Explore Rajasthan forts and palaces trip 12N/13D

This 12-night, 13-day itinerary focuses specifically on the majestic forts and opulent palaces of Rajasthan, offering a deep dive into the royal heritage of the "Land of Kings."

Best Time to Travel: The ideal time for this trip is during the winter months (October to March). The weather is pleasant and conducive for extensive sightseeing and outdoor activities, making your exploration of these grand structures much more enjoyable. Summers (April-June) are extremely hot, and monsoons (July-September) can bring humidity and rain.

Itinerary: Rajasthan Forts & Palaces Extravaganza (12 Nights / 13 Days)

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi – Gateway to Rajasthan

 * Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport (DEL), you will be met by a Taj Club Holiday representative and transferred to your hotel.

 * Relax and prepare for your royal journey.

 * Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi – Mughal Grandeur & Colonial Legacy

 * Morning: Explore Old Delhi – visit the massive Red Fort (photo stop from outside), the impressive Jama Masjid (India's largest mosque), and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the vibrant lanes of Chandni Chowk.

 * Afternoon: Discover New Delhi – visit Humayun's Tomb (a precursor to the Taj Mahal), Qutub Minar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), India Gate, and drive past Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan.

 * Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Jaipur – The Pink City (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

 * After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, famous for its distinctive pink-colored buildings.

 * Upon arrival, check into your hotel.

 * Evening: You might opt for an evening at Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort, for a taste of Rajasthani culture, folk dances, music, and traditional dinner (optional).

 * Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 4: Jaipur – Amber Fort & City Palace

 * Morning: Excursion to Amber Fort, a magnificent hilltop fort. Enjoy an elephant ride (subject to availability) or a jeep ride up to the fort entrance. Explore its grand courtyards, palaces, and intricate mirror work (Sheesh Mahal).

 * Afternoon: Visit the City Palace, a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings, offering a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Also, see Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory) and make a photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).

 * Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 5: Jaipur – Nahargarh Fort & Jaigarh Fort

 * Morning: Visit Nahargarh Fort, perched on the Aravalli Hills, offering splendid views of Jaipur city.

 * Later, explore Jaigarh Fort, known for its massive cannon, Jaivana, and its impressive military architecture.

 * Afternoon: Leisure time for shopping in Jaipur's colorful bazaars, known for textiles, gemstones, and handicrafts.

 * Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 6: Jaipur to Jodhpur – The Blue City (Approx. 6-7 hours drive)

 * After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Jodhpur, the "Blue City," dominated by the formidable Mehrangarh Fort.

 * Upon arrival, check into your hotel.

 * Evening: Explore the vibrant Sardar Market and the iconic Clock Tower.

 * Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

Day 7: Jodhpur – Mehrangarh Fort & Umaid Bhawan Palace

 * Morning: Visit the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest and most impressive forts in India. Explore its elaborate palaces (like Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal), courtyards, and museum showcasing royal artifacts. Enjoy panoramic views of the blue city from its ramparts.

 * Later, visit Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

 * Afternoon: Visit a section of the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace, a magnificent residence part of which is still a royal palace, another part a luxury hotel, and a museum.

 * Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

Day 8: Jodhpur to Udaipur – The City of Lakes (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

 * After breakfast, drive to Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East" or "City of Lakes."

 * En route, visit the exquisite Ranakpur Jain Temples (approx. 2-hour detour), renowned for their intricate marble carvings and unique architecture.

 * Upon arrival in Udaipur, check into your hotel.

 * Evening: Enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola at sunset, offering breathtaking views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir.

 * Overnight stay in Udaipur.

Day 9: Udaipur – City Palace & Lake Palaces

 * Morning: Explore the magnificent City Palace complex, a grand edifice overlooking Lake Pichola. Discover its opulent courtyards, museums, and royal residences.

 * Later, visit Jagdish Temple, a large Hindu temple in the heart of the city, and Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of Maidens).

 * Afternoon: Leisure time to stroll through the charming old city lanes, visit local art galleries, or relax by the lake.

 * Overnight stay in Udaipur.

Day 10: Udaipur to Pushkar / Ajmer (Approx. 5-6 hours drive)

 * After breakfast, drive to Pushkar, a sacred town known for its Brahma Temple and holy lake.

 * En route or upon arrival, visit the Dargah Sharif in Ajmer, a revered Sufi shrine.

 * In Pushkar, visit the Brahma Temple (one of the few in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma) and explore the holy Pushkar Lake with its numerous ghats.

 * Overnight stay in Pushkar.

Day 11: Pushkar to Ranthambore (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

 * After breakfast, drive to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore National Park, known for its majestic fort and tiger reserve.

 * Upon arrival, check into your wildlife resort.

 * Afternoon: If time permits and subject to availability, enjoy an optional afternoon safari in Ranthambore National Park (requires pre-booking). While the focus of this tour is forts and palaces, Ranthambore Fort is an integral part of the park.

 * Overnight stay in Ranthambore.

Day 12: Ranthambore Fort & Return to Delhi (Approx. 7-8 hours drive, or train to Delhi)

 * Early Morning: Undertake a morning safari in Ranthambore National Park to try and spot tigers and other wildlife (optional, requires pre-booking).

 * After breakfast, visit the impressive Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop a hill within the national park. Explore its ruins, temples, and enjoy panoramic views.

 * Post-lunch: Drive back to Delhi (a long drive) or take a train from Sawai Madhopur to Delhi for a more comfortable journey (if suitable train available).

 * Upon arrival in Delhi, check into your hotel.

 * Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 13: Delhi Departure

 * After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you might have some time for last-minute souvenir shopping.

 * You will be transferred to Delhi International Airport (DEL) for your onward flight, carrying cherished memories of Rajasthan's royal forts and palaces.

Important Notes:

 * Internal Travel: This itinerary primarily uses road travel. For a more relaxed pace or if you prefer to save time, internal flights between cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur can be arranged. However, road travel offers a better view of the changing landscapes.

 * Guides: It is highly recommended to engage local English-speaking guides at major historical sites for a deeper understanding of the history and architecture. Taj Club Holiday can arrange this for you.

 * Vehicle: A comfortable private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver will be provided for your entire journey.

 * Accommodation: This itinerary assumes stays in comfortable hotels, but Taj Club Holiday can customize it to include luxury heritage hotels or more budget-friendly options as per your preference.

 * Ranthambore Safari: Safaris are subject to availability and forest department regulations. Booking well in advance is crucial, especially during peak season. Tiger sightings are not guaranteed.

 * Flexibility: This is a suggested itinerary. Taj Club Holiday can tailor it to your specific interests, adding or removing destinations, and adjusting the pace.

 * Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring forts.

This itinerary promises an immersive journey into the heart of Rajasthan's royal heritage, showcasing its magnificent forts, grand palaces, and rich cultural tapestry.

This is a suggested itinerary. Taj Club Holiday can customize it further based on your interests, pace, and budget.

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