India Holidays
Tour the splendours of Rajasthan
15 Night Itinerary from £3,542
Maharaja Tour
Explore the land of the kings, from the Taj Mahal to the Pink City of Jaipur and go on safari in Ranthambore National Park
Select your Preferred Departure Date OR Default to Today's Date
Tour Route
- Delhi - 2 Nights
- Agra & the Taj Mahal - 1 Night
- Fathepur Sikri & Gadoli Village - 1 Night
- Ranthambore National Park - 2 Nights
- Jaipur - 2 Nights
- Udaipur - 2 Nights
- Jodhpur - 2 Nights
- Jamba - 2 Nights
- Return to Delhi - 1 Night
Travel Highlights
- Explore Delhi including the Red Fort, colourful bazaars and India gate.
- Travel by train to Agra and enjoy an evening visit to the Taj Mahal.
- Stay in rural Rajasthan in Gadoli Village and Jamba meeting local villagers.
- Enjoy 4 x 4 safaris in Ranthambore National Park searching for Bengal Tigers and wildlife
- Visit the 'Pink City' of Jaipur including the imposing Amber Fort.
- Stay and explore the romantic and scenic city of lakes - Udaipur.
- Discover the sights and markets of historic Jodhpur.
- Upgrade to luxury, heritage hotels and amazing converted forts and palaces.
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Delhi - 2 Nights
Day 1 - Depart from the UK on overnight flight to Delhi
Day 2 - Delhi
Day 3 - Exploring Delhi in-depth
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 18 April 2024
Fly to Delhi
Depart the UK on an overnight flight to Delhi.
Friday, 19 April 2024
Delhi
When you arrive in Delhi you will be met by your local Veloso Tours guide who will transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay on a room and breakfast basis. Your guide will give you a short orientation of the area surrounding your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax and rest after your flight ready for your adventures the next day.
Delhi was first occupied around 2,500 years ago and Hindu mythology predates that by another 500 years. The British captured the city in 1803 when they made it the capital of India in 1911 and commissioned Sir Edwin Lutyens to draw up the plans. The result is spacious tree-lined avenues punctuated with grand colonial architecture.
Saturday, 20 April 2024
Exploring Delhi in-depth
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on a full day tour of “Old Delhi,” where you will explore the exotic locale with its narrow dirt roads, myriads of people and inexpensive and colourful bazaars that keep alive the traditional workmanship for which Delhi has always been famous. Drive past Red Fort and visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest Muslim mosques in India. A bicycle rickshaw will take you into the heart of Chandni Chowk (the silver square - so named because of the silver merchants).
We drive past India Gate, a 42-metre archway built in memory of Indian soldiers killed during the First World War and Rashtrapati Bhawan, built in the early 20th century as the Imperial residence of the Viceroy. Today, it is the official residence of the President of India.
We then visit the most prominent Sikh Gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, in Delhi. It was originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh, a 17th century Indian ruler. It is open to people of all faiths, castes or creeds. The 'Langars' or the community kitchen proves to be the ideal example of prodigious hospitality of the Sikhs. Anyone and everyone can have scrumptious meal irrespective of caste, colour or class.
We conclude the day visiting Delhi's most striking monument, The Qutub Minar, which looms majestically across the wide plains of Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sheraton New Delhi
Delhi - First Hotel
Located in the centre of New Delhi, the Sheraton offers spacious rooms and an excellent choice of restaurants.
There are 220 air-conditioned rooms and suites, each with private bathroom, hair dyer, minibar, bottled water, coffee and tea maker, safe and sitting area. Rooms have panoramic views of the city.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, spa, gym and an Indian and Chinese restaurant. There is also a wide choice of Indian and International restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. as well as a major shopping mall.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Maidens Hotel, New Delhi
Delhi - Luxury Hotel
The Maidens Hotel was established in 1903 and remains a stately survivor of the golden age - the sweeping driveway and the grand façade give an inkling of its star-studded past. Its architecture is the most glorious illustration of old-world European charm with its colonial impressions. A stay at Maidens Hotel is a historically and culturally enriching experience! Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell, whether it's unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, the Delhi Durbar with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of The British Raj.
The hotel is located in North Delhi within close proximity to the major attractions and has 54 rooms and suites all with high ceilings, air-conditioning, mini bar, tea-coffee maker, LCD TV, satellite channels, safe, hair dryer, FREE Wi-Fi and telephone.
