A Classic Rajasthan tour is the perfect first taste of India. In one private journey, it gathers the region’s greatest highlights. Even so, it leaves room for quieter, personal moments. You begin at the Taj Mahal and the tiger forests of Ranthambore. From there, you explore the palace cities of Rajasthan. Finally, you reach the rural heartlands. Out here, daily life has changed little in generations. Throughout, the pace stays immersive rather than rushed. Better still, you travel with your own driver and expert guides.
Few first impressions of India match the Taj Mahal at dawn. As the sun rises, the white marble shifts through soft pinks and golds. Arriving early means seeing it at its most serene. For that reason, we plan the visit around the light rather than the clock. Meanwhile, a private guide brings its Mughal history to life. Indeed, the love story behind it is unforgettable. You will also admire the inlaid stone and perfect symmetry.
From the cities, the journey heads into the wilderness. Ranthambore is one of India’s finest wildlife parks. Because it surrounds an ancient fort, it feels wonderfully atmospheric. You may spot tiger, leopard, sloth bear and deer. In addition, the birdlife is rich and varied. Expert naturalists lead every game drive. Of course, sightings are never guaranteed. Even so, the landscape and the thrill of the search reward you.
Jaipur is a feast of forts, palaces and bustling bazaars. Above the city, the Amber Fort speaks of Rajput ambition. Below, the streets hum with colour and life. However, we love to take you beyond the headline sights. For example, you might watch block-printers and jewellers at work. Alternatively, you could wander the markets with a local expert. As a result, you see the real character of the Pink City.
If Jaipur is energy, then Udaipur is romance. The city wraps around the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola. At dusk, the palaces are mirrored in the water. So a private boat ride at golden hour is the classic way to enjoy it. Afterwards, we add an unhurried walking tour of the old city. In truth, Udaipur rewards a slower pace. For that reason, we always build in time simply to enjoy it.
The rural heartlands are a beautiful counterpoint to the cities. Out here, the pace softens noticeably. Sari-clad women go about their day. Nearby, men in bright turbans work the fields. Meanwhile, children play against timeless landscapes. Travelling slowly through this countryside offers authentic encounters. It also makes for wonderful photography. Above all, it shows you a side of Rajasthan few visitors see. For many guests, these quiet moments become the highlight.
Naturally, accommodation is a real part of the pleasure here. We choose each property for its character and setting. For instance, that might mean a grand heritage palace. Equally, it could be a converted fort or an intimate boutique hotel. Often, we blend all three across the trip. Because we know these places personally, we recommend the right fit. In other words, you get a considered choice, not a fixed list.
The balance between town and country is the secret to Rajasthan. So we give you enough time in each place to settle in. As a result, you explore at your own pace. You can also relax in your hotel between outings. There is no rushing from one sight to the next. Instead, early-morning train rides and gentle drives set the rhythm. Overall, it feels immersive yet calm.
We layer in experiences that turn sightseeing into real connection. For example, you might share tea in a centuries-old haveli. Alternatively, you could learn to tie a turban. Elsewhere, you may watch artisans at work. In the countryside, you might meet farming families. Often, these small moments mean the most. Because the trip is private, we shape each day around you.
Above all, this route suits first-time visitors. Equally, it rewards returning travellers who want the classics done well. Couples, families and solo travellers all enjoy it. Naturally, we adjust the experiences to suit your group. For more ideas, browse our wider India itineraries.
Generally, the most comfortable months run from October to March. Days are warm and dry, while evenings can be cool. By contrast, April and May become very hot. The monsoon usually arrives around July. Either way, we tailor the timing and advise on the best window.
Typically, Classic Rajasthan works well over two weeks. That allows time for the Taj Mahal, a tiger safari and the main cities. In addition, you get a real taste of rural life. Of course, it can be shortened or extended. Many guests also add a beach finale.
Very much so. Indeed, it is one of our most popular choices. It balances the iconic highlights with gentler, immersive experiences. Furthermore, private guides and a driver keep travel seamless.
Always. The pace, the hotels and the route are all tailored to you. Essentially, this page is just a starting point. So simply share your dates and interests, and we will craft the rest.
| £4500P.P | - | £8000P.P |
|---|---|---|
| Silver | Gold |
| Days | Location | Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-2 | Delhi | The Manor The Imperial Hotel |
| Day 3 | Agra | ITC Mughal The Oberoi Amarvilas |
| Day 4-5 | Ranthambore | Khem Villas Sher Bagh |
| Day 6-8 | Jaipur | Samode Haveli Taj Rambagh Palace |
| Day 9 | Shahpura | Shahpura Bagh Shahpura Bagh |
| Day 10-12 | Udaipur | Bujera Fort Taj Lake Palace Hotel |
| Day 13 | Delhi Airport | Fly Home |
Arrive into Delhi, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. On a first day, we suggest taking things gently. So simply sit back, enjoy a drink and find your feet. Alternatively, head out on a short stroll for a first taste of what is to come. Either way, there is no need to rush.
