After breakfast, proceed for a half day city tour of Jodhpur. Visit Mehrangarh fort, Jaswant Thada. Later visit the market for shopping. Overnight at the hotel.

Mehrangarh Fort - Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. The fort has been a witness to the splendor of a bygone era. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstone's yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. To enter the fort, seven gates have to be crossed. Some of these gates still bear marks of many a siege that this fort has withstood. Its very hard to imagine how any invader even thought of conquering this fort, which at places has 17 feet thick and 68 feet high walls. The Mehrangarh Fort encloses many palaces, which are known for their intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards. Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace has a delicately carved stone screen and treasures the Sringar Chowki, royal throne of Jodhpur. Umaid Villas displays the Rajput miniature paintings and Ajit Villas exhibits musical instruments and the royal costumes. Both these villas are joined by a beautiful mirror room.
The Jodhpur Coat of Arms is kept in the Phool Mahal. Walls of this Flower Palace are covered with paintings depicting various musical moods. The Maan Villas displays Rathore armory and the 'Tent room'. This tent room is an imperial Mughal campaign tent, used by Shahjahan but wrested by Jaswant Singh from Aurangzeb in a battle. Made of red velvet and embroidered with gold thread, it gives some idea of the grandeur with which the Mughals approached even their battles.
Jaswant Thada - The 19th century royal cenotaph is built in white marble, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Jaisalmer, the desert city. On arrival, check in at the hotel Gorbandh Palace or similar. Overnight at the hotel.
Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of Jaisalmer city in 1156 AD. Trikuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established his new capital here.
In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The glory of Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old land routes. But there is still an 'Arabian Nights' quality about the town. The narrow streets in the walled city preserve a traditional way of life : the craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, the making of silver jewelry and embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel is everywhere.
Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savoring the medieval glory of old Rajasthan, is a marvelously rewarding travel experience. Desert Festival, celebrated in January/ February, is a must on any itinerary. The desert seems to bloom in a thousand colors. There are camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and traditional balled singing. A sound and light spectacle on the sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night. And all the color and excitement of the best in Rajasthan.

SHOPPING: Jaisalmer is famous for mirror work, embroidered articles, woolen pattu and other items made of good quality, locally produced wood, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewelry and curios.
The main shopping areas are Sadar Bazaar and Sonaron Ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar and also Rajasthali - Government shop for handicrafts and Khadi Gramodyog.

After breakfast, check out and proceed for a full day sight seeing. Visit the Jaisalmer fort, Manak Chowk & Havelis, Gadsisar sagar tank, Havelis and Jain Temples.
Overnight at the hotel.
Jaisalmer Fort - The golden - yellow sandstone of Jaisalmer Fort, over 800 years old, crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets, lies the old city, nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer. The fort stands almost 30 meters over the city and houses an entire living area within huge ramparts. It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also, within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries.
Manak Chowk and Havelis - Outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk, which is the center of local activity. From Manak Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelis of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality.
Gadsisar Sagar Tank - is a scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around. The lake is an idyllic spot for outings. This tank, south of the city walls, was once the main source of water supply to the city.
Havelis - Some of the most exotic mansions or 'havelis', all intricately latticed, are stretched all over Jaisalmer, each with a different facade.
The beautiful mansions built by Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis' and several of these fine sandstone buildings are still in beautiful condition.
Patwon ki Haveli - is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis. It stands in a narrow lane and one of its apartments is painted with beautiful murals - unfortunately, at present, the building is closed up and not lived in.
Salim Singh ki Haveli - was built about 300 years ago and is still partially lived in. Salim Singh was the prime minister when Jaisalmer was the capital of a princely state and his mansion has a beautifully arched roof with superb carved brackets inn the form of peacocks. The mansion is just below the hill and, it is said, once had two additional wooden floors in an attempt to make it as high as the Maharaja's Palace. The Maharaja had the upper floors turned down!
Nathmal Ki Haveli - The late 19th century mansion was also a prime minister's house. The left and right wings of the building were carved by brothers and are very similar but not identical. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building and the front door alone is a work of art.
Jain Temples - The fort has three exquisitely carved Jain Temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras - Rishabhdevji and Sambhavnathji.

