Diwali : the Light Festival in Rajasthan

(15 Days / 14 Nights)

DELHI / MANDAWA / BIKANER / DECHU / JODHPUR / LUNI / RANAKPUR / UDAIPUR / CHITTORGARH / BIJAIPUR / BUNDI / JAIPUR / FATEHPUR SIKRI / AGRA

PRICE 1890 $ (Based on 2 people)

  • Step into Rajasthan, the majestic realm of Maharajas (Emperors).
  • Vibrant cities pulsate with life, giving way to sprawling national parks, a seamless blend of culture and nature.
  • Discover Diwali, the festival of lights, its religious ceremonies, its culinary specialties and the fireworks and let yourself be amazed by the beauty of the moment.
  • From opulent temples and grand palaces to thrilling safaris and the iconic Taj Mahal, a treasure trove of experiences awaits.

 

Day 1 : Wednesday, 28  October - Delhi

You will be welcomed at Delhi Airport by a representative from our agency or a French-speaking guide. They will escort you to your hotel; if your room is ready, you may check in immediately, or otherwise, you will set off to explore Delhi.

This first day is dedicated to discovering Delhi.

Bathed by the holy waters of the Yamuna River, Delhi has twice served as an imperial capital—first under the Mughals and later, in 1911, under the British. The city is divided into two contrasting areas: New Delhi, a Victorian-style city featuring broad avenues, a business district, and the Parliament clustered around Connaught Place; and Old Delhi, the historic heart and former capital of Muslim India, characterized by narrow lanes lined with bustling bazaars. The Old City is home to the Red Fort—a testament to the power of the Mughal emperors—as well as the country’s largest mosque, the Jama Masjid.

You will explore Old Delhi on foot, followed by a visit to Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. In the late afternoon, you will discover New Delhi, traveling along Rajpath (the "King's Way") to admire the India Gate, the Parliament House, and the Presidential Palace.

In the evening, you will share a moment of spiritual devotion with the Sikh community at the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 2 : Thursday, 29 October - Delhi / Nawalgarh (250km/5h)

After breakfast, you set off for Shekhawati, a region of Rajasthan known as the state's "open-air art gallery." It is in these towns, surrounded by sand dunes, that you find the *havelis*—the homes of wealthy merchants who once made their fortunes in the camel trade between India and Pakistan.

Upon arrival in Nawalgarh, you check into your hotel. You will visit the historic mansions of this small town—a true gem boasting an abundance of *havelis* and temples. You will also gain insight into the villagers' daily lives: the colorful clothing of women busy with their chores, children on their way to school, and artisans at work.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 3 : Friday, 30 October - Nawalgarh / Siyana Sojourn (240km / 5h30)

After breakfast, you set off for Siyana Sojourn, stopping at Deshnok—home to the Karni Mata Temple. This temple is unique for being home to thousands of rats. Here, you can admire splendid, exquisitely detailed carvings.

Dinner and overnight stay at Siyana Sojourn.

 

Day 4 : Saturday, 31 October - Siyana Sojourn / Dechu (150km / 3h)

After breakfast, you set off for Dechu. Nestled amidst the deserts of Rajasthan lies a majestic oasis—the Thar Oasis Resort—a true gem. A visit to Dechu offers the perfect opportunity to understand the culture and beauty of desert life.

In the late afternoon, you head out by jeep to explore fields of mustard and red chili peppers.

This excursion offers a chance to connect with the abundant wildlife (including Indian gazelles, or *chinkara*, and nilgai) and to admire the magnificent beauty of the pristine sand dunes of the Thar Desert.

After a short camel ride across the dunes, the evening unfolds with a barbecue dinner accompanied by a performance of traditional music and *Langana* dance.

Dinner and overnight stay in a tent.

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Day 5 : Sunday,1 November - Dechu / Jodhpur / Chandelao (155km / 2h30)

After breakfast, you set off for Chandelao. En route, you will visit Jodhpur, the "Blue City." The city is dominated by Mehrangarh Fort, featuring its harem, a sumptuous reception hall, the cradle room, a small Hall of Mirrors, and the royal palanquin chamber—home to a chased silver *howdah*.

Next, take a stroll through the city bazaars surrounding the Clock Tower—a well-known landmark visible from afar—where artisans and merchants of all kinds ply their trades. The stalls here overflow with sari fabrics, spices, grains, fruits, and vegetables.

