Day 1
Delhi
On the first day you’ll arrive in Delhi and transfer to the hotel. Here you’ll meet the other families in your group and get to know your tour guide in your welcome meeting at 6pm. If you have any free time to explore the city beforehand we’d recommend paying a visit to the Humayun’s Tomb – a World Heritage site, the Qutub Minar or taking a guided tour of this urban wonder.
Day 2
Agra
Today sees you visiting Agra, one of the India’s most iconic destinations. You’ll travel here by one of India’s faster air-conditioned trains and reach the city in around 3 hours. Here you’ll get the chance to see the legendary Taj Mahal and the walled city of Agra Fort. With free time to wander, visit the Sheroes Hangout, an enterprise employing women who have been affected by acid attacks - its emotional but well worthwhile.
Breakfast included.
Day 3-4
Jaipur
Leaving behind Agra you’ll rise early today and travel to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’. First stop along the way is your guided tour of the deserted Mughal Kingdom of Fatehpur Sikri viewing its beautiful mosque, Jama Masjid before a traditional thali lunch (selection of plates) en route to the capital of Rajasthan. Here you’ll take a guided walking tour and get the chance to visit the Amber Fort and the stunning City Palace during your two night stay. You’ll even have the option to enjoy a spectacular hot air balloon experience over Jaipur – a highlight for many travellers. Spend an evening watching a Bollywood Movie at the Raj Mandir Cinema.
Breakfast included.
Days 5-6
Mandawa
Drive South today for around 5 hours until you reach the Shekhawati region, where you’ll find Mandawa at the centre, an old trading outpost between the Middle East and China. En route you’ll have the chance to stop off at one of three schools as part of the Responsible Travel Projects – Asha Ka Jharna where guidance, counselling and special vocational education takes place. Take the chance to speak with the children’s teachers to hear about how they develop, learn and ultimately become valued society members with the aid of their teachers.
Enjoy a free day to explore this wonderful town, often referred to as an outdoor museum with its ornate havelis (private residences) known for their lavish walls painted with artwork.
(Breakfast and lunch included day 5, breakfast and dinner included day 6.
Day 7
Bikaner
Today you’ll start your desert adventure, you’ll see Junagarh Fort on your journey – a chance to take in wonders not often seen on trips to India. Enjoy the multitude of bazaars of Bikaner, along with an impressive fort and palace.
Heritage property overnight.
Breakfast included.
Day 8
Thar Desert Camel Safari
Your trip to Jaisalmer would not be complete without venturing into the desert for an exciting camel safari, so today head out to the dunes and enjoy the adventure as you pass through some small villages (dhanis) before a campfire dinner under the stars tonight where you will fall asleep in the desert ambiance from the inside of your tent.
Breakfast and dinner included
Days 9-10
Jaisalmer
Head onto the yellow sandstone citadel of Jaisalmer today, travelling through the Thar Desert (around 7 hours). You’ll have the opportunity to explore this city on your own terms – you can wander through the winding alleys, filled with markets and temples. Right on the banks of the Garsisar Lake located in the Mehar Bagh garden you’ll find the Jaisalmer Folklore Museum which is worth a visit! Make a visit to the Jaisalmer fort exploring the maze of houses, temples, shops and restaurants.
Breakfast x2 and dinner included
Day 11
Jodhpur
Drive for another 6 hours this morning through the desert enjoying the cool scenery surrounding you. You’ll arrive at your destination in Jodhpur with it’s abounds of antique shops and according to other travellers – the best lassi in India, where the famous Jodhpur trouser originated! Experience the colossal Mehrangarh Fort and its views from the ramparts. With free time to spare, why not explore the Umaid Bhawan Palace built in 1929 – 1944 for Maharaja Umaid Singhji, his successors still reside there!
Breakfast included
Days 12-13
Udaipur
Leave Jodhpur this morning and continue your journey onto the beautiful hamlet of Ranakpur, home to the beautifully carved white marble Jain temples. These temples attract Jain pilgrims from all over India, making Ranakpur one of the most important destinations for pilgrims. Ultimately stop off in the gorgeous Udaipur where you will reside for the next couple of nights.
Explore the vibrant city taking a visit to the large royal palace which took over 400 years to build, hosting treasures and antiques from vivd murals to royal utensils. Enjoy some free time to stroll around as you wish, perhaps go further afield into the rolling hills or view this charming city from another perspective on a boat trip. To end the day why not try a relaxing Ayuvedic massage.
Breakfast and lunch included
Day 14
Delhi
Fly to Delhi today and enjoy some free time exploring the city.
Day 15
Departure day
Transfer back to the airport today for your onward flight
