphs) built to honor Jaimal and Kula- heroes of 1568 siege by Emperor Akbar. Surajpol is the main gate of the fort. Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory): Built by Maharana Kumbha in 1440 AD to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji, this 37 m high 9-storied tower is adorned by sculptures of Hindu deities. There are around 157 narrow steps leading to the terrace from where one can enjoy a beautiful view of the enchanting Chittorgarh town. Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame): Dedicated to Adinath, the 1st Jain Teerthankar, Kirti Stambh is a must visit tourist attraction in Chittorgarh.
After lunch drive back to Udaipur and transfer to hotel.
Overnight in Udaipur

Day 11: Udaipur - Kumbalgarh
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Kumbalgarh (approx 85kms / 1 ½ hours).
Located in sourthern Rajasthan, Kumbalgarh is an extremely polular destination, the Fort being one of its major attraction followed by a wildlife santuary - home to a large number of species and exotic birds.

Visit Kumbalgarh Fort - Rana Kumbha of Mewar designed this fortress. He designed this great defensive fortress on a hill, which was situated at a height of 3,500 feet above the earth's surface, which is approximately 1100 metres high. A couple of attractions at Kumbhalgarh include the massive Kumbhalgarh fort which was constructed in the 15th century and whose wall surrounding it is supposed to be the second longest wall after the Great wall of China.
Arrive and check into hotel.
Overnight in Kumbalgarh

Day 12: Kumbalgarh - Rohetgarh - Jodhpur
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Jodhpur en route visiting Rohetgarh (approx 320 kms / 5 ½ hours)
An evergreen oasis in the arid land of Marwar, Rohetgarh is located at a distance of 40 kms from Jodhpur.Built in the 16th century, the Rohet Garh Fort has arched gateways that lead to a central compound. All the rooms open into this compound. The resort has a beautiful décor with carved furniture, mementos and paintings. The dining hall is decorated with a large collection of antique hunting rifles, shields, spearheads, daggers, tiger skins and trophies.
Continue driving to Jodhpur.
Arrive and check into hotel.
Overnight in Jodhpur

Day 13: Jodhpur
Breakfast at hotel.
Jodhpur, stronghold of the fierce Rathore clan, was founded in 1459 by Prince Jodha. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, situated on a low sandstone hill. Within the fort visit Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal. Also visit Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph, built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant singh II around 1899 and Umaid Public gardens.
Overnight in Jodhpur

Day 14: Jodhpur - Jaisalmer (300 km /05 hrs)
After breakfast drive to Jaisalmer enroute visit the ancient ruins of Osian temples & Fort Pokhran, on arrival transfer to hotel. Evening free to visit the Gadisar lake in Jaisalmer.
Overnight in Jaisalmer

Day 15: Jaisalmer
Breakfast at hotel.
Morning city sight seeing tour. Throbbing in the heart of the Thar, the burnished sandstone, is an intricately molded wonderland in place of a barren land, today stands a city of gilded magic. The origins of Jaisalmer go back to the 12th century, when Rawal Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Ludarwa and laid the foundation of a new city. Visit the magnificient fort the Patwon Ki Haveli (Mansion) and Salim singh Ki Haveli, whit their carved balconies and brackets which are supreme examples of the art. Evening camel ride to visit Sam Dunes.
Overnight in Jaisalmer

Day 16: Jaisalmer - Bikaner
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Bikaner(approx 250 kms / 5 hours)
Arrive and check into hotel.
Later in the day visit Junagarh fort, Lalgarh palace complex and camel breeding farm.
Overnight in Bikaner.

Day 17: Bikaner - Mandawa (200 km /03 hrs)
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Mandawa- often called the open air art gallery of Rajasthan, the region is famous for the high quality frescoes (approx 200 kms/3 hours).
Arrive Mandawa & check into hotel.
Overnight in Mandawa.

Day 18: Mandawa - Dundlod
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Dundlod ( approx 20 km /0.5 hrs)
Visit the havelis & beautiful frescoes, an overview of Thar desert. Later drive to Dundlod - 30 Kms.
Arrive and check into hotel. Evening, enjoy the folk dances.
Overnight in Dundlod.

Day 18: Dundlod - Samode
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Samode (approx km /4 hrs).
Samode is renowned for its stunning havelis and forts. It is a place of immense interest for people who value heritage and local arts.
Arrive Samode & check into hotel.
Overnight in Samode.

Day 19: Samode
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit Samode Fort, situated on a hill above the Samode Palace was the erstwhile residence of the Maharaja of Samode. It was mainly used in times of trouble and had an underground passageway from the Samode palace. In olden days one had to trudge his way up through a zigzag stone path to reach the fort. Now it is replaced by a series of 300 steps, making the ascent much easier. The view from its ramparts is amazing, even though the fort is now in a dilapidated state due to age and neglect. The interiors of the fort reflect the typical architecture of the Mughal period. The walls of the fort have murals and paintings, which is of typical Rajasthani style. There are many forts scattered all over the region, which speaks of the Rajput warrior's glory.
Overnight in Samode.

Day 20: Samode - Ajabgarh
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Ajabgarh (approx 200 km /4 hrs).
Ajabgarh, meaning 'place of mysteries', is an appropriately ghostly village, dotted with abandoned old houses where you'll find the odd, stunningly carved window frame of picturesquely decorated doorstep. Visit the Ajabgarh Fort.
Arrive Ajabgarh & check into Amanbagh resort for the ultimate in luxury.
Overnight in Ajabgarh.

Day 21: Ajabgarh - Neemrana
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Neemrana (approx 175 km /3 ½ hrs).
Built since 1464 AD, and restored in 1980s, Neemrana Fort-Palace is India's oldest heritage resort. It is also Rajasthan's closest palace from New Delhi, situated at 122 kms. on the Delhi-Jaipur highway- only 100 kms from Delhi's international airport. Sited on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion year old Aravalli ranges, Neemrana became the third capital of the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan III, who was killed in battle by Mohammad Ghori in 1192 AD. This picturesque site was chosen by Raja Rajdeo and Neemrana derived its name from a brave local chieftain Nimola Meo, who when defeated by the Chauhans, pleaded that his name be given to his lost kingdom. From 1986, the ruins of this Fort-Palace have been sensitively restored and reconstructed. The rooms are furnished with an eclectic mix of traditional Indian and colonial furniture, antiques and object art. Most rooms have private balconies or terraces
Arrive Neemrana & check into hotel.
Overnight in Neemrana.

Day 22: Neemrana - Delhi departure
Breakfast at hotel.
Leave by surface for Delhi (approx 115 km /1 ½ hrs).
Arrive Delhi & transfer directly to the international airport to board flight for onward destination.