2027 “Discover Northern India Experience”

Another UNIQUE Cooking Passions “Small-Group” Cuisine & Culture Experience

“This is India indeed! The one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once, by even a glimpse, would not give that glimpse for all the shows of all the rest of the globe combined. – Mark Twain (c.1897)

Dates

– 14 Days / 13 Nights –
Wednesday 17 March 2027 to Tuesday 30 March 2027

Pricing*

– Booked Out –

**Final Booking Deadline : Saturday 01 August 2026

*ALL INCLUSIVE LAND CONTENT including 14 Days with 13 nights Luxury 5-Star Accommodation; Arrival & Departure Airport Transfers; Luxury A/C Coach Transfers with Private Guide, Private Chauffeur & Assistant; Included meals as per itinerary; Cuisine & Culture Expert Guided Walks & Experiences as per itinerary; Full Time Group Escort.
(*AUD to INR Exchange Rate – $1AUD = 66 Indian Rupee INR)

2027 “Discover Northern India” – Luxury Royal Rajasthan & ‘Holi Festival of Colours’ Experience

Join Nico & Belinda Moretti of Urban Provider’s Cooking Passions Cooking School as we journey to the jewel in India’s crown—Rajasthan, the “Land of Kings,” a region many believe holds more history than the rest of the country combined.

This is quintessential India—a land of iconic landmarks and vibrant cities, from the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahalto the colour-soaked streets of Jodhpur (the Blue City), Jaipur (the Pink City) and Udaipur (the Lake City). Once the realm of mighty Mughal emperors and royal maharajas, Rajasthan’s legacy of grandeur still lingers at every turn.

Our journey invites you to step back in time, discovering the opulence and splendour of royal palaces and ancient forts, wandering through the energy and colour of local markets and bazaars, and savouring the distinctive flavours of Rajasthan and Northern India’s rich culinary traditions.

Adding to this unforgettable experience, we have timed our tour dates to allow us to experience in India’s famous Holi Festival of Colours—a joyful and vibrant celebration that marks the arrival of spring, where streets come alive in a kaleidoscope of colour, music, and shared celebration.

Cooking Passions Luxury “Small Group” Cuisine & Culture Journeys

Our luxury Cuisine & Culture Small Group Journeys are thoughtfully designed to make the most of your valuable time away.

With Nico & Belinda as your dedicated hosts throughout, you’re travelling with the people who created your journey—ensuring a level of care, consistency, and personal connection that larger, more impersonal tours simply can’t offer.

Every detail has been personally curated—from unique, behind-the-scenes experiences to the seamless flow of each day—so you can simply relax and enjoy.

With all logistics taken care of, your days unfold effortlessly, balancing guided discovery, rich cultural immersion, and unhurried moments to truly savour each destination. It’s travel at a pace that allows space for connection, enjoyment, and lasting memories.

Limited to a maximum of only 12 guests, each journey offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, where like-minded travellers come together and friendships naturally form—with hosts who genuinely know and care about your experience.

Our itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind—allowing you to engage as much or as little as you wish. With ample free time to explore, shop, unwind, and indulge, you’re free to shape your experience, with our personal recommendations always on hand.

All that’s left is to book your flights, pack your bags, and join us for a truly unforgettable journey through Northern India with us!

Namaste!

“Discover Northern India – Luxury Royal Rajasthan Experience”
– Cuisine & Culture Experience Highlights – 

• Experience India’s Golden Triangle – India’s “Golden Triangle” is an exploration of Indian icons. Commencing in the formidable, mega-metropolis of Delhi, with its majestic Mughal heritage, we then angle to Agra, where one of the world’s most famous monuments, the Taj Mahal, defines the city with its stunningly symmetrical proportions. The triangle continues to Jaipur – the capital and gateway to Rajasthan – a city painted pink with some of the most colourful bazaars in India, and then Jodhpur – Rajasthan’s “Blue City” before completing in  beautiful Udaipur – Rajasthan’s “Lake City”.

Taj Mahal (Agra)

• Experience luxury accommodations that are all the Raj – We have hand-selected accommodations that are, literally, fit for a Maharaja and Maharani. With Rajasthan’s rich history of royalty, we will experience an array of luxury heritage properties from wonderfully restored age-old royal palaces; hilltop warrior fort palaces with battle-scarred ramparts; and the richly decorated and adorned havelis of princely generations.

ALiLA Fort Bishangarh Hotel (Bishangarh)

• Experience one of India’s most revered and celebrated festivals – Holi (“The Festival of Colours”)  is the most colourful and joyous festival of the Hindu calendar, celebrated at the end of the winter season to welcome spring. We have timed our March 2025 tour to coincide with this celebration for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Experience the taste sensations of Northern Indian Cuisine – As well as enjoying some of the best Indian food traditions of the tandoor influenced delicacies of India’s Punjab region, we will also experience the lesser known yet unique regional cuisine of Rajasthani food. Rajasthani food is known for its spiced curries and delicious sweets. The cooking style is derived from the arid climatic conditions of the region, and as there is a scarcity of water during certain parts of the year, the cuisine utilises elements of ghee, milk and buttermilk. Dried lentils and beans obtained from native plants like sangria are used extensively in the preparation of Rajasthani dishes and its cuisine also has a lot of chutneys made from garlic, green chilli, mint and coriander.

