India was a beautiful dream come true. Thank you so much for the amazing journey ♥️ You have changed my life and have helped to enrich it, more than you can imagine!
India is a country rooted in spirituality, and this spirituality will play a large role in our journey. Yoga and meditation will be offered whenever time permits along the way — as often as possible.
Delicious local and seasonal cuisine, such as traditional curries, roti, flavorful kachori, creative soups and ONLY COOKED vegetables, plus plenty of heat, which Indian cuisine is well-known for, but we can manage for those of you who prefer your food less spicy. Gluten-free or vegan? We’ve got you covered!
We have erred on the side of extreme luxury for this Journey Through Rajasthan. Enjoy the chaos and colors of India by day, sleep in serene luxury by night.
While in India we are pleased to support the wonderful work of Shambhali Trust. Sambhali Trust is a nonprofit organization based in Jodhpur, India. Founded in 2007, the organization aims to empower Dalit women and children in Rajasthan through educational programs, vocational training, and social services. We will share a morning at the trust — learning about the work of the trust, bonding with the women and children, and giving back through donations.
Our India Escape is truly special – a 5 star experience splashed with authentic culturally-immersive experiences, delicious food at some of India’s top restaurants & memorable destination dining, luxury accommodations, the most amazing guide & on the ground support team, the opportunity to give back to the local people, lots of colorful markets & of course, flower petals. We have access to experiences that elevate this Escape to extraordinary as we explore the region that many consider the most magical — Rajasthan.
Every doorway, every arch is an entrance into an exotic world. The customs, the rituals, the colors. Stairs and stepwells, ascending and descending, meandering, wandering, twisting and turning. This is India.
India is a country like no other, with a history seeped in history, culture, religion and spirituality. Splashed with color, scents and scenery, it’s a feast for the eyes, the palette, the spirt and the soul. Join us as we journey through the area that many consider the “best of India” — Rajasthan — on an Escape that is sure to stay with you forever.
– Please note that no immunizations are required unless traveling from a yellow fever zone, but some are recommended. Speak with your health care professional for further details.
– Malaria transmission is found throughout India. Please speak to your health care provider to discuss the best option for you.
– Please note that this is a MOVING ESCAPE, which means that while you are more than welcome to sleep in and skip out on activities on any of the days that we are not traveling from one location to the next, it is mandatory that the entire group travel as a group from one place to the other on the days that we need to change locations. Average transfer times are noted on the itinerary. Each transfer is colorful and culture filled- there will be many photo opportunities along the way as well as opportunities to delve deeper into the culture with each transfer during our journey. You can also sleep as there will be plenty of space!
– Given that we will be on the go during this entire Escape and moving from place to place frequently, we suggest you pack light, and leave plenty of space for shopping as you are sure to depart with more than you arrived with!
– All internal flight times are based on current flight schedule and subject to change.
– We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance in case you run into any unforeseen medical, work or personal issues that prevent you from being able to join us after paying your deposit, as the deposit and each subsequent payment, is non-refundable. You are welcome to purchase any travel insurance you are comfortable with, and we also offer policies & rates here.
– Rooms are officially available for check in at 3:00 pm on Feb 26th. Should you arrive earlier than this we will request early check in but the only way it can be guaranteed is if you book an extra night at The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi. We would be happy to help arrange this with the extra cost payable directly to the hotel
– The first included meal is the group dinner on Feb 26th.
– Yoga & Meditation will be offered as time permits throughout the itinerary, but not daily. All hotels have a gym EXCEPT Camp Land’s End & RAAS. All hotels have a spa.
– Our return flight from Jodhpur to Delhi lands at 6:30 pm. We suggest booking your departure flight from India AFTER 9:00 PM.
The Imperial Hotel, New Delhi– An oasis of calm and comfort sums up the understated luxury of this Lutyen’s masterpiece, bestowed with many prestigious award winning titles including ‘Editor’s Choice Best leisure Hotel by Travel + Leisure 2021 for demonstrating excellence in delivering inspiring experiences to guests and local communities. An iconic and the most distinguished address situated in the heart of the capital, The Imperial is reminiscent of a golden era in India’s history. A luxury hotel, the Imperial has an awe-inspiring heritage interwoven in colonial elegance and dwells in its modern delivery of old-style class and magnificence.
The Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra was named the “Best Resort Hotel In India” in 2018 by Travel + Leisure and the title is quite fitting. The Oberoi Amarvilas enjoys an unparalleled position amongst luxury hotels in Agra, with each room offering an uninterrupted view of the Taj Mahal, while elements of the layout and design pay homage to its’ Mughal splendor.