You then continue your journey to Chandelao. Upon arrival, you will check into the Chandelao Garh hotel—an architectural gem of a fort standing in this remote region of Rajasthan. Chandelao Garh is a heritage hotel offering a regal atmosphere in which to rest and rejuvenate. You can visit the village of Chandelao, observe the local way of life, and enjoy the hospitality of the warm-hearted villagers and hotel staff.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 6 : Monday,2 November - Chandelao / Ranakpur/ Jojawar (130km / 2h)

After breakfast, you set off for Jojawar. En route, you make a delightful stop to visit the Jain temples of Ranakpur. Nestled at the foot of a wooded slope of the Aravalli Hills, Ranakpur is one of the most remarkable Jain sites, celebrated for its exquisite carvings, intricate temple architecture, and an atmosphere imbued with deep religious devotion. The site’s crowning jewel is the 15th-century Adinath Temple.

We continue to Jojawar, where you will check into the Rawla Jojawar hotel. This stunning boutique hotel was created through the loving restoration of an ancient fort—a family home since 1780.

Rawla is a special place where you are treated as a family guest, and where serenity and relaxation abound. Life here is peaceful and filled with sunshine, conversation, and picnics; village strolls turn into safaris or hikes through the nearby forests. Back at the house, meals served beneath a canopy of stars—accompanied by music, dance, and stories of ancient customs and days gone by—transport you back in time.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 7 : Tuesday, 3 November - Jojawar / Udaipur (150km / 3h)

After breakfast, enjoy a train journey through the picturesque Kambli Ghat pass. This unique daily service runs from the station at the foot of the hills up to Kambli Ghat station—the highest point in the Aravalli range—or vice versa. The engine slowly and laboriously pulls the train through some of the most beautiful forests and hills in the state. This one-hour journey offers a truly unique experience, allowing you to interact with locals who will happily share their seats and strike up a conversation, all while trying to contain their surprise and excitement at sitting next to a stranger from a faraway land!

Next, continue the journey to Udaipur, passing through Nagda and Eklingji. A beautiful drive through the rolling landscape of the Aravalli range brings you to Udaipur, the "Pearl of Rajasthan," where you will check into your hotel upon arrival.

Founded by Udai Singh in the 16th century, the "White City" is one of India's most romantic destinations. It is graced by three sparkling lakes—including Lake Pichola with its two island palaces, Jagniwas and Jagmandir—and the massive City Palace. Situated on the lakeshore, the City Palace is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 8 : Wednesday, 4 November - Udaipur

After breakfast—and depending on water levels—you will be transferred to the Lake Pichola jetty to admire the magnificent façade of the Udaipur Palace and stop at Jag Mandir Island. You will visit the palace, then take a leisurely stroll through the streets of the Old City and visit Jagdish Mandir, a sanctuary dedicated to Vishnu.

After lunch, you will visit Sahelion-ki-Bari—known as the "Garden of the Maidens"—built in the 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies to enjoy. You will explore this stunning park, featuring pools with intricate water features, marble elephants, and numerous pavilions.

Next, you will visit a silk painting center specializing in miniatures.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 9 : Thursday, 5 November - Udaipur / Chittorgarh / Bijaipur (160km / 3h)

After breakfast, you set off for Bijaipur, visiting the imposing Chittorgarh Fort—which towers over the plain—along the way. Chittorgarh is, above all, an extraordinary site that rises 150 meters above the surrounding landscape like a dark, massive form. The atmosphere here is steeped in the tragedy of those who, sword in hand, rushed to meet certain death in defense of the fort. The site bears witness to the honorable sacrifice of Rajput knights and their wives, who chose the flames of the funeral pyre over capture by the invaders.

You then continue your journey and check in for the night at a 17th-century palace.

In the evening, you have the opportunity to take a short walk through the village of Bijaipur.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 10 : Friday, 6 November - Bijaipur / For Chabariya (170km / 3h)

After breakfast, you set off for Fort Chabariya, a small, unspoiled Rajasthani village located off the beaten path. En route, you visit the 12th-century temples of Menal. At Bijolia, you explore temples dedicated to Shiva—fine examples of the religious architecture of that era.

