Rajasthan: The Road Less Travelled

On arrival at Delhi International Airport, you’ll step into a city where history lives in every corner. From ancient monuments to bustling markets, Delhi blends old and new in a vibrant rhythm. Settle into The Imperial, a heritage hotel known for its colonial charm and calm oasis in the heart of the city.

Explore Delhi’s lesser-known side with the Salaam Baalak City Walk. Led by young guides who once lived on the streets, this experience reveals personal stories of resilience and hope behind the city’s bright lights.

Spend your free time wandering colourful markets, hidden bookshops, or peaceful gardens shaped by centuries of history.

Accommodation: The Imperial – An iconic heritage hotel offering timeless charm and understated luxury in the heart of New Delhi.

Travel to Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, known as the ‘open-air art gallery’ of India. This area is famous for its towns full of grand merchant mansions covered in colourful frescoes depicting mythology, history, and daily life.

Step back in time in the atmospheric town of Mandawa, where the streets are lined with centuries-old havelis decorated with colourful frescoes and carved doors.

Explore the finest havelis and hear stories of the powerful merchant families who once lived here. Connect with local culture through folk performances, miniature painting demonstrations, or a camel cart ride through nearby villages. This is a chance to experience Rajasthan’s artistic heritage and timeless traditions.

Accommodation: Castle Mandawa – A historic Rajput fort turned heritage hotel, offering regal charm, frescoed walls, and traditional hospitality in the heart of Shekhawati.

Travel to Nagaur, a quiet desert town nestled between Jodhpur and Bikaner. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, elegant architecture, and historic fort, Nagaur offers a glimpse into Rajasthan beyond the usual tourist trail.

Explore Nagaur Fort, a 12th-century sandstone fortress with palaces, Mughal gardens, and delicate frescoes. With fewer visitors, you can take your time to admire its architecture and faded artworks.

Wander the town’s calm streets where Sufi shrines, which are places dedicated to mystical Islamic saints, stepwells, and temples, sit amid faded Mughal and Rajput architecture, reflecting a rich cultural mix.

Accommodation: Ranvas Nagaur – A former queen’s residence within the fort, now a refined heritage retreat.

Journey into the heart of the Thar Desert to Manvar, a peaceful desert retreat between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. Surrounded by rolling dunes and scattered villages, Manvar offers a chance to experience Rajasthan’s stark beauty and traditional desert life.

Settle into a comfortable desert camp, where you can watch the sun set over the dunes, painting the sky in vivid colours as silence falls.

Spend the next day on a guided jeep safari across the golden dunes and scrublands. Spot desert wildlife and hardy plants, then visit nearby Rajput villages to see mud homes, local crafts, and age-old customs. This is an authentic glimpse into the desert’s resilient culture.

Accommodation: Manvar Kumat – A boutique desert lodge with rustic elegance and modern comfort, offering sweeping views from the edge of the dunes.

Arrive in Jodhpur, the Blue City, where many houses are painted blue. This tradition began with Brahmins and helps keep homes cool and insect-free, and the result is a stunning sea of blue across the old town. Explore Mehrangarh Fort, a grand 15th-century fortress filled with decorated palaces, courtyards, and museums. From its ramparts, enjoy breathtaking views of the blue city stretching into the desert beyond. Spend time wandering the lively bazaars, where textiles, spices, silver jewellery, and handicrafts fill the vibrant stalls. Then travel to Khandi, a tranquil countryside retreat offering desert calm and local traditions.

Visit a nearby Bishnoi village, a community known for its respect for nature and sustainable way of life. Meet local artisans, watch traditional pottery and weaving, and gain insight into their enduring customs.

Accommodation: Mihir Garh – A luxurious desert fortress blending Marwari elegance with handcrafted detail, offering expansive suites, private courtyards, and sweeping views over the Rajasthan plains.

Travel to Delwara, a peaceful village set in the Aravalli hills. On the way, visit the stunning Jain temples at Ranakpur. This 15th-century marble complex is famous for its serene atmosphere and over 1,400 intricately carved pillars.

Spend a day in Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes. Explore the vast City Palace with its courtyards and museums, wander colourful markets, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Pichola past the famous Lake Palace.

Back in Delwara, take guided heritage walks led by a local young guide and discover the ancient temples, weathered havelis, and traditional homes while hearing stories of the village’s royal history and recent community projects. Meet artisans practising crafts like silverwork, miniature painting, and block printing for an authentic cultural experience.

Accommodation: RAAS Devigarh – A restored 18th-century hilltop palace offering panoramic views, historic charm, and a serene, contemporary retreat in Rajasthan.

Arrive in Deogarh, a serene hilltop town surrounded by the Aravalli Hills. Enjoy a gentle ride on a narrow-gauge train through the peaceful countryside to Kamblighat station, sharing the journey with local villagers.

Once there, immerse yourself in traditional crafts such as pottery and miniature painting that thrive near your accommodation. Explore the bustling market, selecting fresh ingredients, before joining your hosts for a hands-on cooking session to prepare hearty Mewari dishes known for lentils, millets, and mild, aromatic spices.

Spend time at a village tea stall, sharing chai and stories with locals, creating genuine connections to everyday life. Visit a nearby school, bringing supplies from village shops, and experience the warm spirit of the community.

Accommodation: Dev Shree Deogarh – A boutique haveli-style homestay offering Rajput charm, warm hospitality, and an intimate window into village life.

Drive to Bijainagar, home to Fort Barli, a stunning 17th-century fortress set among Rajasthan’s rugged landscape. The fort’s rich history and grand architecture offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.

Immerse yourself in village life by exploring colourful markets, visiting ancient cenotaphs decorated with vibrant frescoes, and seeing traditional crafts such as pottery and cobbling.

Visit local schools to connect with the community and support ongoing education, and explore rural homes and stepwells with a knowledgeable guide who will share stories and traditions.

Accommodation: Fort Barli – A beautifully restored fort with period architecture, elegant interiors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Arrive in Samode, where the magnificent Samode Palace awaits. This historic residence blends Rajput and Mughal architecture, adorned with frescoes, intricate mirror work, and peaceful courtyards, offering a true taste of Rajasthan’s royal heritage.

Take a day trip to Jaipur, the Pink City. Visit the impressive Amer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive ramparts and beautiful palaces. Explore Jaipur’s bustling bazaars and the grand City Palace, soaking in the vibrant culture and lively spirit.

Back in Samode, visit nearby villages to experience authentic rural life. Set out on a jeep safari across the countryside, encountering traditional settlements and the region’s natural beauty.

Accommodation: Samode Palace – A lavish heritage hotel combining royal splendour with modern comforts in a historic setting.

Depart from Samode and journey back to Delhi, watching the Rajasthan countryside gradually give way to the city’s modern pace. After a scenic drive, arrive at Aerocity, Delhi’s contemporary hospitality hub near the international airport.

Spend your final night at a stylish hotel where you can relax and reflect on your journey through India’s rich culture, history, and landscapes.

Accommodation: JW Marriott Aerocity – A sleek, upscale hotel offering modern comfort, fine dining, and easy access to the airport for a seamless departure.

At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to Delhi International Airport to board your return flight, carrying the lasting memories of the Rajasthan tour package’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality.