Luxury India Walk, Bike & Yoga (Rajasthan’s Caravan Routes & Desert Palaces) 9D8N, Fully Guided

Meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks in Backroads T-shirts) at 2:45 p.m. in the lobby of Umaid Bhawan Palace hotel (+91-(0)291- 2510101), in Jodhpur, India. Please arrive dressed in comfortable clothes and walking shoes, and bring a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's activities.

Begin your epic Indian adventure at the Umaid Bhawan Palace hotel, a regal entity, standing on a hilltop above the city of Jodhpur. Our striking adventure in the land of Maharajas begins with a visit to the famed Mehrangarh Fort, a splendid 15th-century fortress emplaced on a steep hill towering 400 feet above the city. The exterior will astound you but the interior of the luxurious palaces with historic rooms and halls will leave you speechless, giving you an insight into Rajasthan’s imperial past. The prominent palaces such as Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Zenana Dude, Takht Vilas, and Jhanki Mahal sheds light on one of the all-time excellent architectures and the history of the kings in India. A spectacular view of the indigo-washed houses in Jodhpur from the fort seems like blue carbuncles scattered all over the deserted land. Feel the presence of the fort looking like a grandiose defense of the city from a distance.

From the Mehrangarh, descend to one of the liveliest places, Sardar market, full of vim and vigor. A huge iconic entrance will lead you into a bustling marketplace that has every imaginable item for shopaholics from spices and saree to shoes, food stalls, and souvenirs. Keep your eyes on the unique handicrafts such as a traditional Rajasthani handcrafted cloth, Bandhini. With around 7000 small and big shops around the narrow lanes, you will witness an ideal old-school Indian market where you come across a variety of antiques and people as well.

You’ll stay at a lavish retreat at Umaid Bhawan Palace, your stay for the next two nights. One of the largest royal residences in the world, marvel at the golden-yellow sandstone signifying a monument to Jodhpur’s gallantry and romance. Unwind at the Trophy Bar with a cocktail, pamper at the Jiva Grande Spa or take a lovey heritage walk and relive a fascinating bygone era brought to life through majestic monuments. Come evening, gather together for a welcome reception and a full-flavored Indian cuisine.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 35km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 4, Approx. 47km (29 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting out on a memorable bike ride through the rural regions of Rajasthan, famed for its massive desert and varied wildlife. After you get instructed by the trip leaders who arrange a bike for you, pedal your way through the busy outskirts of Jodhpur swarming with cultural delights, and gradually reach the hushed & off-the-beaten-path villages of the Thar Desert. You're likely to come across local riders, scooters, and rickshaws on their morning journeys as you leave town. Witness the life around the round mud houses of the far-flung hamlets where the local men wearing turbans and women in saree, their forearms wrapped in plenty of bangles, will look fixedly at you in sheer excitement.

If monsoon favors, arrive at a lake familiar to birds and wildlife such as blue bulls and red deer. Spend time unwinding under a shade with some water and soak in the nearby vistas before you further explore the depths of rural Rajasthan in the Thar, a heritage of India endowed with colorful folk culture, glaring dunes, and camels. As you keep the wheels in motion, some native children will either shy off or inspect you. This behavior is the outcome of an irresistible impulse to catch an erratic sight of a foreigner passing on a bicycle.

Lay eyes on the next attraction, a dhurrie carpet cooperative where the Roopraj family will greet you. Following a delectable lunch of regional food, a demonstration of ancient weaving techniques is presented to you. Roopraj, the family’s head is well-known for its fine craftsmanship. Get amused by the variety in designs and colors of his famed rugs that have met the likes of Prince Charles and Richard Gere.

