Arrive Jaipur

Welcome to your 'Heartland of Rajasthan' tour! Arrive at Jaipur airport or railway station and transfer to your hotel. On arrival check into your hotel. Jaipur's past is never too far from hand. The city of victory, Jaipur presides over the fascinating desert state and its people: surrounded by rugged hills, each crowned by a formidable fort; and beautiful palaces, mansions and gardens dotted throughout its precincts. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore this vibrant colorful city.
Overnight in Jaipur (B)

In Jaipur

This morning after breakfast, visit the ancient capital of the Kachhawaha Rajputs, Amer. You can take an elephant ride or the jeep ride upto the fort (on direct payment). Raja Man Singh built Amer Palace in 16th century. It is a mesmerizing blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Later visit Nahargarh fort. Nahargarh fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh and later some splendid additions were done by his successors. Thereafter, enjoy a photo-stop at Hawa Mahal - the Palace of Winds, visit the City Palace and the apartment housing museums with an array of textiles, costumes, arms, weapons and paintings and finally visit Jantar Mantar, the observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh-II. The range and variety that Jaipur has to offer is endless - from jewellery to gems; rugs and carpets to cotton clothing; from blue hued pottery to enamel ware the list goes on.

A major part of the 'City Palace' now consists of the 'Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum'. It is also the residence of the Jaipur Royal Family. The founder of Jantar Mantar is Maharaja Jai Singh II, he had built Jantar Mantar in five different locations of India, out of which Jantar Mantar at Jaipur is the largest.

The rest of the evening is at leisure for independent activities or enjoy shopping in the local market. The vibrant Bazaar of Jaipur will delight you with the exotic blue pottery, the batik painting, block printed textiles of Sanganer and Bagru, tie & dye fabrics, Mojari- (the local shoe), sandal wood carving items, beautiful stone carvings etc.
Overnight in Jaipur (B)

On to Bikaner (310 kms / approx. 7 hour drive)

Today enjoy a drive from the lush green Aravalli plains to the rugged desert city of Bikaner, where on arrival you will check into your hotel. (Private) Bikaner retains the medieval grandeur that permeates the city's lifestyle. More readily called the camel country; the city is distinguished for the best riding camels in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel Research and Breeding farms in the world. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the bustling local markets.
Overnight in Bikaner. (B)

In Bikaner

This morning, visit the magnificent Junagarh Fort built of red sandstone. The main entrance to the fort is Karan Pol [gate] that is facing east. Next to it is the Suraj Pol meaning the sun gate. In the fort complex are some magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. The Har Mandir is the majestic chapel for the royal family for worshipping their gods and goddesses. These palaces, constructed in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over the structure. In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to the famous Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, the only temple in India where rats are worshipped.

Deshnok is a pilgrim centre of Karni Mata -said to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga-who lived here in the fourteenth century and performed many miracles. Originally, the village was called 'dus-nok' meaning ten corners as it was formed by taking ten corners of ten villages. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the camel country on your own.
Overnight in Bikaner (B)

On to Jaisalmer (335 kms / approx. 7 hour drive)

Today your journey continues into the heart of the Thar Desert, to the citadel of Jaisalmer. Its a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience. On arrival you will check into your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight in Jaisalmer (B)

Jaisalmer

This morning, you will visit the Jaisalmer Fort situated on top of Trikuta Hill, enclosed by 99 bastions, Nathmalji ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake.

The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the desert city on your own.
Overnight in Jaisalmer (B)

On to Jodhpur (295 kms / approx. 5 hour drive)

Today, you will drive to Marwar, capital city of Jodhpur, sprawled around the impressive cliff top Mehrangarh Fort. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. (Private) The evening is at leisure to explore the textile and antique markets.
Overnight in Jodhpur (B)

Jodhpur

This morning, visit the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, situated on a lofty height, 400 feet (122 m) above the city. Explore the various museums that house the finest artifacts of the Royal family of Jodhpur. The rest of day is at leisure to explore the fortress city on your own.
Overnight in Jodhpur (B)

Depart Jodhpur

Today bid farewell to 'Heartland of Rajasthan' tour as you are transferred to Jodhpur airport or Jodhpur railway station for your onward journey.