Royal Rajasthan

Royal Cities of Rajasthan, India
4.8 /5

Excellent

(6 Reviews)
Tour Duration:
14 Nights / 15 Days
Tour Route
  • Delhi (1N) to Mandawa
  • Mandawa (1N) to Bikaner
  • Bikaner (2N) to Jaisalmer
  • Jaisalmer (3N) to Jodhpur
  • Jodhpur (2N) to Udaipur
  • Udaipur (3N) to Jaipur
  • Jaipur (2N)

Tour Highlights

  • Golden Fort Sunset - Witness magical sunset at Jaisalmer Fort, the world's only living fort with residents
  • Desert Camel Safari - Overnight luxury desert camp experience in Thar Desert with cultural performances
  • Lake Palace View - Romantic boat ride on Lake Pichola with views of Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur
  • Blue City Exploration - Discover cobalt-blue houses in Jodhpur from majestic Mehrangarh Fort
  • Haveli Frescoes - Marvel at intricate frescoes in Mandawa's heritage havelis (merchant mansions)
  • Elephant Experience - Optional elephant ride at Amber Fort in Jaipur, the Pink City

Description

Experience the grandeur of Rajasthan, India's land of kings, with our exclusive 15-day luxury heritage tour designed specifically for international travelers. This Royal Rajasthan journey takes you through seven magnificent cities, from painted havelis to golden deserts, blue cities to romantic lakes, offering an authentic immersion into Rajput culture, architecture, and hospitality. Perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth, photographic opportunities, and luxury accommodations in heritage properties.

At QuestGuideIndia, we've crafted this comprehensive Rajasthan tour to showcase the region's diverse heritage. Begin in Delhi, India's vibrant capital, then journey to the Shekhawati region's painted havelis. Explore the camel country of Bikaner, witness the golden magic of Jaisalmer, experience the blue hues of Jodhpur, fall in love with Udaipur's lakes, and conclude in Jaipur's regal splendor. Our expert local guides provide cultural context while ensuring authentic interactions with local communities.

This tour features carefully selected heritage hotels and palaces, many formerly royal residences. Enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine, folk performances, and hands-on experiences like turban tying and mehndi application. Best visited from October to March when Rajasthan's weather is most pleasant. Includes all transfers in private air-conditioned vehicles, expert English-speaking guides, and exclusive access experiences not available to regular tourists.

Detailed Itinerary: Royal Rajasthan

Arrival at Delhi International Airport (DEL). Traditional welcome with marigold garlands and tilak ceremony. Transfer to your luxury hotel in central Delhi.

Afternoon orientation includes:

  • Tour Briefing - Detailed overview of your 15-day Rajasthan journey
  • Cultural Introduction - Understanding Rajasthan's history and customs
  • Currency & SIM Card Assistance - Help with essential travel needs

Evening visit to India Gate and Parliament House area for illuminated views.

Welcome dinner featuring Mughlai cuisine at a renowned restaurant. Overnight stay at luxury hotel in Delhi.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Airport Meet & Greet
  • Luxury Hotel Accommodation
  • Evening Sightseeing
  • Welcome Dinner

Morning drive to Mandawa (6 hours) through rural Rajasthan. Enroute stop at Neemrana if time permits. Arrival at heritage hotel - a restored haveli.

Afternoon exploration of Mandawa's frescoed havelis:

  • Mandawa Fort - 18th century fort with museum and panoramic views
  • Murmuria Haveli - Famous for paintings of trains and airplanes
  • Chokhani & Ladia Havelis - Intricate frescoes depicting mythology

Evening heritage walk through old Mandawa market.

Traditional Rajasthani dinner with folk music at heritage hotel. Overnight stay in Mandawa.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Delhi-Mandawa Transfer
  • Heritage Haveli Stay
  • Haveli Tour with Guide
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Cultural Dinner

Morning drive to Bikaner (5 hours) through semi-desert landscape. Arrival and check into heritage hotel.

