15 Days Fort and Palaces Tour

Day 1

Guest will be received at Delhi Airport and driven to the hotel. Check in at the hotel and freshen up. Your journey begins in Delhi, the capital city of India. Delhi, a vibrant metropolis, offers a blend of ancient history and modernity. You can explore the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk or take a leisurely stroll in the serene gardens of Lodi Gardens.  Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest markets in Old Delhi. It is an important historical site renowned for the availability of every kind of goods as well as food. The first thing that hits you when you enter Chandni Chowk is the intoxicating aroma of food. It is the home to some of the oldest and most famous restaurants and confectioners, many of them dating back to fifty or hundred years ago. Shopping at Chandni Chowk is fun as the market is distributed in several streets and these narrow streets are inundated with vibrant varieties of clothes, perfumes, electronic items, jewellery, candles, idols of deities and lifestyle goods. 

Day 2

After Breakfast, you are off for a full day local sight-seeing. Visit the majestic Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its impressive architecture. Red Fort lies along the banks of the river Yamuna, whose waters fed the moats surrounding the fort. It was a part of the medieval city of Shahjahanabad, popularly known today as 'Old Delhi'. The entire fort complex is said to represent the architectural creativity and brilliance of Mughal architecture. It became a UNESCO world heritage site in 2007. Every year, the Indian Prime Minister unfurls the national flag here on the Independence Day. Explore Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The mosque hosts thousands of pilgrims each year on the holy occasion of Eid to offer special Namaz in the morning. With a capacity of twenty-five thousand people in the courtyard, Jama Masjid extends for about 1200 square meters in area with three gateways, four towers and two minarets which are forty meters high. Jama Masjid is situated in the older part of Delhi, now called Chandni Chowk and surrounded by beautiful Mughal structures. Continue your exploration with visits to Humayun's Tomb, the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It is the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent. Humayun's Tomb was featured in UNESCO's World Heritage List in the year 1993. 

Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 73-meter-tall minaret is an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The entry ticket for Indian visitors is INR 35 and for foreign visitors is INR 550.Then visit India Gate, a war memorial located along the Rajpath, dedicated to soldiers who died in World War I. Visit Parliament House, a circular colonnaded building . It also houses ministerial offices, numerous committee rooms and an excellent library as well. Conceived in the Imperial Style, the Parliament House consists of an open verandah with 144 columns. The domed circular central hall with oak paneled walls and the three semi circular buildings are used for the Rajya Shabha and Lok Shabha meetings. Then visit Rashtrapati Bhavan (from outside). National Museum houses thousands of artifacts from India’s rich history, including sculptures, paintings, and jewellery. Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, notable for its grandiose architecture. Overnight stay at luxury hotel in Delhi.

Day 3

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Check-out from the hotel in Delhi and travel to Mandawa, a charming town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The distance between Delhi to Mandawa is 237 kilometres and it takes around approximately 5 hours 30 minutes drive. Check into a hotel upon arrival and spend the evening exploring the stunning havelis and vibrant streets of Mandawa. 

Day 4

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Today, journey to the historic city of Bikaner, famous for its imposing forts, elegant palaces, and bustling markets. Visit the magnificent Junagarh Fort, a magnificent structure around which the city of Bikaner grew up. The palaces inside the fort, the gardens, balconies, kiosks, etc., depict a composite architectural style influenced by the different rulers' cultural differences and foreign inspirations. Explore the opulent interiors of Lalgarh Palace, a breathtaking Rajasthani Palace. The palace built in European architecture style has now been opened up for tourists as a Heritage Hotel and the entire estate comes under the National Heritage Trust. Walkthrough the splendid corridors and take a stroll in the garden outside or a dip in the swimming pool. Notice the magnificent pillars and fireplaces in the red sandstone architecture, and the carefully maintained gardens and the intricate latticework. Tour ends and the guest will be driven back to the hotel. 

Day 5

Start your day with a breakfast and check-out from the hotel. Depart early for Jaisalmer, often referred to as the "Golden City" due to its golden sandstone architecture that glows in the sunlight. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, you can explore the bustling markets of Jaisalmer, known for their exquisite handicrafts, textiles, and jewelery. 