• Experience the rich history of the Mughals – one of the world’s greatest dynasties – For almost three centuries, from 1526 to 1857, the Mughal Dynasty was considered one of the classic periods of India’s long and amazing history. At its height, during the 1600’s, India held 20% of the global population, and was the world’s leader in manufactured textiles making the Mughal Emperors the world’s richest monarchs of the time (hence their possession of the famed “Kho-i-Noor” diamond at the time). With this incredible wealth, the dynasty left a large and visible mark on India. The Mughal’s melding of Persian and Indian styles created some of the world’s best-known monuments. Among the most striking examples of Mughal heritage are the many beautiful buildings that were constructed in the Mughal style — the Taj Mahal, the Fort of Agra, Humayan’s Tomb and a number of other lovely works. Through the Mughals, Indo-Persian culture reached the heights of refinement and beauty with its influences seen not only in the architecture of the time but extended to the remarkable gardens, arts, and cuisine created by them.

Amer Fort – Mughal Courtyard Garden (c.1623)

DISCOVER NORTHERN INDIA – ROYAL RAJASTHAN EXPERIENCE ITINERARY

Rajasthan, India

PRE-ARRIVAL (Monday March 15th or Tuesday March 16th 2027) – NEW DELHI

Belinda & Nico will be arriving into Delhi on Monday March 15th 2027, a couple of days prior to the tour’s official start date of Wednesday March 17th 2027. If you might also like to arrive earlier than Wednesday’s official tour start date, please contact us and we can arrange any additional nights at our New Delhi hotel.

Day 1 – Wednesday 17 March 2027 – Arrival DELHI

Delhi is one of the oldest and largest cities of the world and with a greater population of more than 28 million people, it is probably the largest city we have ever visited. Although this may sound daunting, we find it a fascinating & visceral place to visit and have broken our exploration of this captivating city down into smaller pieces so as to better understand this capital of several empires.

Old Delhi, with its labyrinths of narrow streets is where we can experience the history, traditions and chaos of India’s oldest city. It is a place that contains a history set over more than 3,000 years and possesses some of the most spectacular Indo-Muslim architecture in the country. New Delhi, at just over 100 years old, was designed & built by British colonisers as the capital and seat of government. At only 5km south of central Delhi,  its broad tree-lined avenues and surreal calm is a world away from the captivating chaos of the old town .

Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi), we have arranged for you to be met at the airport for your Private Hotel Transfer to our New Delhi accommodation, the Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi).

14:00pm – Check in to your Taj Club Suite (with Lounge Privileges) and settle into the luxurious comforts of one of New Delhi’s finest hotels.

Our Accommodation – Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi)

• • The Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi), located in the heart of the city, stands as a tribute to legendary hospitality and service, complementing the broad leafy boulevards of Delhi’s chief architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Central to The Taj Mahal Hotel’s prominence is its old-world grace and charm, blended effortlessly with contemporary comforts and amenities. Its close proximity to the seat of government, the city’s diplomatic corps, commercial hubs, cultural centers and iconic heritage wonders, has furthered the hotel’s reputation as the epicentre of the capital.

17:00pm to 19:00pm – Welcome Drinks at the Taj Club prior to our welcome dinner.

19:30pm – Welcome Dinner

Accommodation: Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi)
Included Meals: Taj Club Lounge Privileges; D

Day 2 – Thursday 18 March 2027 – The Mughal’s Origins of Delhi

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

09:00am – Delhi possesses three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, so this morning we will commence our introduction to the Mughal’s influence in India, dating back to the 12th century, with a visit to two of Delhi’s most historically significant sites.

Qutub Minar (c. 1192)

• Qutab Minar (c.1192) – This UNESCO World Heritage site is  the perfect starting point to establish when Islam arrived into India. The Qutab Minar (“minaret”) complex holds great importance in Delhi’s history as it represents the commencement of Muslim rule in India following the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu ruler. The Qutub Minar, a 73 meter high tower built in 1192, is still the highest tower in India and is testament to the engineering capabilities of the culture at the time as it is only 5ft less than the height of the Taj Mahal built by the Mughals 450 years later.

Humayun Tomb (c.1565)

• The Tomb of Humayun (c.1565) – This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most magnificent tombs built in Delhi during the Mughal rule and is an excellent example of Persian architecture. Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor (1530 to 1556) and Humayun’s Tomb was commissioned in 1565, nine years after the death of Emperor Humayun, by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. In Humayun’s Tomb one can witness architectural features which over time went on to become important components of Mughal architecture, such as its octagonal shape and its high central arch.

• Constructed out of red sandstone, Humayun’s Tomb was the first ever Persian garden-style tomb to be constructed in India. The Humayun’s Tomb stands in the centre of a Charbagh-style of gardens complete with pools linked by channels. The Humayun’s Tomb served as an early example for other Mughal tombs which were built later, such as Akbar’s tomb in Sikander, the tomb of Sikander Lodi in the Lodi Gardens and the Taj Mahal.

pm – The remainder of the day & evening at your leisure. Enjoy some downtime poolside at the hotel, or continue your own exploration of some of New Delhi’s sites including India Gate and Sansad Bhavan (Parliament House) designed by by the British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker in 1912-1913 as part of their wider mandate to construct a new administrative capital city for British India.

India Gate (c.1921)

• New Delhi – In December 1911 King George V of Britain decreed that the capital of British India would be moved from Calcutta (now Kolkata) to Delhi. Construction began in 1912 at a site south of the Delhi city centre, and the new capital, New Delhi, was formally dedicated in 1931. The straight and diagonal pattern of the broad tree-lined avenues in New Delhi, with extensive green spaces and wide vistas, contrasts sharply with the crowded, narrow, and winding streets characteristic of Old Delhi.

pm – Dinner at your leisure. Enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s many restaurants, or we can decide as a group who might like to have dinner somewhere close by to the hotel.

Accommodation: Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi)
Included Meals: B, Taj Club Lounge Privileges

Day 3 – Friday 19 March 2027 – Old Delhi Experience

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

10:00am – Group departure to Old Delhi for a visit of Delhi’s third UNESCO World Heritage site. We will visit Delhi’s famous Red Fort (c.1638) prior to meeting up with our Old Delhi guides at the Jama Masjid (c.1655) – India’s largest mosque built by Emperor Shah Jahan.