Today is for exploring Delhi properly. Begin at the mighty Red Fort. Then ride a cycle rickshaw through the colourful markets of Chandni Chowk, emerging at the great Jama Masjid mosque. We usually start in Old Delhi, the historic Mughal capital. From there, continue on foot through the markets. Alternatively, drive down to New Delhi. Here you see the grand architecture Edwin Lutyens created for the British Raj.
Rise early and board the Gatimaan Express to Agra, about an hour and a half in Executive Class of course. Your driver meets you right beside the carriage. After settling in, head out to explore. First, see Agra Fort and the elegant Itmad-ud-Daulah. Then walk through the villages on the far side of the Taj Mahal. This quiet route reveals a hidden side of Agra.
Begin at dawn with the Taj Mahal. Nothing quite prepares you for that first sight, and your guide brings its stories to life. After breakfast, you may also visit Fatehpur Sikri, another superb Mughal city. Then board the train from nearby Bharatpur. The journey to Ranthambore National Park takes about three hours. Finally, head out on an evening game drive in search of your first tiger.
Rise early for a morning game drive. After all, the park is home to a healthy number of tigers. You may also spot leopard, sloth bear, boar, sambar and langur. Meanwhile, the birdlife is exceptional. Above it all stands a majestic fort, right in the heart of the park. As a result, it is one of our favourite settings for a safari.
Enjoy one more game drive in the morning. Then settle in for the five-hour drive to Jaipur. You arrive in time for a late lunch. After that, we suggest simply putting your feet up for the afternoon. There is no need to do more on a travel day.
With three nights here, your days never feel rushed. This morning, explore the city on foot. Begin in the artisan quarters. Then continue to the ornate City Palace. Nearby stand the Jantar Mantar observatory and the Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds. Afterwards, relax at the hotel. Alternatively, we can suggest a few more hidden gems.
Jaipur is a superb place to shop. So the morning is free to wander, or simply linger over breakfast and a book. Later, head out of the city on a short Meena tribal walk. Here you meet the communities living in the surrounding villages. You are also close to the magnificent Amber Fort, seat of the old royal family. Finally, enjoy a sunset elephant ride through the countryside. They even serve a G&T halfway round, before dinner.
Today you venture into Rajasthan’s rural heartlands. Rather than the main road, we take the quieter back roads. The drive lasts around four hours. Along the way, you can stop in little villages and soak it all in. Once there, hop on a bicycle and explore the countryside. You might seek out remote temples, or simply enjoy being far from the crowds.
Continue to Udaipur, about four hours away. En route, pause at the immense fort of Chittorgarh. Udaipur itself is impossibly pretty, wrapped around Lake Pichola. There is no need to rush out straight away. Instead, sit back and let the beauty of the City of Lakes sink in.
This morning, set off on a short walking tour of Udaipur. You take in the magnificent City Palace en route. Afterwards, we suggest a relaxed afternoon. So put your feet up and enjoy the lakeside setting.
Your final full day is entirely at leisure. After all, it is a holiday. So linger by the lake, return to a favourite spot, or simply do very little. The choice is yours.
Finally, the time comes to say goodbye. Take a flight directly from Udaipur. It connects with your international flight in either Delhi or Mumbai.
We can tweak and change any element of this itinerary and you can depart on any day you want, add nights here and there, and we can fully customise your day-to-day experiences depending on your interests. Here are just a few ideas of many that we can look at and discuss when we come to plan your tailor-made itinerary.
Extend or shorten your stay in Rajasthan by adding or reducing nights to any of the destinations, or adding on the other great Rajasthani city of Jodhpur for example - everything we do can be tailored. You might not be a wildlife fan, and can simply take out the Ranthambore element and make your way directly to Jaipur following your visit to Agra.
We can easily add on a beach extension to Rajasthan There are convenient flights to Goa and a range of good quality hotels. Other options include the south-coast of Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Oman or Dubai.
You might like to add on other destinations in India such as the northern city of Varanasi, the hill station of Shimla or a city-break in Mumbai to end.
This amazing comprehensive tour of northern India certainly leaves few stones unturned and is perfect for those with times on their hands and don’t want to miss out on hidden highlights!
This is a perfect combination seeing the highlights of northern India; the evocative city of Varanasi and a private tour of the must-see sights of Rajasthan.
If you like to travel and leave no stone unturned, then this long itinerary might be one to base your ideas around. Take in all that Rajasthan has to offer seeing it from top to toe.
We arrange totally bespoke trips and design an itinerary that is designed around you. You may have seen a suggested itinerary that we can base your plans around, or we can start with a blank sheet and paper and design something from scratch. You can leave a phone number and suggest a time to call you back, and we can also arrange to do this during the evenings or at weekends if you are busy during the daytime. We can also meet up with you in you fancy a coffee and are based in and around London.