This Rajasthan tour package covers important touristic destinations along with the offbeat ones. This package includes the visit to Jaipur, Pushkar, Jodhpur, Narlai , Rohet , Ranakpur , Udaipur and of course The Taj Mahal –a majestic beauty. In this tour you will visit some of the major tourist destinations along with the less travelled destinations of Rajasthan. This tour will give you an insight into the culture and rich heritage of Rajasthan. Some of the highlights are; a gourmet tour in streets of Old Delhi; an elephant ride at Amber Fort; a walk in old lanes of Jodhpur city; dinner at the Step well in Rawal Narlai; Village safari in Rohetgarh and experience of the boat ride in beautiful Lake Pichola at Udaipur.
Delhi has a number of tourist attractions, right from history to present. Museums, heritage, shopping -you name it, Delhi has it all. It’s astonishing heritage is the city's star attraction - both in terms of its monuments and its cultural offerings. Although there are sites in Delhi that one may tick off the travellers list, it is the Old Delhi area which has those lesser talked about places that cannot be missed.
Agra tops the list of "must visit" places in India and attracts tourists like moths to flame. Home to one of the seven wonders in the world, The city is studded with splendid architecture, dating back to the Mughal-era. Agra Fort, Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri have been recognized by the UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, evokes an image of the royal family that once ruled the region what is now called the Old City or Pink City for its trademark building colour. It is known for its fascinating monuments, colourful markets, gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens; it is not difficult to fall in love with Jaipur the moment you land here.
With buildings painted in the city’s iconic shade of blue, Jodhpur stands at the edge of the Thar Desert. It is one of the three most powerful of the erstwhile kingdoms of Rajasthan. The splendour of its imposing fort, glory of the many palaces and havelis and vibrant attraction of its bazaars make it one of the most popular destinations in Rajasthan.
Rohat is a village in Pali district in Rajasthan. Rohat is located on Jodhpur-Pali route NH 62. Rohat is a good place for Black bucks and saibrean crain.
Narlai is a village in Desuri tehsil of Pali district in Rajasthan state in India. It lies 36 km to Ranakpur and is at base of a hillock crowned by a colossal statue of an elephant. There are several Hindu and Jain temples. The temples of Adinath and Lord Shiva are most prominent temples.
Udaipur is a small city in the western side of Rajasthan. With a romantic setting that is totally unmatched, Udaipur is inarguably one of the picturesque places in India. It IS the capital of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar. Founded by Udai Singh II in 1559, its set around a series of artificial lakes and known for its lavish palaces. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. Fantastical palaces, temples, havelis and countless narrow, colourful streets add the human counterpoint to the city's natural charms.
Arrive in Delhi today and get transferred in a private vehicle to your hotel where accommodation is held from 1400 hrs. Check-in and spend the rest of the day to explore the bustling national capital. Overnight in the hotel.
Delhi offers a harmonious blend of architecture and history. From remnants of the Mughal empire and British Raj to contemporary India, you can experience it all in the capital. The city is sure to charm you with its eclectic mix of the old and new – from magnificent monuments to bustling Old Delhi markets and stunning high rises.
Munch some tasty breakfast and energize yourself for a day full of excitement and fun. Enjoy your day with a sightseeing tour around this beautiful city.
One can choose an experience based walking tour of Delhi from the below options
Option 1: Salam Balak Trust Guided Walking Tour (Recommended in Morning Hours)
This guided walking tour is done by adolescents who have been fully trained as local guide and who want to improve their communication and speaking skills. City Walk gets the children's stories heard, gives people a view of their world through their eyes. Those who take the City Walk tour through the streets of inner city of Paharganj and the area around New Delhi railway station, led by a child who was once living and working on the streets will experience special tour far from the tourist main attractions. City Walk is an example of how a volunteer's creativity can translate into a unique and enduring programme, which is both popular and economically viable. Over the last seven years, thousands have taken the Walk and empowered a number of children, helping them to join mainstream life.
Option 2: Old Delhi Night Food Walk
A food tour is one of best ways to explore cuisine, sights and culture. It is a city tour, food walk, sightseeing; urban exploration and culinary tour of Delhi city in one package .The eating part of the food tour include sampling different varieties of street food from various places in the itinerary. Food is all that you can eat, but we insist you to have a little of everything and enjoy the variety. We place a lot of stress on hygiene and only trusted and safe vendors which serve good and hygienic food are on our list. Apart from the usual and must see, the food tours cover some under-rated and less explored places of Delhi which very few people know about. These places are not listed on most tourist guides. A lot of very good photo-opportunities and bragging rights are on line.
