Rajasthan is a land of striking contrasts, where the vast arid sands of the Thar Desert meet shimmering lakes, and lively bazaars sit alongside imposing centuries-old forts.
Wander through the romantic palaces of Udaipur, lose yourself in the golden desert charm of Jaisalmer, and admire the artistic streets and vibrant markets of Jaipur.
Venture beyond the usual tourist circuit to explore Rajasthan’s villages and rural life in places like Deogarh, Shahpura, Ramathra, Jawai, and Naralai, where traditional crafts, pastoral landscapes, and age-old customs reveal the authentic soul of India.
From colourful festivals and age-old traditions to majestic havelis and royal architecture, Rajasthan offers a feast for the senses, with experiences and memories that stay with you long after your journey ends.
Tailored Tours To India
Our itineraries are just a starting point. As specialists in tailor-made journeys, we adapt or redesign each trip to suit your interests, pace, and style, making the journey uniquely yours.
Tour Accommodation in Rajasthan
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“Our Rajasthan trip was tailor-made for us, Authentic India Tours, and it was absolutely perfect from start to finish - every detail was thoughtfully planned, and nothing was ever too much trouble.
The hotels were beyond amazing; I have never stayed anywhere like them before. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay special, and the food was outstanding with an incredible variety.”
Savour the distinctive cuisine of Rajasthan, from fiery Laal Maas and Dal Bati Churma to street snacks like pyaz kachori. Join cooking sessions in heritage homes or small village kitchens, discovering local spices, slow-cooked recipes, and desert-adapted ingredients. Each meal offers more than taste — it’s a journey into the culture, history, and stories of the land.
Festivals, Folk Music & Dance
Witness Rajasthan come alive through its vibrant festivals and folk traditions. Enjoy colourful desert fairs, puppet shows, and energetic Ghoomar dances, and meet local musicians and storytellers. From sunset ceremonies in village squares to lively market performances, these immersive encounters reveal the rhythm, colour, and joy that define the spirit of Rajasthan.
Textile Traditions of the Desert
Rajasthan’s textile artistry is as colourful as its landscapes. Explore artisan workshops where craftsmen create intricate block prints, Bandhani tie-dye, and Leheriya patterns, and visit local markets where these vibrant fabrics come alive. Learn how age-old techniques have been passed down through generations, and take home unique textiles that tell the story of Rajasthan’s creative spirit.
Palaces, Forts & Royal Stories
Discover the grandeur of Rajasthan through its imposing forts and elegant palaces. Explore the hilltop Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the romantic City Palace of Udaipur, and hidden courtyards of Mandawa’s havelis. Walk through lavish halls, ornate balconies, and museums filled with royal treasures, while learning tales of kings, queens, and valiant warriors that shaped the region’s history.
Desert Life & Village Encounters
Journey into the Thar Desert to experience Rajasthan’s rural heart. Ride camels across golden dunes, visit remote villages, and meet artisans, farmers, and musicians. Discover how desert communities live in harmony with harsh landscapes, sample local foods, and enjoy evenings beneath starlit skies with traditional music and storytelling. This immersive experience connects travellers with the land, its people, and enduring desert traditions.
Experiences in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is a land of royal heritage, sweeping deserts, and vibrant traditions, where every experience tells a story. From exploring the bustling markets of Jaipur and the painted havelis of Mandawa to riding camels across the golden Thar Desert and taking in Udaipur’s serene lakes, the state offers immersive moments that linger long after your journey ends. Here is a selection of experiences that capture the heart and spirit of Rajasthan:
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Royal Rajasthan
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With Authentic India Tours, every Rajasthan journey is fully ABTA-protected, and flights booked with us are ATOL-protected. Our local expertise and careful planning ensure a safe and seamless holiday.
Discover Rajasthan at your own pace. From desert dunes to royal palaces, colourful cities to serene lakes, our personalised tours showcase the land of royal heritage in all its splendour.
We are passionate explorers dedicated to providing unforgettable travel experiences across the Indian subcontinent. With offices in both Cochin, India, and Swansea, UK, our team brings a unique blend of local expertise and global perspectives to every journey we craft.
Headed up by Vimal and his team, we specialise in curating authentic and immersive tours that capture the rich tapestry of India’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking the tranquil backwaters of Kerala or the bustling streets of Delhi, our tailored itineraries cater to all tastes and interests.
Explore the magic of the Indian subcontinent with us and experience the difference of a truly authentic journey.
Palaces, Forts & Deserts: Journey Through Rajasthan
18 Days
Start and finish in Delhi
Private, tailor-made tour with car & driver
Price from £3,890 per person
Majestic vistas await, from the Golden Triangle and Thar Desert to Mandawa’s painted havelis, rustic village of Narlai, and the cities of Udaipur and Jodhpur.
This exciting Rajasthan tour has been designed for travellers who have seen the main Rajasthan cities and wish to explore this beautiful region in more depth
India Beyond the Golden Triangle – Royal Rajasthan
21 days
Start and finish in Delhi
Private, tailor-made tour with car & driver
Price from £5,490 per person
Experience the heart of Rajasthan with desert forts, peaceful villages, and Jawai’s wild landscapes. Explore vibrant markets, royal palaces, and traditional crafts, enjoying warm hospitality and immersive cultural encounters.