Afternoon visit to Junagarh Fort - one of Rajasthan's few forts not built on a hill:

  • Anup Mahal - Exquisite red and gold lacquer work
  • Phool Mahal - Flower Palace with mirror work
  • Karan Mahal - Built to commemorate victory over Mughals

Visit to National Research Centre on Camel (optional).

Evening free to explore local markets specializing in camel leather products. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Mandawa-Bikaner Transfer
  • Heritage Hotel Stay
  • Junagarh Fort Visit
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning excursion to Deshnok (30km) to visit Karni Mata Temple - famous "Rat Temple" where thousands of rats are worshipped.

Return to Bikaner for city exploration:

  • Lalgarh Palace - Indo-Saracenic architecture, now partly a museum
  • Bikaner's Old City - Walk through centuries-old markets
  • Bhandasar Jain Temple - Exquisite marble carvings and frescoes

Afternoon demonstration of Bikaneri snack preparation (famous bhujia).

Evening cultural performance of traditional Gair dance. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Karni Mata Temple Visit
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Lalgarh Palace Tour
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner with Cultural Show

Morning drive to Jaisalmer (6 hours) through remote desert villages. Watch the landscape transform to golden sands.

Late afternoon arrival in Jaisalmer - the Golden City. Check into heritage hotel within or near the fort.

Evening orientation walk includes:

  • First views of Jaisalmer Fort - glowing golden in sunset light
  • Introduction to desert culture and traditions
  • Camel safari briefing for next day

Dinner with views of illuminated fort. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

Today's Arrival
Jaisalmer Golden Fort at Sunset
The Day Tour Includes
  • Bikaner-Jaisalmer Transfer
  • Heritage Hotel in Jaisalmer
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Welcome Dinner in Jaisalmer

Full day exploration of Jaisalmer Fort - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's only living fort with residents, temples, and shops.

Morning fort tour includes:

  • Raj Mahal (King's Palace) - Royal residences with intricate carvings
  • Jain Temples - 12th-15th century temples with detailed stone work
  • Fort Ramparts - Panoramic views of the city and desert

Afternoon visit to Patwon Ki Haveli - cluster of five havelis with exquisite stone filigree work.

Visit to Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli.

Evening shopping in local markets for embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and camel leather items. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Jaisalmer Fort Guided Tour
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Haveli Visits
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning free for relaxation or optional visit to Gadisar Lake and abandoned village of Kuldhara.

Afternoon departure for Sam Sand Dunes (40km from Jaisalmer).

Late afternoon camel safari into the desert:

  • Camel Ride - Traditional mode of desert transport
  • Sunset Viewing - Spectacular colors over sand dunes
  • Photography Opportunities - Classic desert scenes

Check into luxury desert camp with attached Swiss tents.

Evening cultural program with folk dancers and musicians around bonfire. Traditional Rajasthani dinner under stars. Overnight in desert camp.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Camel Safari Experience
  • Luxury Desert Camp Stay
  • Cultural Evening Program
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Bonfire Dinner

Morning desert sunrise viewing. Breakfast at camp and return to Jaisalmer to collect luggage.

Drive to Jodhpur (5-6 hours) through desert landscape changing to arid plains.

Afternoon arrival in Jodhpur - the Blue City. Check into heritage hotel, often a converted haveli.

Evening visit to Clock Tower and Sardar Market:

  • Spice Market - Aromatic spices in vibrant colors
  • Textile Shops - Traditional bandhani (tie-dye) fabrics
  • Local Snacks - Try Jodhpuri mirchi vada and mawa kachori

Dinner at heritage restaurant. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Transfer
  • Heritage Hotel in Jodhpur
  • Market Visit
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning visit to Mehrangarh Fort - one of India's largest and best-preserved forts, towering 125m above the city.

Fort highlights include:

  • Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) - Where royal coronations occurred
  • Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) - Gold leaf and mirror work
  • Fort Museum - Palanquins, costumes, musical instruments

Visit to Jaswant Thada - marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Afternoon visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace (exterior) - one of world's largest private residences, partly a luxury hotel and museum.