Public areas include lush gardens, a gym and classic wining and dining in the Cavalry Bar, the elegant Curzon Room restaurant serving Indian dishes and the Garden Terrace restaurant.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Oberoi, New Delhi
Delhi - Deluxe Hotel
The Oberoi, New Delhi is located in the centre of New Delhi, close to the major attractions including India Gate.
The hotel has 220 air-conditioned and spacious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, teak floors and oak desks. Each room has a safe, FREE Wi-Fi, TV, telephone, 24 hour butler service, goose pillows (with choice), Nespresso coffee machine, tea making facilities and hair dryer.
Public facilities include all day dining at 360 degrees signature restaurant serving international dishes, Omya serving contemporary Indian cuisine, Baoshuan serving chinese fayre and the magical Cirrus 9, a famous rooftop bar with panoramic views of Delhi. There is also a club bar and cigar lounge, patisserie and delicatessen. The hotel also has a luxury spa, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Agra & the Taj Mahal - 1 Night
Day 4 - Train to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Sunday, 21 April 2024
Train to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal
We depart for Agra. Though Agra's history is largely recognised with Mughal Empire, the place was established much before it and has linkages since Mahabharata, the Mythological history. The golden age of the city began with the Mughals. Akbar made it the centre of art, culture, commerce and learning. During the peaceful reign of Shah Jahan, his passion for architecture came to the fore and the world-famous architectural masterpieces were constructed including the Taj Mahal.
On arrival, we visit the imposing Red Fort of Agra (also known as Agra Fort). A creative, architectural, and strategic masterpiece, the Fort is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In a cruel twist, Emperor Shah Jahan, builder of the Taj Mahal and whose grandfather built the original Fort and who also assumed the throne himself, was imprisoned here at the end of his life by his own son – in a room looking out on the Taj Mahal across the river.
We then check-in to your chosen hotel.
In the evening, your local guide will take you on a tour of the Taj Mahal, the magnificent tomb of white marble built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, who had implored her husband to build a monument symbolising their undying love for each other. Some 20,000 labourers and artisans from around the world spent 22 years constructing what became Mumtaz’s mausoleum, which was begun in 1632. Along with its exquisite symmetry, the Taj features striking examples of pietra dura, a decorative art in which craftsmen embed precisely cut semi-precious stones in marble to form dazzling patterns.
Tajview Hotel
Agra & the Taj Mahal - Tourist Hotel
Spread over six acres of manicured gardens, the Tajview, Agra is a relaxing base to explore and sightsee. For those who want the best vantage point, some with direct views of the Taj Mahal.
The rooms are a combination of superior, deluxe, Premium and suites. All are air-conditioned with private bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities, safe, hair dryer, tv, telephone and sitting area.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, shopping arcade and spa. There are 2 restaurants serving Indian, Chinese and International cuisine.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Grand Imperial
Agra & the Taj Mahal - First Hotel
The Grand Imperial Hotel was built in the early 1900s by the British. It remains the only grand heritage boutique Hotel in Agra and as such will add a sense of occasion to your stay here. The hotel is central Agra with views, from the rooftop bar and cafe, of the Taj Mahal, Red Fort and other Agra landmarks. Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell , whether it’s unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of the British Raj.
The hotel has 15 spacious deluxe rooms and 30 suites, each elegantly furnished with private bathroom, safe, minibar, hairdryer and sitting area.
Public areas include a swimming pool, spa, lounge, bar and evening entertainment. The hotel has an elegant restaurant, plus you can enjoy drinks and snacks on the rooftop terrace.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
ITC Mughal
Agra & the Taj Mahal - Luxury Hotel
The ITC Mughal, Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. With 23 acres of luxurious gardens and located close to the Taj Mahal, it is the only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture. You will feel this as soon as you step into the grand lobby, dedicated to the great King Akbar.
The hotel has 233 opulent rooms and suites, each designed in the style of the great Mughal architecture of the past. All room are air-conditioned, very spacious and include a private bathroom, tv, safe, hair dryer, sitting area, minibar and luxury amenities.