You then continue to Fort Chabariya, a designated heritage hotel. Since 2018, the family has lovingly and carefully maintained and developed the property, transforming it into one of the country's finest heritage hotels. Nestled by a river amidst a rural landscape, it is a haven of peace and tranquility. Expansive lawns and well-tended gardens—attracting a multitude of birds and dancing peacocks—welcome you to this oasis, where the only sound you hear is birdsong.

Upon arrival, you check into the hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 11 : Saturday, 7 November - Fort Chabariya / Jaipur (140km / 3h)

After breakfast, you set off for Jaipur, one of India’s most delightful and vibrant cities.

The capital of Rajasthan is also known as the "Pink City," named for the color of the buildings in the Old City, which is encircled by barren hills topped with fortresses and crenellated ramparts. Sacred cows, camels, elephants, and rickshaws all share the streets here. Founded in 1727, Jaipur is one of the most colorful and picturesque cities in all of India.

Upon arrival in Jaipur, you check into your hotel.

After lunch, you will visit the "Jantar Mantar," an extraordinary observatory built by a prince with a passion for astronomy.

You will take a rickshaw ride through the Old City bazaars to admire artisans at work in their stalls—potters, dyers, and jewelers—as well as street vendors and vegetable sellers.

Visit to a gemstone cutting workshop and the TAKAT shop.

In the evening, you visit the Birla Mandir temple to witness a religious ceremony (Aarti), followed by a tour of Jaipur by night; you will travel through the streets, past shops and markets, to soak up the beauty and the magical, joyful atmosphere of the moment.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 12 : Sunday, 8 November - Diwali - Jaipur

After breakfast, you will set off for an excursion to Amber Fort. This majestic structure is located 9 km north of Jaipur, in the former capital of the Rajput Empire.

En route, you will stop to see the Hawa Mahal (or Palace of Winds)—a slender structure featuring over 900 windows and balconies—where you can capture an extraordinary moment at sunrise.

You will visit a workshop specializing in hand-block printing.

In the evening, you will attend the Diwali celebrations and witness the religious ceremony dedicated to Lakshmi, the symbol of happiness, wealth, and prosperity. Afterward, you will enjoy a feast featuring specialties such as sweets—including *laddus*, *barfis*, and *jalebis*—as well as savory snacks like *samosas* and *chaklis*. You will then be able to admire the fireworks display.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 13 : Monday, 9 November - Jaipur / Abhaneri / Agra (240km / 5h)

After breakfast, you will travel towards Agra, stopping en route to visit Abhaneri. This historic village is famous for the magnificent Chand Baori—one of India’s largest and deepest stepwells—renowned for its impressive geometric architecture and more than 3,500 narrow steps. After visiting this remarkable site, you will continue your journey to Agra.

Upon arrival in Agra, you will check into your hotel.

In the late afternoon, you will set out to explore the Taj Mahal. You will discover this masterpiece of Mughal art and architecture—a radiant white marble mausoleum inlaid with semi-precious stones. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is considered the third wonder of the world.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

 

Day 14 : Tuesday, 10 November Agra / Delhi (240km / 5h)

After breakfast, you visit the Red Fort of Agra whose high walls of red sandstone dominate the Yamuna River. It marks the birth of the Mughal imperial style and gives you the opportunity to take a last look at the Taj Mahal.

Visit to the stone inlay company in marble.

At the end of the morning you take the road to reach Delhi. Upon arrival, you visit the QutubMinar, the highest tower in the country which rises to 72.5m high.

Then you are transferred to the hotel.

Dinner and night at the hotel.

 

Day 15 : Wednesday, 11 November - Delhi Return Flight

After breakfast, you are transferred to Delhi International Airport for your return flight.

 

OUR PRICES INCLUDE : 

  Accommodation (Heritage Hotels or 4*) in double rooms, with breakfasts and dinners included.

Air-conditioned car with parking fees, fuel, road taxes, and tolls.

Experienced English speaking driver (his accommodations, meals).

English speaking guide for the entire tour.

Rickshaw ride in Jaipur.

Entrance fees to temples, museums, monuments.

Boat ride in Udaipur.

Camel ride and 4x4 tour in Dechu.

Tuk-tuk ride in Bikaner.

24/7 assistance from the Passion !ndia team

 

OUR PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE

🗶 International flights (round trip).

🗶 Visa, travel insurance, and repatriation.

🗶 Lunches.

🗶 Personal expenses.

🗶 Drinks/camera and video fees.

🗶 Tips.