Epic Rajasthan

India is a country exploding with bucket list destinations, from the allure of the Taj Mahal at sunrise to the Place of Winds in the Pink city of Jaipur. On this two week adventure we will use our expert knowledge to tick off the substantial must-do destinations whilst opening the doors to lesser known gems which will enrich your experience of this stunning and diverse country. Be sure to have your cameras at the ready as the kaleidoscope of colors and scenes will be too beautiful to not share.

1. Days 1-3: Delhi and the North

   As you arrive in Delhi your driver will whisk you away to Claridges. This hotel is centrally located in New Delhi, and close to the vibrant Connaught Place which is home to a plethora of restaurants and bars for you to enjoy. Spend the afternoon freshening up and begin preparing for your Indian adventure.  
   
   The next morning your friendly driver and guide will whisk you down the side streets of this bustling city to an array of markets and stalls where you can sample delicious flatbreads, samosas and local sweet treats. India is passionate about its food, so this is a great introduction to some of the vibrant smells, spices and dishes on offer. You can end your tour with High Tea at Dharampura Haveli; sit back and enjoy the majesty of the building while taking in the history, dating back to the late Mughal period. 

   Accommodation: The Claridges (2 nights)

2. Days 3-4: Delhi and the North

   The following morning your driver and guide will take you to Delhi Railway Station and assist you to board the express train to Agra. This journey takes just over 2 hours and it really is a must to incorporate a train journey to any India trip. We recommend asking Claridges to pack you a picnic breakfast for the train which you can enjoy as you leave Delhi behind and head towards Agra.    
   
   Upon arrival in Agra you will be met by your guide and driven will to the Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra’s most opulent hotel boasting stunning views of the iconic Taj Mahal. When you arrive, enjoy a leisurely walk around the gardens or take a quick dip in the pool before meeting your guide and driver to explore Agra in the late afternoon.

   Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas (1 night)

3. Days 4-7: Rajasthan

   The following morning you will rise early to head off to explore Taj Mahal in all its glory. This majestic site is one of the world-famous bucket list destinations and with good reason. The manicured lawns, impressive and intricate designs on the building and moving history really will impress even the most discerning traveler. Rest assured there will be lots of photo moments along the way as you catch the morning light and watch the sun rise on another day in this mesmerising country.  
   
   After this you will be met by your driver and driven by road to Jaipur. Jaipur, the famous Pink City is the capital of Rajasthan and renowned for the Palace of Winds, Amber Fort and an unimaginable bazaar where you can find everything from a turban to an exquisite gemstone. Samode Haveli is a heritage property centrally located and ideal for exploring the bazaar. Once you have settled in you will begin your bazaar tour. On this fascinating walk your guide will show you around the flower markets and then through streets and alleys to sample some of the regions specialties. Along the way you will discover jewellers, silversmiths, miniature artists, potters, shoemakers and even buy 6-9 yards of material to make a sari.   
   
   The next day rise early and take to the skies in a hot air balloon and enjoy stunning views of this fabulously colorful city from above. The contrast in the views is breath-taking and it really is a photographer’s dream.  

   Accommodation: Samode Haveli (3 nights)

4. Days 7-9: Rajasthan

   Leaving Jaipur behind you will head off on a four-hour journey with your driver into rural Rajasthan. Our drivers are amazing, so if you discuss your interests, they can stop for you to take a photo of a camel farm, ladies washing their children with the buffaloes in small villages or even the local barber beside the roadside.  
   
   Lakshman Sagar is a boutique property set in 33 acres of countryside and the perfect place to relax after big cities like Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. You will have time to enjoy a massage, swim, read a book and just enjoy the peace of rural Rajasthan. For the active amongst you there are several activities for you to enjoy, from early morning or evening walks, jeep safaris through the local villages to observe rural life, cooking lessons and even horse riding. In the evenings you can try star gazing before enjoying a wonderful dinner prepared using local ingredients from the farms and villages surrounding the hotel. 

   Accommodation: Lakshman Sagar (2 nights)

5. Days 9-12: Rajasthan

   Leaving Lakshman Sagar behind your driver will collect you and take you to the Blue City of Jodhpur, a journey of around 3 hours. You will be staying at RAAS, a stunning hotel uniquely situated in the heart of the walled city and at the foot of the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. Upon arrival you can choose to walk up to the fort or explore the Bazaar by foot and in the evening dine al fresco with views of the Fort overlooking the property. 
   
   The following morning your private guide will lead you through all the highlights of the city including the impressive Mehrangarh Fort and beautifully vibrant bustling markets and bazaars. We can arrange a private shopper to accompany you through the bazaar and visit some of the warehouses to pick up special gifts to take home. For those who want to relax after a fun-filled and immersive itinerary, RAAS is the perfect place to book in a couple of spa treatments to treat yourself to some final luxury on this epic adventure.  
   
   At the end of your trip you will have a domestic flight to Delhi or Mumbai to connect with your international flight home.

   Accommodation: Raas (3 nights)

Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Pali & Jodphur

Your Simply Rajasthan itinerary begins at The Claridges, just 45-minutes away from Delhi's international airport. By train, head to Agra for a day tour of the iconic Taj Mahal. Next, drive from Delhi to Jaipur, heading to 47 Jobner Bagh in the heart of the city. Onto Lakshman Sagar by car, this beautiful boutique option is a four hour drive from Jaipur. Finally, drive three hours east to Ratan Villas in Jodphur where you will end your itinerary through Rajasthan.