1-877-666-3113 letsgo@skyvacations.net

flavors of india

Priced From $2,490* 

11 Days | 10 Nights

Prepare your taste buds for an experience like never before on this culinary journey to India. Shaped by influences, customs, regions and demographics, Indian cuisine has evolved over thousands of years. This 11-day tour takes you on a food lovers paradise across Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur offering a mix of street food, home style cooking, high end hot spots and local regional delicacies. There is no better way to whet your appetite while exploring this land of contrasts.

10 nights hotel accommodation featuring luxury Trident properties

City tour of Old Delhi visiting Chandni Chowk, Kinari Bazaar, Parathe Wali Gali, Red Fort

Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, Delhi

Guided street food tour in Old Delhi

Visit the monument of love, Taj Mahal and the famous Agra Fort

Meander the bustling streets of Jaipur 

Excursion to inspiring Amber Fort, a marvellous example of Rajput architecture

Meals at renowned restaurants  Dharampura Haveli and Indian Accent  in Delhi

Awadhi  dinner at Taj Hotel & Convention center in Agra

Walking tour in Jodpur with street food tour and dining with a local Indian family 

Walking tour of Old Udaipur city and dinner at Bedla House

Visit Ranakpur temples and enjoy a vegetarian lunch

Enjoy a boat ride on your way to Jagmandir for dinner in Udaipur (regional Mewari cuisine)

Round-trip airport transfers

Daily breakfast

 

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

Welcome to India. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by our Sky Vacations ambassador who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is for you to unwind and explore this bustling city. 

Day 02: Delhi

After breakfast you will meet by your guide who will accompany you on a visit to Old Delhi. The tour begins with a walking and rickshaw tour of the unique and interesting medieval bylanes. A large number of people reside and conduct their daily business in this area and despite the destruction carried out by British troops after the mutinee of 1857, it is still a charming place with a unique character in every lane you visit. You start your visit by going to Khari Baoli (the spice market) which has been operating since the 17th century, though many traders joined the bazaars after the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. Here you will be given a detailed explanation on the spices being sold with notes and small sample packets. This will be an important learning and the basis of your culinary journey of India in the days ahead. After this demonstration, we proceed on rickshaws for a tour of the Chandni Chowk area. We ride past the old city Town Hall- built in 1865, the Clock Tower, and the holy Sikh temple Gurudwara Shishganj Sahib – the place where the 9th Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur was beheaded during Emperor Aurangzeb’s reign. We then continue on to Kinari Bazaar- the street that gets its name from `gota’ and ‘kinari’ (silver and gold embroidery) which are used to adorn women’s garments- especially those worn at weddings and other major event. We will then stop at the famous Parathe Wali Gali (lane famous for its succulent ‘Parathas’- a form of Indian bread). Here you sample a range of vegetable stuffed paranthas and sweets.  Our guide will explain the process of each variety of Paratha and will choose the ones you should taste. We continue our rickshaw ride through Dariba Kalan which is the famous lane of silver and gold jewelry, and end with a visit to the medieval Jama Masjid- which was once the largest mosque in the world).

After this tour we shall proceed for lunch at Dharampura Haveli, An old ethnic haveli with great ambience and the desire to bring street food to the table lends an edge to Lakhori restaurant. Located on the ground floor it promises to satiate your palette with Chandni Chowk delicacies and the rich Mughlai cuisine. It is an example of Old Delhi’s long and intimate relationship with food, and for people seeking culinary adventures, it provides an intoxicating mix of flavor and ambience. Pioneering in bringing the street food to the restaurant table, the restaurant provides an unrivaled array of these dishes. From the famous papri chaat to the exquisite flavors of kebabs, the restaurant is the best place to relish delightful food in a beautiful setting.

Post lunch drive past Red Fort, also built by Emperor Shahjahan- the builder of the famous Taj Mahal and stop at  Raj Ghat, the memorial and cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi.  Our tour will end with a shopping stop at the well laid out Santushti shopping complex- a designer and local product shopping area selling high quality teas, pashminas, cotton clothing, handicrafts etc

This evening we shall dine at the Indian Accent restaurant that has been featured in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019. The six course Chef’s tasting menu where each course is paired with a selection of wines from India and across the world, offers the complete dining experience of the restaurant. Seasonal, organic (where possible) and fresh local produce join unusual ingredients from world cuisine to create a menu that will excite the adventurous, yet satisfy traditional tastes and evoke nostalgia. This is our attempt at proposing Indian food for the twenty first century – a unique marriage of global ingredients and techniques with the flavors and traditions of India.

