Experience Overview
The enchanting northern state of Rajasthan is awash with all the colours of India. On our classic adventure, we discover the fierce history of massive forts and the opulence and splendour of Maharajahs' palaces. Stroll markets, search for the elusive Bengal tiger, enjoy a shared meal with a family in Pushkar, and soak up the culture of the local people. This is truly the essence of Rajasthan.
Highlights
- This is our most popular trip to Rajasthan and one of the top-selling trips in our entire range. Opulent, whimsical, and endlessly fascinating – Rajasthan will no doubt capture your imagination and your heart too.
- Don't worry if you find the idea of travelling to India daunting at first - your local leader will be on hand to give you all the insider info to help you have a memorable experience of this captivating, but sometimes challenging, country.
- Walk past hills, shimmering lakes, and marble palaces of Udaipur – India’s most romantic city and one of our favourites.
- Keep your adrenaline charged with an evening tiger-spotting safari among the lakes and jungles of one of India's best known national parks - Ranthambhore.
- Visit our local friends in their home on the border of sacred Pushkar Lake and the evocative Thar Desert. Share a meal together and gain insight into local life.
- Could any visit to India be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal? Here's what you need to know about your visit: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/taj-mahal-travel-guide/
- Soak in India’s changing landscapes on a trip that uses rail travel. By choosing trains to get around, you’ll be giving yourself the best opportunity for local interaction, at a more relaxed pace.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Positive Change for Marine Life. Donations help them to nurture ocean health with community-led conservation initiatives that inspire coastal restoration, sustainable fishing practices and waste-management.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2109
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Auto rickshaw,Bus,Cycle rickshaw,Jeep,Metro,Private vehicle,Shuttle Bus,Taxi,Train,Van
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HHSC
Starts: Delhi, India
Finishes: Delhi, India
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (3), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Permanent tent (1 night),Heritage Property (3 nights),Hotel (10 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1601 (CAD 107 /day)
Itinerary
Namaste! Welcome to India. Your adventure begins in Delhi, with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early and have the day free, consider joining one of our Urban Adventures for a great introduction to the city. After the meeting, maybe head out for your first optional dinner with your group and get to know each other.
Optional Activities:
- Delhi - Qutub Minar (600 INR)
- Delhi - Humayun's Tomb (600 INR)
- Old Red Fort (600 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you'll navigate the city’s metro system and discover Old Delhi on a walking tour with your leader. Hitch a ride on a traditional cycle rickshaw through a classic Indian traffic jam in the streets around the Chandni Chowk marketplace. Visit Delhi’s oldest mosque Jama Masjid, which is also India’s largest, and escape the city streets by ducking into a Sikh temple, Sheeshganj Gurudwara, to observe the spiritual side of this bustling metropolis. The communal kitchen welcomes all, and there's a chance to have a simple meal here together. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the sights of Delhi.
Included Activities:
- Delhi - Leader-led Old Delhi walking & rickshaw tour
- Delhi - Sheeshganj Gurudwara (Sikh Temple)
- Delhi - Visit to the Jama Masjid Mosque
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel to Agra by one of India's express air-conditioned trains. Steeped in Mughal heritage, Agra has a wealth of gardens, temples and open rooftops. Visit the Taj Mahal and learn why Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his wife Mumtaz. Explore inside the spectacular sandstone walls of the Red Fort, built to encompass the imperial city of the Mughal rulers in the 16th century. If you have time, move on to Akbar's Mausoleum to honour the great emperor. For a meal that makes a difference, consider visiting Sheroes Hangout, a remarkable social enterprise that supports survivors of acid attacks.
Included Activities:
- Agra - Taj Mahal
- Agra - Agra Fort
- Agra - Red Fort guided tour
Optional Activities:
- Agra - Additional entries to Taj Mahal (1300 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a private bus to Madhogarh this morning. When you arrive, walk through the village and see the local craftspeople at work making resin bangles. These families are from the Lakhera community and in Hindu mythology, Lakheras are considered to be created by Lord Shiva for making bangles for Goddess Parvathy. This practice is a traditional art and you can see for yourself how they heat the resin and shape it with handmade tools. In the evening, stay in the beautiful heritage property of Fort Madhogarh, which has belonged to one of Rajasthan’s royal families for centuries.
Included Activities:
- Madhogarh - Leader-led village walk
- Madhogarh - Dinner at Fort Madhogarh
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel on by private vehicle to Jaipur. When you arrive, take a walk around the ‘Pink City’ with your leader. Get among the crowds of the city’s bazaars to shop for artisan goods and semi-precious stones. Visit the Amber Fort, an excellent example of Rajput architecture, set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake. The Sheesh Mahal inside the fort is a must-see. As the walls are completely covered in little mirrors, the hall illuminates with the light of a single match. After the tour, you'll have further free time to spend as you wish.