After breakfast, proceed for a full day sight seeing tour visiting Wood fossil Park, Badabagh and Sam sand dunes. Overnight at the hotel.
Wood Fossil Park - at Aakal, is 17 kms from the city of Jaisalmer. This park transports you back to the Jurassic period, when the whole Thar region lay under the sea. The park with 180 million-year-old fossils that are the geological landmarks for the study of the Thar Desert is any geology enthusiast's delight. Covering about 10 sq. kilometers of bare hillside, the Fossil Park contains 25 petrified trunks, the largest measuring 13 m in length. This area was once heavily wooded, with non-flowering trees, such as Chir and Deodar. As per popular belief, about 180 million years ago, the sea gushed in and drowned it. When the sea retreated again about 36 million years ago, it left behind a fossilled forest. An impressive Fossil Park, that stands witness to the geologic upheavals that have taken place in the Thar over a long period of time, it is one of the worth-seeing places of much geological interest.

Bada Bagh - is a fertile oasis, with a huge old dam on the banks of an artificial lake. The enchantingly scenic backdrop of a dainty lake and the dam in the middle of the plateau, add to the beauty of the place. Much of the city's fruit and vegetables are grown here and carried into the town each day by colorfully attired women. Above the gardens, surrounded by dense trees, are royal cenotaphs with beautifully carved ceiling and equestrian statues of former rulers. The royal cremation grounds are set between the desert and a rain fed lake, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. A wheat crop is planted as the lake dries up each year. Each of the memorial 'Chattris' has a central column with a bas relief of its owner. Many are followed by figures- one for each wife or consort who committed 'sati' on his funeral pyre. One can see a definite progression of style from the angular shapes of the early Hindu monuments at the back that are over 300 years old, to the round arches of later Moghal influence on architecture. Bada Bagh is an oasis at the bank of a man-made dam. It has greenery all around to provide respite, to the local people, from the unrelenting sun.
Sam Sand Dunes - Welcome to the world of the Thar Desert, the land of Sam Sand Dunes, of adventure and rugged expeditions! Explore the undisturbed beauty, the rich culture and the picturesque sand dunes!
Situated 42 kilometers from Jaisalmer, the sun-soaked Sam Sand Dunes bring to light a glided mirage. Truly the essence of the desert, the ripples of the wind-caressed dunes create an enchanting mirage. The dunes touched by the wind, and therefore becoming as it were wrinkled, create a mystical picture, a challenge to every trigger-happy photographer or filmmaker. Nevertheless, you need a little bit of luck with the clouds, that means no clouds at all. The best point of time is of course is sunrise or sunset. Various cultural programs are organized against the backdrop of these fascinating sand dunes. Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert on the camel back. By visiting the Sam Sand Dunes, it is possible to get an insight into desert life from Jaisalmer itself! Camel rides on the sand dunes are a thrilling experience, as is the brilliant sunset.

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Bikaner. On arrival, check in at the hotel Lallgarh Palace or similar. Evening is at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
Bikaner was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner. A seven-kilometres wall with five entrances was built to protect the city from vagaries of the desert and any external aggression. The city flourished as an important trade center between Gujarat seaports and West Asian countries. The unbroken line of descendants of Bikaji ruled Bikaner till India got Independence. Bikaner is known for good breed of riding camels, which are among the best in the world. The Camel Festival held every year is famous all over the globe. Bikaner has many magnificent buildings made of Reddish Pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren wilderness.
SHOPPING: The purses, slippers made from the camel hide are worth a bargain. The camel skin also ends up as cushions and lacquered lampshades. The local carpets and the woodwork are very popular among the tourists.

