Riviera Travel Rajasthan, The Taj Mahal And Amritsar’s Golden Temple

• Visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, a sacred Sikh site and pay respects at the Amritsar Massacre memorial
• Marvel at the Taj Mahal in the early morning, appreciating its pristine white marble and exquisite inlays.
• Immerse in Jaipur’s vibrant culture, exploring markets, City Palace, Astronomical Observatory, and Palace of the Winds.
• Tour Agra, including its impressive 16th-century fort.
• Explore Amber Fort in Jaipur, including the Maharaja’s section and the enchanting hall of mirrors.
• Discover Pushkar’s charm, with its rare Brahma temple, local market, sacred lake, and bustling bathing ghats.
• Take a comprehensive Delhi city tour, visiting landmarks like Humayun’s Tomb and Qutub Minaret.
• Visit UNESCO-listed Nagaur Fort, a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
• Explore Jodhpur, the ‘Blue City,’ admiring its imposing fortress and the lively Clocktower Market.
• Experience Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes and Palaces.’
• Stay at Khimsar Fort, a renowned Heritage Hotel.
• Witness the captivating ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony at the Indo-Pakistani border, a patriotic display.

• Accommodation ranging from three to five-star hotels.
• Round-trip flights and convenient transfers.
• A daily itinerary of tours and visits.
• Select Meals: 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners.
• Benefit from the guidance of an Expert Tour Manager.
• Checked luggage.

Day 1 – Departure

Arrive for your overnight flight direct to Delhi.

Day 2 – Arrival in Delhi

Upon arriving in Delhi, you will embark on a tour of New Delhi’s prominent attractions, such as the Qutub Minaret and significant remnants of the British Raj. The evening will be yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 3 – Delhi

This morning, your journey begins in the heart of Old Delhi, offering an exhilarating experience with a rickshaw ride through its vibrant streets. During this adventure, you’ll encounter iconic landmarks such as the expansive Red Fort, the bustling Chandni Chowk market, the Gandhi memorial, and the majestic Humayun’s Tomb.

Following a delightful lunch, proceed by road to Agra, reaching our destination in the late afternoon.

Day 4 – Taj Mahal

In the gentle morning glow, with the Yamuna River’s mist gracefully ascending, the Taj Mahal appears to levitate, like a mirage, above the surrounding terrain. Its unparalleled blend of beauty, symmetry, and historical significance ranks it among the world’s most astonishing wonders. You’ll have ample time to appreciate its splendour.

Following this, you’ll embark on a striking contrast as you explore the immense red sandstone Agra Fort from the 16th century. This fort, once the central command of the vast Mughal Empire, showcases an entirely different facet of history.

Later today, continue your journey to Jaipur.

Day 5 – Amber Fort & Jaipur

Explore the city with its pink-hued buildings, contrasting vividly with the myriad reds, saffron, and deep violets of traditional saris adorned with countless sequins that shimmer in the midday sun.

Our first stop is the picturesque Amber Fort, nestled in the nearby hills. Tour the sections reserved for the Maharaja’s consorts and the mesmerizing hall of mirrors. Pause for a photo opportunity at the pink sandstone Palace of the Winds, where the royal ladies once observed street life and processions.

Then, visit the City Palace, the residence of Jaipur’s current Maharaja, housing a remarkable collection of formal attire, intricate carpets, fine art, and an impressive arsenal.

Finally, explore the remarkable 18th-century Jantar Mantar open-air observatory, featuring a collection of early yet highly precise astronomical instruments.

Day 6 – Pushkar

This morning, leave Jaipur for Ajmer via the Shatabdi Express, India’s renowned railway system. From Ajmer, drive to Pushkar, a sacred Hindu town known for hosting the world’s largest camel fair, often attracting 160,000 dealers. Amidst the November full moon, business gives way to cultural performances including music, snake-charming, and fire dancing.

After checking in, explore the town, visiting the rare Brahma temple, the sole place in the world where worship of the Hindu creator-God is allowed. You’ll also visit the small market and the sacred lake at the town’s heart.

