Compare North India Revealed by Intrepid Travel vs Classic Rajasthan by Breathtakers Tours

Day 1 Delhi

Namaste and welcome to Delhi! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive in Delhi with time to spare before the meeting, consider finding your feet with an Urban Adventure. The Hidden Gems of Delhi tour offers something a little different from the standard itinerary, taking you to sights most tourists never see.

Day 2 Delhi – Overnight Train

This morning set off by metro to Old Delhi to explore on a walking tour. Experience the chaos of an Indian traffic jam as you inch your way through the streets around Chandni Chowk marketplace in a traditional cycle rickshaw. Visit the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque, then stop by the Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) to learn about the religion. Tonight, transfer to the railway station and board an overnight train to Bikaner. Local vendors will board the train at various stops to sell snacks, but it’s advised that you bring some of your own food for the journey too.

Day 3 Bikaner

Bikaner a city in Rajasthan still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts, built of red sandstone that have withstood the passage of time. Upon arrival in Bikaner this morning, freshen up at your hotel and then head out on a walk with your leader through the old city: Visit the Rampuriya Haveli, Spice Market and Bhandasar Jain Temple. In the afternoon relax or opt to visit Junagarh Fort: Built in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh. Constructed in red sandstone and marble, it's courtyard, balconies and windows are a treat to the eye

Day 4 Bikaner to Jaisalmer

After breakfast travel to Jaisalmer by bus. On arrival, choose whether to relax or join the group on an optional trip to the Jaisalmer Folklore Museum. This small museum displays a private family collection of printing blocks, musical instruments, religious artifacts, and decorations which offer insights into the cultural heritage of Jaisalmer.

Day 5 Jaisalmer

Enjoy a free day to explore Jaisalmer. The city’s eponymous fort holds twisting alleys with markets where you can wander for hours. You can also find a series of Jain temples dating from the 15th and 16th centuries within the walls of the fort, and it’s easy to spend a few hours admiring their elaborate carvings. The opulent havelis (traditional Indian mansions) found throughout the city make another fine place to spend some time admiring the desert architecture.

Day 6 Thar Desert

Today drive by jeep to the Thar Desert. Meet your guides, who will get a campfire going and cook a traditional Rajasthani dinner while you relax and watch the sunset. Spend the night stargazing and sharing stories in this incredible setting.

Day 7 Jodhpur

Rise early to enjoy the sunrise over the sand dunes. After a simple breakfast, take a private vehicle to the railway station and then a 6-hour train ride across the desert to the blue city of Jodhpur. Enjoy a guided walk to explore the sights, including a visit to one of the oldest markets in India – the Sadar Bazaar. Here you can haggle over Bollywood soundtracks, bangles, leather shoes, and colourful saris, or simply soak up the energy of a typical Indian market. Jodhpur is home to some of the best lassis in India, so make sure you try one while you’re here.

Day 8 Jodhpur

Today you have the option to visit the colossal Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest in India. The fort is still run by the Jodhpur royal family. If you choose to visit, you can explore the palaces, galleries, and artillery inside the fortress walls and admire great views over the city. If you’d prefer to see a more down to earth kind of Rajasthani life, it is also possible to spend today touring nearby Bishnoi villages. Spending time in these villages offers a glimpse into rural Rajasthani life and the chance to learn about the rich cultural traditions of the people who live there.

Day 9 Udaipur

This morning take an auto-rickshaw to the bus station and board a local bus for an 8-hour journey to Udaipur. This romantic city is set amid the Aravalli Hills and curls around Lake Pichola, a man-made lake created in the 14th century. On arrival, take a guided walk to get your bearings. Explore twisting alleyways filled with shops and bazaars selling things like silver jewellery, shoes, bags, leather goods, and miniature paintings.

Day 10 Udaipur

Enjoy a free day to explore the sights of Udaipur. Perhaps take a short boat ride on the famous Lake Pichola (seasonal) and see the palaces of Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas rise out of the water and their own reflections. Otherwise, you could tour the lakeside City Palace complex, the largest palace in Rajasthan, where you can check out vivid murals and royal antiques. Alternatively, learn the secrets behind making the perfect Indian thali during a half-day cooking class. Maybe you’d like to visit Sajjan Garh (Monsoon Palace), a 19th-century palace perched on a hill overlooking Lake Pichola. Named after Maharana Sajjan Singh of the Mewar Dynasty, Sajjan Garh offers ridiculously great views of the city below. Or perhaps you’re more inclined to visit the nearby village of Shilpgram, an ethnographic museum and arts hubs where traditional crafts are sold, and artists perform. 