The public areas including beautifully maintained gardens, a stunning swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and a salon. The excellent 3 restaurants serve Indian and international cuisine and there are lounges and 2 bars in which to relax.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Fathepur Sikri & Gadoli Village - 1 Night
Day 5 - Fathepur Sikri & Gadoli Village
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 22 April 2024
Fathepur Sikri & Gadoli Village
Drive to Gadoli. En-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the Capital of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fortress is a UNESCO world heritage site and is built entirely of red sandstone. The tomb of the revered saint Salim Chisti is built in pristine white marble and stands in stunning contrast to the red sandstone. This deserted sandstone city was the glorious but ephemeral capital during Akbar’s reign. Lying on a rocky ridge, this fortress is today a haunting complex with empty palaces, forts and mosques representing a variety of architectural styles. You often wonder how these ancient fortresses must have come alive with music, laughter, beautiful courtesans and the colour and pomp of royalty!
Continue to Gadoli for an unforgettable village experience and a welcome break from the regular tourist visits to monuments, museums and market places and the hustle and bustle of the crowded cities and move towards the pristine and untouched lives of the real people of the land. The villages visited are tucked away within a valley inside the Aravalli Hills, including a community of the Meena Tribe. The joy and spirit of rustic life is palpable in the lively faces of the villagers. Here, in many ways, time has stood still.
Enjoy the camel cart safari to visit a charming village and meet its friendly people who are eager to share their life with you.
Dera Village Retreat
Rajasthan - First Lodge
The Dera Village Retreat was established in 2002 as a place for travellers to experience the authentic, rural Rajasthan. Located 2 hours drive from Jaipur, the retreat offers a welcome break from the busy tourist attractions in the major cities of Rajasthan.
The retreat has 18 cottages complete with air-conditioning, heating, fully equipped bathrooms, study table, wardrobe and a dressing area.
Public areas include a large and peaceful garden, where you can relax in the sunshine, try yoga or enjoy the regular evening entertainment of local dancers. The cosy dining room offer contemporary Indian cuisine or you can eat al fresco.
There is much to do in the area, including camel rides, trekking and visiting local villages that have not changes for years.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis, but other packages including excursions are also available.
Ranthambore National Park - 2 Nights
Day 6 - Ranthambore National Park
Day 7 - Two Game Drives in Ranthambore National Park
- Full Description
Tuesday, 23 April 2024
Ranthambore National Park
After breakfast, we drive to Ranthambore National Park. Bordering the outer fringes of the Thar Desert and the former hunting grounds of the Maharajah of Jaipur, Ranthambore is now a 512-square-mile nature preserve (one of India’s largest) that is home to diverse plant life; historic ruins; and hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and of course, Bengal tigers.
On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel. This afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in the Ranthambore National Park.
Wednesday, 24 April 2024
4 x 4 Game drives in Ranthambore National Park
Today enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, where we are sure to see more game (though tiger and leopard sightings are not guaranteed). One of India’s best known national parks, Ranthambore belongs to India’s groundbreaking Project Tiger, dedicated to preserving and protecting the once plentiful Royal Bengal tigers that roamed the land here. Now threatened by poachers, illegal logging, and encroaching civilisation, India’s tiger population has decreased precipitously; it is believed that just 58 tigers currently live in Ranthambore (which actually represents a net gain in the past decade or so). Nationally, Project Tiger has seen the Bengal population rise to about 2,500 at latest count in 2016 from the 1,800 counted when the project launched in 1973.
The park’s varied landscape of beautiful lakes, lush grasslands, deep ravines, wooded valleys, and open scrub also features picturesque ruins of old fortifications and the thousand-year-old Ranthambore Fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jaipur - 2 Nights
Day 8 - Travel to Jaipur
Day 9 - Jaipur guided city tour
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Thursday, 25 April 2024
Travel to Jaipur
Today we proceed to Jaipur, the largest city of Rajasthan which is an epitome of magnificence and vibrancy. This royal place is rich in heritage, culture and architecture with splendid fortresses, majestic palaces, tranquil temples and beautiful havelis. Other than these captivating attractions, Jaipur displays exquisite handicrafts and spectacular jewelery. On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel.
This evening is free to explore the colourful markets of the pink city.
Friday, 26 April 2024
Jaipur city tour
Jaipur was the home of India’s legendary Hindu warriors, whose historic forts, palaces and gardens lend a timeless quality to this storied region. Called the “pink city” for its buildings of rose-hued sandstone, Jaipur today retains the exquisite symmetry of its original construction, as well as the eight historic gates that protected the city centuries ago.
