Day 1
Touching down at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi you will be greeted by a Signature Breaks representative. Check-in at your hotel and spend the morning at leisure.
Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and drive to Jama Masjid. This large mosque is one of the largest in the world and worth exploring with your guide. Learn how this impressive structure was built by Shah Jahan and check out an ancient copy of the Qur’an before making your way to Raj Ghat, where Gandhi was cremated. After completing this tour of Old Delhi, you will visit the Red Fort. Constructed by the 5th Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as the palace of his fortified capital Shahjahanabad, Red Fort is named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone and is adjacent to the older Salimgarh Fort, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546. The imperial apartments consist of a row of pavilions, connected by a water channel known as the Stream of Paradise. The fort complex is considered to represent the zenith of Mughal creativity under Shah Jahan and although the palace was planned according to Islamic prototypes, each pavilion contains architectural elements typical of Mughal buildings that reflect a fusion of Timurid and Persian traditions. After, stroll down the lanes of Old Delhi. Helter skelter alleys of Chandni Chowk market, which is probably the oldest market of the city is an adventurous stop. Old havelis, mansions and shops will transfer you back in Mughal Era.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 2
After breakfast, proceed to the Qutb Minar. Qutub Minar is a beautiful Islamic structure which is the highest stone tower in Delhi. After your time at Qutub Minar, visit India Gate Center of the city. India Gate is almost similar to its French counterpart that honors around 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives while fighting for British Army during the World War I. Drive to Humayun's Tomb. Humayun's Tomb was built in 1565 A.D., posthumously, in the memory of Humayun by his widow Hemida Banu Begum. Also known as Tomb of the Perfect Man or 'Insan-i-Kamil', which now stands as a UNESCO Heritage site. After Humayun's Tomb, drive to Lotus temple The Lotus Temple which is located in South Delhi is also known as 'Bahai House of Worship'. This 20th century wonder made of marble, dolomite, cement and sand is dedicated in December 1986. This temple represents the Baha'i faith – founded by Baha'ullah, an independent world religion. The Lotus Temple is in the form of a white half-opened lotus flower. Finally head to Safdarjung's tomb. Safdarjung's Tomb is a sandstone and marble mausoleum in New Delhi, India. It was built in 1754 in the late Mughal Empire style for the statesman Safdarjung. The monument has an ambiance of spaciousness and an imposing presence with its domed and arched red brown and white coloured structures.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 3
After breakfast, drive to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri (a 4-hour drive). The deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after fifteen years due to scarcity of water. Walk around inside the inner citadel of the city with your guide and see some of its finest monuments including Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza, and Jama Masjid -- one of India’s largest mosques. Proceed further to Agra and check-in at your hotel.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 4
The following day, enjoy a memorable visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love, this fine example of Mughal architecture was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved second wife-Mumtaz Mahal, who died tragically during childbirth. Built entirely of white marble, construction began in 1631, the year in which Mumtaz died, and was not completed until 1653. A staggering total of 20,000 workers contributed their skills, in the construction of this unique mausoleum. In the afternoon, visit the Agra fort. Construction of the fort commenced during the reign of Emperor Akbar and additions continued to be made until the rule of his grandson Shah Jahan. During Akbar’s time, it was primarily a military fort though later the focus shifted and it partially became a palace. Later in the evening, drive to Jaipur (4-hour drive)
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 5
The following day, meet your friendly guide in your Jaipur hotel lobby and head out in your private, air-conditioned vehicle to explore the magic of Jaipur. Travel atop a friendly elephant from the bottom of the hill at Maota Lake to the famed Amber Fort, where you’ll follow your guide on an informative tour through the historic site. Hit all the highlights, including the chamber of mirrors known as Jai Mandir, the Shila Devi Temple and the two monuments known as the Hall of Public and Private Audience. Take in the epic views of Jal Mahal, a castle at the center of Man Sarag Lake, before traveling by jeep back to your private vehicle. Continue on your tour of the ‘Pink City’ with stops at Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed astronomical observatory. Explore iconic City Palace, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal palaces as part of this private Jaipur sightseeing tour. Capture the breathtaking beautify of Hawa Mahal—the Palace of the winds—before combing through the stalls of Bapu Bazaar, where you’ll find unique handmade items like mojari—handcrafted footwear that’s popular among tourists.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 6
The following day, after breakfast drive to Bikaner (5-hour drive). On arrival, check-in at your hotel and commence your tour of Bikaner. Head to the stunning Junagarh Fort, known to the world for its exquisite architecture and style. The fort was built in 15th century and houses some of Rajasthan’s most beautiful palaces, such as Anup Mahal, Sujan Mahal, Gaj Mandir Mahal, Badal Mahal and Karan Mahal. Learn more about Daulat Pol, a distinctive gate conserving the hand prints of Rajput women who practiced Sati for the honor of their husbands killed in the war. Proceed to visit the Jain Bhandasar Temple. Dedicated to Sumatinath, the fifth Jain Tirthankar, the temple is built of red sandstone and white marble imported from Jaisalmer city. Finally end it with a visit to the Gajner lake. An artificial lake that is decades old, the Gajner Lake is a spectacular sight, more so just after the monsoon or in the winters. The towering gate of this lake has become one of the symbolic places of Bikaner, owing to its grand read sandstone facade that is remarkably well crafted. Once a summer holiday home of Maharanas, the lake is now part of a luxury hotel.