Day 11 Pushkar

Transfer to the station and travel by train for around 7 hours to the city of Ajmer. Hop in a private vehicle for a 45-minute drive to your hotel in Pushkar. One of India's holiest towns and a market centre for the surrounding villages, Pushkar is a great place to immerse yourself in Hindu traditions. On arrival, head out to explore the town on a walking tour, wandering through the main bazaar along the way. Finish with a walk around Pushkar Lake and past the bustling ghats and temples, observing the devout as they worship at the holy waters.

Day 12 Pushkar

Today in Pushkar is free for you to do as you please. Early morning risers can choose to hike up the hill to the Savitri Temple for sunrise views over the town. If the chai man is there, enjoy a steaming cup of tea at the top for breakfast. Later in the day, maybe pay a visit to the colourful Brahma Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god. If you’ve planned your tour to coincide with the Pushkar Camel Fair (which changes each year), today will mainly be set aside to experience one of India’s most famous festivals.

Day 13 Jaipur

Return to Ajmer and travel by local bus to Jaipur (approximately 4 hours). On arrival take an auto-rickshaw to your hotel, then head out to explore Rajasthan’s capital on a guided walking tour. This tour includes a visit to the market and opt to visit the beehive-like Palace of the Winds (Hawa Mahal), built in 1799 so that women of the royal family could observe street festivities without being seen by the public. Your evening is free, so perhaps ask your leader to point out the best place to grab dal baati (dal served with wheat rolls).

Day 14 Jaipur

Enjoy a free day in Jaipur, with plenty of optional activities to choose from to fill your day. For many travellers, an optional hot air balloon experience is one of the highlights of Jaipur. If you’d prefer to stay grounded (but still like expansive views) the Amber Fort is both an excellent example of Rajput architecture and a great place from which to see the surrounding area. Or maybe get among the crowds in the city’s bazaars to shop for artisan goods and semi-precious stones. For a true local experience, tonight you could immerse yourself in Bollywood with a movie at a classic cinema.

Day 15 Abhaneri

Head to Abhaneri by private vehicle and local bus. This rural town provides a lovely detour from the bigger cities in Rajasthan. Visit the Chand Baori, a 20-metre-deep stepwell where water was collected and locals used to gather to escape the heat. Built in the late ninth century, the baori is a mind-bending feat of construction. Next visit another jewel of Abhaneri, the Harshat Mata Temple. This temple, which is now mostly ruined, was first constructed between the seventh and eighth centuries and dedicated to the goddess of happiness and joy.

Day 16 Fatehpur Sikri – Agra

Head east by private transport for the 2–3-hour journey to Agra, via a stop Fatehpur Sikri where you can opt to go inside. Rich in Mughal heritage, Agra is a city of gardens, temples, and open rooftops. On arrival visit the Taj Mahal, a white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal attracts over three million visitors each year, so be prepared for crowds. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. If you’re after a cool drink or a light meal, maybe head to Sheroes Hangout. This cafe is staffed by survivors of acid attacks and is located 10 minutes’ walk from the Taj.

Day 17 Agra – Overnight Train

Enjoy a free day before boarding the train this evening. Early risers might want to head back to the Taj Mahal for a very memorable sunrise. While you’re here, be sure to visit the spectacular Red Fort on the banks of the Yamuna River. Built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, the fort was originally designed to be a military structure. If you have extra time, you may like to continue onto Akbar's Mausoleum to pay your respects to the great emperor. In the evening, board a 12-hour overnight train to Varanasi (Third Class AC).

Day 18 Varanasi

On arrival in Varanasi this morning transfer by auto-rickshaw to your hotel. Head out on a guided walk around the Old City, following your leader through the narrow alleyways. The rest of your day is free to do as you please. This evening, there are two options you should consider, both centred around the holy Ganges. The first is a sunset cruise along the river which allows you to observe life from a unique perspective in the fading light of day. If you’d prefer to stay on land, you could watch local priests perform a Ganga aarti (fire ceremony) at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Day 19 Varanasi

Enjoy a free day to explore this holy city. We highly recommend starting very early and take an optional sunrise boat trip along the Ganges, passing pilgrims bathing and praying along the colourful ghats. Alternatively, head out to the ghats on foot to watch the dhobi-wallahs (clothes washers) drying clothes along the riverbank. You could even continue your stroll to the sinking Vishnu temple near the Manikarnika Ghat. Perhaps ask your leader about how to visit Sarnath, about ten kilometres outside of the city, where Gautama Buddha is said to have given his first speech after finding enlightenment.

