Splendors of Rajasthan & Gujarat

After the Breakfast, Drive towards Mandawa.

Mandawa is located in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, is a charming town famed for its stunning painted havelis (traditional mansions). Once a prosperous stop on ancient trade routes, Mandawa flourished under wealthy merchant families who built grand residences adorned with intricate frescoes, murals, and ornamental architecture. The Mandawa Fort, now a heritage hotel, overlooks the town’s maze of narrow streets and richly decorated buildings. Notable havelis include the Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Goenka Haveli, and Murmuia Haveli, showcasing themes from mythology, colonial life, and daily village scenes. Today, Mandawa is often called an open-air art gallery, attracting heritage lovers and photographers worldwide.

On Arrival checkin to the Hotel and In the afternoon Visit of the Town with Its Havelis. After the visits return to the Hotel for Overnights Stay.

BIKANER – JAISALMER (330 KM - 6 Hrs Approx)

Breakfast at the hotel and proceed to Jaisalmer, crossing almost all of the Thar desert, on the border with Pakistan. Jaisalmer is probably the most attractive destination of the entire trip. Arrival and Checkin the Hotel. Afternoon visit the Vyas ki Chattari, the cenotaphs of the royal family. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

1.    VYAS CHATTRI

Vyas Ki Chhatri, located on the edge of Jaisalmer city in Rajasthan, is a group of beautifully carved cenotaphs (chhatris) dedicated to Sage Vyas, the legendary author of the Mahabharata. These golden sandstone structures are built on a small hill and offer a peaceful setting with stunning views of Jaisalmer Fort, especially during sunset. Though it is a cremation ground, the site is visited for its architectural beauty, quiet ambiance, and cultural significance. The chhatris feature intricately carved pillars, domes, and canopies, showcasing classic Rajput craftsmanship. It’s a lesser-known yet atmospheric spot for history lovers and photographers alike.

JODHPUR, known as the "Blue City", is a historic city in Rajasthan, famous for its striking blue-painted houses and majestic Mehrangarh Fort that towers over the city. Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, it was the capital of the Marwar kingdom. Jodhpur offers a blend of royal heritage, vibrant bazaars, and desert charm. Key attractions include Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, and bustling markets near the Clock Tower. The city is also known for its traditional Rajasthani cuisine, handicrafts, and festivals. Surrounded by the Thar Desert, Jodhpur captures the essence of Rajasthan’s regal past and colorful culture.

After breakfast, transfer to the Jodhpur, On Arrival visit of the Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant thada.

 1.     MEHRANGARH FORT

Perched on a rocky hill 400 feet above Jodhpur, It is one of the largest and most majestic forts in India. Built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, the fort is enclosed by thick stone walls and offers panoramic views of the Blue City below. Its imposing gates, like Jayapol and Fatehpol, lead to a complex of richly decorated palaces, courtyards, galleries, and temples. Inside, the Mehrangarh Museum showcases royal artifacts, weapons, costumes, and miniature paintings. Highlights include the Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Moti Mahal, each reflecting exquisite Rajput architecture. Mehrangarh Fort stands as a symbol of Rajasthan’s royal heritage, valor, and architectural brilliance.

 2.     JASWANT THADA

After the visit proceed to JASWANT THADA.

Jaswant Thada is a beautiful white marble cenotaph located near Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Built in 1899 by Maharaja Sardar Singh in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, it serves as a royal cremation ground for the Marwar rulers.

Often called the "Taj Mahal of Marwar", Jaswant Thada is known for its elegant Rajput architecture, intricately carved marble lattice screens (jalis), and peaceful atmosphere. The marble used is so finely polished that it glows when sunlight passes through. Inside, you'll find portraits of Rathore rulers, along with beautifully maintained gardens and a small lake nearby.

After the visit take a walk in the old city with its colourful Markets and Historical Buildings. Afterwards proceed towards the Hotel for check-in and Over night Stay.