The Red Fort (c.1638)

• Delhi’s Red Fort is the most impressive architectural masterpiece in Delhi, a symbol of the rise and fall of the Mughal Empire, and today – a symbol of the Indian nation. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638, when he decided to shift the capital of the Mughal Empire from Agra to Delhi, the Red Fort took a total of ten years to be completed. The main gate to the Red Fort is the Lahore Gate and is also the site for the Prime Minister’s speech every year on Independence Day. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is spread over a rambling 254.67 acres and the walls alone are around 2kilometres long.

12 noon to 14:30pm – Old Delhi City Walk

This morning we visit Old Delhi in a unique and “off grid” experience that will leave you both awestruck and inspired. We go beyond the famous Red Fort and Jama Masjid Mosque of Old Delhi’s historical monuments and will experience every day life on the streets. Streets in India are not just about getting from A to B; they are where people live, work, pray, eat and sleep.

The most unique part of our walk in Old Delhi is that we will see not only this area of crumbling havelis and crowded markets; street food and street characters found nowhere else in the city; but we will also see the social aspects of what life is really like for the lives of workers – often migrant labourers – in Old Delhi’s teeming makes and factories.

Our guides for the day are the heroes of our walk, as we will witness this part of the city through the eyes of adolescents that were once street children on these streets of Old Delhi. Although they are no longer street children – they have gone through several years of study and exams since they were supported by the Salaam Baalak Trust – they still have a youthful enthusiasm and a free spirit. They have opinions, hopes and characters.  They are quite likely to ask questions as well as give answers.  But less likely to stick to a script about old buildings and dead people.

“Sanju is one of the most inspirational and resilient 23 year olds we have ever met. He was our guide as he showed us “his” Old Delhi, through “Street Connections”, an amazing non-profit organisation affiliated with Salaam Baalak Trust (SBT), which helps to get street kids off the streets and into a safe & caring environment. 

He showed us Delhi’s real life in the streets, from crowded markets to crumbling ancient havelis (Mughal palaces); Hindu & Jain Temples next to Muslim mosques; and street food, chai wallas, makeshift factories and characters found nowhere else in the city.

He also shared his incedible story of being born in Old Delhi’s sprawling slum, leaving & losing touch with his displaced family to live on the streets at the age of 6, where he survived with other street kids by begging & garbage picking for almost 8 years before being supported by SBT.

He’s completed his schooling and is now continuing his studies. The great part of his story is that he found his family, by chance, when he was 18, ten years after they had last been together. Truly amazing!! Here’s some of what he shared with us.”…Nico

pm – Remainder of the afternoon and evening at your leisure. Retreat back to the calm oasis of the Taj Mahal Hotel. Take some time poolside or venture into the nearby shopping quarter of Khan Market for a bite to eat and a visit to some of its shops.

pm – Dinner at your leisure. Enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s many restaurants, or once again, we can decide as a group who might like to have dinner somewhere close by to the hotel.

Accommodation: Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi)
Included Meals: B, Taj Club Lounge Privileges

Day 4 – Saturday 20 March 2027 – Agra (Amber Fort & Taj Mahal)

am – Early breakfast at your leisure prior to our group departure for Agra.

07:30am – Group departure by luxury coach to the city of Agra.

10:30am – Agra Fort Experience. With its origins dating back to the 11th century, the Agra Fort was the capital of the Mughal’s empire prior to their relocation to the Red Fort in Delhi.

Agra Fort (c.1573)

• Agra Fort – Before moving to the newly built Red Fort in Delhi in 1638, Agra Fort was the main residence of the Mughals in Agra. The Agra Fort was built in the year 1573 under the reign of Akbar – one of the greatest Mughal Emperors. It took more than 4000 workers and eight years of hardship to complete the fort. Knowing the significance of its location, Akbar built the fort to make it the main residence of the Mughals. The fort remained as the main residence of the emperors belonging to the Mughal dynasty until the year 1638. In 1638, the capital of the Mughal dynasty was moved from Agra to Delhi, causing the Agra Fort to lose its status as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. The fort is separated from its sister monument, the Taj Mahal, by just 2.5 kilometers. Often described as the walled city, Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

13:00pm – Check in to our hotel – ITC Mughal Luxury Hotel Collection –  and time for a light snack at your leisure or relax with a swim at one of the resorts two swimming pools prior to our sunset visit of the Taj Mahal.

16:00pm – Sunset visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal – India’s most iconic monument and one of the world’s finest architectural masterpieces.

Taj Mahal (c.1631)

• Taj Mahal – Possibly the most beautiful and famous mausoleum in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the emblematic monument of the country. It was built between 1631 and 1653 under the command of 5th Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in order to shelter the tomb of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth during the delivery of their 14th child. The Taj Mahal is a marvel of Mughal architecture, at the crossroads of Islamic, Iranian, Persian and Indian styles.

“There is nothing as captivating as witnessing the viseral beauty of the perfectly proportioned Taj Mahal once you have taken your first steps through the red-sandstone arched entry gate and it is standing right before you

The sublime symmetry of the Taj Mahal in Agra. Completed in 1640, it is the mausoleum of the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan’s, favourite of his three wives – Mumtaz Mahal.

The shimmering marble masterpiece took over 22,000 artisans from across India, Central Asia and Europe to carve the intricate marble screens and precious stone inlayed marble panels that adorn’s Mumtaz’s tomb.

If you were to draw a line down the middle of the entire 1.2 hectare property & Persian-styled garden courtyards, each side would be perfectly identical! Spectacular!”…Nico

19:00pm – Dinner at your leisure. Enjoy dinner at the hotel or nearby restaurant or we can decide as a group where we would like to dine this evening.