Day 20 Varanasi – Overnight Train

In the morning, you have some free time to explore more of Varanasi. Perhaps visit the Vishwanath Temple, or simply grab some chaat and watch the world go by. If you’re craving a little peace and quiet before you board another overnight train, consider heading to the Kriti Gallery to check out some contemporary work by local artists. In the afternoon, board the overnight train for a 15-hour journey to Delhi.

Day 21 Delhi

Arrive in Delhi in the late morning and hop in a taxi to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace. The Home Cooked Delhi tour, which sees you visiting a local’s home for a leisurely meal, is a great way to immerse yourself in the city while still relaxing. Tonight, maybe get together with your group and head out for some dinner – your local leader will have plenty of recommendations.

Day 22 Delhi

With no activities planned for today, your North India adventure comes to an end. You are free to depart the accommodation at any time.

DAY 1 ARRIVE IN DELHI

Flight detail – To Be Advised

Meals Included – None

Welcome to Delhi!

On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met on arrival at Indira Gandhi International airport terminal, our representative will receive you at the visitor’s lounge, with a paging sign bearing your name. You will then be escorted to your hotel in a private vehicle. Overnight at Delhi.

DAY 2 DELHI

Meals Included – Breakfast

Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India lying along the River Yamuna, is a teaming metropolis of 14 million people and nowhere in the Country is the contrast between old and new more obvious. Seven cities haveexisted here since the 10th century, ruled over by a succession of Rajputs, Turks, Afghans, Mughals and the British. Delhi is two cities in one; the Old Delhi of the Mughals, created by Shah Jehan after moving his Capital from Agra in 1638 AD is still a medieval district of narrow lanes, forts, mosques and bazaars. The second, New Delhi, built by the British during 1911-1931 and characterized by Sir Edwin Lutyens architecture, is a spacious and well-designed metropolis of broad avenues, grand imperial buildings and landscaped gardens. New Delhi is a surprisingly green city with its tree lined avenues, parks and natural forest and one of the City’s hidden delights is the picturesque Lodi Gardens set around Mughal tombs. Today start the drive along with Rajpath, a two mile long avenue originally the focal point of British India and now used for parades; lined with ornamental canals the views in both directions are imposing. Drive past India Gate, built to commemorate the Indian and British soldiers who died in World War 1, Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Standing at the crest of Raisina Hill, Lutyen’s 20th Century architectural masterpiece was built for the viceroy during British rule and is now the President’s residence. Thereafter visit to Old Delhi previously known as Shahjahanabad. Visit by rickshaw ride the chaotic, noisy and bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, where trading continues in the maze of shops as it has done over the Centuries. Stop at the magnificent Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India and the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jehan. Afternoon visit one of the most inspirational monuments of Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb. The earliest great example of a Mughal garden tomb and the forerunner to the ornate Mughal style of architecture later perfected in the Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1565 by a Persian architect. Surrounded by well maintained gardens it is a wonderfully atmospheric place to visit. End the day with visit to the majestic Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. A holy place for Sikhs across the world, the holy waters of its pond are believed to have healing properties. The Gurudwara grounds include a community temple, a community kitchen, a school, a library and an art gallery. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

DAY 3 DELHI – NAWALGARH

Journey Time: Approx .5 hour drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today you will commence your drive to Nawalgarh Fondly known as "the land of Havelis" or "open air art gallery", this miniature town of Nawalgarh is located around 30 kms away from the town of Jhunjhunu and does absolute justice to the name given to it. It is said that the Marwaris who were off to cosmo cities like Bombay and Calcutta in search of work, used to send their hard earned money back to their homes in Nawalgarh. When their businesses started to flourish, they sent back artists to Nawalgarh in order to build plush palaces and show off their wealth. This lead to the rich architecture of this little town in Rajasthan. On arrival check- in at Hotel. Afternoon proceed for the city tour of Havelis and palaces around the place. Overnight stay at hotel in Nawalgarh.

