Royal Rajasthan - Palaces, Leopards & Lakes

Upon your arrival in New Delhi, you will be greeted by your personal representative and privately chauffeured to your luxury hotel, where a seamless check-in and the warmest hospitality await.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to unwind, settle in, and recover from your journey. Relax in the refined comforts of your hotel and prepare for the vibrant colours of Rajasthan, where royal heritage, timeless traditions, and the untamed wilderness of Jawai await.

Following a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport for your short flight of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes to Jodhpur, the legendary Blue City and gateway to Rajasthan's royal heartland.

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and privately chauffeured to your luxury hotel. Take a moment to settle into your elegant surroundings and unwind before the afternoon's exploration.

Later, embark on a privately guided visit to the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the world's largest private residences and an enduring symbol of the Rathore dynasty. Commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh, this extraordinary architectural masterpiece is renowned for its harmonious blend of Art Deco elegance and Rajput grandeur. Explore the palace museum, home to an exceptional collection of royal artefacts, vintage timepieces, historic memorabilia, and an impressive fleet of classic automobiles, each offering a captivating glimpse into the legacy, vision, and refined lifestyle of Jodhpur's erstwhile royal family.

As twilight settles over the palace, indulge in an exquisite dining experience at one of its signature restaurants. Surrounded by regal splendour and impeccable hospitality, savour a thoughtfully curated menu celebrating the finest regional and international flavours, an unforgettable introduction to the timeless elegance of Rajasthan.

After a leisurely breakfast at the palace, set out on a privately guided exploration of Jodhpur's royal treasures.

Begin at the graceful Jaswant Thada, the exquisite marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, before continuing to the serene Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, a remarkable ecological restoration project showcasing the unique flora and rugged beauty of the Thar Desert at the foot of Mehrangarh Fort.

Continue to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, an enduring symbol of Rajput valour, where magnificent palaces, intricately adorned courtyards, and sweeping views over the Blue City reveal the splendour of a bygone era. Pause for a leisurely lunch at Chokelao Restaurant, the fort's celebrated heritage restaurant overlooking the ancient ramparts, where traditional Rajasthani flavours are served amidst one of the city's most spectacular settings.

Descend into the historic heart of Jodhpur for a guided Blue-city walk through its enchanting indigo-hued lanes, where centuries-old havelis, hidden temples, artisan workshops, and vibrant bazaars offer an authentic glimpse into the city's enduring traditions and royal legacy.

Return to the hotel for a restful pause, allowing time to unwind and refresh before the evening ahead. Later, prepare for a memorable dinner at RAAS Haveli in Jodhpur, where heritage charm and refined dining come together in an atmospheric setting.

Following a leisurely breakfast, leave the grandeur of Jodhpur behind and journey approximately 45 minutes into the tranquil countryside for a privately guided exploration of the Bishnoi villages, where a centuries-old philosophy of living in harmony with nature continues to thrive.

Your immersive village safari offers a rare glimpse into the authentic rhythms of rural Rajasthan, where graceful Blackbuck Antelope, Chinkara, and an abundance of birdlife flourish under the Bishnoi community's unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation. Visit traditional artisan hamlets, where skilled craftsmen continue the age-old practices of pottery, hand block printing, weaving, and other regional crafts, preserving techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Experience the warmth of legendary Bishnoi hospitality with a traditional Amal Sabha, a centuries-old gesture of welcome and friendship that remains an integral part of the community's cultural heritage. This intimate encounter offers a fascinating insight into the customs and values that have defined Bishnoi life for generations.

Return to your hotel for a leisurely lunch before enjoying the remainder of the afternoon at leisure, allowing time to relax and savour the exceptional comforts of your surroundings.

This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel at your own pace, bringing to a graceful close a day immersed in Rajasthan's enduring traditions, remarkable craftsmanship, and extraordinary conservation heritage.

Following a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to the royal heart of Marwar and embark on a scenic 160 km journey to the extraordinary wilderness of Jawai, one of India's most exclusive leopard landscapes.

En route, visit the magnificent Ranakpur Jain Temple, a masterpiece of 15th-century marble craftsmanship. Revered as one of India's finest Jain sanctuaries, its ethereal halls, graceful domes, and 1,444 intricately carved pillars, no two alike, stand as an extraordinary testament to Rajasthan's artistic and architectural brilliance.

