Places Covered: Delhi – Mandawa - Jaipur – Chokhi Dhani – Ranthambore – Kalakho – Agra – Delhi
Besides royalty, Rajasthan is also the land of the villages. The rural side of this royal state presents it in the most vibrant form. Abounding rich beliefs, culture and traditions, the Village Safari of Rajasthan is a joyous journey through its rustic and rugged side. During this 13 day long trip, a traveller can truly experience the joys hidden in the simple village life passing at a languid pace, like camels.
With this comes a surprising bonus of colourful landscapes, lavish forts, herds of cattle, smoky kilns, thatched mud huts, spicy cuisine, or equally mesmerizing melodies from the locals in vocals or Sarangi. Above all, this Village Safari of Rajasthan is a rich, cultural spectacle; allowing travellers to soak the colours of the real rural setting.
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival in Delhi, meet Incredible India Tour representative for assisted transfer to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 2: Delhi
After breakfast, begin the discovery of Old and New Delhi. An Old Delhi tour covers up destinations like Raj Ghat (memorial to Mahatma Gandhi), Red Fort (a world heritage fort), Jama Masjid (India's largest mosque) and Chandni Chowk (the old bustling marketplace of the city). This will be followed by another prestigious moment of drive past the India Gate, the President's House and the Parliament House (Center for Indian Democracy). Sum up the day with a visit to the capital's most striking and photographed monument; the 70 meter high Qutab Minar. Overnight in Delhi.
Day 3: Delhi - Mandawa (Approx. 268 km / 6 hr drive)
Check out Delhi and drive to Mandawa and catch the first finest glimpse of rustic archetypal Shekhawati setting here. Settled in the 18th century and fortified by the prominent merchant families, this town is known for its vibrant wall frescoes and paintworks. Upon arrival, check in the hotel and begin the tour of Mandawa. Visit the forts and castles of the town and also the colourfully illustrated havelis or merchant mansions here. Overnight in Mandawa.
Day 4: Mandawa - Jaipur (Approx. 180 km / 4 hr drive)
Check out Mandawa for the onward destination, Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and the home of India's famous Rajput rulers. This city has travelled through centuries and gained hold over some of the splendid Indian forts, palaces, gardens, observatory and vibrant bazaars. All this and much more lend a timeless appeal to this city. Spend the day at leisure in exploring the city on your own OR explore the lively markets of Jaipur stuffed with colourful souvenirs. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Jaipur
After breakfast, begin ascend over the Amber Fort. This is a recently recognized world heritage site coming under Six Hilltop Forts of Rajasthan, presenting the best of Rajasthan's fort architecture. There is an equally enigmatic way to this hill top fort that goes via royal elephants. This royal elephant safari gives a true feeling of being the privileged one to visit Amber Fort. On return from Amber, stop over for lunch and then again continue towards the Hawa Mahal for a photo stop. This is a five terraced building of the 18th century and a landmark of Jaipur. Next in the series is a visit to the City Palace, which is located in the heart of Jaipur. This is the home to the royal family of Rajasthan and a part of it is converted into a museum featuring an astounding collection of historical mementoes illustrating the magnificent world of royal preferences. The rich collection here features a rich collection of textiles and royal robes, swords, manuscripts, paintings and a lot more in its treasured heritage. Also, visit Jantar Mantar Observatory (1728-34) built by King Jai Singh II who was an astrology aficionado. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 6: Jaipur – Chokhi Dhani
Check out Jaipur and proceed towards Chokhi Dhani Resort for an overnight stay. This is a resort modeled on the ethnic village life of colourful Rajasthan. Spread over 10 acres of land, this beautifully laid out resort resonates with the real rural essence of the state. Literally meaning a fine hamlet, this village resort is the place where the best of rustic village essence is permeated through its thatched huts, wells, puppet shows, magic shows, enlivening folk performances and undisputable village culture and its warm hospitality. The whole day spent here is full of excitement and pulsating energy where the best of villages in Rajasthan comes alive. Overnight in Chokhi Dhani.
Day 7: Chokhi Dhani - Ranthambore
Check out the 5 star village resort of Chokhi Dhani after for a journey onward Ranthambore. This is the wildlife hotspot famous for tigers. Upon arrival here, check in to the hotel and enjoy lunch. Afterwards, spend the afternoon in visiting the ruined Ranthambore Fort. In the evening, there will be a talk on wildlife, accompanied by a slide show. Overnight in Ranthambore.
Day 8: Ranthambore
In the early morning, embark on a game drive session in India's most popular wildlife park, Ranthambore. Here, tiger views are guaranteed, thanks to the dense tiger population cover here. Post lunch session at the hotel; resume the picturesque hunt for tigers during afternoon game safari. Overnight in Ranthambore. .
Day 9: Ranthambore - Kalakho (Approx. 170 km / 3 hr drive)
Check out Ranthambore, and drive towards Kalakho, a village in Dausa District of Rajasthan. On arrival at the Dera Lakeview Retreat Village, experience the renowned cultural wealth of the state through its warm reception and stay at the special Portahuts. Besides this, the theme village hosts a number of indoor games, local music and folk performances, camel rides to name a few. In the evening, enjoy a local folk and music performance show, set for tourists. Overnight in the resort.
Day 10: Kalakho
After breakfast venture into the depths of Kalakho with a visit a local village through a camel safari. Visit the nearby Meena tribal villages and experience their unique culture here. Spend some time meeting the villagers and learning about their life in rural India. Enjoy the lunch here inside the village. Later begin a soft hike to the nearby hills. Return to Dera Lakeview Retreat for overnight stay.
Day 11: Kalakho - Bharatpur - Agra (Approx. 170 km / 4 hr drive)
Early morning check out from Kalakho and proceed towards bird kingdom of Bharatpur. Upon arrival here, begin an exciting bird watching session through an exciting cycle rickshaw ride through this bird sanctuary, also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park. After the bird watching tour is complete, head towards Agra and en-route, explore another architectural marvel in stillness, Fatehpur Sikri. Replete with many Mughal and Rajput complexes, this is a tribute of Emperor Akbar for a celebrated saint, Shaikh Salim Chisti. After the excursion is complete, continue towards Agra and check-in the hotel. In the early evening, visit the Agra Fort, another world heritage site in Agra. Overnight stay.
Day 12: Agra / Delhi (Approx. 220 km / 4 hr drive)
Early in the morning, behold the glorious sight of the sun casting its mellow rays on the Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world and surely the greatest symbol of love and devotion. (Please note that Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays). Return to the hotel for breakfast and proceed to Delhi. After checking-in to your hotel, you may spend the evening at leisure. Overnight at the hotel (B)
Day 13: Delhi- Onward Destination
Our representative will escort travellers to the international airport to board the outgoing flight.
