Romance Of Rajasthan ...

Rajasthan, 'The Land Of Kings" is India at its exotic and colourful best. The destinations suggested below take us through a time machine a few hundreds of years back in time. We find ourselves in extremely remote tribal areas of Rajasthan where life is as primitive as primitive can be. This enables us to capture images of tribal life at its best - in all its traditional colours and innocent hospitality.…… The highlight of the tour is stays in royal palaces, forts & castles - imposing buildings replete with luxury, character and Old World charm. Life outside these amazing buildings is a contrast. Life is very primitive and traditional; typical homes with mud plastered or cow dung plastered walls and hay thatched roofs; narrow lanes or trails broad enough only for camel carts or donkey carts; traditional costumes of men & women; primitive agricultural techniques of plough being drawn by men or bulls; traditional occupations of wood carving, block printing, pottery etc. For most people here, their world ends where the village ends. The village itself is self-sufficient; they have their local bazaar and a village temple with a village deity in it. - the deity is supreme and responsible for anything and everything that effect the day to day life of the natives. The only other God that comes a close second to their village deity are members of the royal family who inhabit the palaces, forts and castles that dominate their village. The feudal respect for the rulers has been retained over several generations. Time seems to have come to a standstill here. The experience is like travelling through a living museum. The Tour is a photographer's paradise offering innumerable opportunities to capture virgin lifestyle images unchanged for centuries. Finally, the distances between destination are very small. This not only cuts out the travel time, but encourages people to have time in hand to explore the country side on the way at their own pace. You would have an opportunity to interact with the locals, visit villages and tribal homes etc. You could do all this and more without worrying about loosing time on journeys. Also, we believe that the sights and experiences that come up on way to a destination are more fascinating and natural compared to the destination itself.

Of Course the crowning Glory of the tour is the Taj Mahal - the most photographed monument in the world…A fitting climax to our back street adventures in Rajasthan

Day 01 : Arrival / Delhi

Late Night arrival. Traditional welcome with garlands as your representatives welcome you aboard your Luxury Coach. The ride to your luxury hotel, The Connaught, is a 30-minute drive during which time your representative would introduce, India as well as some common Indian customs and courtesies.

Upon arrival at the hotel, whilst our representatives organize your check in, a refreshing welcome drink is served to you - 'namaste' and welcome to India !

Overnight: The Connaught

Day 02 : Delhi/ Neemrana

Following a leisurely breakfast, ride out 122 kms to the obscure village of Neemarana which is dominated by the majestic Neemrana Fort, which is India's oldest heritage resort. Situated on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion-year-old Aravalli ranges, Neemrana fort Palace Heritage Hotel has 40 air-conditioned rooms. Each room has its own unique character and history. On the basis of theme the rooms have been named as the Malabar room, Barsat Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Mata Mahal, Surya Mahal, Gopi Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal.

Afternoon, we visit the adjoining tribal villages where life has not changed for centuries. We explore the tribal country surrounding the imperial fort. The lifestyle here remains unchanged for centuries and untouched by modern times.

Overnight At Fort Neemrana

Day 03 : Neemrana/Mandawa (200 Kms)

Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and ride into the heart of the Thar Desert to Mandawa, which used to be a medieval Indian trade city and still has beautifully preserved houses of medieval Indian traders in typical Rajput (Rajasthani) style.

Upon arrival, check into Castle Mandawa which is a curious mixture of the old and the new. Medieval turreted towers, palanquin-roofed balconies, blend with modern comforts in old-world rooms. Family portraits, antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this family-run resort where tradition still runs strong. Even time is measured by a different clock... a huge brass gong struck by the resident timekeepers at the fort every hour.

Afternoon, we walk through the main (and the only) street of the town. We visit some of the ancient and beautifully preserved 'havelis' (mansions). They would give us an idea of how families lived in those days. The havelis have beautiful paintings depicting mythological themes on the walls. Made from vegetable dyes these paintings have lasted centuries and still are quite sharp. Today, the world comes to this storybook town to see its colourful frescoes on every subject under the sun, that is, ranging from the religious to the erotic; from copies of popular English prints to witty social satire, rendered in the inimitable style of the local artist.