Step into the heart of Rajasthan, where desert landscapes, majestic forts, colourful havelis and royal cities await. This short film captures the state’s vibrant culture, history, and timeless charm.
Heritage Palaces
Live like royalty
Stay in Rajasthan’s grand heritage palaces, where centuries-old architecture meets modern luxury. From the ornate rooms of Jaipur’s City Palace to Udaipur’s romantic lakeside palaces, enjoy period furnishings, intricate carvings, and sprawling courtyards. With attentive service and royal ambience, these stays allow you to experience the splendour and history of Rajasthan firsthand.
Havelis & Forts
Traditional charm and elegance
Discover Rajasthan’s cultural heart with stays in beautifully restored havelis and forts. Wander courtyards adorned with frescoes, relax on carved wooden balconies, and enjoy boutique-style comfort. These historic properties provide a window into local life, craftsmanship, and the architectural traditions that have defined Rajasthan for centuries.
Luxury Desert Camps
Adventure beneath the stars
Experience the magic of the Thar Desert with luxury tented camps near Jaisalmer or Jawai. Sleep under starlit skies, enjoy desert safaris on camelback, and gather around evening campfires with traditional music and storytelling. Modern comforts blend with authentic desert experiences, creating memorable nights in one of India’s most evocative landscapes.
Lakeside & Boutique Hotels
Serenity and style
Udaipur and other lakeside towns offer boutique hotels with scenic views of shimmering waters and palatial architecture. Enjoy elegantly designed rooms, rooftop terraces, and attentive service while staying close to local markets, cultural sites, and waterfront attractions. These hotels provide both comfort and immersion in the romantic, serene side of Rajasthan.
*Alternative accommodation of a similar standard may be offered to the hotels listed.
All accommodation is hand-picked by our local experts for your comfort and convenience, and has a 4 or 5 star rating.
Expenses of personal nature (like room service, laundry, drinks, phone calls etc)
Camera fees at the monuments
Not included in price:
Accommodation for 7 nights and meal plan as shown above
All internal road travel by an air-conditioned vehicle
All scheduled sightseeing with an English speaking guide
Entrance fees at the monuments
Included in the price:
Places to Visit in Rajasthan
Jodhpur
Known as the “Blue City,” Jodhpur rises majestically around the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which dominates the skyline with its ramparts and intricate palaces. Stroll through winding alleys painted in shades of azure, discover bustling spice and textile markets, and visit centuries-old temples that reveal the city’s rich heritage. The blend of royal architecture, vibrant street life, and panoramic desert views makes Jodhpur an unforgettable destination, where history and daily life intertwine seamlessly.
Udaipur
Often called the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur enchants visitors with the serene waters of Lake Pichola and the elegant palaces that line its shores. Wander through the majestic City Palace, explore ornate temples, and take a boat ride to the iconic Lake Palace or Jag Mandir. Udaipur’s vibrant bazaars, traditional crafts, and cultural performances offer a glimpse into the city’s royal past, while its romantic vistas and colourful streets make it one of Rajasthan’s most captivating and picturesque destinations.
Mandawa
Mandawa is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural heritage, famous for its elaborately painted havelis and frescoed walls. Walking through its streets, you encounter the stories of merchant families, intricate murals depicting mythological tales, and decorative balconies that highlight Rajasthan’s craftsmanship. Beyond its visual splendour, Mandawa offers a quiet charm, inviting visitors to linger in courtyards, explore hidden alleyways, and appreciate the region’s rich cultural tapestry away from the bustling city centres.
Jaipur
Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, is a vibrant showcase of royal ambition and artistry. Amber Fort’s grand halls and mirrored chambers dominate the horizon, while the latticed windows of the Hawa Mahal reveal the city’s signature pink-hued streets. Traditional workshops, bustling bazaars, and jewel merchants thrive throughout the city, offering rich sensory experiences. From colourful textiles to elaborate palaces, Jaipur immerses visitors in the royal culture, historic significance, and lively energy that define this iconic city.
Jaisalmer
Rising like a golden mirage in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a city of sand, sun, and splendour. The massive sandstone fort overlooks bustling bazaars, intricately carved havelis, and narrow lanes alive with colour and tradition. Desert excursions reveal the rhythm of rural life, camel caravans, and sunset dunes that seem to stretch endlessly. Jaisalmer’s unique blend of history, architecture, and desert landscapes creates an immersive experience that captures the romance and mystery of Rajasthan.
Deogarh
Tucked away in the Aravalli hills, Deogarh offers a glimpse of Rajasthan beyond the tourist trail. Travel through the countryside on a rural train ride, visit local village schools, and have friendly chats with villagers over a cup of chai. Explore centuries-old havelis and serene villages, engaging with artisans and traditions, and immerse yourself in the timeless rhythms of rural life.
