Splendors of Rajasthan and Varanasi

Namaste! Welcome to India! Your private driver is waiting to take you to your hotel, where your travel expert is also present. After dropping off your luggage, you discuss the final details of your trip. Then you're off to explore Delhi. You start by visiting Humayun's tomb, a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. Then explore the contrast between history and modernity with a visit to the Lotus Temple, an iconic symbol of contemporary Delhi. Ready to immerse yourself in India's cultural mosaic, your adventure has just begun!

This morning, you'll set off on foot to stroll through the narrow streets that house the famous Havelis, the illustrious homes of the rich merchants of Rajasthan's typical Silk Road. Then on to Bikaner, a walled city at the gateway to the Thar Desert. Your first stop is Nadine le Prince's Haveli, which took ten years to restore. The murals of animals, portraits and mythological themes have much to tell you. The lacy sculptures that embellish its ceilings, walls and facades have much to fill you with wonder. Then, discover the story of the unusual Deshnok temple dedicated to Karni Mata, also known as the "sacred rat temple". If a white rat shows itself to you, you may have won luck and happiness!

Before leaving Bikaner, you visit the immense Junagarh Fort, a remarkable and gigantic piece of architecture that illustrates the past glory of the Mughal empire. Afterwards, visit the Ramdevra temple in Pokhran. Then discover the Jaisalmer market, a colorful jewel in the heart of the golden city. Stroll through the narrow streets to explore a multitude of stores selling local produce and handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, sample the delights of the street food stalls and soak up the cultural richness of this enchanting market in the heart of the Thar Desert.

Today, discover the brigand city of the Silk Road, nicknamed the "Golden City" for its golden walls rising out of the desert. Visit the Sonar Quila Fort with its Raj Mahal palace, then the delicately decorated Jain temples. Admire the Salim ki Haveli with its roofs sculpted with peacocks, emblems of Rajasthan. Take the jeep to the village of Khuri, where camel drivers and dromedaries await you. Passing through the Barabagh necropolis, the Amar Sagar Jain temple and the ruins of the village of Kuldhara, left to the wind, you're sure to be charmed by this region. Lunch in a small village and share a moment with the desert dwellers. After a magnificent, timeless sunset, you'll experience a night in the heart of the desert, in a bivouac or tent, which will give you a whole new set of sensations. An unforgettable day!

Sunrise in the Indian desert.

At dawn, the tranquility of the desert envelops you as the landscape unfolds under the first light of the sun. One of the most beautiful moments of your trip. You enjoy a leisurely breakfast and sip an excellent chai (tea), a delicious blend of tea and spices, accompanied by a cloud of fresh goat's milk in the desert. Then you're off to the clock tower, home to the Sardar Bazaar, where you'll find a host of stalls selling traditional fabrics, spices and tea.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll visit the must-see Mehrangarh Fort, one of the oldest and most beautiful forts in Rajasthan. Next, drive to Narlai, an enchanting village nestled in the heart of Rajasthan. Stroll through its picturesque lanes, soaking up the authentic atmosphere of village life. Visit the Adinath temple dedicated to Jain Tirthankara for a unique spiritual experience, then take an excursion to the Shree Ambika Mata temple for breathtaking panoramic views. Explore ancient water reservoirs and rock temples, then feast on traditional Rajasthani dishes during a lunch break. Enrich yourself with the culture, history and gastronomy of Narlai on this memorable day.

Take the road to Udaipur via Ranakpur, visiting the Jain temple. Ranakpur is located in Rajasthan, and is renowned for its exquisite 15th-century Jain temple complex. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, its intricate architecture and detailed carvings fascinate visitors.

Udaipur- Start by exploring the majestic City Palace and its lush gardens, offering breathtaking views of Lake Pichola. Next, visit the Jagdish Temple, an architectural masterpiece dedicated to Vishnu, then stroll along the shores of the lake and admire the floating palaces. In the afternoon, visit the Bagore Ki Haveli museum to discover the region's handicrafts and history. End the day with a romantic sunset cruise on the lake, followed by dinner in a waterside restaurant.

