India’s Fabled Rajasthan by Rail

TRAVELER FAVORITE

INDIA'S FABLED RAJASTHAN BY RAIL

11 DAYS FROM $12,995

• Ride the Palace on Wheels, a train that evokes the splendor of the maharajas. • Explore six UNESCO World Heritage sites with a National Geographic Expert. • Experience the traditions of one of India’s vibrant festivals, such as Diwali or Holi.

Signature Land Light/Moderate

DAYS 1–2 I DELHI, INDIA Arrive in Delhi at any time. The next day, set out on a tour of New Delhi to see the India Gate and Parliament buildings. Then delve into Old Delhi, a patchwork of eight different cities built by a succession of rulers. Explore Humayun's Tomb, a milestone in the history of Mughal architecture; and Gandhi Smriti, a museum honoring Mahatma Gandhi. This evening, gather for a special welcome reception and dinner. The Taj Mahal Hotel | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D DAY 3 I JAIPUR Travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Known as the "pink city" for its rose-colored buildings, Jaipur is protected by high fortifications. Stroll through a local bazaar before visiting Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds, a stunning sandstone building where the delicate latticework and honeycombed windows were originally designed to allow ladies of the court to watch life on the streets below. Jai Mahal Palace | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 4 I JAIPUR This morning, ascend to the hilltop Amber Fort. Explore its exquisite and well-preserved palaces, temples, gardens, and pavilions. Enjoy a guided tour of the City Palace, a vast complex with a museum housing rare manuscripts, paintings, and an armory. Visit the 18th-century royal observatory known as Jantar Mantar and examine a variety of precise astronomical tools. This evening, settle into your cabin aboard the train. Palace on Wheels through day 8 | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 5 I RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK/ CHITTAURGARH Set out on a morning game drive in Ranthambore National Park in search of the elusive tiger, as well as hyenas, jackals, and foxes. Continue to the city of Chittaurgarh and trace a turbulent history of siege, valor, and sacrifice at Chittaurgarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India. Meet villagers on a walk within the hilltop fortified walls, and stop for tea at sunset. Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 6 I UDAIPUR Known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is celebrated for its fairy-tale marble palaces, which appear to emerge from the waters of Lake Pichola. Venture into a labyrinth of courtyards within the City Palace. This palace complex—the largest in Rajasthan—blends medieval, European, and Chinese architecture and is richly decorated with inlaid mirror-work, mosaics, and frescoes. Cruise by the Lake Palace Hotel on a boat ride across Lake Pichola. Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 7 I JAISALMER Travel into the heart of the Thar Desert to magical Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156. Rising above the city, the imposing turrets and bastions of the golden sandstone fort conceal a lively town within. Explore this magnificent fort and discover the havelis, once the mansions of wealthy merchants, decorated with elaborate facades. Ride a camel across the

sand dunes of the Thar Desert and stop for a traditional tea. Enjoy dinner and a folk dance performance off the train this evening. Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 8 I JODHPUR Jodhpur's blue-hued old city lies at the foot of the massive Mehrangarh Fort, perched on a rocky outcrop some 120 meters high. Visit the 15th-century fort and its museum, then delve into the narrow streets of the historical center. Enjoy lunch before returning to the Palace on Wheels for the final leg of our rail journey. Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 9 I KEOLADEO GHANA NATIONAL PARK/AGRA Disembark in Bharatpur and head into the wetlands of Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a renowned bird sanctuary. Search for egrets, flamingos, and other bird species and wildlife. Stop at a hotel near the park for a cooking demonstration and lunch. Take a guided walk around Bharatpur village before heading to Agra. This evening, visit the iconic Taj Mahal at sunset. ITC Mughal | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 10 I AGRA Rise early this morning to see the Taj Mahal's marble sparkle in the dawn light. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, the Taj Mahal is often described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. After lunch, explore Agra Fort, which brings to life the story of the Mughal Empire. Pay a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see how the intricate stonework of the Taj Mahal was created. Visit the Taj Mahal once again at sunset before gathering for a festive farewell dinner. ITC Mughal | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

DAY 11 I AGRA/DELHI Drive to Delhi and relax in day rooms at our hotel. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight home. The Taj Mahal Hotel | Meals: 1B, 1L, 1D

A photographer trains her paint-splattered lens on the Hindu Holi festivities in India. A National Geographic Expert, Expedition Leader, and local guides will accompany this trip.

Arati Kumar-Rao Photographer, Writer Arati Kumar-Rao is a National Geographic Explorer who chronicles South Asia’s changing landscapes and climate, and their effect on livelihoods and biodiversity. Arati has worked extensively in the deserts of Rajasthan, documenting the landscape, biodiversity, and the pastoralist way of life. Find the departure(s) Arati will join on our website.

INFORMATION

Dates: This expedition is offered from October through March, except in December. Prices are per person based, on double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Airfare is not included in the price. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change. This itinerary is for informational purposes only and is subject to change at any time without notice.

Photography Expeditions: Several of our departures are designated photography expeditions, designed for all skill levels and led by a National Geographic photographer.

Visit website for complete details and dates.