Enjoy a full day tour of Jaipur with our local guide including a visit Amber Fort a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Kachhawah Rajputs as their capital from 1037 to 1728 and considered the pinnacle of Rajput architecture. We tour the unoccupied citadel this morning, to admire the fresco-covered portal, the impressive room of mirrors, walls of jewel-encrusted marble, and the royal apartments offering beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
We continue on to Jantar Mantar, the incredible open-air Royal Observatory (ca. 1728) housing oversized astronomical instruments and a UNESCO World Heritage site; and City Palace, former residence of the Maharajas of Jaipur, built in the shape of the city itself and now converted to a museum that houses the rulers’ magnificent art collections.
Trident Hotel, Jaipur
Jaipur - Tourist Hotel
The Trident Hotel is an excellent tourist class hotel in Jaipur with views of Mansagar Lake and Jal Mahal. Ideal for couples and families.
The 132 air conditioned rooms and suites are well appointed, including private bathroom, TV, minibar, FREE Wi-Fi and panoramic views of the lake or the landscaped gardens, with the Aravalli mountain range forming a dramatic backdrop.
Public areas include a swimming pool, spa, kids club, bar, Jal Mahal restaurant serving Indian and International cuisine and a pool terrace serving snacks and drinks.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Diggi Palace, Jaipur
Jaipur - First Hotel
Diggi Palace was built in 1860 by Shri Thakur Saheb Pratap Singh Ji Diggi of the then ruling family of Diggi principality. In 1991, the palace was converted to a heritage hotel. It is a wonderful place to stay for an authentic experience of Jaipur, set in large grounds away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Choose from a Heritage rooms or Courtyard or Palace suite. Each is air-conditioned with private bathroom, hair dryer, FREE Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker and bottled water. The suites have a minibar and outdoor seating.
Public facilities include a restaurant, gardens and pool. You can also eat al fresco.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Jaipur - Deluxe Hotel
Built in 1745, the Jai Mahal Palace is a stunning piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, a great example of Indo-Saracenic architecture set amidst 18 acres of landscaped Mughal gardens. Jai Mahal Palace has been the residence of three Prime Ministers of the princely state of Jaipur. Painstakingly restored and recently refurbished, it is now a luxury five-star Taj heritage hotel equipped with all modern-day comforts.
The 94 rooms and six suites offer you unbeatable views of the city and palace gardens. Perfectly located in the heart of the Pink City close to the main shopping areas and prime historical sites such as Amber Fort, HawaMahal and City Palace.
The hotel has two speciality restaurants; Cinnamon serves the most authentic Royal Indian cuisines from four princely states, while Giardino is Jaipur's finest contemporary Italian restaurant. The popular all-day-dining multi-cuisine restaurant Marble Arch offers a medley of flavours; and the fashionable Marigold Bar houses a selection of single malts and cigars alongside innovative cocktails.
The hotel also has a luxury spa, delightful gardens, lawns, a swimming pool and offers a wide range of activities including yoga.
The rates of on a room and breakfast basis.
Udaipur - 2 Nights
Day 10 - Travel to Udaipur
Day 11 - Guided city tour and boat ride on Lake Pichola
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Saturday, 27 April 2024
Travel to Udaipur
After breakfast, we drive about six hours to reach Udaipur, described as the “City of Sunrise,” standing in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the Lake Pichola.
On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel. Udaipur has some of India's most iconic hotels, many of which are converted palaces in incredibly beautiful locations.
The rest of the day is free at leisure.
Sunday, 28 April 2024
Guided city tour and boat ride on the lake
Today after breakfast, enjoy a half day city tour with your local guide. Visit the Jadish Temple, the largest and most venerated temple in Udaipur. Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharaja Jagat Singh, the temple is decorated with friezes and enshrines a black stone image of Vishnu. Walk about the Garden of Maidens (Sahelion Ki Bari), which consists of an ornamental lotus pool with delicately carved cenotaphs of black and white marble and soapstone. You can explore the rest of the Maharajah’s City Palace, an imposing edifice of granite and marble, standing atop a ridge overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola and the exquisite Lake Palace.
Enjoy the pleasant boat ride on the Lake Pichola in the evening.
Trident Hotel
Udaipur - Tourist Hotel
Built over sixteen acres on the banks of Lake Pichola, Trident, Udaipur is ranked amongst the best tourist class hotels near the lake.
The hotel has 137 rooms and suites, all air-conditioned with private bathroom, sitting area, tv, hair dryer, safe, telephone and views of the pool or gardens. There is also a kids club.