After seeking vibrancy in the expansive desert of Rajasthan, arrive at your homelike lodge where relaxing pools and heart-warming hospitality at the spa await you. Either fulfill the shopping urge or simply make the most of spa treatments (at own expense). Tonight, savor a Nobel Rajasthani meal at a local restaurant.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 25km (15 miles), Elevation gain: 152m (500ft)
Level 3, Approx. 39km (24 miles), Elevation gain: 183m (600ft)
Level 5, Approx. 62km (38 miles), Elevation gain: 183m (600ft)

Take a morning shuttle to Manvar Resort, flanked by the cities of Jodhpur and Jaiselmer in the core of Rajasthani dunes. Put your feet on the pedals and wear enthusiasm to traverse the silent routes giving you spectacular views of green fields, and rolling dunes that encompass Manvar. The life at Manvar, far from the urbanization yet so lively, is bound to leave you stunned. Return to the resort to ease up at the pool and enjoy the delicious afternoon meal. You will witness a tenfold increase in excitement down the line as you take a short open-air ride in a four-wheeled vehicle that leads you to the delights of Manvar Desert Camp.

The well-appointed tents in the heart of sand dunes each having separated bathrooms will immediately impress you. Learn India’s camel-trading past at the tents and hop on the best ride you can get in the deserts - a camel. Camel rides and village strolls are the ideal ways to learn about the centuries-old life on the shifting sands. Observe local women carrying items on their heads and spot a Chinkara roaming freely as you traverse the never-ending sands which turn orange under the setting sun. The Manvar is a treasure of Rajasthan featuring gems like extensive wildlife, and inhabitants living a stress less life. There is no match for a Camel safari to absorb the vast ocean of sands while you learn the folklore from the local guides.

After the sun waves goodbye to the deserts, our heavy-footed ships take us back to the camp for a sensational night of celebration under the stars. The energy of the merrymakers, the performers, and the overall festive atmosphere will let you encounter a carnival in far-flung and cold sandy areas, away from the bustling urbanization. Tonight, be treated to an exotic tented dinner along with the regional music performance, a melodious cultural event in the light of the bonfire.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3.3km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 214m (700ft)
Level 1, Approx. 4.8km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 322m (200ft)
Level 2, Approx. 8km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 275m (900ft)

Peacocks will serve as your wake-up call this morning after which you can relish the breakfast amidst the desert. Today you will dive into the fascinating historic glories and rustic delights of Rajasthan, the largest state in India.

Indulge in breakfast before a stroll to the arid villages on the margins of Manvar to mingle with local farmers and gain insight into their way of life. Sip hot tea served in the homes of locals while taking in their daily rituals, source of livelihood and their view of the world. Witness a drastically different Rajasthan as you leave the dunes behind to set out on a long journey towards Aravalli Hills. No matter how long it may be, your excitement will not wither as we will enjoy some gripping stops along the way. The sight of camels, water buffaloes, gypsies, and scenic marvels will make sure you stay curious in your seats.

Take a halt for a traditionally cooked meal at Rohet Gahr before heading to the most appealing highlight of the day, Aravalli Hills. As Aravalli Hills start coming into view you will get a glimpse of what marvels unfold ahead. These hills previously matched the Himalayas in their majestic climb as enormous fold mountains, but millions of years of erosion have reduced them to undulating knolls. Take in a full view of lush vegetation on the hills for the first time in your journey. Aravalli hills is a dignified mountain range in Rajasthan known for its ecological significance and defense against the arid regions. We may face some road constructions on our way, but our backroads team of experts will see to it that we keep proceeding.

Land up in the buzzing villages of Narlai where you’ll stay for the next few nights. A hunting lodge from the 17th century, residing in the heart of the town, and leaning against the foot of Elephant Mountain. Despite the occasional power loss due to its remote location, with over 500 iconic temples to explore around its surroundings is a big compensation for all the shortcomings of the lodge. Discover Narlai in the company of tour guides and hike up the Elephant Mountain for an enchanting view of the below property. Get blissed out as you reach the top that will give you a feeling of observing a miniature village from a real elephant’s head.