After breakfast, proceed for a full day sight seeing visiting Lalgarh Palace, Ganga Golden Jubilee museum, Junagarh fort, Bhandeshwar & Sandeshwar Temples and the camel breeding farms. Overnight at the hotel.
Lalgadh Palace - Designed by a British for Maharaja Ganga Singh, this palace displays a magnificent blend of Oriental and European style. The terraced lawns and the Bougainvillea bushes add beauty to the palace. Peacocks stroll around the palace, which has been partly converted into a hotel. The intricate filigree work and latticework exhibit the refinements and delicacy of craftsmanship. The palace museum displays well preserved hunting trophies and old photographs. The library of the palace is supposed to have the largest collection of original Sanskrit manuscripts on parchments, copper and gold or silver plaques.
The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum - This small museum has a large collection of pre-Harappan, Gupta and Kushan pottery. The rich collection of pottery, carpets, paintings, armory and coins make this museum one of the best in Rajasthan. The Bikaneri miniatures, which are displayed in a separate section for local arts, makes visit to the museum a must. Amongst the prominent on display are : Furgal (Silk robe) of Prince Salim, 1596 AD. - The 'furgal' was presented by Crown Prince Salim (Emperor Jehangir ) to Raja Rai Singh of Bikaner, one of his closest officials.
Historical Mughal Farmans - The History of Bikaner contains a colorful record of war adventures. More than half a dozen rulers lost their lives while participating in the imperial campaigns of the Mughals. Various 'Farmans' bearing original Imperial seals, issued by the Emperors - Jahangir, Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb and Shah Alam, are preserved in this museum.
Paintings: An exquisite collection of Rajasthani miniatures of almost all the sub-schools of Rajasthan such as Bikaner, Bundi, Mewar, Jaipur, Jodhpur etc. are on view here.
Terracotta: The museum has one of the finest collections of early terracotta art, in the country. These belong to the early Gupta period and were discovered in 1017 AD by Dr. L. P. Tessitori from the ancient Theris of Rang Mahal, Badopal, Pir Sultan-Ki-Theri located between Suratgarh and Hanumangarh of the old Bikaner state. The existence of these 'Theris' can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Some of these sites including Kalibangan are considered the oldest in India. It was in this area that the sacred river Saraswati is believed to have existed.
Sculptures: The sculpture of Jain Saraswati (11th-12th Century) is a unique piece of marble of four feet eight inches in height. Discovered from village Pallu (Ganganagar), it is a peerless example of medieval Indian sculpture. Nartaki (10th-11th Century) is a beautiful one foot high bronze image, discovered from large sand dune of village Amarsar in Tehsil Sujangarh (Churu.)
Junagarh Fort - This fort was built in 15th century by one of the most able and trusted generals of Akbar, Raja Rai Singh. A high wall and deep moats surround the fort. The 37 bastions guard the fort and only two gates provide the access inside the fort. The Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate is the main entrance to the fort. Inside the fort is a profusion of 37 palaces, temples and pavilions that are marvels in red sandstone construction. The palaces have exquisitely carved windows, balconies, towers and kiosks. The mirrors, paintings and carved marble panels in the Moon Palace are a treat for eyes. The Phool Mahal or Flower Palace was adorned with glasses and mirrors. The victory over Aurangzeb was celebrated by building the Karan Mahal. The multi-storied Anup Mahal was the governance chambers for the rulers. The beautifully maintained rooms now display the treasures of the Royal family. Also worth visiting are the Ganga Niwas, Dungar Niwas, Vijai Mahal, and Rang Mahal. The fort museum has an extensive collection of illuminated manuscripts, jewelry, jars and carpets, arms and weapons, treaties, decorations and the 'Farmans'.
Bhandeshwar & Sandeshwar Temples - These temples are the oldest surviving monuments of aesthetic heritage. These were built by two brothers and the temples carry their names. The mirror work and the gold leaf paintings in the temple are noteworthy. The temples are dedicated to 23rd Jain teerthankar, Parsvanathji.
Camel Breeding Farms - Take a ride on one or watch the calves gambolling, or submit to a Raika or a Rebari from traditional camel breeder, over a cup of camel's milk at the camel breeding farms just 8 kilometers away from the city. This farm is the only of its kind in Asia.

Today morning we proceed for a full day of Jaipur City. Visit the Amber Fort, City Palace, the observatory and the Palace of winds (Hawa Mahal). Later in the evening visit the village resort - Chokhi Dhani and enjoy a traditional dinner. Overnight at the Jal Mahal or similar hotel.

Jaipur city was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1743). The Old City (Known as the Pink City) is a great place to wander around. The whole city was painted in Pink color by Maharaja Man Singh II when Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876 AD.

Amer fort. Located 9 kms north west of Jaipur, the Amber Fort was once the Capital of the Minas. The image of the Amber Fort is beautifully reflects in the lake below. Within the fort lies the famous Jai Mandir (Temple) with its world renowned Sheesh Mahal, a hall full of Mirrors. The walls and the ceiling of the Mahal are covered with a beautiful array of mirrors, which reflect any streak of light, so as to illuminate the entire room.

City Palace occupies a large area divided into a series of courtyards, gardens and buildings. Jai Singh built the outer wall but other additions were made much later, some right up to the start of this century. The former Maharaja still lives in part of the palace. Return to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is a Pandora's box of wonders; the enchanting Hawa Mahal is a multi-layered palace, with a profusion of windows and stone screens.

Day 12: Jaipur - Delhi
After breakfast, check out and drive to Delhi, covering a distance of 250 kilometers, On arrival at Delhi transfer to International airport to board your flight for onward journey.