DAY 4

NAWALGARH – BIKANER

Journey Time – Approx. 5.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today commence your drive to Bikaner and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Located in the midst of Thar Desert, Bikaner is a "cultural paradise and a traveller's haven". The city will mesmerize you with the camels sauntering its beautiful sand dunes and captivate you with its ancient palaces and forts. Rightly called as one of the three great desert kingdoms of Rajasthan, the dazzling city boasts of old-world charm, opulent havelis and depicts a pleasing bygone era of the Rajputs. Best known as the "camel country" for breeding some best-known riding camels, Bikaner also happens to house one of the only two models of the biplane used by the British in World War Afternoon start the sightseeing of Bikaner with visit to Junagarh Fort - An impregnable bastion that holds the distinction of having never been captured. It was constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most distinguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an attractive assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows. Later visit Lallgarh Palace and Museum. Maharaja Ganga Singh commissioned the construction of this majestic palace. This architectural marvel is made entirely of red sandstone and was built in 1902 to commemorate his father, Maharaja Lal Singh. The design was conceptualised by Sir Swinton Jacob, who created this oriental fantasy by blending Rajputana, Islamic and European architecture. End the day with a visit to Jain Temple. Overnight stay at hotel in Bikaner.

DAY 5 BIKANER – JAISALMER

Journey Time – Approx. 5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast & Dinner

Today commence your drive to Jaisalmer and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading center and a princely state in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the "Golden City," it's distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture. Dominating the skyline is Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel buttressed by 99 bastions. Behind its massive walls stand the ornate Maharaja's Palace and intricately carved Jain temples. Evening is at your leisure. Dinner at resort Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer.

DAY 6 JAISALMER

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today start the sightseeing of Jaisalmer with a visit to Jaisalmer Fort locally known as Sonar Quila. It is one of the largest forts in the world located in Jaisalmer City. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal, from where it originates its name. The fort is standing proudly in the middle of the unending golden sands of Thar Desert. Thereafter visit The Patwon Ji ki Haveli, it is an interesting piece of Architecture and is the most important among the havelis in Jaisalmer. This is precisely because of two things, first that it was the first haveli erected in Jaisalmer and second, that it is not a single haveli but a cluster of 5 small havelis. Afterwards visit Jain Temples, the marvelous treasures of the desert city. Having archaeological value as well as religious sentiments associated with it. Dating back to the 12th and 15th century, these temples have intricate designs on it. Later afternoon enjoy the Camel ride on Sand dunes. Dinner will be at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer.

DAY 7 JAISALMER – JODHPUR

Journey Time – 5 hours drive

Included – Breakfast

Today you will be commence your drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check-in at Hotel. Evening at Leisure Overnight stay at hotel in Jodhpur.

DAY 8 JODHPUR - UDAIPUR

Journey Time – 5.5 hours drive

Included – Breakfast

Post breakfast proceed for the sightseeing of Mehrangarh Fort. Epitomizing the romance and feudal splendor of Rajasthan with the majestic Mehrangarh Fort towering over it, the city of Jodhpur was once a flourishing trade center for opium, silk and copper. Painted a brilliant shade of blue, Jodhpur is the last bastion of fort ramparts, colorful bazaars, animated people with their storytelling traditions before the desert sands and dunes stretch away towards the horizon. After sightseeing commence your drive to Udaipur and en-route stop at Ranakpur Jain Temples (Temple opens at 12 noon). Set in a secluded wooded valley of the Aravali Hills, the 15th century Ranakpur Temple complex is one of the five great holy places of the Jain faith. The grand scale and the sheer architectural complexity of the white marble temple along with its exquisite sculptural ornamentation makes it the single most impressive example of Indian temple architecture - it is a hymn in marble. Each of the temple’s pillars is carved with different patterns of floral motifs and the play of light and shadow on the pillars as the sun moves is one of the glories of this monument. After sightseeing continue drive to Udaipur and on arrival check in at your hotel. Udaipur is an oasis nestled in the lap of the Aravalli Mountain range and has a tranquil serenity that belies its tumultuous past. Udaipur, originally a thriving caravanserai later became a capital of local, royal clans. Udaipur’s serene lakes, beautiful gardens and magnificent palaces lend it a nostalgia that has often earned it the acclaim of being one of the most romantic places in the world. Apart from a place in history, Udaipur has been immortalized in contemporary culture in iconic films from Jewel in the Crown, James Bond’s Octopussy to Gandhi. On arrival check-in at Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