Day 7 – Nagaur Fort & Khimsar

Leaving Pushkar, head to Nagaur Fort, a UNESCO-recognized complex blending Rajput and Mughal architecture. The journey takes you through serene countryside, passing quaint villages and ox carts, before reaching the impressive Khimsar Fort, a 16th-century heritage hotel.

Day 8 – Free day in Khimsar

Today, enjoy a free day in the peaceful surroundings. Opt for a jeep drive in the local ‘bush’ to spot blackbuck and bluebuck antelope, followed by a village walk. Relax and explore the hotel with its impressive ramparts, lush gardens, and peacocks. In the afternoon, you can take a drive to the dunes, enjoy a short camel cart ride, and witness the mesmerizing desert sunset.

In the evening, indulge in entertainment featuring a Kalbelia dance troupe, a Rajasthani puppet show, and traditional musicians.

Day 9 – Jodhpur

This morning, embark on a short drive to Jodhpur, famously known as the ‘Blue City’ due to the azure hue of the buildings in its  ‘old city.’ The cityscape is dominated by the awe-inspiring Mehrangarh Fort, which stands tall above the surroundings. Few sights can rival its sheer grandeur, appearing as a colossal mass of stonework emerging from the massive hill it rests upon. Inside the fort’s museum, you’ll find Emperor Akbar’s sword, along with numerous howdahs and antique possessions of the Maharajas.

In the afternoon, explore the captivating Clocktower Market in Jodhpur, where vibrant vendors offer a wide array of goods—an excellent opportunity for photography.

Day 10 – Udaipur

Today, bid farewell to Jodhpur and the Rajasthan plains, heading east into the Aravali Hills. Here, the landscape transforms into smooth, barren hilltops interspersed with narrow, lush green valleys. Among these valleys lies Ranakpur, home to arguably India’s most exquisite Jain temple. Crafted entirely from white marble and adorned with some of the world’s most intricate carvings, this temple boasts 1,444 columns, each one uniquely designed.

After enjoying a complimentary lunch, proceed to Udaipur.

Day 11 – Udaipur

Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, boasts a picturesque setting against lush green hills—a captivating backdrop that never ceases to enchant. Its most iconic attraction is the breathtaking Lake Palace, an ethereal white marble structure seemingly floating on the serene waters of Lake Pichola.

Perched above this enchanting scene is the expansive City Palace complex. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Maharani’s exquisitely adorned private quarters, courtyards, pleasure gardens, and a remarkable collection of miniature paintings, palanquins, and weaponry. Additionally, you’ll visit the magnificent Durbar Hall and the Crystal Gallery, housing a multitude of unique crystal items, all crafted in Birmingham in 1877.

This afternoon, you have the freedom to explore at your leisure.

Day 12 – Fly to Amritsar

Today, take a domestic flight to the city of Amritsar via Delhi.

Day 13 – Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is an extraordinary sight, reflected beautifully in its large sacred pool, surrounded by marble arcades. Inside, the gilded inlay work is stunning, featuring wood panels adorned with gold, silver, and ivory carvings under a brilliant dome containing 100kg of pure gold.

Following Sikh tradition, everyone is offered complimentary sustenance, with the kitchens capable of feeding 6,000 people per hour. Observe the vast pots of lentil soup (dhal) and witness an ancient machine continuously producing hot chapattis.

You’ll also visit the site of the Amritsar Massacre, a tragic event that profoundly influencing Gandhi and his ‘civil disobedience’ campaign. In the afternoon, drive to the nearby Bagh Border post with Pakistan to witness the ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony. It’s a unique blend of open-air theater, celebration, and military parade, embodying the vibrant spirit of India.

Day 14 – Fly to Delhi

Today, fly back to Delhi for the last night of the tour.

Day 15 – Return home

Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

This Signature Tour includes everything from the Classic Tour as well as the following:

Day 11:
– Transport yourself to a bygone era at the Maharana of Mewar’s vintage car collection. Marvel at these meticulously restored motoring treasures, offering a glimpse into a time when these vehicles were the sole automobiles adorning the streets of Udaipur.
– Conclude your day with a captivating sunset cruise on Lake Pichola. Drift on a private boat as the sun sets on the horizon, admiring the splendid palaces and mansions along the shores. Explore the opulent Jagat Niwas Palace, a 17th-century ‘Haveli’ turned palace hotel. Wander through its marble courtyards, relish the stunning lake vistas from white balconies and ornate windows, and savor Rajasthani cuisine in this historic setting.