Included Activities:
- Jaipur - Amber Fort
- Jaipur - Leader-led walking & market tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a full free day that you can jam-pack with experiences of your choice. This morning, you could take an optional hot air balloon ride. Floating across the skyline of Jaipur in a hot air balloon is a highlight of the trip for many travellers. Jump on a rickshaw to Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of the Winds’. Alternatively, head to Jaipur's Royal City Palace or the observatory of Jantar Mantar to see a collection of intriguing astronomical instruments. After a long day of exploration, perhaps head to the Raj Mandir Cinema to experience a Bollywood film.
Optional Activities:
- Jaipur - City Palace (1000 INR)
- Jaipur - Jantar Mantar Observatory (200 INR)
- Jaipur - Bollywood Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema (400 INR)
- Jaipur - Balloon Safari (280 USD)
- Jaipur - Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Wind) (200 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Continuing on from Jaipur by private vehicle, head to Ranthambhore this morning. Ranthambhore National Park was once a famous hunting ground for the Maharajas of Jaipur and was one of the original Project Tiger reserves. Explore the ruins of the park’s 10th-century fort, and in the evening take a 4WD bus safari in search of tigers and other wildlife, such as hyenas, jackals, deer, langurs, marsh crocodiles, wild boars and birds. Ranthambhore National Park is closed between 1 July and 30 September each year. On trips departing during this time, you'll visit nearby Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary. Sawai Mansingh Sanctuary is about 16 km from Ranthambhore and due to its hilly terrain isn't as affected by the monsoon. Tigers also inhabit this area and spottings are more favourable at this time of year as they move here away from flooded areas of Ranthambhore.
Included Activities:
- Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you'll travel to Bundi by private vehicle. When you arrive, navigate Bundi's narrow streets on an insightful walking tour, including wandering through the downtown market and meeting jewellery merchants, street dentists, and fabric dealers. Learn the secret of chai making from a local chai master and try a fresh brew. Stop in at Bundi's intriguing and intricate step wells (baori), an architectural marvel, and once the source of water for the town. Check out the 16th-century Bundi Palace with its famous murals before checking into our next heritage stay for the night.
Included Activities:
- Bundi - Stepwell
- Bundi - Bundi Palace
- Bundi - Market visit & Chai tasting
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Take off from Bundi and take a local train to Bassi. cross the Chittorgarh countryside to Paangarh Lake. Enjoy the view out to the 15th-century fort and unwind with a cup of chai while watching the sunset over the lake. You'll spend tonight in a beautiful permanent tented camp, right on the lakeshore - a truly relaxing experience away from the chaos of India's cities.
Accommodation:
- Permanent Tent (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning we drive in an open-top jeep out into the countryside past tranquil villages. You might be lucky enough to spot some native wildlife as we drive through the region. Meet some villagers and maybe even get a henna tattoo - a temporary but very traditional souvenir. Arrive at our next heritage stay and enjoy a meal of authentic local specialties.
Included Activities:
- Bijaipur - Countryside jeep safari
Optional Activities:
- Bijaipur - Henna tattoo (150 INR)
Accommodation:
- Heritage Property (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart the heritage stay and begin your next journey by private vehicle takes us to Udaipur. Take in the city’s hills, lakes, and white marble palaces, or delve into its twisting alleys and bazaars filled with silver, leather goods, and miniature paintings. A popular centre for artists, dancers, and musicians, there’s plenty to entertain you here. After a city walk with your leader, the rest of your day is free.
Included Activities:
- Udaipur - Leader-led walking tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Visit Udaipur's City Palace, one of the largest royal palaces in India. Some suggestions for your free time after the tour include an optional boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola (seasonal) to marvel at the island palaces off Jag Nivas and Jag Mandir and seeing a cultural performance that combines seven traditional Rajasthani folk dances in the evening.
Included Activities:
- Udaipur - City Palace
Optional Activities:
- Udaipur - Cultural performance (250 INR)
- Udaipur - Lake boat ride (500 INR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, take an air-conditioned train to Ajmer and then a private vehicle to your hotel in Pushkar, a place synonymous with Rajasthan. Enjoy a walking tour to visit the bustling ghats and temples around Pushkar Lake, and watch as the devout worship by the holy waters and at the Brahma Temple. At dinnertime, share a meal with a local family and learn about their life living in this desert city. The rest of the day is free for you to explore further.
Included Activities:
- Pushkar - Leader-led walking tour
- Pushkar - Home-cooked Dinner
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Early risers can hike up to the Savitri Temple for amazing sunrise views over the town this morning. Board the Shatabdi Express train, departing Ajmer around 2 pm for the trip back to Delhi, arriving at around 10:40 pm. Transfer to the hotel on arrival for your final night of the trip.