DAY 9 UDAIPUR

Included – Breakfast

Begin your day with visit to the City Palace. City Palace is blend of stern Rajput military architecture and lavish Mughal-inspired decorative art. This is the largest palace in Rajasthan sprawled out over an area of 5 acres, built between the 16th and 20th centuries. From here continue on towards the Jagdish Temple, a three-storied wonder of architecture comprising of an intricately sculpted spire, beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings and painted walls dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sustainer in Hindu mythology. Afternoon visit Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. Initially, the temple was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. Since that time, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. In the later years, it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans. After temple visit return to Udaipur and enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Lake Pichola. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

DAY 10 UDAIPUR – JAIPUR

Drive –Approx. 6 hours

Meals Included – Breakfast & Lunch

Post breakfast drive to Jaipur enroute Lunch at Bijayniwas Palace. On arrival at Jaipur check-in at Hotel. Jaipur, or the City of Victory, was founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is a well-planned city of magnificent palaces and building. Built from rose-colored terra cotta, it has given it the name 'Pink City'. Nowadays the Capital of Rajasthan with a population of over 1 million, it is a city full of contrasts with bazaars teeming with turbaned elders and jean clad youngsters to camels, horses and a multitude of vehicles. Jaipur’s focal point is the magnificent Hawa Mahal, otherwise known as the Palace of the Winds. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

DAY 11 JAIPUR

Meals Included – Breakfast

Begin your day with a visit to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the region prior to Jaipur, and located 11 km north of the City. Now a deserted complex crowning the crest of a hill with panoramic views, Amber Fort is extremely well preserved and a fascinating place to explore. The forts majestic ramparts follow the natural contours of the ridge and the palace is full of hidden gems – the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors), Jas Mandir with its latticed windows and glass inlay work and Zenana. Thereafter visit the opulent Maharaja's City Palace which occupies the heart of Jai Singh II’s city and has been home to the City’s rulers for 200 years. A superb blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the interiors of the Palace are lavishly furnished and decorated and the Museum houses a fabulous collection of textiles, art and crafts and arms. Afterwards visit Jantar Mantar or Observatory was built by Jai Singh II, a keen astronomer, in 1728. End the day with visit to Hawa Mahal Palace also known as Palace of Winds. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

DAY 12 JAIPUR – AGRA

Journey Time – Approx. 5.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today commence your drive to Agra and en-route stop at Chand Baori (Step well) at Abhaneri village. Chand Baori is the oldest surviving step well in Rajasthan and probably India. It was built by the King named Chanda or Chandra of the Nikhumbha dynasty. The time of the stepwell is 8-9th CE making it 1200-1300 years old After sightseeing commence your drive to Agra and on arrival check-in at your hotel, Agra, a city whose origins can be traced back to the days of the Mahabharata (the epic poem of Great India). Agra, part of the Delhi Sultanate was captured by a Persian-Turkic emperor, made into a capital and later gained prominence under Mughal emperors like Akbar, Jehangir and Shahjahan. Evening visit Mehtab Bagh Gardens to see Taj Mahal from opposite side of Yamuna River. Mehtab Bagh garden – which legend claims was to be site of a Black Taj that the emperor Shah Jahan wished to build for himself, facing the monument he’d built for his love. Instead the Mehtab Bagh is a four garden layout, typical of Mughal constructions worldwide – with beautiful flowering plants, pools and fountains. Overnight stay at hotel in Agra.

DAY 13 AGRA – DELHI

Journey Time – Approx. 4.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Early morning visit Taj Mahal for during sunrise. Taj Mahal – the magnificent mausoleum, which the emperor Shahjahan had built for his queen, Mumtaz and India’s own jewel in the list of 7 Wonders of the Modern World. Let our storyteller guide weave tales of Agra and the mausoleum, as also the romance between Shahjahan and Mumtaz. Return to hotel for breakfast. Morning start the sightseeing of Agra with a visit to Agra Fort – one of the most important and robustly built stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with a number of richly decorated buildings – the Agra Fort. Let our guide tell you the rich, evocative Mughal history of Agra Fort, where emperors like Babar, Humayun, Akbar, among other historic characters take centrestage. Thereafter visit Itimad-Ud-Daulah - Follow the road less traveled with Itmad-ud-Daulah, a marble tomb built for the grandfather of Mumtaz (the queen interred at the Taj Mahal) also known as Baby Taj, is said to have inspired the Taj Mahal. After sightseeing commence your drive to Delhi and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

DAY 14 DELHI - ONWARDS DESTINATION

Flight: To be advised

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to airport for flight to onwards destination.

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