Rajasthan Desert Adventure

15 Days - from $2390

Exploring the forts and palaces of India's colourful desert state, plus tiger-watching and the magical Taj Mahal

Exotic Rajasthan, the 'Land of Princes' is blessed with awe-inspiring monuments to a fierce warrior past. The magnificent forts of Jodphur, Jaisalmer and Jaipur bear testament to the battles that once raged across this desert land, whilst the romantic palaces in Udaipur, Fatehpur Sikri and the world famous Taj Mahal offer a glimpse of a softer side to North India's rich history. Shekhawati is full of colourful havelis (merchants' houses), and an ideal place to explore by bicycle. The camel journey across the shimmering sands, camping under the desert stars and visiting temple ruins and villages is another experience not to be missed. There is also a chance to see Kipling's elusive tiger at Ranthambore. Selected departures are timed to visit the world-famous Pushkar Camel Fair and the smaller Jaisalmer Festival.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Delhi; to Shekhawati. 2 Cycle tour of colourful havelis; transfer to Bikaner. 3 Visit Bikaner Fort; continue to Jaisalmer. 4 Full day exploring fort and havelis in Jaisalmer; to Kaba Fort, start point for camel trek. 5 Camel safari in Thar Desert. 6 To 'Blue City' of Jodhpur; afternoon visit Mehangarh Fort. 7 To lakeside city of Udaipur via Ranakpur. 8 Visit Jagdish Temple and city palace; free afternoon. 9 To Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan. 10 Visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal. 11 To Ranthambore N.P.; optional game drive. 12 Morning and evening game drive. 13 To Fatehpur Sikri and Agra. 14 Visit Taj Mahal and Red Fort; to Delhi. 15 End Delhi.

Mode of travel: Transport is by private bus (air conditioned March - October), bicycle and camel.
Group size: Min. 7, max. 16, plus leader, driver and guides at sites.
Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 2 nights jungle lodge, 2 nights camping.
Food: All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $470.00
Trip Reference: AIR
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.