Route:
Delhi -> Bharatpur -> Bijaipur -> Udaipur -> Kumbhalgarh -> Jodhpur -> Jaisalmer -> Delhi
Activities:
Bird watching | Jeep safari | Wildlife | Trekking | Horse riding | Village walk | Shepherd tales | Responsible shopping
About the itinerary:
This trip takes you to the greener side of Rajasthan. Rajasthan is home to 400 different species of birds and a rich wildlife belt to explore. Come and beat the heat out in the wilderness of Rajasthan.
Winter is a good time to see an amazing variety of birds in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. These birds migrate all the way from Central Asia and Siberia. Imagine tigers lazing about in the wild a few kilometers away from you. At Ranthambhore National park, leave your fear behind and come prepared to see tigers all along your safari. More wildlife might be spotted in Kumbalgarh where we trek into the longest wall after the Great Wall of China.
This trip also takes you to the rustic landscapes of Rajasthan where you can get a glimpse into the lives of the locals, their struggles and their simple lifestyles. During our visit to the Bishnoi villages we learn about their eco-friendly way of living and their passion for the environment and wildlife. The nomadic Raika tribes amaze us with their passion and knowledge of camels that goes back a long way in history.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Delhi
Arrive into Delhi and after lunch, go on a guided tour of the Lutyens New Delhi, drive past the Parliament House,Presidents House and India gate.. End your Delhi city tour at the Qutub Complex - Visit the five story Quutb Minar. Return back to Hotel.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day 2 Delhi - Bharatpur
Wake up early morning to go on a guided history walk through old Delhi. Visit the various eateries in the narrow crowded lanes of Chandni Chowk and taste Delhi through its delicacies ( Karims - the most authentic Mughlai eatry). Visit the Kinari bazaar -tightly packed stalls selling bewildering array of tinsel and sequins. Dariba Kalan is the lane of jewellers and silversmiths. Rickshaw ride is the best way to explore if you feel tired of walking in the narrow lanes. Board afternoon train to Bharatpur. Arrive and transfer to accommodation near the park. Time permits have a quick walk into this nature's paradise.
Overnight in Bharatpur.
Day 3 Bharatpur - Rathambore
Wake up early morning to hear the orchestra of birds in the Keoladeo Ghana National park (5.5hrs drive). Drive after lunch to Ranthambore National Park where you will most definitely be welcomed by the big wild cat! Visit the tiger’s village and get some souvenirs for memory.
Overnight in Rathambore.
Day 4 Ranthambore - Bijaipur
Early morning: Go on a wildlife Safari. Thereafter leave for Bijaipur-approx 6.5hrs drive. Pass through Bundi, famous for the Budi Fort.
Overnight in Bijaipur.
Day 5 Bijaipur - Udaipur
Early morning go on a village safari around Bijaipur, a rocky area dominated by green fields and forests. After seeing the picturesque land of Bijaipur, drive to Udaipur (3hrs drive).
Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 6 Udaipur
Spent an entire day in Rajasthan’s most romantic city, Udaipur. The side of Rajasthan that has been widely photographed and showcased. Boat ride on lake Picola/Bazaar Walks/stare at the lake.
Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 7 Udaipur - Kumbhalgarh
Early morning leave for Kumbhalgarh (4hrs drive), nestled in greenery and serenity. Visit the Kumbalgarh Fort which is at the peak of the Aravalli range and encloses many temples, palaces, gardens and water-storage facilities. The fort was renovated in last century.
Overnight in Kumbalgarh.
Day 8 Kumbalgarh
Wake up early morning to trek into the Kumbhalgarh wall, the 2nd longest wall after the Great Wall in China. It may not be possible to complete the entire 36 kilometre stretch! On our way back we will cover a forest area where we might be lucky to spot some wildlife.
Overnight in Kumbalgarh.
Day 9 Kumbalgarh - Jodhpur
After breakfast we trek three hours to Ranakpur( subject to permission) where we visit the famous Jain temples which have been preserved since 15th century. Thereafter we drive to Jodhpur after lunch (approx 5hrs drive). Lounge about in the rustic city of Jodhpur.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
Day 10 Jodhpur
Spend the whole day to explore Jodhpur, a city of gardens, monuments and legends. Visit the massive Meherangarh fort, Jodhpurs old town and Mandore gardens.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
Day 11 Jodhpur
After breakfast, we will explore the Bishnoi villages around Jodhpur. Learn about their livelihood that is devoted to the environment and protection of wild life.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
Day 12 Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
Drive to Jaisalmer (6.5hrs driv) , entry into Rajasthan’s desert area. On the way we stop over at Pokaran, a traditional pottery village. Try your hand at pottery and take back what you mould. Explore the Jaisalmer fort and interact with the locals.
Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Day 13 Jaisalmer
Today we spend time with camels and their Shepherds. Learning about the nomadic life and the struggles to restore and preserve their culture. Of course you cannot miss the delicious camel ice cream.
Overnight in Jaisalmer.
Day 14 Jaisalmer - Delhi
Free time in Jaisalmer until your departure to Delhi by train. A train ride that passes through the desert sands, rustic landscapes and colourful settlements.
Overnight in train.
Day 15 Delhi
Reach Delhi in the morning-11am.. Check into Hotel for wash and change and thereafter transfer to airport for flight overseas.
How this particular trip makes a difference to the local community / environment