Travel : 200 km / 3 hours
Accommodation: ITC Mughal Luxury Collection Hotel
Included Meals: B

Day 5 – Sunday 21 March 2027 – Bishangarh (Holi “Colour” Festival)

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

09:00am – Group departure for Bishangarh.

13:00pm – Visit of the Chandi Baori (Abhaneri) Stepwell – Although the village of Abheneri is nearly abandoned, the location is famous for its ‘Baoris’ (stepwells which were invented by the Rajasthani natives to harvest rain water). Abhaneri’s stepwell dates back to the 8th century.

“I have become absolutely fascinated, almost to the point of obsession, with Rajasthan’s mesmerisingly beautiful ancient “stepwells”! I can’t stop trying to get the best photo to capture the almost vertiginous feeling you experience when looking down into these architectural masterpieces. It’s like stepping into an Escher drawing!

Built over 1,000 years ago, the Chand Baori (left) is an architectural masterpiece. Extending 13 stories below ground and consisting of 3,500 narrow stone steps it is the deepest and largest stepwell in India.

In Rajhastan where it is so dry most of the year, and the water table located more than 10 stories underground, they were essential to guarantee water supply for drinking, washing and irrigation. The monsoon rains could also be effectively collected in them once they arrived. Many of India’s stepwells have now been abandoned. Their use diminished during the British Raj era as they felt them to be unsanitary and began installing pumps and pipes to service the needs of locals. As a result, many have been left in a state of disrepair or, sadly, used as rubbish dumps.”…Nico

14:00pm – Check in to ALiLA Fort Bishangarh, a 230 year old warrior fortress transformed into an opulent 5-star luxury hotel. Enjoy some time poolside at ALiLA’s Haveli or have a rest prior to dinner this evening.

Our Accommodation – ALiLA Fort Bishangarh

• • ALiLA Fort Bishangarh – Perched on top of a granite hillock in the midst of a vast expanse of the Aravalli Range, surrounded by hills dotted with havelis, villages and temples, Alila Fort Bishangarh is legendary amongst heritage hotels in Jaipur for the adaptive reuse of a 230-year-old warrior fort into one of India’s most unique heritage properties.

  • A work of passion and endurance spanning almost a decade, the rebirth of this historic fort into the stunning Alila Fort Bishangarh provides an architecturally and historically rich experience for guests, encompassing fun, indulgence, discovery, and respect for the past. A walk through the broad corridors (deliberately left open to let the breeze in) with granite stones peeping out every here and there; where standing in the courtyard, one can gaze up at the open sky to have the sun warm your face or enjoy the rain…there is a quiet sense of tranquility and reverence that can be felt … a feeling of the utmost privilege to have arrived.

  • Forbes Magazine – ALiLA Fort Bishangarh – A 230 Year Old Warrior Fortress Becdomes a Luxury Resort

  • CNN Travel – ALiLA Fort Bishangarh – Where Luxury Meets History in an India Hotel

Sunset – Commencement of the festival of Holi. The two-day festival begins with this evening’s ceremony Holika Dahan and the lighting of ceremonial bonfires.

Holi (India’s Festival of Colours)

Holi is considered one of the most revered and celebrated festivals of India – a Hindu festival that takes place every spring. It’s all about new beginnings, as Holi welcomes the spring season and celebrates the end of winter.

The Holi festival always falls on Purnima, or the day of the full moon. It’s a two-day holiday; the day before the full moon is Holika Dahan. That’s when a bonfire is lit for a puja (or prayer). The bonfire is cleansing and meant to burn away all the bad and evil. The next day, directly after the full moon, is all about the festival of colours.

19:00pm – Group Dinner at Nazaar, ALiLA’s rooftop restaurant with spectacular views over the village of Bishangarh and surrounding Aravali Ranges.

Travel : 240 km / 5 hours
Accommodation: ALiLA Fort Bishangarh
Included Meals: B, D

Day 6 – Monday 22 March 2027 – Bishangarh – Holi Celebrations & Free Day

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

Holi Day “The Festival of Colours” – We will take the lead by the ALiLA Concierge Manager and their team for today’s main event of Holi’s colour-filled celebration. While the Holika Dahan bonfires the night before has a religious element, the day of the colour fest typically doesn’t involve a religious ceremony. It’s purely about having fun within your community by taking to the streets or attending private celebrations to throw colours at each other. For those of us that would like to be part of the festivities,  bring along some white clothes to get dressed in (ones that you don’t expect to bring back home!!)

The colours are each said to symbolize something different. Blue is for Krishna, a Hindu god portrayed with blue skin. Green is symbolic of rebirth and new beginnings. Red is the color of marriage and can symbolize matrimony or fertility. And yellow, the color of turmeric, is often used on auspicious occasions.

Free Day – As well as the Holi Celebrations taking place today, it is also a free day for you to you to take part in any of ALiLA’s Experiences* or to simply take some time out to relax poolside or enjoy some pampering at ALiLA’s renowned Spa ALiLA.

• *Meet the Local Artisans – Rajasthan is considered the incomparable craft paradise of India. Bishangarh in particular is noted for the unique style and exquisite workmanship of its handmade jewellery and carpet weaving.

• *Rajasthani Rasosda Cooking Masterclass – Unveil the secrets to the delectable flavors of Rajasthani cuisine. Join Alila’s Chef de cuisine for an exclusive masterclass, where the essence of regional dishes comes to life under expert guidance. Immerse yourself in the world of local produce and discover the nuances of popular Rajasthani grains like bajra, jowar, tur, sesame, and mungfali. Unravel the magic of traditional spices and age-old cooking techniques as the class unfolds, before being treated to a sumptuous curated lunch or dinner at Alila Bishangarh’s exquisite private dining venue – Dawat.