Samode Haveli is a unique urban oasis inside the historic walled city of Jaipur. A former royal residence that is not a boutique luxury hotel, each room at Samode Haveli is unique and has a distinct character which reflects the rich history and culture of its past. Each room retains the exquisite luxury of its past while providing guests with contemporary amenities and comfort.
Camp Lands End, Pushkar- Nestled in the picturesque valley of the beautiful Aravalli Range, right on the edge of the holy town of Pushkar, lies Camp Land’s End, a serene getaway far from the hustle and bustle, yet close enough to the truly experience the spiritual high that the holy town of Pushkar offers.
Oberoi Udaivilas is located on the banks of Lake Pichola, making it the most unique luxury hotels in Udaipur; a fifty acre property that once belonged to the Maharana of Mewar, all accommodation and dining spaces offer spectacular views across the hotel’s verdant gardens and sparkling Lake. The Oberoi Udaivilas has an intricate layout of interconnecting domes and corridors that reflects the layout of Udaipur itself; whose seven lakes are linked by canals. These domes and walkways are flooded with sunlight, caressed by balmy breezes and offer magnificent views of the lake and gardens.
Located in the prominent north-eastern quarter of the famous Walled City, RAAS Jodhpur is based around an original eighteenth century Haveli. Echoes of the Rajput architecture can be found throughout the building, in everything from its intricately carved stone panels to its antique shrines to the arches surviving from the stables. Indeed, entire original buildings are interspersed with the rose-red modern architecture.
RAAS is Jodhpur’s first boutique hotel. Their signature look was born from the fusion of modern and ancient styles and the courtyard has become a tranquil haven away from the bustle of Jodhpur’s old town. The whole complex is overlooked by Mehrangarh, an awe-inspiring 15th century fort looming 400 feet above the Jodhpur skyline. When lit up in the evenings, the views are simply breathtaking and, like virtually every home here, almost every room in the hotel enjoys the most spectacular view of the fort, rated in 2008 by Time Magazine as “Asia’s Best Fortress”.
Private Room: $15,500
Shared Room: $12,500 per person
A 30% non-refundable deposit per person is required to hold your space, with the final balance due January 1, 2023.
Please refer to the policies page for our complete cancellation policy.
Please note all activities are optional.
VIP meet & greet as you exit the aircraft at Delhi International Airport (DEL), transfer to hotel.
Group Dinner + Orientation.
OVERNIGHT – THE IMPERIAL HOTEL, NEW DELHI, HERITAGE ROOM, Please note that we will not have exclusive use of The Imperial Hotel.
Breakfast
Begin our journey with a morning tour of Old Delhi en route to Agra.
Delhi reflects the legacy and heritage of Mughal Delhi which is popularly known as Old Delhi. Pulsing with energy and colour, Old Delhi is laced by a maze of narrow lanes where you get a glimpse of many contrasting flavours from wedding bazaars to expansive spice markets, to graceful architecture.
We will start the tour by exploring the fascinating and living legacy of the Indo-Islamic culture and lifestyle in Old Delhi with our local expert. Wander through the busy, narrow streets of the mile-long Chandni Chowk, popularly called “The Silver Street”, surrounded by shops and bazaars. Visit the largest mosque of Old Delhi which can accommodate 20,000 people at one time – Jama Masjid with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes.
Lunch in Old Delhi.
After lunch we will continue our journey by private motor coach to Agra (approximately 4 hour drive). Sit back and relax while taking in the sights & scenes.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – The Oberoi Amarvillas- Premier Room. Please note we will not have exclusive use of The Oberoi Amarvillas.
Today at sunrise we will visit splendid Taj Mahal, then return to our hotel for breakfast.
Taj Mahal is at its best at sunrise just when the light, playing on the marble of the tomb and the reflections in the stillness of the waters, presents this incredible building in all its beauty, majesty and splendor. It is a monument of love built by Shah Jehan in 1630 for his Queen, Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains. For twenty two years, 20,000 men labored day and night to build this masterpiece, which has held the world awe-struck ever since. The Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world.
After breakfast we will tour Agra Fort & Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb.
The Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan was imprisoned by his son in Agra’s magnificent Fort. Here you will see the art and crafting of the white marble that has made the area so famous, the Pearl Mosque and the Halls of Public and Private Audience. After visiting Agra Fort you will visit the Tomb of Itimad ud Daulah. Before the Taj Mahal was built, its design was already standing in the form of Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, hence it is affectionately known as the “Baby Taj”. Built to represent a silver jewel box in marble, this mausoleum houses the body of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the father of the Mughal Empress Noor Jahan.