Public facilities include a wonderful swimming pool, very extensive gardens, spa, the Amrit Mahal Bar, lounge and gym. There are two restaurants serving traditional Rajasthani specialities and international cuisine. In the summer, you can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace.
The hotel offers a range of excursions exploring Udaipur, the city of lakes.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace
Udaipur - Luxury Hotel
Built by His Highness Maharana Fateh Singh in 1911, The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur overlooks Fateh Sagar Lake, with the majestic Aravalli hills its backdrop.
The hotel has 55 well appointed, spacious rooms and suites all of which offer captivating views of the lake, valley or Udaipur skyline. Each is air-conditioned with private bathroom, luxury amenities, minibar, safe, tv and sitting area.
The public areas include a swimming pool, spa, extensive well maintained gardens and gym. There are three restaurants offering Indian and international cuisine - dining is a real experience here as the hotel's history creates a glamorous atmosphere. In summer, al fresco dining can be enjoyed on the terrace or in the gardens.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Taj Fateh Prakash
Udaipur - Luxury Hotel
Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, Taj Fateh Prakash is part of the iconic City Palace complex, built in the 20th century by Maharana Fateh Singh as a venue for royal events. Like princely dignitaries from another era, present-day guests enjoy stunning views of the lake and Aravalli mountain range. The original palace décor has been meticulously maintained. The hotel is like a living museum with artefacts, paintings and elaborate decoration making this a very special place to experience Udaipur.
The 65 rooms and suites offer an equally grand experience, with marble flooring, sweeping views, luxury beds and amenities, space and all the facilities you would expect from a top class hotel.
The Sunset Terrace offers Indian and international cuisine; other public facilities include the Surya Darshan Bar which offers English Afternoon Tea later converting to a romantic sunset spot for champagne and hors d’oeuvres.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Jodhpur - 2 Nights
Day 12 - Travel to Jodhpur
Day 13 - Guided tour of Jodhpur
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 29 April 2024
Travel to Jodhpur
Today, we drive to Jodhpur, stopping along the way at Ranakpur, home to some of India’s most exquisite Jain temple architecture. Situated in the lovely valley of Aravalli Hills, are the ornately carved temples of Ranakpur which are the holiest places for Jain pilgrims, the Chamukha temple is three-storied, with 80 domes supported by 1444 carved pillars, each different from one another.
We continue to Jodhpur and check-in to your chosen hotel. Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City” was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief belonging to the Rathore clan. The city was located on the strategic road linking Delhi to Gujarat. This enabled it to profit from a flourishing trade in opium, copper, silk, sandals, date palms and coffee. The old city is enclosed by a six-mile wall that separates it from the desert sands that stretch for miles on every side; Jodhpur was the ancient capital city of Marwar Kingdom.
Tuesday, 30 April 2024
Guided tour of Jodhpur
Today we will explore the city’s beautiful palace Mehrangarh Fort, founded in 1459 and an architectural marvel. The towering building has extremely high walls and gates, and the closer it is explored, the smaller you begin to feel! Inside the fort is a network of courtyards and palaces, (including a museum that houses a splendid collection of items from the Maharajas), salvaged to display their long history of warding off attackers.
The Jaswant Thada is an absolutely calming and soothing building to lay your eyes upon. Constructed entirely of a milky-white marble, the whimsical essence of this memorial can be felt by all. The sheets of marble used to create this astounding marvel were all hand carved into fabulous walls and domes. A warm glow surrounds the polished rock, emitting a sunny and pleasant atmosphere.
We also visit the bustling Clock Tower bazaar to get an authentic look at life in this historic city.
Raas Jodpur
Jodpur - Luxury Boutique
Located in the centre of Jodpur means all the best sites are within walking distance of the RAAS Boutique Hotel Jodpur. Formerly an 18th century Haveli, the hotel has been beautifully converted with echoes of Rajput architecture still visible.
The hotel has 40 rooms and suites, varying from Garden and luxury rooms to a choice of lavish suites. Each is air-conditioned with private bathroom, balcony or terrace, tv, hair dryer, telephone, FREE Wi-Fi and luxury amenities.
Public areas include a spa, the Stepwell cafe, the Baradari restaurant and al fresco dining at Darikhana.