• Daya ki Rasoi – Immerse in authentic village life at the heart of Bishangarh, alongside Daya, a gracious resident and your host. Engage in various traditional household activities, then step into a rasoi, a traditional kitchen adorned with a firewood stove made from bricks and mud, and cook up flavourful traditional dishes. Savor the simple pleasures of life with staple foods and fresh hand-churned buttermilk, immersing your senses in the authentic flavours. This authentic village encounter promises an enriching experience, where you’ll forge a deep connection to the soul of Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.

• *Spa ALiLA – Indulge in a rejuvenating and relaxing full body spa treatment of your choice,

* Own Expense

pm – Dinner at your leisure. Enjoy dinner at ALiLA’s AMARSAR speciality restaurant inspired by the Silk Road Route or return to the rooftop Nazaar Restaurant.

Travel : No travel day
Accommodation: ALiLA Fort Bishangarh
Included Meals: B

Day 7 – Tuesday 23 March 2027 – Jaipur (The Pink City)

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

09:00am – Group departure for the city of Jaipur (The Pink City).

10:30am – Prior to arriving into Jaipur we will visit the famous Amer Fort situated on the outskirts of the city.

Amer Fort (c.1592)

• Amer Fort – Located high on a hill in the town of Amer, this magnificent fort palace and UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Jaipur’s principal monuments and one of the most famous forts of Rajasthan.  Amer, originally, was the capital of the state before Jaipur and was built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh. 

• The Amer Fort was built in red sandstone and marble and the Maotha Lake adds a certain charm to the entire Fort. The Amer Fort has influences of both Hindu, Rajput and Muslim architecture. This fort also has the ‘Shila Devi’ Temple and the ‘Ganesh Pol’ which is a gate that leads to the private palaces of the kings. 

“Rajhastan literally means “The Land of Kings” and it is through the architectural magnificence of its incredibly well preserved medieval towering forts and awe-inspiring palaces that one best experiences the glorious heritage and rich royal past of India’s largest state.

For us, it’s been “another town, another colossal fort palace” and today we experienced the Amer (Amber) Fort built in 1592.

Although it looks all of its almost 500 years from the outside, it is beautiful on the inside boasting beautiful royal residences, manicured gardens and many ceremonial courtyards. This is the elaborately frescoed Ganesh Pol (Gate), the entry to the private palaces of the Maharajas.

The “Sheesh Mahal”, below, known as the “Mirror Palace” is a magnificent piece of architecture built with precious stones and glass and with beautiful handmade paintings. Below is the outside, and inside is one bedroom.

The reason for having a “Sheesh Mahal” in the palace is because the queens were unable to sleep in the open air, but as they wanted to see the stars while sleeping, the reflection of two lit candles in the middle of the room would appear as stars on the mirrored ceiling, walls and floors. Amazing design for 500 years ago!”…Nico

12:30pm – Group Departure for the city of Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of India’s Rajasthan state, was founded in 1727 by Maharaj Jai Singh II, who ruled Jaipur State from 1699-1744. Initially his capital was Amer, which lies 11 km from Jaipur. As the kingdom’s population grew, he moved the capital to Jaipur, which was developed as India’s first ever planned city, following the principles of Shilpa Shastra (the science of Indian architecture), and referencing the ancient Indian knowledge on astronomy.

It was in 1876 that the city was painted its famed pink colour – the colour of warmth and welcome – for the visit of the Prince of Wales (who later became King Edward VII). Since then, the “Pink City”, as it is lovingly called, has retained its rosy blush, which continues to charm travellers from around the world.

Jaipur could be said to be the face of Rajasthan. By perfectly balancing tradition with modern culture, it has earned a special place for itself in the hearts of travellers. Jaipur never ceases to surprise you. The breathtaking City Palace, Jaigarh Fort and Hawa Mahal are integral parts of sightseeing in Jaipur. The city is a paradise for shoppers. Blue pottery, traditional jewelry, mojaris and tie and dye prints are the highlights of Jaipur shopping.

“Rajhastan loves a good coloured city!

You’ve got Jodphur – the “Blue City”, Udaipur – the “White City”; Jaisalamer – the “Golden City” and here are some pics of its capital, Jaipur – the “Pink City”.

This is the amazing Hawa Mahal (The Palace of Wind) built in 1799 as a summer palace for the royal family.

As well as keeping the palace cool and airy in summer, the small peephole sized windows allowed the royal ladies of the court an opportunity to watch the goings on the street below as they were not able to be seen by the public.

Its honeycomb design of 953 windows and lattice allowed the breeze to flow through during the height of summer. The top floors are only one room wide.”…Nico

14:00pm – Check in to our accommodation – Royal Heritage Haveli

Our Accommodation – Royal Heritage Haveli

• • Royal Heritage Haveli –  Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Madho Singh of Jaipur, this former royal hunting lodge continues to be run by royalty. Now owned by Maharaj Jai Singh of Jaipur, the Royal Heritage Haveli is run by his niece Angelique and her husband Pradip. Known for their warm hospitality, Angelique and Pradip give each guest a personalised and truthful taste of the bygone era of the Maharaja’s way of life. An ethereal destination, the Royal Heritage Haveli is complete with rambling lawns, serene courtyards, plush interiors and stately living areas. Only 14 suites and one apartment are in service as the hotel is dedicated to providing a quiet and tranquil haven of space from the business of Jaipur and luxury to the discerning few.

pm – Evening and dinner at your leisure. Enjoy dinner either in-house or we can arrange to go out for dinner at one of Jaipur’s restaurants.