Optional Activities:
- Pushkar - Sunrise at Savitri Temple - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Ryan - Traveled, April 2024
Great trip, itinerary gave great insight to life in India in both cities and small villages ticking off highlights and experiencing real India. Stayed at amazing heritage sites including a castle! Clean and safe throughout!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Joanne - Traveled, April 2024
Classic Rajasthan was the most incredibly amazing experience, great chose of places, accommodation, restaurants and local experiences like cooking, block printing, rug factory, gem factory. Village and busy town experiences, travelling by bus, train, rickshaw and tuk-tuk all led by our most wonderful guide Bhanu, he made the trip outstanding in every aspect. I would do it all again tomorrow… India you were great ??
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2024
Carrie - Traveled, March 2024
A throughly enjoyable experience with new sights everyday. A great introduction and historical experience of the Rajasthan culture. Great for families with teenagers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Sarah - Traveled, March 2024
An amazing trip through Rajasthan seeing many fantastic sites. The Taj Mahal was truly exceptional! However some of the other less known sites were also breathtaking. I have never watched so many stunning sunsets from hilltop forts, boats, palaces. I was worried about visiting in August due to the heat but it was very manageable. I would definitely recommend this trip for anyone who is considering it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2024
Eleanor - Traveled, March 2024
One of the best trips I’ve ever done. The itinerary is very varied; you get to experience crazy, bustling cities, calm rural villages and everything in between. Lots of included activities, different means of transport, delicious food, and overall a wonderful insight into local life in Rajasthan. Take a swimsuit as some of the hotels have pools.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2024
Iain - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent trip to explore the wonders of Rajasthans palaces, forts, as well as the culture, food and towns and markets. The visit to the Taj Mahal and seeing the tigers were a trip highlight and a memory that will last forever.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2024
Lucinda - Traveled, March 2024
As a female solo traveller, this trip allowed me to explore India in a safe environment and our leader H was amazing!!! Made us feel safe and was knowledgeable and personable :) You're lucky if you get him as a leader!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/10/2024
Robert - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip made even better by our knowledgeable and approachable manner of or your leader Thanks again Abhi
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Stephanie - Traveled, March 2024
Our tour leader Abhi was outstanding. His knowledge was amazing. I never expected to have such an awesome experience. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/05/2024
Oscar - Traveled, March 2024
The classic Rajasthan tour offered by Inteprid showed to you the most interested and excited places of this part of India . We were happy to had this incredible India’s experience.with Intepid
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Emma - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent tour to experience India's culture, points of interest and flavour in all senses.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Lee - Traveled, March 2024
The trip was amazing and full of cultural adventure and things to do. I highly recommend getting Abi as a group leader. He has a great way of leading and cares about everyone well being. He is also very kind to the locals and it shows by their admiration of him . He has a pulse on the landscape!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Marcus - Traveled, March 2024
My classic Rajasthan trip with Intrepid Travel was an absolute delight! From the majestic forts to the bustling markets, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. The itinerary was well-planned, the accommodations comfortable, and the guide knowledgeable. A truly unforgettable adventure!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Sophie - Traveled, March 2024
If you want an introduction to India, this trip is perfect for you! You'll experience a total variety of local adventures from trains, to boats, to jeeps, safaris, temples and home cooked dinners. What an adventure! If you are lucky enough to be led by G, you are in the safest hands possible. He goes above and beyond to make your trip memorable and I'll be sharing stories for a lifetime!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Jessica - Traveled, March 2024
If you are thinking about going to India, just do it! India is on another level of travel and you will fall in love with the chaotic buzz of the city, the lovely people, and the delicious food.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/08/2024
Alexandru - Traveled, March 2024
The trip it was amazing. Visiting some stunning city/places full of history and with some of the most beautiful sightseeing. I'd definitely recommend this trip to everyone if you want to understand the history behind this country and to see some of the best places of this country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Rhiannon - Traveled, March 2024
I would highly recommend the Classic Rajasthan Tour. Although I went with a friend, I would have no hesitation to travelling alone, due to the friendliness, safety and expert leadership of the tour guides
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Olga - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent trip, fabulous tour guide, such a fantastic experience!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Rebecca - Traveled, March 2024
I cannot recommend this trip enough. Our tour leader Mukenda went above and beyond to provide a memorable experience, his love for India and the food, culture and traditions was inspiring and his positive attitude was contagious. I can’t say enough good things about my experience on this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2024
Rhonda - Traveled, April 2024
Intrepid Classic Rajasthan was a complete overall view of Northern India. I loved seeing the crown jewel, the Taj Mahal as well as visiting Ranthanbore National park looking for bengal tigers. Half of the people on our trip were seniors and could easily handle to itinerary. There was something sparkling and colorful for everyone to bring home. A marvelous trip overall.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Raymond - Traveled, April 2024
Awaken your senses and your taste buds on this journey through amazing Rajasthan. The accommodation will surprise you and the warmth of the people will warm your heart.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
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