Trésors du Rajasthan avec Varanasi

Upon landing at Delhi International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and escorted to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and settle in after your journey.

About Delhi:

 The capital city of India, Delhi is a dynamic blend of the old and the new. From the imposing Mughal-era forts and intricately carved temples to glitzy malls, cutting-edge business districts, and a thriving culinary scene, the city offers a microcosm of India’s diversity. Its streets hum with life, rickshaws weaving through bazaars, food vendors serving aromatic street snacks, and grand colonial boulevards lined with government buildings. Delhi is not just the political heart of India, but also a vibrant center for art, culture, and heritage.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

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After breakfast, set out on a guided exploration of Delhi’s rich history and cultural landmarks.

Your journey begins in Old Delhi with a visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, built in 1656 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Its towering minarets, grand marble domes, and vast courtyard capable of holding 25,000 worshippers make it a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

From here, dive into the bustling energy of Chandni Chowk, the oldest and busiest market in Old Delhi. Wander past spice shops, sari stalls, and sweet vendors, before walking to Fatehpuri Masjid. Then, enjoy an exhilarating rickshaw ride through narrow, colorful lanes to the Red Fort, the 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the Mughal seat of power.

Meet your driver and continue to Raj Ghat, a peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, marked by a simple black marble platform and an eternal flame.

Next, visit the Humayun’s Tomb, a striking example of early Mughal architecture and the first garden-tomb in India, set amidst symmetrical charbagh gardens and intersecting water channels inspired by Persian design.

In New Delhi, drive past Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the President of India) and the ceremonial boulevard leading to India Gate, a 42-meter-high stone arch built to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Finally, visit the towering Qutub Minar, built in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak. At 73 meters, it remains the tallest brick minaret in the world, adorned with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

After breakfast, check out from your Delhi hotel and begin your scenic drive to Mandawa, a charming heritage town in the heart of Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region. En route, watch the landscape change, from the bustling urban sprawl of Delhi to the open countryside, dotted with mustard fields, rustic villages, and occasional camel carts.

On arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.

About Mandawa:

 Known as the “Open-Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan”, Mandawa is celebrated for its ornately painted havelis, grand merchant mansions adorned with intricate frescoes, colorful murals, and delicate latticework. Built mainly in the 18th and 19th centuries, these structures narrate stories of opulence, trade prosperity, and artistic excellence from Rajasthan’s bygone era.

In the late afternoon, step out to explore Mandawa’s bustling bazaars, where you can browse local handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and vibrant textiles. Then, stroll through the village lanes, where each turn reveals a haveli more spectacular than the last.

Venture further into the Shekhawati region to visit Nawalgarh and Laxmangarh, nearby towns brimming with historic havelis and small forts. These architectural gems, now serving as living museums, display finely painted walls depicting mythological scenes, colonial influences, and everyday village life. Interacting with locals here offers a deeper glimpse into the traditions and warm hospitality of rural Rajasthan.

Overnight stay in Mandawa.

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After breakfast, leave Mandawa behind and drive to Bikaner, another jewel in Rajasthan’s crown. Arrive and check in at your hotel.

About Bikaner:

 Founded in 1488 by Rao Bika, this desert city is known for its red sandstone palaces, majestic forts, and camel culture. Its location on the ancient caravan trade routes brought wealth and cultural exchange, reflected in its architecture and traditions.

In the afternoon, embark on a half-day sightseeing tour, beginning with the Junagarh Fort a rare Rajasthani fort not built on a hill. Constructed in the late 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, it houses an impressive complex of palaces, courtyards, and temples. Stroll through its richly decorated halls, admire ornate balconies, and explore the museum that showcases royal costumes, antique weapons, exquisite textiles, and portraits chronicling the lives of Bikaner’s rulers.

Later, visit the National Research Centre on Camel, Asia’s only camel breeding and research facility. Spread over 2,000 acres of semi-arid land, it plays a vital role in conserving camel breeds used for transport, agriculture, and even milk production. If you visit in the late afternoon, you might see the camels returning from grazing, a picture-perfect moment against the desert sunset.

