Colors of Rajasthan, India
Colors of Rajasthan – India
Delhi • Shekhawati • Bikaner • Jaisalmer • Jodhpur • Udaipur • Jaipur • Agra • Delhi
Rajasthan is India at its most evocative — a land where golden deserts meet magnificent forts, richly painted havelis, bustling bazaars and serene lakes. Colours of Rajasthan is an immersive journey through the state’s most fascinating destinations, beginning in the historic capital of Delhi and travelling through the painted towns of Shekhawati, the desert cities of Bikaner and Jaisalmer, the blue-hued city of Jodhpur and the romantic lakes of Udaipur, before continuing to the royal splendour of Jaipur and the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Along the way, discover Rajasthan through experiences as much as monuments — wander through atmospheric old-city lanes, admire centuries-old frescoes, ride a tuk-tuk through Bikaner, cross the dunes of the Thar Desert by camel, cruise across Lake Pichola and explore Jaipur by pedal rickshaw. The journey combines Rajasthan’s architectural heritage, living traditions, desert landscapes and colourful everyday life into one memorable exploration.
Highlights
Discover Old and New Delhi
Explore Shekhawati havelis. Junagarh Fort.
Journey into the heart of the Thar Desert and enjoy a camel ride across the sand dunes at Sam.
Sunset from the Vyas Chattris in Jaisalmer.
Golden Citadel of Jaisalmer
Imposing Mehrangarh Fort
Jain temples of Ranakpur amid the landscapes of the Aravalli Hills.
Udaipur boat ride on lake pichola
Amber Fort, City Palace and the Hawa Mahal.
Taj Mahal, one of India’s most enduring monuments.
Day 01
Delhi- Arrival in Delhi
Arrive late at night at Delhi International Airport, where you will be met by a representative of Mondial Trails and transferred to your hotel.
India’s capital, Delhi is a fascinating meeting point of history and modernity. The city has evolved through successive capitals, with present-day New Delhi emerging as the grand imperial capital established during the British period.
Overnight: Delhi
Day 02
Delhi -Old & New Delhi
After breakfast, set out on a full-day exploration of Old and New Delhi.
Begin in Old Delhi, the 17th-century Mughal capital founded by Emperor Shah Jahan. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the city’s most celebrated mosques, before taking a walk through the atmospheric lanes of Old Delhi, where everyday life unfolds amid bustling markets and historic neighbourhoods.
Continue to the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial, followed by a panoramic drive past India Gate and the President’s House.
Later, visit the magnificent Qutub Minar, the celebrated 12th-century minaret in southern Delhi. Before sunset, visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, an important Sikh shrine known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong sense of community.
Overnight: Delhi
Day 03
Delhi – Shekhawati -Into Rajasthan’s Painted Heritage
After breakfast, leave Delhi behind and drive towards the historic Shekhawati region.
On arrival, check into your hotel before beginning your introduction to one of Rajasthan’s most distinctive cultural landscapes. Shekhawati is renowned for its beautifully decorated havelis, whose walls and façades are covered with elaborate paintings and frescoes.
Overnight: Shekhawati
Day 04
Shekhawati – Fatehpur – Bikaner
Painted Havelis & the Desert City
After breakfast, drive towards Bikaner. En route, stop at Fatehpur, another fascinating town celebrated for its beautifully painted havelis.
Continue to Bikaner and check into your hotel.
In the afternoon, explore the impressive Junagarh Fort, followed by a lively tuk-tuk ride through the old city, offering an intimate glimpse into Bikaner’s colourful streets and traditional neighbourhoods.
Overnight: Bikaner
Day 05
Bikaner – Jaisalmer
Into the Golden Desert
After breakfast, drive westwards towards Jaisalmer, deep into the landscapes of the Thar Desert.
After checking into your hotel, head out towards Vyas Chattris, an elegant collection of sandstone cenotaphs overlooking the Jaisalmer citadel. As the sun begins to set, the golden sandstone of the fortress glows against the desert sky, creating one of the most atmospheric views of the city.
Overnight: Jaisalmer
Day 06
Jaisalmer – Sam
The Golden City & the Thar Desert
After breakfast, discover the historic heart of Jaisalmer.
Visit Gadisar Lake and a folklore museum before exploring the magnificent Sonar Durg, or Golden Citadel. Unlike many historic forts, Jaisalmer’s fortress remains a living settlement, with local residents continuing to inhabit its historic quarters.
In the afternoon, drive approximately 40 kilometres west to Sam, where the desert opens into vast stretches of golden sand dunes. Enjoy a camel ride across the Thar before pausing to watch the sun sink over the dunes.
Overnight: Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Camel Safari
Udaipur Lake Pichola
Day 07
Jaisalmer – Jodhpur
From the Golden City to the Blue City
After breakfast, drive to Jodhpur, the celebrated Blue City of Rajasthan.
In the afternoon, visit the formidable Mehrangarh Fort, built by Rao Jodha in 1459. Rising dramatically above the city, the fortress contains beautifully carved balconies and remarkable examples of Rajput craftsmanship.
Continue to Jaswant Thada, an elegant marble memorial dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh.
Before sunset, explore the lively Sardar Market and Clock Tower, where colourful stalls, local produce and traditional shops bring Jodhpur’s old city to life.
Overnight: Jodhpur
Day 08
Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur
Through the Aravalli Hills
After breakfast, drive towards Udaipur through the scenic landscapes of the Aravalli Hills.
En route, stop at Ranakpur to visit one of India’s most celebrated Jain temples. The temple is renowned for its intricate marble carvings and extraordinary architectural detail.
After lunch in Ranakpur, continue your journey through the hills towards Udaipur.
On arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Udaipur
Day 09
Udaipur
The Romantic City of Lakes
After breakfast, spend the day discovering Udaipur.
Visit the magnificent City Palace Museum, followed by Jagdish Temple and the elegant gardens of Sahelion Ki Bari.
In the late afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Pichola, surrounded by the historic city and its palaces. The boat ride is subject to the prevailing water level.
Overnight: Udaipur
Day 10
Udaipur – Jaipur – From the Lakes to the Pink City
Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Jaipur.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, begin discovering the celebrated Pink City with a visit to the façade of the Hawa Mahal and the historic astronomical observatory. Continue with a pedal rickshaw ride through the old city, offering a relaxed way to experience Jaipur’s streets, markets and distinctive architecture.
Overnight: Jaipur
Day 11
Jaipur – Amber Fort & the Royal Heritage of Jaipur
After breakfast, visit the magnificent Amber Fort, one of Jaipur’s most impressive landmarks. An optional elephant ride is available. In the afternoon, explore the City Palace, continuing your discovery of Jaipur’s royal heritage.
Later, allow time to browse Jaipur’s celebrated crafts and markets, known for gemstone cutting, carpet weaving, block printing and blue pottery.
Overnight: Jaipur
Day 12
Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra -The Mughal Legacy & the Taj Mahal
After breakfast, drive towards Agra.
En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the remarkable former Mughal capital whose imposing architecture reflects the grandeur of the Mughal era. Continue to Agra and check into your hotel.
Later in the afternoon, visit the Taj Mahal, the enduring monument of love and one of India’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces. The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.
Overnight: Agra
Day 13
Agra – Delhi – Agra Heritage & Departure
After breakfast, visit the impressive Agra Fort, another landmark of the Mughal era.
Later, visit a traditional artisans’ atelier to discover the intricate marble inlay craftsmanship for which Agra is renowned.
After lunch, drive back to Delhi. On arrival, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring typical Indian cuisine before transferring to Delhi International Airport for your onward flight.
Traditional Rajasthan Woman