Day 6

Begin your journey in Jaisalmer. Visit Jaisalmer Fort, the Golden Fort, is a magnificent fortress located in the city of Jaisalmer. It is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Jaisalmer Fort allows you to experience the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the local people. A visit to Jaisalmer Fort is like stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the grandeur of a bygone era. The fort's rich history, architectural splendor, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination in Jaisalmer for travelers on their Jaisalmer tour. Explore the ornately decorated havelis of Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, showcasing exquisite Rajasthani craftsmanship. In the evening, enjoy a camel safari in the picturesque Sam Sand Dunes and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the desert. 

Day 7

Start your day with breakfast and check-out from the hotel in Jaisalmer. Travel to Jodhpur, known as the Blue City. En-route, stop at Ranakpur to visit the Ranakpur Jain Temples, a group of intricately carved Jain temples located in the village of Ranakpur in the Pali district of Rajasthan, India. These temples are renowned for their exquisite architecture, intricate marble carvings, and spiritual significance. The main temple is dedicated to Tirthankara Adinatha (Rishabhanatha), the first Tirthankara of Jainism. Continue your journey to Jodhpur and check-in at your hotel.  

Day 8

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India, it contains several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards. Jaswant Thada is a cenotaph built out of intricately carved sheets of marble. It serves as the cremation ground for the royal family of Marwar. Then visit Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, free time to explore the city at your own pace. Have your dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay at the luxury hotel.

Day 9

After breakfast, depart for the romantic city of Udaipur, often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its picturesque lakes, palaces, and gardens. En-route, stop at Pushkar, Visit the Brahma Temple, one of the few temples dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma, known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. Visit Pushkar Lake, a sacred lake surrounded by 52 bathing ghats and more than 500 temples, believed to have been created by the tears of Lord Shiva. Enjoy lunch from nearby restaurant. In the evening, relax at the resort or enjoy a camel safari. Continue your journey to Udaipur and check-in at your hotel. 

Day 10

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Explore the enchanting city of Udaipur, nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills and surrounded by shimmering lakes. Visit the majestic City Palace, considered to be the largest royal complex in Rajasthan.  The Palace now has an assortment of Mahals, courtyards, pavilions, corridors, terraces, rooms and hanging gardens. It is built on the banks of Lake Pichola. Enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, with views of the iconic Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Visit Jagdish Temple, one of the significant landmarks in Udaipur and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here in the form of Jagannath, a form of Vishnu  and explore the colorful markets of Udaipur. 

Day 11

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and check-out from the hotel. Travel to Jaipur and it takes around approximately 6 to 7 hours drive to reach by road. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and relax. In the evening, you can explore the bustling markets of Jaipur, known for their traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles. 

Day 12

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaipur's architectural wonders. Visit the majestic Amber Fort, with an elephant ride. Amber Fort known for its artistic style, blending both Hindu and Mughal elements. The fort overlooks Maota Lake and offers elephant rides to visitors. Explore the ornately decorated halls and courtyards of the fort, including the Sheesh Mahal. Continue your exploration with visits to Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds is known for its high screen wall that allowed royal women to observe street festivals while remaining unseen from the outside. Then visit Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observation site, highlights the scientific acumen of an era gone by, featuring the world’s largest stone sundial. In the evening, you can explore the local markets of Jaipur and shop for souvenirs. 

Day 13

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal. The distance from Jaipur to Agra is approximately 237 kilometres and it takes around 4 to 5 hours drive. Stop at the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri en route. Fatehpur Sikri, built by Emperor Akbar, it includes notable buildings like the Buland Darwaza (Victory Gate) and the Tomb of Salim Chishti, showcasing Mughal architectural grandeur. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Check into a hotel in Agra and visit the Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, and offering views of the Taj Mahal. In the evening leisure time with an optional visit to the local markets. Overnight stay at luxury hotel in Agra.

Day 14

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Start your day exploring Taj Mahal at sunrise for a breathtaking view. Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ivory-white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Travel to Delhi. Optional light evening exploration of nearby areas. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay at luxury hotel in Delhi.

Day 15

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Delhi Airport for your onward journey, bringing an end to your memorable tour of India's forts and palaces. Depart with cherished memories of majestic monuments, vibrant cultures, and the warm hospitality of the people of India.