RAJASTHAN WITH VARANASI TOUR (15 Nights /16 Days)

Travelers seeking a comprehensive journey through northern India will find this Rajasthan with Varanasi tour offers a rich mix of heritage, desert adventures, and spiritual immersion. Spanning over 16 days, the tour covers iconic cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and delves into the spiritual depths of Varanasi. The package seems ideal for those eager to experience a well-rounded view of India’s royal past, cultural vibrancy, and spiritual soul, all at a competitive price point of $1,790 per person.

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the inclusion of efficient transport, with private AC cars and train journeys that ease the movement between diverse destinations. The guides and drivers, according to reviews, seem to enhance the experience with their professionalism and local knowledge, making each stop both enjoyable and informative. However, the itinerary is quite packed, which might be a consideration for travelers preferring a more relaxed pace. This tour suits history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers who want a comprehensive yet manageable overview of Northern India’s highlights.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary covers major heritage sites, desert safaris, and spiritual landmarks.
• Reliable transport and experienced guides enhance comfort and knowledge.
• Authentic experiences like boat rides on Lake Pichola and Ganga Aarti in Varanasi add memorable touches.
• Value for money considering accommodations, transportation, and included activities.
• Travelers praise the professionalism of drivers and guides.
• Some sightseeing involves optional costs, like dinner at Chokhi Dhani or boat rides.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1-2: Delhi – The Gateway to North India

Starting your journey in Delhi, the tour kicks off with a warm meet-and-greet at the railway station or airport. The afternoon includes visits to Rajghat, Jantar Mantar, Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhawan, and India Gate—a solid introduction to India’s political and cultural heart. The reviews hint at knowledgeable guides making these stops more engaging; one reviewer noted how transportation was handled expertly by their driver Dinesh, ensuring a relaxed start.

The transition to Jaipur on Day 2 involves traveling to Rajasthan’s bustling capital, renowned for its palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. The highlight here is a visit to the City Palace and a stroll through local markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs. An optional dinner at Chokhi Dhani offers an immersive taste of Rajasthani hospitality and cuisine, though it’s an extra expense.

Day 3-4: Exploring Desert Fortresses and Bikaner’s Charm

Early morning, you’ll visit the Amer Fort, a majestic structure with sweeping views and intricate architecture. The blend of history and panoramic vistas makes it a favorite among travelers, as mentioned in reviews praising the beauty of Rajasthan’s forts.

Traveling to Bikaner, you’ll explore the Junagarh Fort, built on plains—a rarity among Rajasthan’s hilltop defenses—and the revered Karni Mata Temple, famous for its rats considered sacred. The overnight stay in Bikaner introduces you to the quieter, less touristy side of Rajasthan.

On Day 4, a drive to Jaisalmer takes you into the “Golden City,” where the Jaisalmer Fort looms large with its 12th-century Surya Gate. The Khaba Fort, once inhabited by Brahmins, offers a slightly eerie but fascinating glance into history. The evening desert safari on the sand dunes of Sam offers a peaceful, yet exhilarating, experience amid rolling sands. Reviewers loved the “amazing services” and the chance to see Rajasthan’s desert beauty firsthand.

Days 5-6: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur

The next morning features more exploration of Jaisalmer’s impressive fortifications and architecture before heading to Jodhpur. The Mehrangarh Fort is a highlight—not just for its size but for the stunning views over the blue city. Visitors appreciate guides who explain the history vividly, adding context to the impressive stonework.

In Jodhpur, a visit to Jaswant Thada, known as the Taj Mahal of Rajasthan, adds a peaceful, poetic moment to the day. The city offers a captivating mix of history, architecture, and vibrant markets.

Days 7-9: Udaipur, the City of Lakes

Driving to Udaipur, often called the Venice of the East, you’ll stop at Ranakpur, famous for its Jain temples and intricate marble carvings. The evening boat ride across Lake Pichola is a highlight, providing postcard-perfect views of palaces and the sunset glow. Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ knowledge and the stunning vistas as standouts.

Sightseeing includes Saheliyo Ki Bari, the City Palace (with its famous crystal gallery), and temples like Jagdish and Manas Mandir. The relaxed pace here allows more time to soak in the city’s serene atmosphere, contrasting the earlier busy stops.

Days 10-11: Chittorgarh and Kota

Chittorgarh’s fort, perched atop a hill and covering 700 acres, is regarded as a symbol of bravery. The fortress’s sprawling grounds, with sites like Gaumukh Reservoir, showcase Rajasthan’s legendary valor. Reviewers appreciate the authentic experience of exploring such a significant historical site.

