North India and Rajasthan: A Family Tour

Delhi

Morning at leisure to rest after your journey.

Later, join a friend of Sodha Travel for a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk. Witness the architectural marvels, the multicolored facades, beautifully decorated shops, ethnically dressed locals and the fragrances emanating from the potpourri of eateries that line the historical alleys.

Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (1592-1666) built the walled city of Delhi on the banks of holy River Yamuna.  It had a magnificent palace known as Red Fort, impressive mansions, enchanting bazaars, elegant shrines, royal gardens and fountains at every corner to romance ones' senses.  The Emperor’s beloved daughter Jahanara designed a major street called Chandni Chowk in front of Red Fort, with a canal running down the center and pools at major intersections reflecting the moonlight. 

During the British regime, the street underwent major changes and since then this area has witnessed some of the most important events in Indian history. Today these splendid ruins and tales of valor are a testimony of the evolution of the times.  Chandni Chowk truly reflects the national unity, secularism and diversity of India. The tour covers 20 main sites including palaces, mansions, elegant shrines and colorful bazaars.

Continue to the Sikh Temple (Gurudwara Bangla Sahib). In addition to the ideals of equality, the tradition of langar expresses the ethics of sharing, inclusiveness, and oneness. It is probably the largest attended community kitchen in the world. The food is freshly prepared and comprises of parshaada (roti), cooked vegetables, daal, kheer, and karaha prashad.

The service is performed by the volunteers called Sewadars. This practice of selfless service goes beyond the bound of religion and serves to nourish the soul, creating a sense of unity and oneness. The experience of the Gurudwara Walk will empower you to be one of the sewadars at the Gurudwara. In the role of a sewadar, experience the ultimate joy of giving.

Evening at leisure or you can enjoy a light and sound show at the Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone in Old Delhi. Overnight.

Agra - Ranthambore

In the morning, we recommend a visit to Sheroes Cafe. Away from the marble majesty of the Taj Mahal, the café is run entirely by victims of acid attacks so they can be self-sufficient and raise their families. 

Later, drive to Ranthambore (5 hours). Ranthambore is one of the most filmed wildlife reserves in the world. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and became a part of Project Tiger in 1973. As the park is relatively small, guests often view leopards, tigers, and jungle cats. Overnight in Ranthambore.

Ranthambore - Jaipur

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur (5.5 hours). Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation, and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the “Pink City” due to the pink colored buildings and avenues.

In the evening, visit Elefantastic. Spend quality time with the elephants at this renowned sanctuary that provides a critical foundation for breaking the cycle of elephant tourism. Guests can spend time feeding, bathing, painting, and walking the rescued and rehabilitated elephants, but rides are not permitted. The founder, Rahul, also supports the welfare and education of the caretakers and their families through the human-elephant interaction program. Return to your hotel and overnight.

Jaipur - Rajsamand

In the morning, drive to Rajsamand (5 hours) for your stay at Deogarh Mahal, a restored Mewar Palace that is still partially occupied by the Royal Family. In the afternoon, hop on your open 4x4 jeep for a ride through the countryside. Enjoy Rajasthani dancing and moonlit dining on the rooftop terrace. Overnight.

Udaipur

After breakfast, visit the 17^th century Jagdish temple, drive around the Fatehsagar Lake, and visit the Sahelion ki Bari, an ornamental pleasure garden with fountains and marble kiosks.

In the afternoon, meet with patrons of the traditional tie and dye art. For centuries artisans of Udaipur have created woven, printed dyed and embroidered textiles. These artists have practiced for generations preserving the identity of each art form. Variations in color, print, texture and finish of these textiles are inherent to the handmade process that have changed little over the years and reflect the individuality of the artist. It is a rare opportunity to experience the vibrant and diverse world of textiles up close, and at your own pace.

Evening at leisure and overnight.

Jodhpur

After breakfast, visit Bishnoi Village for time in a traditional Rajasthani environment. The village offers a glimpse to rural tribal life. The villagers are worshippers of nature in all forms, especially the sanctity of plant and animal life. Return to Jodhpur and overnight.