Travel : 90 km / 2 hours
Accommodation: Royal Heritage Haveli
Included Meals: B

Day 8 – Wednesday 24 March 2027 – Jaipur

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

09:00am – Private Guided Walk of Jaipur’s UNESCO World Heritage Walled City’s historical sights including the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace) and Jantar Mantar Observatory.

Hawa Mahal (c.1799)

Hawa Mahal (“Palace of Winds”) – is one of Jaipur’s most iconic landmarks and a standing example of the fine architecture of the Mughal era. Built in 1799 by the poet-king Sawai Pratap Singh, the five-storey structure is made of pink sandstone and features 356 intricately carved jharokhas (windows) through which women of the royal family could observe life on the street in privacy.

City Palace (c.1729)

City Palace – Located at the heart of Jaipur and built between 1729 and 1732, the City Palace is a glorious remnant of Jaipur’s royal past, with beautiful architecture that blends Mughal and Rajput styles, vast courtyards and attractive gardens. The most commanding building is Chandra Mahal, a seven-storey tower where royal descendants continue to reside, and housing a museum showcasing royal artefacts. An example of the impressive designs placed within the palace is an inner courtyard called Pritam Niwas Chowk, where there are four doorways in the walls (see above). Each of these doors is unique in its design and decoration, and beautiful to behold. The four doors represent the four seasons and different Hindu gods.

Jantar Mantar (c. 1727)

Jantar Mantar – The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between the year 1727 and 1734. The name is derived from ‘jantar’ which means instrument and ‘mantar’ which means formula. Therefore Jantar Mantra means ‘calculation instrument’. Experts say that the Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is modeled after the one that he had built in Delhi (the Mughal capital at that time). It is said that similar structures were built at five different locations. But the Jaipur observatory is the largest and best preserved out of these. It has a set of about 20 main fixed instruments built in masonry. Built from stone and marble that were locally bought, each instrument has an astronomical scale, marked on the inner lining of the marble. It has been inscribed as cultural property on the UNESCO World Heritage List as “an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period.”

14:00pm – Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Take advantage of the Royal Heritage Haveli’s in-house Aruyvedic Clinic or alternatively continue your exploration of Jaipur and its many bazaars.

19:00pm – Haveli Cooking Experience – We will enjoy the demonstration of some classic Rajasthani recipes with the Royal Heritage Haveli chef followed by dinner.

Travel : No travel day
Accommodation: Royal Heritage Haveli
Included Meals: B, D

Day 9 – Thursday 25 March 2027 – Jodhpur

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

08:00am – Group departure for our journey to Jodhpur (The Blue City).

Today is the longest travel day of the tour with a distance of 325km and a travel time of just under 7 hours. Take in the comfort of our “Jet on Wheels” Luxury Coach as we travel through the Rajasthani landscape.

11:00am – Arrival into the holy city of Pushkar for a brief break and lunch.

Pushkar – Similar to Varanasi, the holiest of all cities in India, Pushkar is a tiny holy city nestled in the heart of Rajasthan. It is believed that the holy waters of Pushkar wash away sins and purify you from within. Pushkar reveals itself as a hidden gem, where the ethereal meets the earthly, and every step unveils a tapestry woven with legends! Legend has it that the Hindu God Brahma dropped a lotus flower from his hand, and the much-revered Pushkar Lake emerged at that spot.

Surrounded by 52 ghats, each one adorned with its own significance, pilgrims from across India seeking Nirvana gather to bath themselves in the holy waters of the lake.

Pushkar’s famous Camel Fair, also known as Pushkar Fair or Pushkar Mela, is held annually in November. it started mainly as a cattle trade fair, where people brought their cattle, camels, and horses for trading in the market.

13:00pm – Departure from Pushkar for Jodhpur (“The Blue City”), Rajasthan’s second largest city.

Jodhpur – Well known for its impressive forts and palaces, this city is known as the “Blue City” because most of the houses are painted an iridescent shade of blue. Rajasthan’s second largest major city, it is one of the most important travel places in the country. The gateway to the vast Thar Desert, Jodhpur is crowned by the enormous Mehrangarh fort which is the main attraction of the town. Other main attractions of the town are the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace and the Jaswant Thada.

16:00pm – Check in to our Jodhpur accommodation – RAAS Jodhpur – situated in the centre of Jodhpur’s bustling town centre and market and only a few hundred metres from Jodhpur’s clocktower. Locally known as the Ghanta Ghar, the enormous clock tower is the second biggest clock tower in the world after Big Ben in London. It is still operated manually with the twisting of the key for the running of the clock.

Our Accommodation – RAAS Hotel

• • RAAS is Jodhpur’s original luxury boutique hotel, a space where modern design meets the city’s ancient soul. At its heart lies a quiet courtyard, a peaceful escape from the energy of the Old Town.Luxury at RAAS is defined by the authenticity of its materials. Traditional craftsmen restored the original sandstone buildings using age-old lime mortar to house the spa, pool, and heritage suites.

    These historic structures, adorned with 18th-century carvings, sit alongside contemporary designs that use the same iconic red sandstone giving a fresh, modern dimension to Jodhpur’s ancient stone-working legacy.The hotel brings together four historic buildings and three contemporary additions, all centered around a large pool. These newer structures use local materials and traditional craftsmanship but reimagined with clean, modern lines. Each building is carefully placed to frame views of the Mehrangarh Fort, creating a constant conversation between the history of the site and its new, understated form.

19:00pm – Free night. We can arrange to visit one of Jodhpur’s many rooftop restaurants with their uninterrupted views above The Blue City and its Mehrangarh Fort by night.

Travel : 350 km / 6 hours
Accommodation: RAAS Hotel Jodhpur
Included Meals: B, D

Day 10 – Friday 26 March 2027 (Good Friday) – Jodhpur

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

10:00am – Private Guided Exploration of Jodhpur’s sights which date back to when it was the stronghold of the fierce Rathore clan and founded in 1459.