Day 03: Delhi – Agra

After breakfast, we will drive to Agra today. Agra is a medieval city on the banks of Yamuna River was founded by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1596. It achieved fame as the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658 and remains a major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era buildings, most notably Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After a quick lunch at the hotel, proceed for a tour of Agra visiting the Agra Fort. The Fort was built by Akbar in 1565 and further developed by successive generations. This well-preserved fortress built of red-sandstone dominates a bend of the river Yamuna – with a magnificent view of the Taj. After the tour we visit Akbar’s Emporium, a premium outlet for marble inlay work done by descendants of the same craftsmen who created the Taj Mahal over 350 years ago

This evening we have an Awadhi dinner at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre. The region of Awadh, east of Agra, gave birth to the dum style of cooking or the art of cooking over a slow fire simmering in its own juices, which has become synonymous with Lucknow (the State capital city) today. Their spread consisted of elaborate dishes like kebabs, kormas, biryani, kaliya, nahari-kulchas, zarda, sheermal and Indian breads like (roomali rotis, and warqi parathas). The richness of Awadh cuisine lies not only in the variety of cuisine but also in the ingredients used like mutton, cottage cheese and rich spices including cardamom and saffron.

Day 04: Agra / Fatehpur Sikri /Jaipur

You rise early this morning for a sunrise visit to The Taj Mahal – the monument of love built by the Mughal Emperor Shāh Jahān, which took 22 years to build being completed in 1653. The Taj was built in memory of his beloved wife Arjumand Bano Begum, also known as Mumtāz

Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast proceed to Jaipur. Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted capital city, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned 15 years later due to severe water shortage. There are many magnificent structures within this city including the Halls of Public and Private Audiences- with stone column standing in the centre of the hall supporting a flat-topped throne. From the four corners of the building, there are stone bridges leading across the throne. The Panch Mahal or Five Storey Palace is a five storeyed building and the architecture- though Persian in style is similar to a Buddhist pagoda. Next visit adjoining Fatehpur- famous for its Buland Darwaza (of Towering Gate) and Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah – the holy tomb of the famous Sufi saint who blessed Akbar with his only offspring and later Emperor Jehangir.

Continue your drive and stop at Hotel Mahal Khas for light lunch. After lunch drive to Jaipur founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber who ruled from 1699–1744. The King consulted several books on architecture and architects before making the layout of Jaipur. Finally, under the architectural guidance of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, Jaipur came into existence on the classical principles of Vastu Sharstra (Science of Harmonious Construction) and similar classical treatises.

At around 4 pm we shall proceed for a street food tour. This two hour tour conducted by expert starts from Sanganeri gate market where all kind of fresh vegetables and fruits are brought straight from the villages surrounding Jaipur. One can discover step by step, the local flavors – huge bags filled with red chili, cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, fenugreek, all kind of lentils, chick peas and many more. The tour takes you to Namkeen walo ki gali, involved from generations in making famous savory snack called Namkeen. Sesame Brittle ( til ki gajak ), Imli Wala Pansari, Heeng Kachori, Malpua, lassiwala, Ghevar Wala, Maithai Walo ki Gali and Ram Chandra Gulfi wala are the highlights of this tour. The tour ends at Tripolia Bazar. After the tour return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Dinner this evening is on your own. Here are two great suggestions: 

Shikaar Bagh at Narian Niwas Palace replicates the atmosphere of bygone days of royalty and hunting. In some ways, it also depicts life during the Raj era! Shikaar in Hindi means hunting. Bagh means the garden. This place has nothing to do with hunting sport but it recreates the ambiance of old days with interiors. The restaurant offers western food with Indian flavours

Suvarna Mahal at Rambagh Palace with its high ceilings, gilded mirrors and Florentine frescoes, Suvarna Mahal embodies the rich heritage of erstwhile rulers. Our chefs have mastered royal cuisines from the princely states of Rajasthan, Awadh, Punjab and Hyderabad to give you the best of India in Jaipur.

