A Classic Journeythrough Rajasthan & North India

“There are some parts of the world that, once visited, get into your heart and won’t go. For me, India is such a place. When I first visited, I was stunned by the richness of the land, by its lush beauty and exotic architecture, by its ability to overload the senses with the pure, concentrated intensity of its colours, smells, tastes and sounds. It was as if all my life I had been seeing the world in black and white and, when brought face-to-face with India, experienced everything re-rendered in brilliant technicolour.”
Keith Bellows former editor-in-chief National Geographic Traveller

Our journey begins in Delhi, the capital of India, with its Mughal monuments and Imperial City built by the British. Delhi is a heady experience of old and new and we enjoy its architectural masterpieces, unbeatable shopping and vivid energy.

We travel to Jodhpur to experience the magnificent “Blue City” where every building is painted the same light blue hue. Towering above the city are the impenetrable walls of the Mehrangarh Fort, that rise like sheer cliffs from the rocky outcrop on which it is built. From its ramparts, enjoy postcard views of the ancient blue city below and in the distance, the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace, residence of the current Maharaja.

We continue on through the breathtaking landscape of Rajasthan to the famed cities of Udaipur and Jaipur with their stunning palaces and forts.

Udaipur is regarded as the most romantic city of Rajasthan and its beauty lies in its rolling hills, serene lakes and palatial splendour. Built on the shores of Lake Pichola by Udai Singh II in 1559, Udaipur was also the capital of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar, believed to be direct descendants of the Sun. Today it is surprisingly quiet and relatively traffic-free having a small town atmosphere. The impressive City Palace complex overlooks the legendary “floating” Lake Palace on Lake Pichola. Udaipur is also one of Rajasthan’s great centres of contemporary art as well as of miniature paintings.

We get a taste of rural life in Rajasthan at Shahpura Bagh, a boutique heritage property set on 45 wooded acres with frontage to two lakes making it a sanctuary for birdlife. The property, once the summer residence of the Rajadhiraj of Shahpura, has been beautifully restored and furnished with a wonderful mix of antique and contemporary pieces.

An absolute highlight of our journey is taking up residence in the newly restored Fort Bawara, close to Ranthambore National Park. Once owned by the Rajasthani royal family, Fort Bawara has stood for seven centuries. Its conversion to a luxury hotel has taken almost a decade of painstaking restoration by Rajasthan’s most skilful artisans, achieving a blend of Rajasthani and contemporary design. We spend one of our three days at this divine property exploring Ranthambore NP, home to the magnificent Bengal tiger.

Jaipur – the “Pink City” – is one of the few planned cities in India and its name comes from the deep pink, lime-plastered buildings. Built by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh, Jaipur is the gateway to the splendour and magic of Rajasthan. Stunning Forts and Palaces dominate the skyline. The bazaars, within the walls of the old city, exude Jaipur’s unique energy and the city is a magnet to global jewellery and textile designers.

Before returning to Delhi our final and most revered destination is the Taj Mahal in the city of Agra.

Our accommodation is a mix of magnificent historic hotels true to their tradition alongside palaces and forts which have been architecturally redesigned in a contemporary style.

Rajasthan delivers the quintessential Indian experience with its vivid colours, swirling crowds, spectacular deserts, tranquil lakes and rich cuisine.

Epicurious travel owner and Director Jennifer Wilkinson leads this small group journey. Her love for and experience of India is extensive and her desire to share this magnificent country with her guests is palpable.