Evening free or optional cooking class of Rajasthani cuisine. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Mehrangarh Fort Visit
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Jaswant Thada Visit
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning drive to Udaipur (6-7 hours) through scenic Aravalli hills. Stop at Ranakpur for lunch and visit to Jain Temple (optional, if time permits).

Afternoon arrival in Udaipur - the Venice of the East. Check into heritage hotel with lake views.

Evening orientation includes:

  • First views of Lake Pichola and City Palace
  • Introduction to Udaipur's romantic history
  • Boat ride briefing for next day

Dinner at rooftop restaurant with palace views. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

Today's Arrival
Udaipur Lake Pichola with City Palace
The Day Tour Includes
  • Jodhpur-Udaipur Transfer
  • Heritage Hotel with Lake View
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Welcome Dinner in Udaipur

Morning visit to City Palace - Rajasthan's largest palace complex overlooking Lake Pichola.

Palace highlights include:

  • Crystal Gallery - Extraordinary collection of crystal furniture
  • Manek Mahal - Mirror work palace
  • Mor Chowk - Peacock courtyard with mosaic peacocks

Afternoon boat ride on Lake Pichola with views of:

  • Jag Mandir Island Palace - Where Shah Jahan took inspiration for Taj Mahal
  • Taj Lake Palace - Famous luxury hotel featured in James Bond film

Evening visit to Bagore Ki Haveli for cultural dance performance. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • City Palace Visit
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Lake Pichola Boat Ride
  • Cultural Performance
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning visit to Sahelion Ki Bari (Garden of the Maidens) - ornamental garden with fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and lotus pool.

Visit to Jagdish Temple - large Indo-Aryan temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Afternoon options (choose one):

  • Shilpgram - Rural arts and crafts complex with live demonstrations
  • Fateh Sagar Lake - Scenic drive and visit to Nehru Park island
  • Shopping - Miniature paintings, silver jewelry, leather goods

Late afternoon cooking demonstration of Rajasthani cuisine.

Farewell dinner with traditional music. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Sahelion Ki Bari Visit
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • Jagdish Temple Visit
  • Cooking Demonstration
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Farewell Dinner

Morning drive to Jaipur (7-8 hours) through rural Rajasthan. Enroute stop at Ranakpur Jain Temple (if not visited earlier).

Late afternoon arrival in Jaipur - the Pink City. Check into heritage hotel.

Evening orientation walk in old city:

  • Introduction to Jaipur's grid-pattern design
  • View of Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) facade
  • Briefing on next day's Amber Fort visit

Dinner at heritage restaurant. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Udaipur-Jaipur Transfer
  • Heritage Hotel in Jaipur
  • Ranakpur Temple Stop
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning visit to Amber Fort - magnificent fort-palace complex set on a hill. Optional elephant ride up to fort (subject to availability).

Fort highlights include:

  • Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) - Thousands of mirror pieces
  • Diwan-i-Aam & Diwan-i-Khas - Public and private audience halls
  • Sukh Niwas - Hall of pleasure with water channel cooling system

Afternoon visit to City Palace complex - still home to Jaipur's royal family:

  • Chandra Mahal - Seven-storied palace (exterior view)
  • Mubarak Mahal - Welcome palace now textile museum
  • Armory Museum - Collection of royal weapons

Evening visit to Chokhi Dhani ethnic village for cultural experience (optional). Overnight stay in Jaipur.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Hotel Accommodation
  • City Palace Visit
  • Breakfast & Lunch
  • Dinner

Morning visit to Jantar Mantar - UNESCO World Heritage site and astronomical observatory with massive stone instruments.

Visit to Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - iconic five-story facade with 953 small windows.

Final morning in Jaipur includes:

  • Last-minute shopping for handicrafts, textiles, jewelry
  • Tour conclusion and feedback session
  • Farewell ceremony

After lunch, transfer to Jaipur International Airport (JAI) for departure flight.