Raas Jodpur is the perfect base to explore Jodpur; both stylish and historic.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Jamba - 2 Nights
Day 14 - Jamba and local villages
Day 15 - Exploring Jamba
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
Jamba and local villages
We drive approximately three hours and head into the hinterland to a region known as Jamba, the stronghold of the fascinating Bishnoi tribes. All Bishnois follow the 29 (bis-noi) tenets laid down by the 15th-century guru Jambeshwar, affectionately known as “Jamba-ji.” They fervently believe in the sanctity of animal and plant life so wildlife finds a natural sanctuary around their villages.
You will spend two nights at the Dera Dune Retreat. This is an exclusive property, set atop a 130' high sand dune with panoramic views of the Thar Desert. The Resort features exquisite examples of traditional Rajasthani architecture used throughout, with stonework and carvings using local design and sustainable materials and, most importantly, utilising the skills of local craftsmen. It has individual deluxe cottages, a swimming pool and beautiful restaurant.
Thursday, 02 May 2024
Exploring Jamba
After breakfast, take a 4 x 4 journey cross-country on dirt and sand roads exploring “Jamba-ji’s” land. These excursions introduce you to traditional Rajasthani hospitality, as well as giving you a chance to witness rural Rajasthani life up close. The villages are built with painted adobe walls, and village life continues unaffected by the big cities nearby.
Bishnoi villages are immaculate, scrubbed daily by brightly clad women who are weighted down by silver jewelery and festooned with bangles right up to the length of their arms. By contrast, their tall men dress entirely in white, their large turbans loosely swathed around dark skinned, weathered faces.
Return to the retreat for lunch and an afternoon to relax.
This evening is free to enjoy watching the beautiful sunset light up the desert.
Dera Dune Village
Rajasthan - First Lodge
Located in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Dera Dune Village is a quite unique retreat from the bustle of city life. Its position is on top of a 100 foot sand dune in Jamba, the land of the Jambhoji tribe. The Bishnois, a sect of people formed about 500 years ago are considered the oldest environmentalists of the planet. They still observe the rules established in 1485 by their founder Jambhoji, which include the protection of trees and wild animals. Other inhabitants of the area include the herders, or Raikas, who take pride in their heritage as caretakers and breeders of ‘ships of the desert’, camels. The Rajputs belong to the traditional ruling elite. There are also castes that specialise in weaving camel wool and cloth and adorning them with fascinating patterns.
The retreat has16 cottages complete with air-conditioning, heating, fully equipped bathrooms, writing table, wardrobe and a dressing area. While having all the modern amenities, each cottage is designed in the local architectural style to resemble ‘dhanis’ or tribal huts.
Public facilites include a swimming pool, dining room, al fresco dining and many activities including camel riding, desert safaris, a visit to the Khichan bird sanctuary, Jamba Temple, birdwatching and wildlife tours and visits to local villages.
The rates are on a full board basis including a choice of excursions.
Return to Delhi - 1 Night
Day 16 - Return to Delhi
Day 17 - Fly back to the UK
- Full Description
Friday, 03 May 2024
Return to Delhi
After early breakfast we drive to the village Khichan to witness the perfect example of the bird and human relationship, where over 15000 demoiselle cranes come to the village during the months of winter and villagers feed them grains.
We continue to Jodhpur airport to connect with a domestic flight to Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, check-in to your hotel near Delhi airport.
Saturday, 04 May 2024
Fly back to the UK
Transfer to Delhi Airport for your return flight to the UK arriving later the same day.
Price Guidelines
| Season | High Season | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | October - March | |
| Room Arrangement | Tourist | First |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £3,542 | £4,509 |
| Single Traveller - Own Room | £4,617 | £5,910 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- Guidelines prices are per person based on 2 people sharing a twin room
- 17 Days / 15 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Domestic flight from Jodhpur to Delhi
- Accommodation as shown on the itinerary
- 15 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Entrance fees
- National Park entrance fees and three 4 x 4 game drives
Client Testimonials
Speak with a Specialist
Travel Enquiries
Contact an Advisor
Stay in touch
Infuse your travels, with inspiration from our monthly newsletter.
READY - 12 April 2024
INDIA: Fascinating Culture & Kembh Mela Festival
LANDMARK TOURS: Multi-Country & Cross Continent. New Cosmopolitan Tour: Buenos Aires, Iguazu, Rio
CHINA & INDIA: Local Life, People & Unique Cultures
GUIDES by Veloso Tours, are the best Local Hosts
PRIVATE VILLAS: Quality Time in exclusive settings
TRAVEL INSURANCE with extensive COVID-19 cover