UDAIPUR - known as the "City of Lakes", is a stunning city in Rajasthan, famous for its serene lakes, royal palaces, and romantic ambiance. Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, it served as the historic capital of the Mewar Kingdom. The city’s crown jewel is the City Palace, overlooking the shimmering Lake Pichola, home to the iconic Lake Palace and Jag Mandir. Udaipur’s charm lies in its heritage architecture, vibrant markets, colorful festivals, and cultural performances. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and royal elegance, making it a beloved destination.

Full day dedicated to the visit and exploration of the most important monuments of the city Starting from.

1.     CITY PALACE UDAIPUR

The City Palace of Udaipur is one of the largest and most majestic palace complexes in Rajasthan, located on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. Built by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, and expanded over 400 years by successive rulers, the palace showcases a blend of Rajput, Mughal, European, and Chinese architectural styles. Constructed with granite and marble, the City Palace is a stunning complex of palaces, courtyards, pavilions, terraces, hanging gardens, and balconies. Inside, visitors can explore the City Palace Museum, which houses royal artifacts, vintage weapons, costumes, and paintings. Highlights include Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Zenana Mahal, and Krishna Vilas.

From its balconies and towers, the palace offers panoramic views of Lake Pichola, the Lake Palace, and the Aravalli Hills. It's not just a historic site, but a living legacy of Mewar's royal heritage.

 2.     JAGDISH TEMPLE

Afterwards proceed towards the visit of Jagdish Temple, It is one of the most prominent and historic temples in Udaipur, located just outside the City Palace complex. Built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh I, it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Jagannath (Lord of the Universe).

Constructed in the Indo-Aryan architectural style, the temple stands on a tall plinth and can be reached via a steep flight of steps. The main shrine houses a stunning four-armed black stone idol of Vishnu, carved from a single piece of stone. The temple is richly decorated with intricate carvings, elaborate pillars, beautiful ceilings, and sculptures of gods, elephants, dancers, and musicians.

3.     SAHELIYO KI BARI

Later visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, or the Garden of the Maidens, is one of Udaipur’s most enchanting and tranquil attractions. Built in the early 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh II, it was designed as a recreational garden for the royal ladies and their companions (sahelis). According to legend, the garden was a wedding gift for the queen and her 48 maids who came with her from the royal household of Marwar.

 4.     LAKE PICHOLA BOAT RIDE

End your day with a mesmerizing Boat Ride at Lake Pichola. Boat ride at Pichola is one of the most serene and magical experiences the city offers. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and dotted with architectural marvels, the calm waters reflect the golden hues of the palaces and the sky, especially at sunrise or sunset, making it an unforgettable experience.

As the boat glides over the lake, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like the Taj Lake Palace, which appears to float on the water, the Jag Mandir Island Palace, and the ghats and heritage buildings of Old Udaipur. The ride often includes a stop at Jag Mandir, where you can explore its gardens and enjoy lake views.

Later return to the city for overnight Stay.

After breakfast drive to Dasada. On the way, stop at the ancient capital Patan and visit the marvellous step well “Rani Ki Vao”. Later stop at Modhera to visit the Sun God Temple, which represents one of the greatest masterpieces of the Hindu architecture of the Solanki period.

 1.     RANI KI VAO

Rani ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell) is a spectacular stepwell located in Patan, a historic town in the northern part of Gujarat, India. It is one of the finest and most ornate stepwells in the country and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014 due to its exceptional architectural and cultural significance.

Rani ki Vav was built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati, the wife of King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty, in memory of her husband. Unlike ordinary stepwells that were primarily used for water storage, Rani ki Vav was designed as a temple-like structure and a memorial, combining both utility and beauty. It served not just as a water reservoir but also as a place for rest and reflection.

The stepwell is famous for its intricate carvings and sculptures that cover nearly every surface. The structure is built in the Maru-Gurjara architectural style, with a depth of about 27 meters and a length of 64 meters. It consists of seven levels of stairs leading down to the water, with more than 1,500 finely sculpted figures. The sculptures mostly depict Hindu deities, especially Vishnu in various forms like Kalki, Rama, Krishna, and Vamana. There are also images of apsaras (celestial dancers), sages, and scenes from mythology.