Optional extension to Agra for Taj Mahal visit (additional 2-3 days). End of Royal Rajasthan Heritage Tour.

The Day Tour Includes
  • Airport Transfer
  • Breakfast & Lunch

Included / Excluded

Price Includes
  • 14 nights accommodation in heritage hotels/palaces
  • Daily breakfast, 14 lunches, 14 dinners
  • All transfers in private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Experienced English-speaking tour guide throughout
  • Entrance fees to all monuments and museums listed
  • Camel safari in Jaisalmer with traditional entertainment
  • Boat ride on Lake Pichola in Udaipur
  • Cultural performances as mentioned in itinerary
  • Bottled drinking water during journeys
  • All currently applicable taxes
Price Excludes
  • International flights to/from India
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities (elephant ride at Amber Fort, etc.)
  • Camera/video fees at monuments
  • Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Visa fees for India
  • Any services not mentioned in inclusions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A: The ideal time for Rajasthan travel is October to March when temperatures are pleasant (10°C to 25°C). Winter months (December-February) offer cool days and chilly nights, perfect for desert camping. October-November and February-March provide warm days and comfortable evenings. Summer (April-June) is extremely hot (35°C to 45°C) though heritage hotels have air conditioning. Monsoon (July-September) brings sporadic rains and lush greenery but can be humid. Our tour operates year-round with adjusted itineraries for summer heat.

A: Essentials include: Light cotton clothes for daytime, warmer layers for evenings/desert; Comfortable walking shoes for fort explorations; Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen); Scarf/shawl for visiting temples and sun protection; Camera with extra batteries; Personal medications; Power adapter (India uses 230V, Type D/M plugs); Small flashlight for desert camp; Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; Swimsuit if your hotel has pool. For winter (Dec-Feb): Jacket, sweater, thermal innerwear for desert nights. We provide detailed packing list upon booking.

A: Absolutely! Our carefully selected heritage properties combine historic charm with modern comforts. All rooms have: Air conditioning/heating; Ensuite bathrooms with hot water; Comfortable beds with quality linens; Toiletries; Wi-Fi (speed varies by location); Safety deposit boxes. Many properties feature: Swimming pools; Restaurants serving Indian and international cuisine; Spacious gardens; Cultural performances. These are not basic accommodations but converted palaces, havelis, and forts that offer luxurious experiences while maintaining architectural heritage. We can upgrade to 5-star luxury properties upon request.

A: Yes, this tour is excellent for solo travelers, couples, families, and seniors. For solo travelers: We arrange single accommodations (with supplement) and ensure inclusion in group activities. For seniors: We adjust pacing as needed, provide more rest time, and can arrange wheelchair assistance at monuments where possible. The tour involves moderate walking at forts and palaces (with many steps), but we can modify activities based on mobility. Our guides are trained to assist all age groups. Private tours with customized pacing are available. Most hotels have elevators, but some heritage properties may have limited accessibility - we inform in advance.

Traveller Reviews for This Package

See what our recent travellers have to say about their experience

4.8 / 5.0 from 6 reviews
Rodriguez experiencing Jaisalmer desert sunset
R Rodriguez

Barcelona, Spain • Solor Traveller

A Photographer's Dream Come True

"As a professional photographer, Rajasthan was always on my bucket list. The golden hour at Jaisalmer Fort was magical - the entire fort glows! The overnight desert camp experience was unforgettable - sleeping under a blanket of stars after traditional music around the bonfire. The heritage hotels were stunning, each with unique architecture and stories."

"Udaipur's Lake Pichola boat ride at sunset gave me my best shots of the trip. The Blue City of Jodhpur from Mehrangarh Fort is a sight I'll never forget. Our guide knew all the best vantage points for photography. This tour wasn't just sightseeing; it was a visual journey through living history. Came back with over 5,000 photos!"