Overnight stay in Bikaner.

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After breakfast, begin your scenic drive westward toward Jaisalmer, often called the “Golden City of India”. The journey takes you deeper into the Thar Desert, with vast stretches of arid landscapes, sparse vegetation, and occasional mirage-like villages appearing along the way. The road unfolds with glimpses of camels grazing, shepherds tending to their flocks, and clusters of mud houses adorned with traditional murals.

On arrival in Jaisalmer, check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for leisure—perfect for unwinding after the long drive or taking a gentle evening stroll through the local markets to get your first taste of the city’s unique atmosphere.

About Jaisalmer:

 Founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, the city’s charm lies in its golden-hued sandstone buildings, which glow ethereally under the desert sun. Rising like a mirage from the sands, Jaisalmer Fort dominates the skyline, housing an entire living city within its walls. Beyond its architectural marvels, Jaisalmer is a doorway to desert adventures, folk music, and the timeless culture of Rajasthan’s westernmost frontier.

Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

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After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Jaisalmer, beginning with its most iconic monument, Jaisalmer Fort. Perched atop the Trikuta Hill, the fort boasts 99 bastions and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan” listing. Built by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD, the fort’s massive yellow sandstone walls shift from golden to amber as the sun arcs across the desert sky, earning it the name Sonar Quila (Golden Fort).

Inside the fort, discover a living heritage: narrow winding lanes lined with houses, handicraft shops, temples, and centuries-old mansions. Highlights include:

• Megh Durbar (Palace of Clouds): A royal chamber with intricate carvings and a glimpse into Rajput grandeur.
• Hindu and Jain Temples: Exquisite examples of stone artistry, with elaborate sculptures depicting mythological tales.
• Salim Singh-ki-Haveli: Known for its peacock-shaped roof and distinctive architecture.
• Patwon-ki-Haveli: A cluster of five havelis showcasing some of the finest latticework and frescoes in Rajasthan.

In the late afternoon, head out to the Sam Sand Dunes, around 40 km from the city. This is one of Rajasthan’s most celebrated desert landscapes, where rolling dunes stretch to the horizon. Enjoy a camel safari, allowing you to witness the desert’s changing colors as the sun sets in a blaze of gold and crimson. The tranquil beauty is punctuated by the sound of folk music drifting through the air, as local performers and villagers share stories, songs, and dance around the campfires.

It’s not just a sightseeing experience, it’s an immersion into the rural and nomadic lifestyle of Rajasthan, offering a taste of the desert’s quiet majesty.

Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

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After a hearty breakfast in Jaisalmer, begin your road journey to Jodhpur, traversing the sun-kissed landscapes of western Rajasthan. This drive offers changing scenery from the golden sands of the Thar Desert to fertile plains dotted with villages, ancient temples, and colorful roadside markets.

On arrival in Jodhpur, check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure, ideal for a relaxed stroll through the winding lanes, where vibrant blue houses peek out from behind carved wooden doors, or to simply enjoy the regal charm of your accommodation.

Known as the “Blue City”, Jodhpur’s skyline is a mesmerizing sea of indigo, a tradition believed to keep homes cool and also linked to the Brahmin caste. The city is steeped in history, dominated by the formidable Mehrangarh Fort that rises above the cityscape like a sentinel of time. Jodhpur is also famed for its bustling bazaars, aromatic spice markets, and warm Marwari hospitality.

Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

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This morning, explore the treasures of Jodhpur. Begin with the Mehrangarh Fort, an awe-inspiring structure perched 150 meters above the city. Built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort’s massive ramparts still bear battle scars, including visible cannonball marks on its gates silent witnesses to sieges past. Inside, explore its grand palaces:

• Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) with its dazzling mirror work,
• Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) exuding royal opulence,
• Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) glittering with glass mosaics, and
• The Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana, once the armory and royal treasury.

Next, visit Jaswant Thada, a stunning marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Often called the “Taj Mahal of Marwar,” this peaceful monument is set against rocky hills and overlooks a serene lake, a photographer’s delight.