Plus, enjoy the more exclusive atmosphere of travelling in a small group of 25 or fewer guests.

For dates and prices, please enquire or call 0800 707 6229.

The Connaught Hotel, New Delhi
This serene hotel in Delhi offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, lounge, restaurant, coffee shop, yoga, and 24-hour front desk service. The 104 rooms feature en-suite shower rooms, air conditioning, minibars (additional charge), safes, TVs, tea/coffee makers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and the option for 24-hour in-room dining (extra charge)

Taj View Hotel, Agra
The five-star superior Taj View Hotel, offers a range of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, lobby lounge, all-day restaurant serving Indian & continental buffets, an Indian restaurant, and a bar. The 100 comfortable air-conditioned rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, hairdryers, TVs, minibars, wireless internet (extra charge), safes, and tea/coffee-makers.

Marriot Hotel, Jaipur
This modern Jaipur hotel offers an array of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, spa, two restaurants with international and local cuisine, a café, and a bar. The 374 stylish and air-conditioned rooms feature bath, shower, hairdryer, minibar, safe, iron/board, cable TV, tea/coffee-making facilities, and Wi-Fi.

Clarks Safari, Pushkar
The family-run three-star superior Clarks Safari Pushkar, set in a serene rural location just outside town, features amenities such as a 24-hour front desk, lounge, restaurant, snack bar, fitness center, swimming pool, and laundry service. Spread across 15 acres of well-tended grounds, the property offers one- and two-storey bungalows. The 40 rooms are simply furnished and equipped with air conditioning, ceiling fans, en-suite shower/WC, and TVs.

Khismar Fort, Jaipur
Khimsar Fort, a heritage hotel with roots dating back to the 15th century, offers a range of amenities including an outdoor swimming pool, spa (extra charge), sauna, steam room (extra charge), fitness room, lounge, bar, restaurant, and a gift shop. The 68 rooms provide en-suite shower rooms (shower amenities available upon request), hair dryers, air conditioning, minibars (extra charge), safes, iron/board, TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

WelcomHotel, Jodhpur
The five-star Welcomhotel Jodhpur provides elegantly appointed rooms and suites featuring room-controlled air conditioning and heating, in-room tea/coffee facilities, minibars, high-speed internet access, laptop-capable safes, and hair dryers (iron/ironing board available on request). Located on the outskirts of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, the hotel is near the Thar Desert.

Oberoi Trident Hotel, Udaipur
This hotel boasts an outdoor pool with scenic hill views, a main restaurant offering buffet and a la carte options with Indian and Western cuisine, and a terrace for open-air Indian dinners. Additional amenities include an air-conditioned lounge bar, fitness room, beauty salon, and a gift shop. The 141 air-conditioned rooms are comfortably furnished and feature showers, hairdryers, safes, minibars (local charges apply), satellite TVs, tea/coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and garden views.

Hyatt, Amritsar
The five-star Hyatt Amritsar features 248 elegantly appointed guestrooms. Rooms boast a contemporary design and amenities like 24-hour room service, coffee makers, cable/satellite TV, minibars (local charges apply), high-speed internet access, individual air conditioning control, and in-room safes. Amenities include a swimming pool, spa, lounge, bar, coffee shop, fitness center, 24-hour front desk, lift, complimentary Wi-Fi, and shuttle service. The hotel is conveniently located a short drive from Hall Bazar, Katra Jaimal Singh, and local attractions.

Fact File

• Currency: Indian Rupee
• Flight time: Approx. 8 hrs 30 mins
• Language: Hindi
• Time zone: GMT+5.5
• Country: India

*All transfer times listed here are approximate and dependent on traffic. En route to the first hotel in Delhi, you will do some sightseeing, adding approximately 2 hours to the transfer time.