Day 05: Jaipur

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Jaipur, starting with a photo stop visit of the honeycomb designed Hawa Mahal also known as the “Palace of Wind” built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. It is an integral part of the City Palace, an extension of the Zenana (women’s chambers) away, from where the royal ladies, who lived in seclusion, observed life on the outside without showing themselves. Continue and visit the Amber Fort – where you ascend up the hill “Maharaja-like” on Elephant back. The Fort is known for its exquisite mirrored halls and lofty ramparts and is a superb example of Rajput architecture. It is strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the lake. This magnificent fort has recently been restored bringing back some of it past glory. After the visit stop for light lunch at Trident hotel.

Afternoon visit The City Palace, the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.  A complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings, the impressive City Palace is a center-point of the Old City.  The outer wall was built by Jai Singh.  The interior of the palace has been enlarged and adapted over the centuries.  Continue to the amazingly accurate Jantar Mantar Stone Observatory, the largest of Maharaja Jai Singh’s remarkable Observatories – still in perfect working condition.

This evening you dine at the magnificent haveli (or mansion) of Thakur Durga Singh of Mandawa. Thakur (which is a title of a hereditary ruler) Durga Singh is a known expert on Rajasthani culture, lifestyle and cuisine. The evening will include a cooking demonstration of unique and uncommon recipes of Rajasthan followed by dinner. The cooking instructor will work with and demonstrate all ingredients and techniques used in making the food. The reference is both on ingredients, techniques and food eaten by various different castes and levels of Rajasthani people. The demonstration would include, Jungli Maas (Mutton ), Gaj ka Sula (Kebabs), Biagan Ka Bharta (Eggplant), Papad Ki Sabzi (Papadum ) with Batia (Rajasthani Style bread), Bajra Churma Crumble (Black millet) etc.

Day 06: Jaipur – Jodhpur

After breakfast, you will be driven 350 kms / approx 5 ½ hrs drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check in to the Rohet Garh Palace, situated on the banks of a lake and set in the midst of rural surroundings, it is a haven of peace and tranquility. Sprawling lawns and manicured gardens, which invite a multitude of birds and dancing peacocks, herald your entry into this oasis where the bird song is the only sound you will hear. Afternoon will be at leisure.

This evening enjoy a culinary workshop at the hotel. Guests have called a meal at Rohet Garh their best in India. This resulted in the late Thakurani Sahiba Jayendra Kumari authoring a small cookbook on our cuisine. Under her expert guidance, we began our culinary workshops. Today her legacy is carried forward by her daughter in-law, Rashmi Singh. Our workshops promote traditional Rajasthani cuisine and are extremely comprehensive and popular. The guests are not only given demonstrations but also practical training following which they get to sample their own efforts.

Day 07: Jodhpur

This morning proceed for walking tour of this Blue city (Jodhpur). Discover a city that was planned in the form of a human body, where every part of it resembles different organs of the body. Bask in three hours of walking through the historic lanes of Jodhpur, the Blue City, and witness how history was recreated. Assemble near the Chandpole Gate. Start the trail with a spiritual visit to the historic Krishna Temple located at the heart of Jodhpur. After meeting the priest’s family, proceed towards the narrow yet lively lanes of the Blue City, interact with the locals and discover some of the untold stories and tales about the place. Here onwards, visit the ancient wells that have played a pivotal role among the natives of Jodhpur. On the completion of the heritage visits, it will be time to savour the flavour some local street food of Jodhpur sweets. Savour Gulab Jamun (Indian Fried Doughnuts), Mave ki Kachori (Wheat flour pastry, ‘khoya’, milk cake, pistachio, almond, saffron-cardamom honey) and other delicacies of Jodhpur. Enhance this tantalizing experience with a visit to the community kitchen and Krishi Mandi (Grain Market). With your arrival at the Clock Tower, this historical and heritage walk will come to an end.

Afternoon proceed to visit 5-km long Mehrangarh Fort situated on a 125mt high hill. This is one of the most impressive and formidable structures in Rajasthan. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with meticulously carved panels, latticed windows or “Jarokhas” with evocative names. The chambers of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana are noteworthy for the splendour and glamour of a bygone era.