Return to the hotel for checkout, then drive through the Aravalli hills to Udaipur. On arrival, check in to your hotel.

Known as the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur is a vision of white marble palaces, sparkling waters, and romantic gardens, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Aravallis. Its blend of Rajput grandeur and tranquil landscapes has earned it the title of one of India’s most romantic cities.

Overnight stay in Udaipur.

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After breakfast, embark on a city tour starting at the City Palace, built in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II and expanded by his successors into the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Overlooking Lake Pichola, it houses gems such as the Durbar Hall, the dazzling Crystal Gallery, and the Palace Museum, rich with artifacts of Mewar’s royal heritage.

Visit the Jagdish Temple, a 17th-century Indo-Aryan masterpiece dedicated to Lord Vishnu, followed by the charming Sahelion Ki Bari, the “Garden of the Maidens,” complete with lotus pools, marble pavilions, and whimsical fountains built for royal ladies.

Later, explore Lok Kala Mandal, home to folk art treasures like traditional costumes, musical instruments, masks, and intricate puppets. If time permits, enjoy a puppet show or folk dance performance (6:00–7:00 pm). End your cultural immersion at Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts village where artisans demonstrate age-old skills.

In the evening, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola as the setting sun casts a golden glow on the Lake Palace and Jag Mandir Island, an unforgettable Udaipur moment.

Overnight stay in Udaipur.

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After breakfast, depart for Pushkar, a serene pilgrimage town fringed by desert hills. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel.

Pushkar is famed for its holy Pushkar Lake, surrounded by 52 ghats and hundreds of temples, each echoing with ancient chants and the fragrance of incense. Visit the Brahma Temple, one of the very few in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma, and stroll along the ghats to witness pilgrims taking ritual dips in the sacred waters.

Spend the afternoon exploring Pushkar’s colorful markets, brimming with embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, leather goods, and local handicrafts. The air here is infused with both spirituality and a vibrant bohemian energy.

Overnight stay in Pushkar.

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After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, the “Pink City” of India. On arrival, check in to your hotel.

Begin your exploration with the City Palace, an architectural fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani styles, housing museums of royal costumes, weaponry, and art. Visit the Albert Hall Museum, Rajasthan’s oldest museum, followed by Jantar Mantar, the UNESCO-listed 18th-century astronomical observatory.

Admire the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a honeycomb of pink sandstone windows built for royal ladies to observe street processions unseen. In the evening, browse Jaipur’s vibrant bazaars for textiles, gemstones, carpets, and handicrafts before visiting the serene Birla Temple, glowing in white marble under the evening lights.

Overnight stay in Jaipur.

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After breakfast, visit the majestic Amer Fort, set on a hilltop just outside Jaipur. Ascend by Jeep to explore its ornate halls, mirrored chambers, and sweeping courtyards.

Continue your journey toward Agra, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, Emperor Akbar’s abandoned 16th-century capital. Marvel at structures like Diwan-e-Khas, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza, and the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti, each narrating tales of Mughal grandeur and spiritual devotion.

Arrive in Agra and check in to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Agra.

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Rise early to witness the Taj Mahal at sunrise, its white marble glowing in soft pink and gold hues a magical moment few forget. Built by Shah Jahan for his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, this 17th-century wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful monuments in the world.

Return for breakfast, then drive to Delhi Airport for your flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Varanasi.

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At dawn, take a boat ride on the Ganges, gliding past ancient ghats where pilgrims perform rituals as the rising sun paints the water in shimmering gold. After breakfast, journey to Sarnath, the sacred site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore its stupas, monasteries, and the Archaeological Museum’s treasures.

Back in Varanasi, visit the New Vishwanath Temple at Banaras Hindu University, the marble Tulsi Manas Temple, and the revered Durga Temple (Monkey Temple). In the evening, witness the soul-stirring Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a centuries-old spectacle of fire, chants, and devotion.

Overnight stay in Varanasi.

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After breakfast, transfer to Varanasi Airport for your onward journey, carrying with you the memories of Rajasthan’s regal splendor, Mughal elegance, and the spiritual embrace of Varanasi.