The Best Of Rajasthan

Agra may be best known as the home of the internationally iconic Taj Mahal, however, this monument to love isn’t the only reason to visit one of India’s most culturally significant cities. A gateway to a world of discovery, Agra has borne witness to the pageantry of three great Mughal Monarchs, traces of whom can be observed in the hundreds of monuments and tombs that litter the city. Besides touring the Taj, your time in Agra will be spent enjoying the sprawling markets in which thousands of local craftspeople and artisans trade their goods. 

Bishangarh is where five-star luxury and traditional Indian culture meet. Staying in the opulent surroundings of the Alila Fort Hotel, you’ll have the opportunity to venture into the bucolic landscapes of Rajasthan, meeting local farmers and sampling the wares of the local artisans whose crafts are inspired by the spiritual beauty of the rolling green fields that surround the towering Alila Fort. Bishangarh is a truly unique destination and one that many tourists often overlook.

One of the world’s earliest examples of city planning, Jaipur is perhaps most recognisable for the specific shade of dusty pink that covers much of the city’s diverse architecture. A true explosion of colour, culture, and cuisine, for over 250 years Jaipur has been the centre of Rajasthan’s vibrant charm, and without doubt, the best place to enjoy the Hindu festival of Holi. Dress in white and grab some paint, because if you’re in Jaipur during Holi, there’s no avoiding the colourful festivities of this unique occasion.

Rohet Garh is a classified Heritage Hotel, and one of Rajasthan’s most breathtaking. Over the last fifteen years, the property has been lovingly restored to evoke a bygone era of Indian adventure and is the perfect place to unwind after the colourful bustle of Jaipur. Nestled on the banks of a sprawling lake, and surrounded by manicured gardens, every day spent at Rohet Garh is like a dream. From here, it’s only a short drive to neighbouring Jodhpur, where you’ll find the majestic sites of Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada.

The village of Narlai is off the beaten path, and as such, a decidedly more intimate destination that the bustling cities of Delhi and Jaipur. This charming settlement dates back thousands of years and is today one of the best places in India to catch a glimpse of the elusive Leopard population. Riding in open jeeps, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views across the grasslands, as Antelope, Hyenas and Wild Boar pass by. An additional highlight of Narlai is the Elephant Hill Walk, where a giant white elephant marks the summit of the cloud-touching Narlai Hill.

Reflected in the shimmering Lake Pichola, Udaipur is a kaleidoscopic sprawl of narrow lanes, vibrant markets, and glistening places. Best-known for its stunning peacock mosaics and wall paintings, Udaipur is the ideal place to end your tour of Rajasthan, and perfectly encapsulates the unique charm and beauty of this extraordinary region. Whilst in the city, you’ll have the chance to tour the City Palace- a vast palace that was once home to the Mewar rulers and today serves as a museum and luxury hotel.