This evening proceed to Ajit Bhawan to have Rajasthani Thali Dinner at Dhani Restaurant. Dhani Restaurant serves local, Rajasthani delicacies coming straight out of rustic kitchens; the food being prepared by local village women. Ajit Bhawan is Known among the most iconic heritage hotel of the world. However, before this palatial property was introduced as India’s first heritage hotel, it was home to Jodhpur’s erstwhile Maharaja’s younger brother, Major General Maharaj Dhiraj Sir Ajit Singh Ji

Day 08: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur

Depart this morning for your drive, 200 kms / approx 5 ½ hrs to Ranakpur to visit the fabulous 500 year old Ranakpur Jain  Temples. The temples are superbly preserved in near perfect condition. The most distinctive feature are the 29 halls of the main temple, some octagonal and many more than one story high, are dissected by 1444 pillars, each sculpted with unique designs which no two are the exactly alike.

A visit to the temple is incomplete without a vegetarian meal at its temple food hall called the “Bhojan Shala”. Here they serve simple meals made without garlic and onion. A few cooks in a very basic kitchen prepare the meals here. The food is served to you in a thali (platter) and you can have as many helpings as you wish. Generally a meal consists of a vegetable, a curry and a daal (lentil). This is accompanied with Rice and Indian breads and fried papads. In addition, they also serve chutneys and curd (yogurt). The food is a simple as can be and yet there is something about it that is so delightful.

Post lunch you will be driven 90 kms / approx 2 hrs to Udaipur. Arrive and check in the hotel. This evening enjoy boat ride. View the Lake Palace from outside the Palace – a Palace established at the center of Lake Pichola, now converted into a luxurious heritage hotel by Taj Group. After the boat ride, proceed to Jagmandir Island (in the middle of Lake Pichola) you will be served the distinctive Mewari cuisine at the Jag Mandir Island on Lake Pichola. The royal chef will be primed to receive you and will serve the royal cuisine of Mewar, distinct from the cuisine of northern Rajasthan with borrowed flavors from the neighboring Gujarat state. The food is usually simple, rustic yet flavorsome and is based mainly on fresh vegetables, fruits and meats of the season. Shikaar Maas ka Soola (Barbecued Lamb), Ker Sanger Wadi, Sekma Pan-fried Wild desert beans and berries patty, fenugreek), Kokada Soweta Degchi Maas (Braised lamb and corn kernels kedgeree, cloves, cinnamon, mint, coriander, green chilies, buttermilk), Khada Desi Palak (Stir fried baby spinach leaves, whole garlic, cumin, red chilies, the royal’s kitchens specialty), Panchkuta (mix vegetable) etc are a few royal delicacies. Jag Mandir was the favourite retreat of the Maharanas (or rulars) of Udaipur state and is one of the most unique dining venues in the world.

Day 09: Udaipur

This morning proceed for tour of Udaipur visiting City Palace, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, which towers over Lake Pichola.  Though the Maharaja of Udaipur still lives here the main part of the palace is preserved as a museum.  Jagdish Temple is comprised of beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls, and lush halls.   The 79 foot spire of the main temple is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians, making it truly a sight to behold. Stroll through Saheliyon-ki-Bari (“Garden of the Maidens”) where women of the royal household met and played. 

This evening we shall proceed to the Bedla House for dinner, who have had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The present scion of the Bedla clan, Vijay Singh was persuaded to share the rich culinary heritage of Mewar. With the help of his wife, Sugan Kumari; they have been conducting food fests at prestigious hotels nationally and internationally, for some years. The cuisine offers a vast number of culinary delights comprising of authentic hereditary recipes inherited over two centuries from the kitchens of the House of Bedla. The family has revived those recipes and has for the past few years has been promoting the cuisine by hosting fine dining for discerning guests.

Day 10: Udaipur / Delhi

This morning proceed for walking tour of the old town where you can walk around and see the artists painting the famous miniatures depicting the glory of the Mughals and enjoy a short tuk tuk ride in the old town. Later you will be transferred to the airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met upon and transferred the hotel.

Day 11: Farewell Delhi

This day transfer to the airport for your onward journey. 