One of the most remarkable features of Rani ki Vav is how it was constructed inverted like a temple, with its sanctity increasing as one descends deeper toward the water. The stepwell was buried under silt for centuries after the Saraswati River changed its course but was rediscovered and restored by the Archaeological Survey of India.

 2.     MODHERA

The Sun Temple in Modhera, located in Modhera village of Mehsana district, Gujarat, is one of the most magnificent and ancient temples in India dedicated to the Sun God (Surya). Built in the early 11th century during the reign of King Bhima I of the Solanki dynasty, the temple is a masterpiece of Solanki architecture, which closely resembles the Maru-Gurjara style. The Solankis considered themselves descendants of the Sun God, and this temple reflects their devotion and architectural brilliance.

The temple complex is divided into three main parts:

1.     Surya Kund (Ramakund) – A large rectangular stepped tank in front of the temple, surrounded by small shrines dedicated to various deities. Devotees used to bathe here before entering the temple for worship.

2.     Sabha Mandap (Assembly Hall) – A beautifully carved pillared hall used for religious gatherings and rituals. The hall features intricate carvings on its walls, pillars, and ceiling, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

3.     Guda Mandap (Sanctum Sanctorum) – The innermost part where the idol of the Sun God would have been enshrined (now missing). The structure is designed in such a way that during the equinoxes, the first rays of the rising sun would directly illuminate the sanctum.

The entire temple is adorned with exquisite stone carvings of gods, goddesses, celestial beings, dancers, and floral patterns. No worship is performed here today, as it is no longer an active temple, but it stands as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

After the visit proceed towards Dasada, On Arrival at Dasada check-in to the Hotel, Overnight Stay in Dasada.

After Breakfast. Full day excursions to visit the great Great Rann of Kutch, one of the largest salty white deserts in the world known for its biodiversity. Along the way you can visit Villages of Rabari, Harijan tribes, Maldharis and Lohars TRIBES who have managed to protect their ancient culture and idinetity.

1.     RANN OF KUTCH

The Great Rann of Kutch is one of the most extraordinary natural landscapes in India, located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, near the border with Pakistan. It is a vast white salt desert covering approximately 7,500 square kilometers, making it one of the largest salt flats in the world. The word *"Rann"* comes from the Sanskrit word Irina, meaning desert. This incredible terrain is submerged under water during the monsoon season and turns into a dry, shimmering expanse of white salt in the winter. The full moon nights are especially breathtaking, as the salt plains reflect moonlight, creating a surreal landscape.

The Great Rann is also home to wildlife sanctuaries, including nesting grounds for flamingos and migratory birds, and has deep cultural significance for local communities like the Rabari, Mutwa, and Ahir. Its unique ecosystem, stunning views, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers.

 2.     VISIT OF TRIBAL VILLAGES

The Rabari, Mutwa, and Ahir are traditional communities of Kutch, Gujarat, each with a distinct cultural identity, livelihood, and rich artistic heritage. These tribes have lived in harmony with the harsh desert environment of the Rann of Kutch for centuries and are known for their unique clothing, craftsmanship, and traditions.

The Rabaris are semi-nomadic pastoralists, traditionally herding camels, sheep, and goats. They are known for their distinctive dress—men often wear white dhotis and turbans, while women wear black woolen garments with heavy silver jewelry and elaborate embroidery. Rabari women are especially skilled in hand embroidery, creating intricate patterns that reflect their myths, beliefs, and daily lives.

 The Mutwas are a Muslim community known for their exquisite fine embroidery work, particularly Soof and Kharek embroidery.

 The Ahirs are traditionally agriculturalists and cattle herders, with roots believed to trace back to the Yadava clan associated with Lord Krishna

After the Visit return to the Hotel for check-in & Overnight Stay.