Jawai
Nestled in the rugged granite hills of Rajasthan, Jawai is a land where wilderness and village life coexist in extraordinary harmony. The Rabari tribe, pastoralists for generations, continue their age-old traditions of herding cattle and living in tune with the rhythms of the land. Explore this remarkable region on jeep safaris through the boulder-strewn hills to spot elusive leopards, and enjoy guided village walks with Rabari tribesmen, gaining intimate insight into authentic rural life far from the usual tourist trail.
Bikaner
Bikaner, a desert gem in Rajasthan, enchants with its magnificent Junagarh Fort, ornate havelis, and vibrant markets. Explore camel farms, wander through bustling bazaars brimming with traditional crafts, and savour the region’s unique Rajasthani cuisine, while immersing yourself in the timeless charm and desert rhythms of this historic city.
Pushkar
Pushkar, a sacred oasis in the Thar Desert, enchants with serene ghats, colorful markets, and the iconic Brahma Temple. Experience the town at its most vibrant during the Pushkar Cattle Fair, where camels, horses, and local traditions animate the desert landscape, offering intimate encounters with spirituality, culture, and the timeless rhythms of rural Rajasthan.
Ramathra
Ramathra, a serene gem in Rajasthan, is framed by the Kalisil reservoir, teeming with birdlife and dotted with peaceful villages. Enjoy a walking tour through this village of farmers and cattle herders, and glide on the reservoir’s waters at sunset. Explore the surrounding countryside, visit Gujar hamlets, and discover a cavernous gorge and an ancient cave temple. Nearby Karauli offers well-preserved treasures, including the city palace and Madanmohanji Temple, while its bustling bazaar invites you to shop for local crafts, including lacquered bangles made before your eyes by skilled artisans.
Discover Rajasthan through our carefully crafted private tours, each revealing a different facet of this captivating region. From golden deserts and royal palaces to bustling markets and serene lakes, every itinerary can be tailored to create your own authentic and deeply personal journey.
A selection of our most popular Rajasthan tours
Our itineraries are just a starting point. As specialists in taior-made journeys, we adapt or desgin each trip to suit your interests, pace and style, making the journey uniquely yours.
Experiencing Rajasthan is a journey into a land of deserts, palaces, and timeless traditions. We design tours that celebrate local communities, support artisans, and preserve historic sites, ensuring your visit leaves a positive mark. By travelling thoughtfully, you help safeguard Rajasthan’s culture, heritage, and landscapes for future generations to enjoy.
Guided by India-based travel experts, every recommendation is drawn from places we’ve explored and experiences we’ve lived, creating an authentic and unforgettable journey.
Towering over Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort is one of Rajasthan’s most majestic landmarks. Its vast courtyards, intricately carved palaces, and museums display royal artefacts, armour, and art, offering a window into centuries of Marwar history. From the ramparts, panoramic views of the “Blue City” unfold, with azure-painted houses stretching across the desert landscape. Every corner of the fort tells a story of royal power, architectural brilliance, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination.
City Palace, Udaipur
The City Palace complex in Udaipur is a breathtaking blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, perched on the edge of Lake Pichola. Wander through courtyards, balconies, and museums filled with royal memorabilia, paintings, and artefacts. From its terraces, gaze upon the shimmering lakes, palaces, and temples that define Udaipur’s romantic charm. The palace’s intricate carvings, decorative mirror work, and ceremonial halls bring the city’s royal heritage vividly to life for every visitor.
Amber Fort, Jaipur
Perched on a hilltop just outside Jaipur, Amber Fort is a spectacular example of Rajput grandeur. Its mirrored halls, frescoed walls, and sweeping courtyards evoke the lifestyle of the city’s former rulers. Visitors can explore hidden chambers, ornate gates, and gardens, while enjoying panoramic views over Maota Lake and the surrounding Aravalli hills. The fort’s blend of artistry, history, and scenic beauty makes it an iconic symbol of Rajasthan’s royal past.
Thar Desert, Jaisalmer
The vast Thar Desert stretches endlessly around Jaisalmer, offering an immersive desert experience. Jeep safaris, golden sand dunes, and traditional desert villages reveal the region’s timeless culture and nomadic lifestyle. Nights under a star-filled sky, with campfires and folk music, provide unforgettable memories. The desert’s stark beauty, combined with Jaisalmer’s historic fort and bustling bazaars, creates a unique and magical environment unlike anywhere else in India.
Painted Havelis, Mandawa
Mandawa’s painted havelis are exquisite examples of Rajasthan’s artistic heritage. Their colourful frescoes, decorative facades, and carved balconies depict tales of mythology, royal life, and local legends. Walking through the town, visitors can admire the craftsmanship that has been preserved over centuries and experience the quiet charm of this historic trading hub. Each haveli is a testament to Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy and invites travellers to explore the stories hidden in its walls.
Rajasthan’s iconic landmarks and cultural treasures offer a journey through history, artistry and desert landscapes. From towering forts and royal palaces to painted havelis and endless sand dunes, these attractions reveal the grandeur, spirit and timeless appeal of the state.