Mehrangarh Fort (c. 1459)

Mehrangarh Fort – One of the largest forts of India, Mehrangarh Fort commands a captivating view of the entire Jodhpur city. It is from the top of this fort that you can see the famous blue houses of the city that give the city its nickname ‘The Blue City’.

The burnished red sandstone structure of Mehrangarh fort takes center stage in Jodhpur, looking down at the city from atop a rocky hill that’s 400 feet high. The foundation for the fort was laid by Jodha Rao in 1459, the fifteenth ruler of the Rathore dynasty of Jodhpur, when he decided to move the capital from Mandore. The walls, in addition to being 118 feet high, are 69 feet wide with seven gates barricading entry to the main complex. The first of these gates, Jai Pol (meaning ‘Victory gate’), was built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806 as a celebration of his victory in the war against Bikaner and Jaipur. Loha Pol, the final gate, has on the wall beside it the hand prints of the maharanis, who committed sati (immolation on the funeral pyre of Maharaja Man Singh).

Mehrangarh fort also has beautiful palaces, which are ornately decorated, including Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and Phool Mahal (Flower Palace). It’s one of the best preserved forts in India and has a museum within that displays treasures, armory, paintings and other artifacts.

Mehrangarh Fort’s “Phool Mahal” (Flower Room)

Jaswant Thada (c. 1899)

Jaswant Thada – This white cenotaph was built in 1899 as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh, who ruled Jodhpur and invested well in his state. He made attempts to bring down the level of crime, subdue dacoits, built railways and broadly worked on raising the economy of Marwar. The mausoleum is built out of intricately carved sheets of marble. These sheets are extremely thin and polished so that they emit a warm glow when illuminated by the Sun.

Umaid Bhawan Palace (c. 1929)

Umaid Bhawan Palace – Umaid Bhawan Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1929 to counter a famine which had hit the state at the time. It was also known as the Chittar Palace while being constructed thanks to the use of stones drawn from the Chittar hill. The palace was designed by HV Lanchester, a renowned British architect, and was completed in 16 years. Built with sandstone and marble, the architecture of the palace is described as a blend of lndo-Saracenic, Classical Revival and Western Art Deco styles. It is recognised as one of the largest private homes in the world, with its 347 rooms, and also one of the more spectacular buildings. It is the only palace built in the 20th century.

13:00pm – Remainder of the day and evening at your leisure to further explore The Blue City and its charming Old Town, including the nearby Sardar Market newly restored Jodhpur Stepwell. Join Nico for a wander through Jodhpur’s charming “blue” streets and a tasting of Jodhpur’s famous samosas and saffron lassi amongst the buzz of the Sardar Market.

pm – Remainder of the day and evening at you leisure. Visit one of the many Jodhpur’s  rooftop bars or restaurants for a drink or dinner with the majestic Mehrangarh Fort set before you.

Travel : No travel day
Accommodation: RAAS Hotel Jodhpur
Included Meals: B

Day 11 – Saturday 27 March 2027 – Jodhpur (Free Day)

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

Today is an absolutely free day for you to do as much or as little as you like!

Relax within the oasis of RAAS’ stunning pool and gardens; enjoy a spa treatment at the hotel; visit some of the many boutiques and shops just outside the hotel’s front gate; pop over to Jodhpur’s Stepwell Square next to our hotel; or wander the charming streets of Jodhpur’s Blue City!

Travel : No travel day
Accommodation: RAAS Hotel Jodhpur
Included Meals: B

Day 12 – Sunday 28 March 2027 (Easter Sunday) – Udaipur 

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

09:00am – Group departure for the “Lake City” of Udaipur. Situated on Lake Pichola, Udaipur is known as “The Venice of the East” and is one of India’s most picturesque cities.

11:00am – Enroute to to Udaipur we will visit the famous Jain Temple. dedicated to Adinatha. Built in the 14th century, the temple is made of white marble and offers many beautiful carvings.

Ranakpur Jain Temple (c.1389)

Ranakpur Jain Temple – Situated in the lush green valley of the Aravalli mountain ranges between Jodhpur and Udaipur is the home to one of the biggest and most important Jain temple complexes of India. Dating back to the 14th century, the temple covers an area of nearly 48,000 square feet area and is supported by 1444 marble pillars, each of them intricately and artistically carved, yet no two of them are alike.

15:00pm – Arrival in Udaipur.

Udaipur – Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the new capital of Mewar Kingdom. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’, the city of lakes Udaipur is located around azure water lakes and is hemmed in by the lush green hills of Aravallis. The famous Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful sights of Udaipur.

15:00pm – Check in to your lakeview hotel room at the Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel.

Our Accommodation – Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel

• • Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel – The Jagat Niwas Palace is an early 17th century ‘haveli’ (mansion), situated in the heart of the most romantic city of Rajasthan. Nestled in the fertile valley on the breezy, eastern banks of the famous Lake Pichola, Jagat Niwas Palace is a heritage boutique hotel and is highly acclaimed for it’s location and for the stunning view that it provides. The charming property, with its rooms restored back to their old charm and glory, is a vision in white. It famously featured as the venue for rooftop drinks in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel film.

17:00pm – Sunset Lake Cruise on the mirror-calm Lake Pichola with its sparkling Lake Palace and views back towards the city’s famous City Palace, one of the largest royal residences in the world.

pm – Remainder of the evening at your leisure to explore the narrow lanes and back streets of Udaipur leading to the Washing Ghats at the Lake Pichola. Enjoy a sunset drink at one of the many rooftop bars close by and then visit one of the fine downtown restaurants for a dinner in one of the most romantic cities of Rajasthan.