Option 3: Pub crawling is a way to enjoy the night life of Delhi
A lot of tourists want to enjoy the nightlife of New Delhi but are unsure how to do so. Sure one can visit a few bars after getting recommendations from locals or reading up on internet, but the best watering holes are more or less hidden and not as famous as some of the bigger bars. In order to help travelers who love the nightlife but are short on time to explore everything by themselves, we offer pub crawls which include some of the best bars and pubs in New Delhi, Gurgaon and Noida. All bars/pubs included in our bar hopping tours are carefully selected in accordance with their atmosphere, quality of drinks, food, location and fun factor. These pub crawls are a great way to meet new people, enjoy some great drinks and do it all in a fun and safe way.
Today morning after breakfast drive to Agra, arrive and check – in at the hotel. In the afternoon proceed for half day tour of the magnificent Red Fort and the Moonlight Garden. Overnight at the hotel.
Known to exist since prehistoric times, Agra came into full flower during the 16th and 17th centuries as one of the four capitals of Mughal dynasty. It was in Agra that the artistic excellence of the Mughals reached its zenith at a time that coincided with the political high water mark of their vast and expanding empire.
Optional: The Enchanting: Mohabbat The Taj Show!
is a romantic dance drama that is showcased in both Urdu and Hindi languages and its interpretation is further available in French, English, and German via headphones. Over 80 artists who are extremely talented perform live here, and they are sure to blow away your minds with their overwhelming presentation of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz’s saga.
After an early breakfast proceed to visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays) and after visit leave for Jaipur. En – route stop for visiting the celebrated medieval Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. Arrive in Jaipur and check – in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Optional – A Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema
The Raj Mandir Cinema of Jaipur is undoubtedly an edifice that catches the eye. This opulent cinema looks like a huge pink cream cake, with a meringue auditorium and a circular foyer somewhere between a temple and Disneyland. We are sure you won’t be disappointed and will come out humming along wishing you were the next big thing in Bollywood.
After breakfast visit Amber Fort, the grandest way to reach Amber is on an elephant back. Later we proceed to visit the City Palace and Observatory. And we also stop for some photos from across the road of Hawa Mahal – the Palace of Winds. In evening attend aarti or a prayer ceremony at Birla Mandir. Overnight in the hotel.
After breakfast visit leave for Jodhpur by surface, a journey of about 6hrs. In the afternoon visit the Mehrangarh Fort, take a walk from the fort till clock tower wherein you will pass by the very famous blue houses. Take a photo stop at Jaswant Thada. Overnight in the hotel.
After breakfast leave for Rohetgarh by surface, a journey of about 1hr. Arrive and proceed for a village safari by Jeep. After visit check-in at the hotel. Evening relax in your hotel. Overnight in the hotel.
After breakfast leave for Narlai by surface, a journey of about 2hrs. Arrive and proceed for a countryside safari by Jeep. After visit check-in at the hotel. In the evening enjoy optional dinner (own cost ) at the step well. Overnight in the hotel.
Optional: Jeep Safari at Narlai
The rugged countryside of Godwad region can also be explored by taking a guided safari in jeep. This ride includes a visit to the nearby village where you can see the different craftsmen working their trade, famous temples whose beautiful architecture should be seen and visit to a traditional working farm. Another interesting stop is the Stud Farm that houses the famous pure bred horses that are typical to this region. This is something that one never gets to see often.
Optional: Dinner at the step-well is truly an experience
That would linger in the fringes of your mind. Taste the flavor of true Rajasthani royal hospitality at the 16th Century old Baori (Step-well) of Rawla Narlai. The journey that begins when you gather at the courtyard, sip a welcome drink with the resident royal who will regale you with stories & history of the locals while you get adorned with the turbans & scarf and transportation by bullock carts are arranged for you. Guided by a local into the dusk, swaying to the movement of the cart, watching the village slowly going to sleep and the starlit sky unfolding above you, passing the yogi who meditates by the blazing fire, you reach your destination that is lit by hundreds of lamps. Following this experience is the culinary journey that ignites your taste buds with elaborate fare offered over the next couple of hours while being entertained by the local jogi singing the devotional folk songs in his rich melodious voice. This culinary experience ends with the return to the hotel courtyard by our jeeps and a welcome cup of calming herbal tea.