LOCATION NUMBER OF NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION *
Delhi 2 The Maidens (Heritage)
Agra 1 The Trident (Deluxe Garden View)
Jaipur 2 The Trident (Deluxe Garden View)
Jodhpur 2 Rohetgarh Palace (Superior Deluxe)
Udaipur 2 The Trident (Deluxe Garden View)
Delhi 1 Trident Gurgaon (Superior)
*Please inquire about upgrading to Oberoi Hotels

Prices are land only per person based on double occupancy. Restrictions apply. For our complete terms and conditions, click here.

10 nights hotel accommodation featuring luxury Trident properties

City tour of Old Delhi visiting Chandni Chowk, Kinari Bazaar, Parathe Wali Gali, Red Fort

Rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, Delhi

Guided street food tour in Old Delhi

Visit the monument of love, Taj Mahal and the famous Agra Fort

Meander the bustling streets of Jaipur 

Excursion to inspiring Amber Fort, a marvellous example of Rajput architecture

Meals at renowned restaurants  Dharampura Haveli and Indian Accent  in Delhi

Awadhi  dinner at Taj Hotel & Convention center in Agra

Walking tour in Jodpur with street food tour and dining with a local Indian family 

Walking tour of Old Udaipur city and dinner at Bedla House

Visit Ranakpur temples and enjoy a vegetarian lunch

Enjoy a boat ride on your way to Jagmandir for dinner in Udaipur (regional Mewari cuisine)

Round-trip airport transfers

Daily breakfast

 

 Day 01: Arrive Delhi

Welcome to India. Upon arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by our Sky Vacations ambassador who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is for you to unwind and explore this bustling city. 

Day 02: Delhi

After breakfast you will meet by your guide who will accompany you on a visit to Old Delhi. The tour begins with a walking and rickshaw tour of the unique and interesting medieval bylanes. A large number of people reside and conduct their daily business in this area and despite the destruction carried out by British troops after the mutinee of 1857, it is still a charming place with a unique character in every lane you visit. You start your visit by going to Khari Baoli (the spice market) which has been operating since the 17th century, though many traders joined the bazaars after the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. Here you will be given a detailed explanation on the spices being sold with notes and small sample packets. This will be an important learning and the basis of your culinary journey of India in the days ahead. After this demonstration, we proceed on rickshaws for a tour of the Chandni Chowk area. We ride past the old city Town Hall- built in 1865, the Clock Tower, and the holy Sikh temple Gurudwara Shishganj Sahib – the place where the 9th Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur was beheaded during Emperor Aurangzeb’s reign. We then continue on to Kinari Bazaar- the street that gets its name from `gota’ and ‘kinari’ (silver and gold embroidery) which are used to adorn women’s garments- especially those worn at weddings and other major event. We will then stop at the famous Parathe Wali Gali (lane famous for its succulent ‘Parathas’- a form of Indian bread). Here you sample a range of vegetable stuffed paranthas and sweets.  Our guide will explain the process of each variety of Paratha and will choose the ones you should taste. We continue our rickshaw ride through Dariba Kalan which is the famous lane of silver and gold jewelry, and end with a visit to the medieval Jama Masjid- which was once the largest mosque in the world).

After this tour we shall proceed for lunch at Dharampura Haveli, An old ethnic haveli with great ambience and the desire to bring street food to the table lends an edge to Lakhori restaurant. Located on the ground floor it promises to satiate your palette with Chandni Chowk delicacies and the rich Mughlai cuisine. It is an example of Old Delhi’s long and intimate relationship with food, and for people seeking culinary adventures, it provides an intoxicating mix of flavor and ambience. Pioneering in bringing the street food to the restaurant table, the restaurant provides an unrivaled array of these dishes. From the famous papri chaat to the exquisite flavors of kebabs, the restaurant is the best place to relish delightful food in a beautiful setting.

Post lunch drive past Red Fort, also built by Emperor Shahjahan- the builder of the famous Taj Mahal and stop at  Raj Ghat, the memorial and cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi.  Our tour will end with a shopping stop at the well laid out Santushti shopping complex- a designer and local product shopping area selling high quality teas, pashminas, cotton clothing, handicrafts etc

This evening we shall dine at the Indian Accent restaurant that has been featured in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2019. The six course Chef’s tasting menu where each course is paired with a selection of wines from India and across the world, offers the complete dining experience of the restaurant. Seasonal, organic (where possible) and fresh local produce join unusual ingredients from world cuisine to create a menu that will excite the adventurous, yet satisfy traditional tastes and evoke nostalgia. This is our attempt at proposing Indian food for the twenty first century – a unique marriage of global ingredients and techniques with the flavors and traditions of India.