Overnight at Castle Mandawa

Day 04 : Mandawa / Dundlod (45 Kms)

A short ride through Arabian Night country brings us to Dundlod, which has beautifully preserved houses of medieval Indian traders in typical Rajput (Rajasthani) style.

Upon arrival, check into the Dundlod Castle which is beautifully built in traditional Rajput style - High wooden doors, bamboo thatched roofs, mud plastered walls and floors, ethnic décor etc. However, all these traditional charms encapsulate all the modern luxuries sought by discerning tourists. The place is an embodiment of the cultural amalgamation of the Rajputana and Mughal Schools of Art and Architecture. Its motif of flowers and foliage, minarets, mythological paintings, archaic furniture, wall hangings of arrows, and shields have remained unchanged since ages. Staying in Dundlod Fort is almost like living through the days of James Tod who once described the splendors of Rajasthan. On every dawn the first ray of the sun falls over the fort as an eternal blessing to this land of mystique and charisma.

This afternoon we take time to explore the fascinating town of Dundlod. A cluster of forts, havelis, and baolis - these words best introduce Dundlod, a small village situated in the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Visiting this village is like visiting an open-air art gallery that has not changed much since the time it was built

Overnight at Castle Dundlod.

Day 05 : Dundlod/ Samode(145 Kms)

Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and drive we ride to Samode Bagh. Built more than 400 years ago, it is modelled on the geometric style of the Mughal Garden. Members of the Samode family came here to enjoy rare moments of privacy and relax in the airy pavilions, surrounded by rippling water fountains. A special feature of the stay here is the accommodation being provided in the tents. Meeting point at the Bagh is the elegantly furnished Durbar tent. Dune coloured tents, all luxuriously furnished with every comfort, the lawns, fruit trees, grape vines, and the flowering shrubs make the stay here a memorable one. Evenings come alive with local folk music and dances in the magic of a campfire. One can swim in the private pool or take camel rides to explore the countryside.

We will use our time here to explore at a leisurely pace the adjoining tribal villages. Also, for those interested, a visit can be arranged to the Samode Palace, now a heritage hotel. Built in the characteristic pattern of an open courtyard with rooms leading off the arched corridor that runs along all the four sides of the building. The Sultan Mahal is on the first floor-an exquisite room with a marble pillared verandah. It has the famous Jaipur blue tile decorations. Every inch of the ceiling and the walls are covered with floral, paisley and geometric motifs painted in vegetable colors

Overnight at Samode Bagh

Day 06 :Samode / Jaipur (48 kms)

Following a leisurely Breakfast, we ride to Jaipur. In a land steeped with heritage , picturesque with exquisite architecture , in a state vibrant with heroic memories and romance ,lies the dream city of Jaipur . The people are dynamic, martial and, need we say it, colourful. Here every walk through the by lanes is a walk through history. Indeed, Jaipur could be compared to a vast open-air museum. Pink turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis' (ladies scarves). Camel's buggies and elephants are as commonly found as motor cars and buses

Upon arrival, check into Hotel Alsisar Haveli. This is the flagship hotel in a bouquet of heritage hotels. The Haveli lies tucked away in the heart of pink city, Jaipur. It brings back to life the grandeur of the old days and is a memorable regal Rajasthani experience for the guests. Refurbished in 1982, the Haveli incorporates the finesse of traditional Rajput architecture and a site to behold. The large elevated platform that dominates the central area of the ground floor and once used for get-togethers by the gents of the house is now open to guests who can witness puppet shows and folk dances while enjoying their snacks or drinks. The spacious lobby which opens into the chowk (inner courtyard), was a century ago used by the ladies of the house and is now open to guests

Afternoon is designed for escorted walks with our guide in Jaipur's shady animated streets - or for independent discovery. The city is best explored on foot and only the inquisitive visitor willing to go into the rastaas (streets) and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of the city. Jaipur's colorful bazaars tantalize the eye with enameled blue pottery, exquisite gem-studded jewelry, engraved brass work, traditional block-printed fabrics and brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together with traditional crafts and miniature painting.