After breakfast visit leave for Udaipur by surface, en-route stopping at Ranakpur Temple. A journey of about 3hrs. Arrive in Udaipur, check – in at your hotel. Evening is at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
Optional: Cultural Dance Performance at Bagore Ki Haveli
In the evening from 7p.m. to 8p.m., The Dharohar Dance Show is very well-organized starting with a brief introduction given by a Rajasthani woman dressed in a traditional Rajasthani attire. The performances are preceded by the beating of a drum, blowing of a conch shell and a religious song. The show consists of well-choreographed dances ably supported by the musicians playing tabla and harmonium. The women performing the dance wear typical Rajasthani folk costumes with colorful ghagra cholis embodied with glass work and embroidery work.
After a leisurely breakfast proceed to visit this charming Udaipur city. We start the tour from visiting the Sahelion ki bari, Jagdish temple and from the temple you can take a short walk till the city palace. In the evening enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Overnight at the hotel.
Optional: Candle Light Dinner
Dine at one of the four most beautiful restaurants serving gastronomical delights accompanied by amazing views of Lake Pichola.
After breakfast relax in your hotel. In the afternoon you will be transferred to the Udaipur Airport for flight to Delhi leaving at 1410 hrs and arriving at 1535 hrs. Arrive in Delhi and proceed to International Airport for your flight back home.
Tour ends with bag fully loaded of happy memories.
An iconic and the most distinguished address situated in the heart of the capital, Hotel Imperial is reminiscent of the halcyon days of the Raj. A luxury hotel, the Imperial Hotel Delhi has an awe-inspiring heritage interwoven in colonial elegance and dwells in its modern delivery of old-style class and magnificence. The royal palms that lead up to the porch are an integral part of and witness to the very creation of Delhi. Stroll through its art laden corridors and you’ll feel history come alive. The iconic heritage wrapped in the colonial elegance takes you back in time, making a fabulous impression.
See HotelLocated just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, the world’s most exquisite testimony to undying love, it is easy to rekindle romance at The Oberoi Amarvilas. The best hotel in Agra is inspired by Mughal palace designs; with fountains, terraced lawns, reflection pools and pavilions. The Oberoi Amarvilas is a five star hotel that offers unrestricted views of Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites, complemented by our warm, personalised hospitality. Tastefully appointed accommodation, exquisite restaurants serving authentic Mughal and international cuisines, private dining beside the silhouette of the Taj Mahal and couples spa therapies with Taj Mahal views. At The Oberoi Amarvilas, your experience of Agra will be unforgettable.
See HotelExperience a sincerely warm welcome when you stay with us at our 5 star hotel in Jaipur: The Oberoi Rajvilas. Spread over 32 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, with traditional architecture, flaming mashaal torches and reflection pools. Exquisite accommodation, including luxury tents inspired by the era of Maharajas, fine restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani and international cuisines, specially curated romantic experiences for couples and our sincere hospitality. The perfect setting for the holiday of a lifetime at the best 5 star luxury hotel in Jaipur.
See HotelThis fort holds nine magnificent suites. Each one is more than 1700 square feet of pure luxury. Private Jacuzzi's or plunge pools with each suite, re-define the word indulgence. Numerous alcoves, lounges and common areas commanding spectacular views have been designed to experience intimacy - with yourself and another. Our team at Mihir Garh is hand picked, motivated and eager, ensuring the highest level of service and hospitality that complement the magnificence of Mihir Garh.
See HotelRohet Garh is a classified Heritage Hotel. Since 1990 it has been nurtured and developed with great love and care by the family into one of the finest Heritage hotels in the country. No new building has been added in the renovation process, but rather, old edifices have been skilfully redesigned to create a heritage property that has few parallels. Situated on the banks of a lake and set in the midst of rural surroundings, it is a haven of peace and tranquillity. Sprawling lawns and manicured gardens, which invite a multitude of birds and dancing peacocks, herald your entry into this oasis where the bird song is the only sound you will hear. A superb swimming pool with four charming pavilions entices you for a refreshing dip. Often dinner is served by the poolside as folk musicians enliven the evening atmosphere. An elegant, beautifully appointed lounge, serene verandas, and terraces with breath-taking views, make perfect venues for relaxation.
See HotelThis unique gem is tucked away amidst the Aravali’s beckoning guests from far and wide. The 17th century ‘Country Manor’, has been painstakingly restored to its original magnificence and caters to an exclusive clientele in its resurrected avatar of an uber-chic boutique getaway. While your appetite for the ‘Rawla Narlai’ escapade may never be satiated, we assure you a variety of cuisine ranging from the local delicacies to international dishes. From curating dining experiences as per your liking, the choice of location and the choice of cuisine, we remain at your service.
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BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.