Day 03: Delhi – Agra

After breakfast, we will drive to Agra today. Agra is a medieval city on the banks of Yamuna River was founded by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1596. It achieved fame as the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658 and remains a major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era buildings, most notably Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After a quick lunch at the hotel, proceed for a tour of Agra visiting the Agra Fort. The Fort was built by Akbar in 1565 and further developed by successive generations. This well-preserved fortress built of red-sandstone dominates a bend of the river Yamuna – with a magnificent view of the Taj. After the tour we visit Akbar’s Emporium, a premium outlet for marble inlay work done by descendants of the same craftsmen who created the Taj Mahal over 350 years ago

This evening we have an Awadhi dinner at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre. The region of Awadh, east of Agra, gave birth to the dum style of cooking or the art of cooking over a slow fire simmering in its own juices, which has become synonymous with Lucknow (the State capital city) today. Their spread consisted of elaborate dishes like kebabs, kormas, biryani, kaliya, nahari-kulchas, zarda, sheermal and Indian breads like (roomali rotis, and warqi parathas). The richness of Awadh cuisine lies not only in the variety of cuisine but also in the ingredients used like mutton, cottage cheese and rich spices including cardamom and saffron.

Day 04: Agra / Fatehpur Sikri /Jaipur

You rise early this morning for a sunrise visit to The Taj Mahal – the monument of love built by the Mughal Emperor Shāh Jahān, which took 22 years to build being completed in 1653. The Taj was built in memory of his beloved wife Arjumand Bano Begum, also known as Mumtāz

Return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast proceed to Jaipur. Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted capital city, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned 15 years later due to severe water shortage. There are many magnificent structures within this city including the Halls of Public and Private Audiences- with stone column standing in the centre of the hall supporting a flat-topped throne. From the four corners of the building, there are stone bridges leading across the throne. The Panch Mahal or Five Storey Palace is a five storeyed building and the architecture- though Persian in style is similar to a Buddhist pagoda. Next visit adjoining Fatehpur- famous for its Buland Darwaza (of Towering Gate) and Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah – the holy tomb of the famous Sufi saint who blessed Akbar with his only offspring and later Emperor Jehangir.

Continue your drive and stop at Hotel Mahal Khas for light lunch. After lunch drive to Jaipur founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber who ruled from 1699–1744. The King consulted several books on architecture and architects before making the layout of Jaipur. Finally, under the architectural guidance of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, Jaipur came into existence on the classical principles of Vastu Sharstra (Science of Harmonious Construction) and similar classical treatises.

At around 4 pm we shall proceed for a street food tour. This two hour tour conducted by expert starts from Sanganeri gate market where all kind of fresh vegetables and fruits are brought straight from the villages surrounding Jaipur. One can discover step by step, the local flavors – huge bags filled with red chili, cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, fenugreek, all kind of lentils, chick peas and many more. The tour takes you to Namkeen walo ki gali, involved from generations in making famous savory snack called Namkeen. Sesame Brittle ( til ki gajak ), Imli Wala Pansari, Heeng Kachori, Malpua, lassiwala, Ghevar Wala, Maithai Walo ki Gali and Ram Chandra Gulfi wala are the highlights of this tour. The tour ends at Tripolia Bazar. After the tour return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Dinner this evening is on your own. Here are two great suggestions:

Shikaar Bagh at Narian Niwas Palace replicates the atmosphere of bygone days of royalty and hunting. In some ways, it also depicts life during the Raj era! Shikaar in Hindi means hunting. Bagh means the garden. This place has nothing to do with hunting sport but it recreates the ambiance of old days with interiors. The restaurant offers western food with Indian flavours

Suvarna Mahal at Rambagh Palace with its high ceilings, gilded mirrors and Florentine frescoes, Suvarna Mahal embodies the rich heritage of erstwhile rulers. Our chefs have mastered royal cuisines from the princely states of Rajasthan, Awadh, Punjab and Hyderabad to give you the best of India in Jaipur.