After a full day of adventure, relax at your hotel with a refreshing dip in the pool or laze by the outdoor lounges to the soothing sounds of a sitar. Dinner will be served at your leisure on the patio beneath the stars this evening.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 42km (26 miles), Elevation gain: 580m (1900ft)
Level 4, Approx. 47km (29 miles), Elevation gain: 793m (2600ft)

Today you can set up your day without haste. Either plan to pedal around Aravalli hills or go on a hike to get a closer glance of the local life or unwind by the pool. If you opt for setting the wheels in motion by pedaling, ride the rolling Aravalli Hills and admire the passing wonders such as lush open valleys, reserved forests inhabiting monkeys, and peacocks. Explore the hamlets where you can spot the trespassers from the animal kingdom like camels, water buffaloes, cows, and goats. This fascinating region, enriched with vegetation is typical of the deserted Rajasthani area where all you can see dunes. Pass through the route flanked by sugarcane fields and mango trees and later eat a delicious meal at mount retreat of Aodhi.

If you want to shift from pedaling to strolling, you have a range of hiking options around Narlai. The old hamlet of Narlai is bespangled with marble archways, old temples, and step wells. Make the short climb to the top of Elephant Hill if you missed the hike yesterday. The best time to be on top is at sunrise or sunset to soak in a stunning panoramic view of the quaint town below the hill.

You can undertake the isolated hilly region accompanied by a local guide to scout out the daily rituals of the denizens. Men can opt for shaving at a local barbershop - highly recommended! A cup of Rajasthani Chai is a great way to sweeten your taste buds. If leisure is on your mind, you can simply sit back, relax by the poolside, or wander around the town.

This evening we meet for cocktails before a brief open-air jeep trip to an age-old steep well sparkling with hundreds of floating candles. Be taken with the traditional music performance here to lift up your spirits. To blend with the evening’s mood, men and women will be given turban or scarf to wear. After the performance, satiate your palate with an exclusive Rajasthani-style dinner.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 35km (22 miles), Elevation gain: 275m (900ft) Level 5, Approx. 55km (34 miles), Elevation gain: 427m (1400ft)
Level 1, Approx. 3.2km (2 miles), Elevation gain: 152m (500ft)

Start your day by invigorating yourself with a brisk walk or yoga or simply laze to keep your energy for a day filled with exciting explorations. After spending the morning as per your will, we take a shuttle from Narlai, and avoiding the rough routes we directly reach the mesmerizing Jain temple of Ranakpur. It is regarded as the most spectacular of all Jain temples, with 1,444 elaborately carved marble pillars originating from the 14th century. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion with a history of over 2,900 years, considered an integral part of Indian culture.

The intricate architecture of the temple will immediately stun you. Be engrossed by the history behind the 84 chambers the temple features. Its most significant attribute of the carved idol having 1008 snake heads and countless tails is bound to make you exclaim, ‘wow.’ This marbled wonder consists of twenty-nine halls and eighty domes is a sacred place for Jains. To Westerners accustomed to the quiet tones and calm places of prayer, temples in India might appear chaotic. Give ears to the head priest to gain insights into the riveting religion of Jains and you can accompany him while he performs a reverential chant. You will be held spellbound by the complex stonework on the pillars, the eye-popping interior of the domes, and the numerous kalashas (kalasha - topmost part of a Hindu temple).

To please your appetite, a brief shuttle will lead you to the lunch table before biking typical scenes like camel-drawn carts, water wheels, and ancient temples in the rural regions of Rajasthan. Then get back in the van to escape the busy roads leading to Delwara, an important halt on Rajasthan's commerce route.

Move into the luxurious Devi Garh lodge, a palace turned luxury hotel which will be your home for the next two nights. After a long day of religious exploration and bike ride through the countryside, you can delve into the lavish services of your stay. At Devi Garh, a great range of soothing options await you such as spa, Ayurveda, hot bath, pool, and yoga (at own expense). The splendid architecture of the castle-cum-hotel and the hospitality of the staff will make you feel like a Maharaja.

Enjoy a mouthful of luscious dinner served to you at your leisure and recall the sterling highlights of the day.

Level 2, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 213.36m (700ft)

You can craft your day however you want. You can delight in a bunch of retreats at Devi Garh or spend your day grabbing an intriguing book from the hotel’s library. Loosen up in the whirlpool tub or relax your muscles with a spa treatment. Take a dip in the warm pool and if you want it to be adventurous, play croquet, hike, or attend a yoga class. If you want to seek out new adventures, sit astride a camel or a horse and explore the countryside life around Devi Garh.