Visited November 2024 • Cultural Photography Tour
William & Catherine enjoying luxury palace stay
William & Catherine Bennett

London, UK • Luxury Travelers

Living Like Royalty in Rajasthan

"We've traveled to many luxury destinations, but staying in actual palaces and heritage havelis in Rajasthan was unparalleled. Each accommodation was more impressive than the last - from the painted havelis of Mandawa to the lake-view rooms in Udaipur. The attention to detail in service was exceptional - traditional welcome ceremonies, rose petal baths, and private dining under the stars."

"The food journey was incredible - authentic Rajasthani thalis, royal cuisine tastings, and cooking demonstrations. The camel safari with champagne sunset in the desert was our highlight. This tour perfectly balanced luxury with authentic cultural experiences. We didn't just visit Rajasthan; we lived it royally for two weeks. Worth every penny!"

Visited February 2024 • Luxury Heritage Experience
Sophie Martin exploring Rajasthan solo
Sophie Martin

Montreal, Canada • Solo Traveler

Empowering Solo Journey Through History

"I was initially nervous about traveling solo in India, but this tour made me feel completely safe and welcomed. The small group of 8 became like family. Our female guide, Priya, was knowledgeable and always looked out for us. Exploring the intricate frescoes in Mandawa's havelis was like stepping into a living art gallery."

"The desert camp experience was incredible - I'll never forget the silence of the Thar Desert at night. In Udaipur, I learned traditional miniature painting from a local artist. The pace was perfect with free time to explore markets. This journey taught me so much about Rajput history and empowered me as a solo traveler. I made friends from around the world!"

Visited October 2023 • Solo Cultural Exploration
Exploring Rajasthan forts
Himari S

Tokyo, Japan • Family Vacation

Educational & Entertaining Family Adventure

"Traveling with teenagers can be challenging, but Rajasthan kept our kids fascinated throughout! They loved the camel safari and sleeping in desert tents. The forts were like real-life history lessons - much better than textbooks. In Jaipur, the elephant ride at Amber Fort was a huge hit. The kids particularly enjoyed trying on traditional turbans and learning about Rajput armor."

"The heritage hotels had swimming pools which was perfect for afternoon relaxation. The food was diverse enough for picky eaters while introducing authentic flavors. Our guide engaged the kids with stories and quizzes. This wasn't just a vacation; it was an immersive educational experience that brought history to life. Our family bond grew stronger exploring together."

Visited December 2023 • Family Educational Trip
Professor Ahmed studying Rajasthan architecture
Professor Ahmed Al-Farsi

Dubai, UAE • Group Tour

Architectural Masterpiece Tour

"As an architecture professor, I've studied Rajasthan's forts and palaces for years, but seeing them in person was breathtaking. The intricate stone filigree work in Jaisalmer's havelis, the mirror palaces of Amber Fort, the blend of Rajput and Mughal styles in City Palace Jaipur - each site was a masterpiece. Our guide had deep architectural knowledge beyond typical tourist information."

"The stepwells (baoris) of Rajasthan were particularly fascinating - functional yet artistic. The Jain temples in Jaisalmer Fort with their exquisite marble carvings were highlights. This tour was perfectly paced for detailed exploration. I appreciated the access to areas not open to general public. Returned with extensive research material and renewed appreciation for Indian architecture."

Visited March 2024 • Group Tour
Anna & Marco romantic Udaipur experience
Anna & Marco Rossi

Rome, Italy • Honeymoon Couple

Most Romantic Honeymoon Destination

"We chose Rajasthan for our honeymoon, and it exceeded all expectations! Udaipur truly is the Venice of the East - the sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola with the City Palace illuminated was magical. Our heritage hotel arranged a private candlelit dinner on their terrace overlooking the lake. The desert night under stars was incredibly romantic."

"The cultural experiences made it special - we had mehndi (henna) applied together, watched traditional puppet shows, and enjoyed private folk music performances. The food was a journey in itself - from royal thalis to street food tours. Every detail was romantic and memorable. This wasn't just a trip; it was the perfect start to our marriage, filled with stories we'll tell forever."

Visited January 2024 • Romantic Honeymoon