Pause for a leisurely lunch at a carefully selected venue near Ranakpur before continuing your journey towards the legendary Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve. Here, dramatic granite outcrops, tranquil reservoirs, and timeless Rabari settlements create one of India's most remarkable wilderness landscapes, where the elusive leopard has coexisted harmoniously with local pastoral communities for generations.

Upon arrival, check in to your luxury wilderness retreat and take time to unwind amidst the serenity of your natural surroundings.

As evening descends, embark on your first privately guided leopard safari, traversing Jawai's spectacular granite hills in search of its most celebrated resident

Along the way, keep watch for marsh crocodiles basking along the reservoir, graceful antelope, and an abundance of birdlife, while the golden hues of sunset transform the rugged landscape into an unforgettable spectacle. Return to your retreat for elegant sundowners overlooking the wilderness before savouring a refined dinner beneath a canopy of stars, bringing to a memorable close your first day in one of India's most exclusive wildlife destinations.

With the first light of dawn, set out on an exclusive morning safari through the dramatic granite wilderness of Jawai, where the rising sun bathes one of India's most extraordinary leopard habitats in a golden glow.

Accompanied by your expert naturalist, venture deep into this remarkable landscape in search of the elusive leopard, while also encountering striped hyenas, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a rich diversity of resident and migratory birdlife that thrives within this unique ecosystem.

Return to your luxury retreat for a leisurely gourmet breakfast, followed by a relaxed morning at leisure. Unwind amidst the serenity of the wilderness, savour the refined comforts of your retreat, or simply immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of the surrounding landscape. A leisurely lunch is served before the afternoon's adventure.

As the golden hour approaches, set out once again on a privately guided safari, exploring the reserve's spectacular granite hills and hidden valleys. Every drive presents a new chapter, with opportunities to witness the legendary leopards in their natural realm while the warm hues of the setting sun transform the ancient landscape into a masterpiece of amber and gold.

As dusk settles over Jawai, pause for an elegant sundowner in the heart of the wilderness, raising a toast to another unforgettable day in the wild

Return to your retreat for a refined dinner beneath a canopy of stars, where exceptional cuisine and the tranquil sounds of nature bring your royal wilderness experience to a memorable close./p>

Dawn breaks over the ancient granite boulders as you set out on a morning safari along a different route, following the contours of the Jawai reservoir.

This drive takes you through terrain favoured by mugger crocodiles that bask along the water's edge and through corridors where striped hyenas have been sighted in the early hours. Your naturalist reads the landscape with practised ease, pointing out pugmarks, scratchings, and the territorial markers left by the reserve's resident leopards.

Return to camp for a leisurely breakfast, after which the morning is devoted to an intimate cultural experience. Visit a nearby Rabari settlement, where the semi-nomadic pastoral community has coexisted with leopards for generations. Observe their distinctive embroidered textiles, hear their stories of living alongside predators, and gain insight into a way of life that has endured for centuries across the arid landscapes of westernRajasthan.

After a leisurely lunch at camp, the afternoon is yours to unwind. Walk through the camp's grounds, settle into a quiet corner with a book, or simply absorb the stillness of the landscape.

As the golden hour yields to dusk, embark on a final evening safari, this time exploring the higher ridgelines where leopards often survey their territory from weathered granite perches.

Return to your retreat as the stars emerge, for a specially curated dinner set amidst the wilderness. The sounds of the wild, the warmth of a campfire, and the knowledge that one of India's most elusive predators roams just beyond the lantern light make this an evening of quiet intensity/p>

Rise before dawn for one final privately guided safari through the extraordinary wilderness of Jawai, where the first light of day casts a golden glow across the ancient granite landscape.

Accompanied by your expert naturalist, enjoy a final opportunity to encounter the reserve's elusive leopards, remarkable birdlife, and the quiet rhythm of a landscape where wildlife and local communities have coexisted in harmony for centuries.

Return to your luxury retreat for a leisurely breakfast before departing for Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes. The scenic drive of approximately 3.5 hours meanders through the picturesque countryside of southern Rajasthan, with a brief refreshment stop en route near Gogunda.

Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will be welcomed to your luxury hotel, where a leisurely lunch awaits. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to unwind and embrace the tranquil elegance of your surroundings, allowing the pace of the journey to gently slow before the next chapter of your royal sojourn.