A stroll with a national guide is the ideal way to discover the temples and family homes of the Delwara village. Admire the splendid architecture of the temples dating back to the 13th century. A heritage walk of the Delwara, ‘Town of the Gods,’ will take you to the intricate masterpieces of architecture, and rural chores of the locals.

Tonight, gather at the hotel’s terrace for cocktails and an eye-pleasing candlelit dinner prepared by the revered chefs.

Level 3, Approx. 34km (21 miles), Elevation gain: 244m (800ft)

Today’s adventure to Udaipur, one of the world’s best cities as per the votes of travel and leisure readers, will immerse you in its beauty making you fall head over heels for the charming scenes on your way. Pedaling through the beauteous allure that the surroundings hold, reach the photogenic Tiger Lake through lush fields and temples with exquisite carvings into the core of rugged Aravali Hills. Tiger lake surrounds plenteous vegetation, old hamlets, and crops grown by traditional farming techniques. Keep your eyes peeled for the sight of monkeys. As you ride through the route flanked by trees, be greeted by the free-roaming sacred animal of India, the cows.

As the wondrous city of Udaipur unfolds, you won’t have any second guesses as to why the place attracts worldwide globetrotters. Udaipur remained unconquered through centuries of struggle with a variety of invading armies until the British took control of India in the early nineteenth century. That’s the reason why the white castles of kings and old temples stand tall to make them India’s most preserved landmarks. Let your happiness brim with the sights of mighty lakes, royal palaces, and other jaw-dropping vistas.

Park your ride along the shore of Lake Fateh Sagar for a palatable lunch. Embrace the view of fresh waters surrounded by a silhouette of faraway mountains. You are on your way to your final hotel of the trip, the Oberoi Udaivilas, which was just named one of Travel & Leisure's Top Ten Hotels in the World. Spend a peaceful afternoon at your oasis spread over 50 acres boasting grand architecture inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan. Located on the banks of Udaipur’s serene Lake Pichola, unwind in one of the two pools or simply laze by the courtyard and fountains taking in the tranquility. Alternatively, join the tour leaders to explore the local market featuring exclusive jewels, antiques, and textiles. You can follow your own pace to discover the marvelous long-lived attractions of Jaipur such as forts and temples.

Pay a visit to museums to learn the absorbing history of the rulers and tour the memorials of supreme kings. Your trip leaders will see to it that you make the most of your time in the exceptional city of Jaipur. We go on a boat ride on Lake Pichola at dusk, taking in the beautiful views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir. Come evening, gather together to share stories from the day's events and to toast our voyage through India with a magnificent farewell dining affair.

Your final day in Udaipur is ideal for self-exploring the bustling life and historic enticements. Be an early riser for a yoga session conducted by the experts at Oberoi Udaivilas. Or opt to slow down over a leisurely breakfast on the resort’s patio, simultaneously spectating the richness of the pink city. If the streets of the old town call your name, set out on a guided stroll. Dig deeper into the ancient tales of the old palaces narrated by your leaders and learn about the lavish lifestyle of the prominent kings.

Spend an extra night in Udaipur and lead yourself to a discovery of why Udaipur has earned the unofficial title of "Venice of the East as you stroll along the fabulous lake. Stop by the city’s splendors such as Amber Fort, City Palace, Monsoon Palace, and Jagdish temple for an immersive experience of the heritage. Tour the timeless charms of Rajasthan like the Hawa Mahal, a truly eye-pleasing construction featuring 953 small windows. You can’t escape the museums if you want to plunge into the royal past of Rajasthan.

No trip concludes without enough shopping and Jaipur offers many popular markets. To make it more fun, use some newly acquainted Hindi words while bargaining with the local merchants. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the busy streets and feel like a celebrity as the natives stare at you with absolute elation. Bid the heartiest farewell to the trip leaders and the city that will linger in your memories. Board a shuttle to the Udaipur Airport and observe the royal cityscape through the window of your flight.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.