En route to Kota, sightseeing includes Braj Bhushan Ki Haveli and Chaurasi Khambon Ki Chhatri. The Kota Museum and Maharao Madho Singh Museum offer insight into local culture and history, which travelers find fascinating.

Days 12-13: Jaipur and Agra

Back in Jaipur, the tour visits Gaitore cenotaphs, Jal Mahal, and the iconic Hawa Mahal. The optional visit to Amer Fort again allows travelers to experience its grandeur during daylight. The journey continues to Agra, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO site and former Mughal capital with the Buland Darwaza, the world’s largest gateway.

The highlight remains the Taj Mahal, with reviews emphasizing the awe of witnessing this monument of love. The marble inlay factories give a behind-the-scenes look at traditional craftsmanship.

Days 14-16: Varanasi and Final Highlights

Traveling by train from Agra to Varanasi, the spiritual centerpiece of the trip, your first evening involves witnessing the Ganga Aarti—an emotional and photogenic ritual on the ghats. The boat ride at dawn on the Ganges offers an intimate snapshot of local worship practices, with reviews mentioning how guide explanations helped travelers understand the significance.

The Sarnath excursion on Day 15 adds historical depth, with visits to Buddha stupas and archaeological sites. The final day includes a relaxed exploration of Delhi, with highlights like Akshardham Temple and local markets, providing a gentle close to the journey.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

The tour’s inclusion of private AC transportation ensures comfort across long drives, which can be taxing in Indian conditions. The mix of hotels providing comfortable stays—often rated as deluxe—adds value, especially considering the variety of heritage and modern accommodations.

While the price of $1,790 covers most essentials, note that some experiences like dinner at Chokhi Dhani or boat rides are optional extras. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and drivers, with many travelers praising their knowledge and friendliness.

What Travelers Love

The expert guides stand out in reviews, making history come alive with stories and local context. The stunning views from forts, boat rides, and desert safaris are repeatedly praised, creating picture-perfect moments. The well-organized itinerary allows travelers to see a broad spectrum of Rajasthan’s many faces—from ancient forts to vibrant markets—and finish with the spiritual serenity of Varanasi.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Some might find the schedule quite packed, which could lead to moments of fatigue, especially with early mornings and long drives. Optional activities, while enriching, come at an extra cost, so budget planning is necessary. Also, the pace might suit those who prefer a whirlwind tour rather than a leisurely exploration.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts who want an immersive experience, spiritual seekers eager to understand India’s religious traditions, and adventure lovers interested in desert safaris and boat rides. It’s suited for those who value professional guides, reliable transportation, and a balanced itinerary that covers major highlights without sacrificing depth.

Final Thoughts

This Rajasthan with Varanasi tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of India’s north. It combines majestic forts and palaces, desert adventures, and spiritual experiences that leave travelers with unforgettable memories. The careful planning, combined with knowledgeable guides and smooth transportation, makes it a strong choice for those wanting a hassle-free yet deeply enriching journey.

You’ll love the views from Mehrangarh, the serenity of Udaipur’s lakes, and the spiritual energy of Varanasi’s ghats. While it’s a busy schedule, the experience offers incredible value for the price, especially when considering the quality accommodations and expert guides. Perfect for travelers craving a mix of history, culture, and spirituality, ready to explore India’s royal past and spiritual present in one grand adventure.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 16 days, covering major cities and sites in Rajasthan and Varanasi.

What is included in the tour price?
The package includes sightseeing as per the itinerary, accommodation in deluxe rooms, private AC transportation, train journeys between Agra and Varanasi, breakfast, and all taxes.

Are guides and drivers experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight the professionalism and helpfulness of guides and drivers, with particular praise for their knowledge of local history and culture.

Can I choose to skip optional activities?
Yes, optional activities like dinner at Chokhi Dhani or boat rides on Lake Pichola are not included in the base price and can be opted out of or booked separately.

What kind of transport will I use?
Private air-conditioned cars are used for all the drives, making long travel days more comfortable.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Based on reviews, the hotels are rated as good and comfortable, providing a pleasant stay amidst heritage or modern settings.

How is travel between destinations managed?
Travel includes private cars for city-to-city drives and scheduled train journeys, ensuring efficient movement between key locations.

Will I have enough time to explore each city?
The itinerary is quite full, with key sites visited each day. Some travelers might find the pace busy, but it’s designed to maximize sightseeing.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, considering the itinerary includes outdoor activities like desert safaris and boat rides, the cooler months from October to March are ideal.

This detailed tour review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Rajasthan with Varanasi experience. It balances practical info with authentic insights, helping you decide if this journey aligns with your travel dreams.