Day 05: Jaipur

After breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Jaipur, starting with a photo stop visit of the honeycomb designed Hawa Mahal also known as the “Palace of Wind” built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. It is an integral part of the City Palace, an extension of the Zenana (women’s chambers) away, from where the royal ladies, who lived in seclusion, observed life on the outside without showing themselves. Continue and visit the Amber Fort – where you ascend up the hill “Maharaja-like” on Elephant back. The Fort is known for its exquisite mirrored halls and lofty ramparts and is a superb example of Rajput architecture. It is strategically located on a hilltop overlooking the lake. This magnificent fort has recently been restored bringing back some of it past glory. After the visit stop for light lunch at Trident hotel.

Afternoon visit The City Palace, the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.  A complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings, the impressive City Palace is a center-point of the Old City.  The outer wall was built by Jai Singh.  The interior of the palace has been enlarged and adapted over the centuries.  Continue to the amazingly accurate Jantar Mantar Stone Observatory, the largest of Maharaja Jai Singh’s remarkable Observatories – still in perfect working condition.

This evening you dine at the magnificent haveli (or mansion) of Thakur Durga Singh of Mandawa. Thakur (which is a title of a hereditary ruler) Durga Singh is a known expert on Rajasthani culture, lifestyle and cuisine. The evening will include a cooking demonstration of unique and uncommon recipes of Rajasthan followed by dinner. The cooking instructor will work with and demonstrate all ingredients and techniques used in making the food. The reference is both on ingredients, techniques and food eaten by various different castes and levels of Rajasthani people. The demonstration would include, Jungli Maas (Mutton ), Gaj ka Sula (Kebabs), Biagan Ka Bharta (Eggplant), Papad Ki Sabzi (Papadum ) with Batia (Rajasthani Style bread), Bajra Churma Crumble (Black millet) etc.

Day 06: Jaipur – Jodhpur

After breakfast, you will be driven 350 kms / approx 5 ½ hrs drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check in to the Rohet Garh Palace, situated on the banks of a lake and set in the midst of rural surroundings, it is a haven of peace and tranquility. Sprawling lawns and manicured gardens, which invite a multitude of birds and dancing peacocks, herald your entry into this oasis where the bird song is the only sound you will hear. Afternoon will be at leisure.

This evening enjoy a culinary workshop at the hotel. Guests have called a meal at Rohet Garh their best in India. This resulted in the late Thakurani Sahiba Jayendra Kumari authoring a small cookbook on our cuisine. Under her expert guidance, we began our culinary workshops. Today her legacy is carried forward by her daughter in-law, Rashmi Singh. Our workshops promote traditional Rajasthani cuisine and are extremely comprehensive and popular. The guests are not only given demonstrations but also practical training following which they get to sample their own efforts.

Day 07: Jodhpur

This morning proceed for walking tour of this Blue city (Jodhpur). Discover a city that was planned in the form of a human body, where every part of it resembles different organs of the body. Bask in three hours of walking through the historic lanes of Jodhpur, the Blue City, and witness how history was recreated. Assemble near the Chandpole Gate. Start the trail with a spiritual visit to the historic Krishna Temple located at the heart of Jodhpur. After meeting the priest’s family, proceed towards the narrow yet lively lanes of the Blue City, interact with the locals and discover some of the untold stories and tales about the place. Here onwards, visit the ancient wells that have played a pivotal role among the natives of Jodhpur. On the completion of the heritage visits, it will be time to savour the flavour some local street food of Jodhpur sweets. Savour Gulab Jamun (Indian Fried Doughnuts), Mave ki Kachori (Wheat flour pastry, ‘khoya’, milk cake, pistachio, almond, saffron-cardamom honey) and other delicacies of Jodhpur. Enhance this tantalizing experience with a visit to the community kitchen and Krishi Mandi (Grain Market). With your arrival at the Clock Tower, this historical and heritage walk will come to an end.

Afternoon proceed to visit 5-km long Mehrangarh Fort situated on a 125mt high hill. This is one of the most impressive and formidable structures in Rajasthan. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with meticulously carved panels, latticed windows or “Jarokhas” with evocative names. The chambers of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana are noteworthy for the splendour and glamour of a bygone era.

