Duration: 12 Days/11 Nights

Itinerary

On arrival in Jodhpur, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel Umaid Bhawan Palace or similar. After lunch, proceed for sight seeing visiting Mehrangarh fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace museum, Mandore gardens and clock tower.
Overnight at the hotel.
Amidst the sand dunes and thorny vegetation of Thar desert towers a fort, 120 metres above the plain. The fort overlooks the imperial city of Jodhpur, which is a part of the Desert Tourist Triangle. The old Jodhpur city is surrounded by a 10 km long wall with eight gates serving as entrances. The new city is settled around this walled area. The Maruthal or 'land of death' , came into life when the Rathores of Kanauj moved in. But the city of Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodhaji in 1459 AD. This city was on the silk route of the 16th century and hence was host to a number of travelers.
In Jodhpur, the genius of its sculptors comes to life in its exquisite palaces, forts, temples and havelis, which stand testimony to the imperial grandeur. The most alluring part of Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people who treasure this former princely state.
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 sandstones 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 is covered with paintings depicting various musical moods. The Maan Villas displays Rathore armoury 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.
Mandore - is Situated 8 kms from Jodhpur, is Mandore which, was the capital of Marwar prior to the foundation of Jodhpur. Today, its extensive gardens with high rock terraces make it a popular local attraction. The gardens also contain the cenotaphs of Jodhpur rulers, including Maharaja Jaswant Singh and the largest and finest of all, the soaring temple-shaped memorial to Maharaja Ajit Singh.
Inhabited since the late Gupta period (5th-6th century AD), Mandnaya- Pura, the original capital of Marwar, once had a 10km wall and a population of 50,000. It was captured by the Rathores in 1381AD and effectively abandoned when the court was transferred to Jodhpur in 1459 AD. The ruins now stand in lush, shady gardens and are entered via the Ajit Pol, the gate that was built as a celebration of Ajit Singh's victory over the Moghuls in 1707 AD.
It is truly an oasis in the desert with its beautiful laid out gardens. The sprawling greenery of Peepal, Banyan, Palms and Plantains along with swirling fountains and lovely peacocks make Mandore a visual treat.
Clock Tower & Sadar Market - In the old city, clock tower is a prominent land mark. But main attraction is the Sadar Market. The market has kept alive the old 'haat bazaar' culture.

After early Breakfast depart for Khimsar. On arrival, check in at the hotel Khimsar fort. After lunch, proceed for a visit to the Sand Dunes and enjoy the Black buck Safari.
Overnight at the hotel.
On the highway from Jodhpur to Bikaner, an hour out of the Rathore stronghold, past the medieval temples of Osian with their stunning stone carvings, is the small township of Khimsar. The construction of the fort initially began in 1523 but the family moved in to the fort only during the 18th century after a new zenana or ladies wing was constructed. Thakur Onkar Singh, the present occupant of the fort, built a regal wing for himself in 1940s. The pride of Khimsar today is still that fort, 450 years old and currently home to the 18th, 19th, and 20th generations of the Khimsar thakurs. This fort architecture offers great heterogeneity. Today, this fort ranks amongst the premier classified Heritage Hotels of India.

After Breakfast, check out and visit Nagaur Fort, Tarkin Ka Dargah & Rao Amar Singhji's Cenotaph Complex. Later proceed to Bikaner. On arrival, visit Junagarh Fort. Later check in at Lallgarh Palace. Overnight at the hotel.
Nagaur - The early history of Nagaur before the advent of the Mughals is intermingled with the exploits of the Sultans of Delhi, Gujarat and Marwar, who contended for its possession because of its strategic location. The town has an old fort, situated in the center of the city occupying an extensive area. A cattle fair is held in the town during January-February in which large number of cows, bullocks (Nagauri breed is renowned) oxen and camels exchange hands.
The town possesses some monuments of historical importance, namely, the Dargah of Khwaja Hamiduddin Nagauri known as Sultan-ul-Tarkeen, who was one of the chief disciples of the Khwaja of Ajmer; and Amar Singh Rathore-ki-Chhatri. Amar Singh Rathore was the heir apparent to the throne of Marwar, who not only was deprived of his right to succession, but was also exiled from the state, wherefrom he retired to the Mughal court. His exceptional gallantry at the battlefields impressed the Emperor who bestowed upon him the chief ship of Nagaur and elevated him to a very high rank in the nobility.
Bikaner - was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner. A 7 kilometers 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.
Lalgadh Palace - Designed by a British men 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 oldphotographs. 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.
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'.
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 eight kilometers away from the city. This farm is the only of its kind in Asia.

After early morning breakfast, depart for Jaisalmer. En-route visit Fort Pokran. On arrival in Jaisalmer, visit sunset point at sand dunes at Jaisalmer.
Overnight at the Rawalkot or Gorbandh Palace or similar hotel.
Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of Jaisalmer city in 1156 AD. 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.
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 for a full day sight seeing. Visit the Jaisalmer fort, Manak Chowk & Havelis, 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.
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 storeys in an attempt to make it as high as the Maharaja's Palace. The Maharaja had the upper storeys 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 and Badabagh. Overnight at the hotel.
Wood Fossil Park - at Aakal, is 17 kilometers 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 theangular 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.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Airport for return flight to New Delhi.

• Accommodation on twin sharing basis in budget, superior or luxury hotels.
• Meals, guided sight seeing and excursion as specified in the itinerary.
• Domestic (with India) Ground, Air and Train transportation as per the itinerary.
• All applicable taxes.
• All transfers and sight seeing are by a private vehicle.
• Air transportation is in economy class and Train journey is in Air-conditioned coach.

• US - INDIA - US airfare.
• Room service, in room amenities such as bar, Telephone calls, laundry and food items etc.
• Still / Video Camera or any other photography equipment fee wherever applicable.
• Tips, gratuities and porterage.
• Meals other than those specified in the itinerary
  
• Any other services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary or Tour price includes as stated above.