Travel : 280 km / 5 hours
Accommodation: Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel
Included Meals: B

Day 13 – Monday 29 March 2027 – Udaipur

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

Udaipur City Palace (c.1553)

10:00am – Following breakfast we have arranged a guided tour of Udaipur’s City Palace, the largest palace complex of any in Rajasthan.

Udaipur City Palace – Commenced in 1553, the complex was built over a period of nearly 400 years, with contributions from several rulers of the Mewar dynasty. Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, it is the epitome of a colossal citadel that is a mixture  of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European and Oriental architecture. The construction of this magnum opus, started by Maharana Udai Singh II, was carried on by his successors. Each king commissioned his vision to this bastion by sourcing architectural influences and constituents from different parts of the world. Despite having a diverse assortment of architectural influences, they fit seamlessly to showcase the palace as a congruous marvel.

One highlight of the palace is the Crystal Gallery, with its extravagant collection of exquisite crystal objects, including tables, chairs, sofas and even beds. In 1877, Maharana Sajjan Singh commissioned the F&C Osler Company in England to create custom-made crystal objects for his personal use. Unfortunately, the maharana died before the consignment arrived and the shipment lay forgotten for almost 110 years until it was opened and displayed in 1994.

pm – Remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Visit some of Udaipur’s other sites at your leisure; do some final shopping at some of the many clothing, art or handicraft boutiques, or simply relax in your Lakeview room as the sun sets over Lake Pichola.

19:00pm – Rooftop sunset drinks prior to our Group Farewell Dinner in Udaipur.

Travel : No Travel Day
Accommodation: Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel
Included Meals: B, D

Day 14 – Tuesday 30 March 2027 – Departure

am – Breakfast at your leisure.

Our exploration of Northern India has come to an end and today and it is time to say our final good-byes to the group and check out from our hotel. We have arranged for our group Private Airport Taxi Transfers to the nearby Udaipur Airport to suit your return travel arrangements.

When making your departure travel arrangements, you will find that flights ex-Udaipur will transfer through Mumbai or Delhi, so select the route that would best suit your international return flight.

Namaste!

“Discover Northern India – Luxury Royal Rajasthan & ‘Holi Festival of Colours’ Experience” Inclusions

The following is INCLUDED:

• 3 Nights 5-Star Accommodation (Hotel) – New Delhi – Including Club Lounge Privileges – Taj Mahal Hotel (New Delhi)

• 1 Nights 5-Star Accommodation (Hotel) – Agra –  ITC Mughal Luxury Collection Hotel

• 2 Nights 5-Star Accommodation (Fort Palace) – Bishangarh –  ALiLA Fort Bishangarh

• 2 Nights Luxury Boutique Accommodation (Heritage Haveli) – Jaipur – Royal Heritage Haveli

• 3 Nights Luxury Boutique Accommodation (Luxury Boutique) – Jodhpur – RAAS Hotel

• 2 Nights Luxury Accommodation (Heritage Haveli) – Udaipur – Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel

• Private Airport Pick Up (Delhi) on arrival

• Private Airport Departure Transfer (Udaipur) on departure

• Private A/C Luxury “Jet on Wheels” coach transfers throughout tour with Private Guide, Private Chauffeur & Assistant

• Full time English-speaking Approved Government of India licensed guide

• Private Approved Government of India historical guides for guided city excursions.

• Included Cuisine & Cultural Visits as per itinerary:

  • Delhi – New Delhi & Old Delhi

  • Agra – Taj Mahal and Agra Fort

  • Jaipur – Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar

  • Jodhpur – Mehrangarh Fort, City Palace, Bhawan Umaid Palace

  • Udaipur – Sunset Lake Cruise, City Palace

  • Royal Heritage Haveli Cooking Experience

• All Monument/Museum Admissions for group excursions, as per itinerary

• Included Meals as per itinerary

• Full Time Group Escorts (Nico & Belinda Moretti) & Tour Photographer

• Pre-Trip Briefing (Perth) or Virtual Briefing

• Included gratuities for full time Licensed guide, Chauffeur and Chauffeur assistant and local city historical guides

The following is NOT INCLUDED in the price:

• International Airfares (Please contact your preferred airline or travel agent to arrange your most convenient flights to India – ARRIVAL (Delhi) / DEPARTURE (Udaipur). Nico & Belinda can advise of the flights that they will travel on, if you prefer)

• Comprehensive Travel Insurance (Compulsory)

• India Visa costs – We will provide you with details on how to apply.

• Alcoholic & Non-alcoholic beverages for included meals.

• Optional suggested tours & activities.

• Non included local taxi and tuk tuk fares.

• Hotel Porterage Tipping

How to Book

If you are able to join us on our special 2027 “Discover Northern India – Luxury Royal Rajasthan” Cuisine & Culture Experience, please contact us on +61 402 154 358 or email urbanprovider@icloud.com to request a Booking Form to secure your places.

Booking Deposit: A $AUD2500 per person non-refundable* BOOKING DEPOSIT is required to hold a booking for the tour, at the time of your reservation. Booking Deposits are used to pay necessary accommodation deposits with our Indian accommodation & service providers at the time of booking. *We are able to refund any Booking Deposits if we can fill your cancelled places with another traveller)

Booking Deadline: Saturday 01 August 2027 (or while places remain)

Final Payment:Payment in full is required at least 120 days prior to departure. (Final Payment Due: November 17th 2026)

We look forward to hosting you on tour. Please don’t hesitate in contacting us should you have any questions about any aspects of our “Discover Northern India – Luxury Royal Rajasthan Experience”.

Namaste,
Nico & Belinda Moretti
Cooking Passions Cooking School
267 Vincent Street, LEEDERVILLE WA 6007
AUSTRALIA
www.urbanprovider.com.au