Overnight at Hotel Alsisar Haveli

Day 07 : Jaipur

This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. We ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years

For more on the tourist attractions of Jaipur, click here.  Jaipur Tour

Overnight at Alsisar Haveli. (B)

Day 08 : Jaipur/ Pushkar (145 Kms)

Following breakfast, drive to Pushkar . Upon arrival check in to Pushkar Palace.

Afternoon, walk through this amazingly fascinating religious town. According to legend, the origin of Pushkar dates back to the time when Lord Brahma was on his way in search of a tranquil land to perform a 'Yagna'. A lotus fell from the hand of the Lord into this valley. A lake sprang up on this spot and was dedicated to him. A Brahma temple located here which is supposed to be the only temple dedicated to this God, is a popular place of pilgrimage. It would be fascinating to walk along the maze of narrow lanes and streets.

Overnight at Pushkar Palace (B)

Day 09 : Pushkar / Gajner (285 Kms)

After break fast, we drive to Bikaner. We would have opportunities to stop on the way for pictures as well as to interact with local tribes.

Upon arrival check in to Gajner Palace, a summer resort of Bikaner Maharajas. The palace situated on the embankment of a lake, has often been described as ' an incomparable jewel in the Thar desert'. Afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the incredible charm of your hotel

Afternoon, proceed on a guided tour of the city. Bikaner was founded in 1486 A.D by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner.

Bikaner, has many magnificent buildings made of Reddish Pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren wilderness. Unlike other cities of Rajasthan, Bikaner has been able to preserve its traditional aura of the medieval era. We visit the Junagadh Fort. One of the most imposing forts of northern India-- Junagarh Fort-- has remained unconquered till date. This fort was built in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted generals of Akbar.

We also visit the Camel Breeding Farms . Take a ride on one or watch the calves gamboling, or submit to a Raika or a Rebari from traditional camel breeder, over a cup of camels milk at the camel breeding farms just eight Kms away from the city. This farm is the only of its kind in Asia.

Overnight At Hotel Gajner Palace

Day 10 : Bikaner / Jaisalmer (335Kms)

Following break fast, we drive to Jaisalmer. The drive is through desert country with scantly vegetation and life stock in view.

Upon arrival, check in to Hotel Heritage Inn. A modern hotel with a ethnic touch - a resort redefined, away from the clamous of the city - yet only ten minutes away from it all.

Rest of the day is at leisure. We suggest you walk along the old city to explore traditional and typical Jaisalmer. The havelis (mansions) in a beautiful state of preservation are a fascinating sight.

Overnight at Heritage Inn. (B)

Day 11 :Jaisalmer / Sam / Jaisalmer

Morning, we visit the residential portions of the fort where one third of the population of the old city lives. The design of houses remains as they were a couple of centuries back and so are the lifestyle of people occupying them. This is because most of the families continue to work for generations for the rural (though only titular now) hence there is a sense of continuity. The houses are arranged in narrow lanes and have small windows from where the shy child or the girl peeps. This is the city believed to be the home of the most handsome men and women in Rajasthan.

Afternoon, we drive to Sam, a dessert outpost. Enroute we visit a few typical dessert villages, which have a sprinkling of huts. The rough terrain here does not support cultivation, hence the entire village work as causal labourers in road works or community projects. Inspite of their poverty and hard life the people are very friendly and seem to be aware that they are proud owners of very expressive and beautiful faces. We move on to Sam where we explore the dessert. Against the backdrop of the setting sun and the huge expanse of the dessert the camels with their long shadows would be excellent pictures.

Evening drive back to our Hotel in Jaisalmer.

Overnight at Haritage Inn.( B)