Overnight at Bikaner.
Day 7
The following day after breakfast, proceed to Jaisalmer (5-hour drive). From here, head to Kuldhara an abandoned village on the outskirts and proceed to camel point. From here, take the camels out for a ride into the desert. After a sunset dinner, relax on the dunes next to a campfire and sleep overnight in the desert underneath the stars.
Overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 8
The next morning after breakfast, head back to Jaisalmer. The fort of Jaisalmer is a breathtaking sight: a massive sandcastle rising from the sandy plains like a mirage from a bygone era. No place better evokes exotic camel-train trade routes and desert mystery. Ninety-nine bastions encircle the fort’s still-inhabited twisting lanes. Inside are shops swaddled in bright embroideries, a royal palace and numerous businesses looking for your tourist rupee. Head out to the city to see Bada Bagh, Patwon-ki-Haveli and Gadisar lake.
Overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 9
The next morning after breakfast, drive to Jodhpur (4-hour drive). Proceed to the Mehrangarh fort. Perched on a 150 m high hill, it is among the most formidable and magnificent forts in Rajasthan. Such was the threat of Rajput warring in 1459 that Rao Jodha and his successors built an almost impregnable fort on already superb natural defences. Battle scars of canon ball hit by attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen. The fort boasts of one of the finest museums in Rajasthan and certainly the best laid out. The museum boasts of great collections of the armor, weapons and apparel of a bygone royal era. Head to the top to get a spectacular view of the blue city. Later, head downhill to visit Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph for the Marwar maharaja, Jaswant Singh.
Overnight at Jodhpur.
Day 10
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Kumbhalgarh (4-hour drive). Kumbhalgarh is the second most important fort after Chittaurgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravalli Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century AD by Rana Kumbha. The inaccessibility and hostility of the topography lends a semblance of invincibility to the fort. The fort boasts of having the second longest wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China. It served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife.
Later, drive to Ranakpur, a 90-minute drive, to visit the famous Jain temple. It is considered as one of the most spectacular Jain temples, with its intricately-carved marble architecture. Proceed to Eklingji temple, a 2-hour drive. Eklingji is a Hindu temple and one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan and is believed to be the ruling deity of the Mewar state. Proceed to Udaipur (30-minute drive) and check-in at your hotel.
Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Rajasthan, the land of Maharajas, is famous for its rich culture. But what makes the state distinctive and popular is its cuisine. Rajasthanis love their food and it is evident in their preparations. One of the most famous dishes from the state, no Rajasthani food is complete without Dal Bati Churma. The round Batis dipped in ghee with Panchkuti dal and churma make for an appetizing combination. Gatte ki Khichdi is undoubtedly the best rice preparation one can have in Rajasthan. This flavourful dish prepared with rice and soft besan dumplings is the perfect evening snack. A typical desert vegetable, Ker Sangri is a kind of a pickle. This tangy side dish goes well with Bajra roti. Rajasthan is known for its toothsome sweets. This mithai is also popular as Mohanthaal or Besan ki Barfi. It has a nice chewy texture and leaves a grainy flavour in your mouth. No Rajasthani feast is complete without Churma Ladoos. These desi ghee ladoos served after dal bati are the most delicious sweets you could have. These mouthwatering sweet ladoos are a must try.
When you are visiting Rajasthan, make sure you are carrying the right clothing. Rajasthan clothing depends upon the season in which you are coming to visit the state. However, one thing to be kept in mind is that the clothes should not be too revealing or too skimpy. The people of Rajasthan are still quite traditional and it will be better if you keep their outlook in mind before deciding on the clothes to wear in Rajasthan.
Don't go out in the sun without putting on a sunscreen and sunglasses. Also, the night temperature in the desert falls to a considerable degree. So, do pack some thick clothing for the nighttime. Bring clothes that you can layer. You won't need boots or winter wear, but you should have closed toed shoes for the evening or cooler day weather.