This evening proceed to Ajit Bhawan to have Rajasthani Thali Dinner at Dhani Restaurant. Dhani Restaurant serves local, Rajasthani delicacies coming straight out of rustic kitchens; the food being prepared by local village women. Ajit Bhawan is Known among the most iconic heritage hotel of the world. However, before this palatial property was introduced as India’s first heritage hotel, it was home to Jodhpur’s erstwhile Maharaja’s younger brother, Major General Maharaj Dhiraj Sir Ajit Singh Ji

Day 08: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur

Depart this morning for your drive, 200 kms / approx 5 ½ hrs to Ranakpur to visit the fabulous 500 year old Ranakpur Jain  Temples. The temples are superbly preserved in near perfect condition. The most distinctive feature are the 29 halls of the main temple, some octagonal and many more than one story high, are dissected by 1444 pillars, each sculpted with unique designs which no two are the exactly alike.

A visit to the temple is incomplete without a vegetarian meal at its temple food hall called the “Bhojan Shala”. Here they serve simple meals made without garlic and onion. A few cooks in a very basic kitchen prepare the meals here. The food is served to you in a thali (platter) and you can have as many helpings as you wish. Generally a meal consists of a vegetable, a curry and a daal (lentil). This is accompanied with Rice and Indian breads and fried papads. In addition, they also serve chutneys and curd (yogurt). The food is a simple as can be and yet there is something about it that is so delightful.

Post lunch you will be driven 90 kms / approx 2 hrs to Udaipur. Arrive and check in the hotel. This evening enjoy boat ride. View the Lake Palace from outside the Palace – a Palace established at the center of Lake Pichola, now converted into a luxurious heritage hotel by Taj Group. After the boat ride, proceed to Jagmandir Island (in the middle of Lake Pichola) you will be served the distinctive Mewari cuisine at the Jag Mandir Island on Lake Pichola. The royal chef will be primed to receive you and will serve the royal cuisine of Mewar, distinct from the cuisine of northern Rajasthan with borrowed flavors from the neighboring Gujarat state. The food is usually simple, rustic yet flavorsome and is based mainly on fresh vegetables, fruits and meats of the season. Shikaar Maas ka Soola (Barbecued Lamb), Ker Sanger Wadi, Sekma Pan-fried Wild desert beans and berries patty, fenugreek), Kokada Soweta Degchi Maas (Braised lamb and corn kernels kedgeree, cloves, cinnamon, mint, coriander, green chilies, buttermilk), Khada Desi Palak (Stir fried baby spinach leaves, whole garlic, cumin, red chilies, the royal’s kitchens specialty), Panchkuta (mix vegetable) etc are a few royal delicacies. Jag Mandir was the favourite retreat of the Maharanas (or rulars) of Udaipur state and is one of the most unique dining venues in the world.

Day 09: Udaipur

This morning proceed for tour of Udaipur visiting City Palace, the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, which towers over Lake Pichola.  Though the Maharaja of Udaipur still lives here the main part of the palace is preserved as a museum.  Jagdish Temple is comprised of beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls, and lush halls.   The 79 foot spire of the main temple is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians, making it truly a sight to behold. Stroll through Saheliyon-ki-Bari (“Garden of the Maidens”) where women of the royal household met and played. 

This evening we shall proceed to the Bedla House for dinner, who have had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The present scion of the Bedla clan, Vijay Singh was persuaded to share the rich culinary heritage of Mewar. With the help of his wife, Sugan Kumari; they have been conducting food fests at prestigious hotels nationally and internationally, for some years. The cuisine offers a vast number of culinary delights comprising of authentic hereditary recipes inherited over two centuries from the kitchens of the House of Bedla. The family has revived those recipes and has for the past few years has been promoting the cuisine by hosting fine dining for discerning guests.

Day 10: Udaipur / Delhi

This morning proceed for walking tour of the old town where you can walk around and see the artists painting the famous miniatures depicting the glory of the Mughals and enjoy a short tuk tuk ride in the old town. Later you will be transferred to the airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met upon and transferred the hotel.

Day 11: Farewell Delhi

This day transfer to the airport for your onward journey. 

 

 

Prices are land only per person based on double occupancy. Restrictions apply. For our complete terms and conditions, click here.

CONNECT WITH US

Call Us

+1 877 666 3113

Email Us

info@skyvacations.net