Depart London Heathrow this evening by Jet Airways flight to Delhi (8½ hours).

Arriving in Delhi transfer to the Maidens Hotel, for a chance to relax and freshen up before an afternoon tour exploring the highlights of New Delhi. Sightseeing includes some of the architectural delights of New Delhi, originally created for the British Raj during the 1930s. Much of the city’s colonial grandeur can be attributed to the talents of Edward Lutyens, the British architect who, over a period of some 20 years, created such architectural gems as the India Gate, the Rashtrapati Bhavan (once the home of the Viceroy of India) and the private gardens in which the palace now stands.

Morning sightseeing of Old Delhi. The political and cultural capital of the Mughal emperor Shan Jahan during the 17th century, Delhi is filled with the eclectic mix of grandeur and vibrancy so beloved of Indian cities. The tour takes in some of its treasures, including the towering Qutb Minar, built during the 13th century to herald the arrival of the Muslim sultans and the classic Hindu designs of the Chattarpur temple complex. This afternoon you are free to further explore in the Indian capital or relax before dinner at the hotel this evening.

Travelling via the mausoleum of Akbar the Great at Sikandra, drive to the great Moghul capital of Agra (204 KM/approximately 5 hours, full morning). Two nights at the Trident Hotel.

Two highlights of the journey are the Taj Mahal and the imposing Agra Fort and this morning visit both; the imposing sandstone edifice of Agra Fort and the magnificent marble splendour of the Taj Mahal, said to represent the epoch of Moghul architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is liberally blessed with a dazzling array of palaces and mosques, whilst the marble magnificence of the Taj Mahal needs no introduction. Built by Shah Jahan to honour the memory of his wife, Mumtaz, the Taj is one of the world’s most iconic buildings, taking over 20 years to build and costing in excess of 3 million rupees. We recommend an optional visit to the Taj at sunset - the opportunity to experience this spectacular sight should not be missed.

Leaving Agra, visit the atmospheric and deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, the 16th century testament to Akbar the Great which was abandoned after just 14 years. Arriving in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur (233 KM/ approximately 7½ hours, full day with stops) later today transfer to the Trident Hotel for 2 nights.

Driving out to the hill top citadel of Amber, take a jeep ride to the hill-top palace of the Rajput rulers, with some spectacular views out across the Aravalli Hills. A fusion of Muslim and Hindu design and a mix of marble and sandstone that stands testimony to the once great power of the Kachchawahas. Highlights include the spectacular mirrored halls of the Sheesh Mahal, the 17th century Ganesh Pol gateway and the ornate carvings of the Shila Devi Temple. Return to the city for an afternoon tour including the extraordinary façade of the Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of the Winds’, built as part of the City Palace and intended to allow the women of the harem to view the city below without being seen. Also visit the magnificent Maharajah’s Palace, now a fascinating museum housing some of the treasures of Jaipur’s princely past.

Continue by road to Khimsar (330 KM/approximately 7 hours with stops), which is situated on the edge of the great Thar Desert, for overnight at the 15th century fortress of the same name.

Following exploration of the fort at nearby Nagaur the afternoon is free, perhaps taking an optional jeep safari to a nearby village.

Journey via the Jain temples of Osian (320 KM/approximately 7 hours with stops), to the spectacular walled city of Jaisalmer, probably the finest in all Rajasthan. Two nights at the Fort Rajwada Hotel.

This morning explore the delights of Jaisalmer with its narrow cobbled lanes, intricately carved temples and elegant merchants’ houses. Located amongst the desert landscapes of western Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is a city revered by Indians and travellers alike. Lying in the heart of the Thar Desert, the ‘Golden City’ was once a major outpost on the caravan routes that plied their trade across these stark regions, laden with silks and exotic spices, linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. Dominated by its imposing sandstone fort and filled with characteristic old merchants mansions, better known as ‘havelis’, the city still evokes a strong feel for its rich and princely heritage, making it one of Rajasthan’s premier tourist attractions. Its labyrinthine maze of narrow streets and the architecture of the splendid residences of the old Wazirs with their intricate exterior carvings make this a city that is an absolute delightto explore on foot.

Driving south to Jodhpur (319 KM/approximately 7 hours including stops), overnight at the Taj Hari Mahal.

After a morning’s sightseeing including the spectacular Meherangarh Fort continue to Rohet (56 KM/approximately 1 hour) for chance to enjoy a unique glimpse of traditional village life. Overnight at the delightful Rohet Garh.

Drive to the stunning Jain temples at Ranakpur, with their intricate carvings, before continuing to the lake city of Udaipur (approximately 6 to 7 hours including stops) and the Trident Hotel.

Following a relaxing cruise on Lake Pichola, the rest of the day is free. Known as the Venice of the East’ and the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur is probably Rajasthan’s most romantic city, a breathtaking collection of palaces, temples and gardens that evoke the true spirit of Rajasthan’s golden age.

Flying Jet Airways via Mumbai arrive in London Heathrow later today.