Start with an excursion to the Eklingji temple, a revered Hindu place of worship close to Udaipur. Then head off for a day of relaxation on the shores of Fateh Sagar Lake, where you can go boating and relax on the peaceful banks. In the afternoon, visit the Saheliyon Ki Bari garden, famous for its picturesque fountains and pavilions. End the day with an evening of shopping in the city's bustling bazaars, where you can find unique souvenirs to take home.

In Pushkar, immersed in the dynamics of the November festival, start with a morning visit to the sacred lake surrounded by ghats, where pilgrims purify themselves with ritual baths. Then explore the bustling local market, where you'll find handcrafted treasures and local culinary delights. Don't miss the temple of Brahma, a place rarely dedicated to this deity, where you can witness religious rituals. Finish the day in style with the spectacular Aarti ceremony by the lake, a unique spiritual experience.

Your second day in Pushkar promises a full immersion in the rich culture and traditions of Rajasthan. Join in the festivities of the November festival, featuring camel competitions, folk dances and traditional music contests. Stroll through the lively streets, bustling with street performers and hawkers, then don't miss the impressive spectacle of the livestock fair. Here, thousands of camels, horses and other animals are traded, offering a fascinating insight into rural Rajasthani life. End this unforgettable day with dinner under the stars, steeped in the enchanting magic of Rajasthan.

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, "The Pink City", is the capital of Rajasthan in India, renowned for its cultural heritage and jewelry craftsmanship. Among its iconic sites, Amber Fort stands on semi-desert hills, with its Rajput palace and imposing ramparts. The Palace of the Winds, known for its openwork windows, and the white marble Birla temple offer unique experiences. The latter, dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi, is a modern architectural marvel built in 1988 by the Birla Group.

Visit the City Palace, one of the most beautiful and famous landmarks in the capital of Rajasthan. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among Jaipur's various forts and palaces, the City Palace stands out, with its exceptional art and architecture. The City Palace complex covers a vast area, which is divided into a series of gardens, courtyards and buildings. Initially, Raja Jai Singh built the outer wall occupying a huge area The Observatory of Jai Singh, the Maharajah astronomer. Then a little time for shopping. Jaipur is particularly famous for its carpets, cotton pad printing, precious stones and blue pottery.

Explore Agra's historic heritage on a captivating adventure, from the majestic city to the iconic Taj Mahal. Don't miss the charm of Mehtab Bagh, offering a unique view of this iconic monument, followed by an immersion in the bustling local markets.

Sunrise over the Taj Mahal.

Early in the morning, wake up at dawn to witness the magic of the Taj Mahal as it gradually reveals itself under the first light of the sun. The marble, encrusted with precious stones, takes on golden hues, revealing one of the seven wonders of the world like a mirage.

Return to hotel. Leave Agra for Delhi airport to fly to Varanasi.

Start your day early with a visit to the Dashashwamedh Ghât to witness the sunrise ceremony. This spiritual experience allows you to observe the sacred rituals and daily life of the people of Vârânasî on the banks of the Ganges. After the ceremony, explore Vârânasî's bustling market, where you can discover a variety of local products, from handcrafted souvenirs to exotic spices. Enjoy a lunch break in one of the restaurants or cafés located near the ghats, where you can sample delicious local dishes while taking in the view of the Ganges.

Your driver will drop you off at Varanasi airport for your flight to Delhi. Begin with a quiet, spiritually meaningful visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the city's most important Sikh temples. Admire its magnificent architecture and take part in the community cooking service. Next, head to Rajghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, to pay homage to the father of the nation. Finish by exploring Purani Dilli (Old Delhi), with its labyrinthine alleys, bustling markets and historic sites such as the Red Fort and Jama Masjid mosque.

Last moments on Indian soil, your driver will take you to the international airport.

Note: you must arrive at the airport 4 hours in advance.