DAY 2 – Jaipur
Pink City : Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of city including a visit to the Amber fort, which we climb on an elephant’s back or by a jeep. The main attractions are the Sukh Mandir (Temple of Contentment – an aptly named pleasure chamber, cooled by a stunning water cascade) and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror palace) here. We also stop to see some of the architectural marvels of Jaipur like the Palace of wind, Jantar Mantar (the observatory) & the City Palace complex. Evening is free for shopping in the colorful bazaars of Jaipur.
DAY 3 – Jaipur>Mandawa (200 km / 4 hrs)
Paintings, Havelis & Frescos. : Driving southwards reach Shekhavati Region. Shekhavati is not the name of a particular city or town. In fact, it is the name of an entire region in northern Rajasthan, which was once controlled by King Rao Shekhaji. There are a number of small towns and villages, clustered together. Unlike other places in Rajasthan where the main attraction is generally forts and palaces, Shekhavati is known for its painted walls. The whole region is dotted with elaborately frescoed Havelis (mansions). It is like an open-air Art Gallery.
Besides the general massage, going for Pizichil would be a good idea. In this lukewarm herbal oils are applied all over the body, by two to four trained masseurs, in a special rhythmic way. This treatment is very useful for Rheumatism and neurological disorders. The cosmetic freaks must try mukhalepam, a facial treatment with different kinds of herbal paste. Very effective in removal of wrinkles, cellulites, blackheads etc. It beautifies and rejuvenates the facial skin. Karna dhoopanam is way cool method to clean and detoxify the ears puffing medicated anti septic fumes into the ears for just 5 – 10 minutes.
Most of the treatments would require only a few hours each day. So you can easily find time to visit the nearby attractions or simply idle away in a swinging hammock. If you are lucky enough you may get a chance to attend occasional culture shows at the resort.
The Desert Citadel : Driving west reach the desert citadel – “Bikaner”. Tucked away in the harsh desert region of western Rajasthan lies the relatively remote city of Bikaner.
Start the day by visiting the unusual Junagarh Fort. Unusual because, unlike all the major forts of Rajasthan which are on hilltops, this one was built on the desert plains itself. The palace complex’s sumptuously decorated interiors are better preserved than in almost any other region. Also visit the camel breeding farm and famous rat temple at Deshnok. Overnight at Bikaner.
DAY 5 – Bikaner > Jaisalmer (355 km / 6-7 hrs)
The Golden Oasis : Drive further westward to reach the golden oasis called Jaisalmer. Here it appears as if a master-craftsman took one huge piece of sandstone and patiently carved out the entire city.
For the second half of the day explore the beautiful man made lake Gadsisar (the only source of water Jaisalmer had for years) & the royal cenotaphs at Bada Bagh.
DAY 6 – Jaisalmer
Rolling Sand dunes : Visit one of the most exotic forts of Rajasthan in the first half of the day exploring it from every nook and corner and take some delightful pictures.
Then drive towards the rolling sand dunes to enjoy camel safari over sand dunes. Overnight stay at Jaisalmer only.
DAY 7 – Jaisalmer > Jodhpur (305 km / 6 hrs)
Sun City : Drive towards east to reach Jodhpur – Blue City. Jodhpur city was founded way back in 1459.
Climb up the majestic Mehrangarh fort (one of the best preserved fort with modern techniques of audio guides) and explore the various sections within. Also visit the marble cenotaph at Jaswant Thada before returning back to the hotel. Evening free to shop. Enjoy an optional dinner atop the fort.
Venice of India : Drive towards south for Udaipur. This beautiful city of lakes is often referred to as the Venice of East and more so locally as the Kashmir of Rajasthan. En route visit the fort at Kumbhalgarh. The mighty ramparts, known as the China Wall of India, that can allow 4-5 horses run side by side are special attraction here.
DAY 9 – Udaipur
City of Lakes : We visit the city palace complex, which houses a museum and a hotel. One of the most fascinating parts of the palace is the Mor Chowk (Peacock courtyard), with its walls covered with a dramatic glass mosaic relief of dancing peacocks. Also visit the Jagdish temple & the garden of the maids
DAY 10 – Udaipur>Chittaurgarh (120 km /2 hrs)
Town of warriers : Drive in east direction and reach Chittaurgarh. After check in take some rest at hotel.
Later set out to visit the famous fort with other attractions of place. In the evening you can enjoy light & sound show at the fort. Overnight at Chittaurgarh.
DAY 11 – Chittaurgarh >Jaipur (320 km / 6 hrs)
The way back : After breakfast drive to Jaipur airport to board flight for your onwards journey.
Highlights
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Architectural Masterpieces In Form Of 7 Forts & 2 Palaces And Few Havelis
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Frescoes In The Shekhavati Havelis
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Camel Safari In Thar Desert
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Quaint Rat Temple And Camel Breeding Farm At Bikaner
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Pink, Blue & Golden Cities Of India