As evening falls, savour dinner at the hotel at your leisure, concluding the day amidst the timeless serenity and refined hospitality of the City of Lakes.

Following a leisurely breakfast, set out for a privately guided exploration of Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes and historic seat of the Mewar Kingdom.

Begin with a visit to the magnificent City Palace, an architectural masterpiece that has served as the residence of the Maharanas of Mewar for over four centuries, offering sweeping views across the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. Continue to the revered Jagdish Temple, before strolling through the picturesque Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat, where elegant havelis, tranquil waters, and timeless architecture capture the romance of Udaipur.

Pause for an elegant lunch at Sheesh Mahal, The Leela Palace Udaipur's signature restaurant, where refined cuisine is complemented by breathtaking views across Lake Pichola and the City Palace.

Later, board a traditional tuk tuk and journey through the colourful bazaars, bustling marketplaces, and narrow heritage lanes of Udaipur's old city, offering an authentic glimpse into its vibrant everyday life. Your ride culminates at the home of a renowned local artist for an exclusive Jal Sanjhi experience. Preserved by the fourth generation of a family devoted to safeguarding this rare artistic tradition, witness the extraordinary precision of hand-cut paper stencils and vibrant pigments as this centuries-old art form comes to life in an intimate and authentic setting.

As the afternoon unfolds, embark on a private boat cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Pichola to the magnificent island palace of Jagmandir.

Once a royal retreat of the Maharanas of Mewar, its graceful marble pavilions and beautifully landscaped gardens provide the perfect setting for an exclusive high tea. As the sun begins its descent, savour the magical spectacle of Udaipur bathed in golden light, with the CityPalace, surrounding havelis, and the distant Aravalli Hills reflected across the shimmering lake.

Return to your luxury hotel in the evening, where dinner awaits in the refined surroundings of your hotel, bringing to a graceful close another unforgettable day in the royal heart of Mewar.

Savour a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to the timeless beauty of Udaipur and transferring to the airport for your flight to New Delhi.

Upon arrival in the capital, you will be warmly welcomed and privately chauffeured to your luxury hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, a leisurely lunch will be enjoyed en route before you settle into your elegant surroundings.

As evening approaches, embark on a panoramic drive through the ceremonial heart of Lutyens' Delhi. Admire the grandeur of the iconic India Gate and the stately Rashtrapati Bhavan, whose sweeping boulevards and magnificent architecture embody the dignity of India's capital.

Continue through the elegant colonnades of Connaught Place, the city's vibrant commercial and cultural hub, before visiting the revered Birla Mandir and the serene Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where the tranquil ambience offers a peaceful contrast to the energy of the city.

Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening and savour an elegant dinner, bringing to a graceful close your first day in India's captivating capital.

After breakfast, board your vehicle with your guide who shall reveal the hidden secrets of the city while you tour around. India's capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its fold the ancient and the modern.

One of the most historic capitals in the world, Delhi is a treasure trove that reveals the ultimate combination of tradition and trends. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors, which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages.

Start your day with a visit to the Red Fort. The Red Fort (Lal Qila) is a 17th-century masterpiece and a defining symbol of India's national pride. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan when he shifted his capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi), it remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the country.

Post which you shall visit India Gate, which is a 42-metre-tall war memorial located at the eastern end of Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) in New Delhi. Often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it serves as a solemn tribute to the thousands of soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. Lunch will be served at the Triveni Terrace Café or similar.

You shall then visit a towering 73-meter-high victory tower and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutab Minar. Built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom, it marks the beginning of Muslim rule in India.

After delving in all the historical seriousness, it is now time for some shopping. Delhi is a fashion haven of India since time immemorial. For the shopping enthusiasts, the city is a paradise with shops not only exhibiting traditional artefacts, house furnishings, fashion wear but also the latest in fashion trends from around the world. Ramble on Janpath, where bargaining is the order of the day for traditional curios and semi-precious jewellery from Tibet, Nepal and Ladakh. Wanderlust for your wardrobe (and beyond): exploring fresh ways to shop your heart out.

Following a leisurely breakfast, your private chauffeur will escort you to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward international journey.

As you bid farewell to India, depart with unforgettable memories of royal palaces, remarkable wildlife, and exceptional hospitality, an extraordinary journey thoughtfully curated to linger long after your return home.