Transfer by private motor coach to Jaipur (approximately 5 hour drive). Box lunch to enjoy along the way. Sit back and relax while taking in the sights and scenes.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – Samode Haveli – Haveli Suite. Please note that we will not have exclusive use of Samode Haveli.
Breakfast
Today at sunrise we will explore the old city of Jaipur as it awakes.
Experience the old city as it awakes — explore the narrow lanes of the old city. Visit with craftspeople who use basic tools and ancient traditions to make the most extraordinary variety of handicrafts and household appliances; stop and chat with local families, visit the flower market; along the way you will be introduced to the country’s aromatic street food and learn local religious rituals and legends when we stop at small shrines.
Explore the City Palace. Within the palace complex are several museums including an interesting textile gallery exhibiting a fine selection of textiles and costumes from the royal collection, plus a few surprises!
Lunch will be at a local restaurant.
Bollywood Dance Lessons.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – Samode Haveli – Haveli Suite. Please note that we will not have exclusive use of Samode Haveli.
Today we will depart for a three-hour trek starting from a Meena tribal village walking through forests, ruins of a 9th century fort, stopping for breakfast along the way and ending at the magnificent Amber Fort. If you prefer not to hike, we can arrange for a driver to escort you to meet us at the Amber Fort.
Amber, the ancient capital that preceded Jaipur. Originally built in the 11th century AD and expanded in size and scope by succeeding dynasties and their rulers, Amber is a fortress town of visual awesomeness. Explore the maze of passages, corridors, pavilions, ornamental gardens and ramparts.
Lunch
The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the markets of Jaipur (guides available to escort) for textiles, gems, and accessories or relax at our lovely hotel.
In the evening, we will visit the private estate of Dera Amer where a local family has rescued elephants from carrying tourists to and from Amber Fort. The time here is entirely private and allows us a chance to be outside the city and experience the beauty of these mighty Indian elephants.
Stroll with the elephants as they continue for their evening walk through the forest, ending with a memorable dinner.
Group Dinner
OVERNIGHT – Samode Haveli – Haveli Suite. Please note that we will not have exclusive use of Samode Haveli.
After breakfast we depart by private luxury coach (4 hours) for one night in the country staying at the sweet, simple yet lovely Camp Lands End. From here we can explore the pilgrimage town of Pushkar, a mini Varanasi, full of tradition & rituals just waiting to be discovered.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT at at CAMP LANDS END, COTTAGE.
After breakfast we will make our way by private luxury coach to Jodhpur (4.5 hours).
The afternoon is free to enjoy our lovely hotel, shop in the local market and boutiques close to our hotel (guides available to escort).
This evening we will be journey to Mehrangarh Fort for a truly unique & special private VIP visit as we are privately guided through some of the not publicly shown parts of the Fort.
After this private visit we will have our farewell dinner at the fort.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – RAAS, LUXURY ROOM. Please note we will not have exclusive use of Raas.
After breakfast we will visit the Shambali Trust. Time to give back, a highlight of this special journey. Sambhali Trust is a nonprofit organization based in Jodhpur, India. Founded in 2007, the organization aims to empower Dalit women and children in Rajasthan through educational programs, vocational training, and social services. We will enjoy an morning at the trust, bonding with the children, making donations and giving back.
After lunch we will explore the famed Blue City by foot, exploring the narrow alleyways, hidden secrets, and of course, discovering the blue houses. Experience the Sadar Bazaar, where you will also have time to wander at leisure. It is a marvelous example of late 19th century town planning, blending modern and Rajput traditions. There are many fine old buildings including the hospital, High Court and the railway station. At the Bazaar you can shop for Jodhpur’s famous glass bangles, rugged leather mojri slippers made usually from camel leather, vivid colored textiles as well as many other treasures.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – Raas – Luxury Room. Please note we will not have exclusive use of Raas.
Breakfast
Today we make our way by private motor coach (approx 5 hour drive time total) from Jodhpur to Udaipur — sit back and relax while taking in the sights and scenes. We will stop in Ranakpur for a quick visit and lunch along the way.
Ranakpur has one of the most important Jain temples in India. It lies in a remote and peaceful Valley of the Aravali range. The main temple is the Chamukha temple, or Four Faced temple, dedicated to Adinath. Built in 1439, this huge, beautifully crafted and well‑kept marble temple is supported by 1444 pillars, no two of which are alike. Within the complex there are two other Jain temples, Neminath and Parasnath.
Group Dinner.
OVERNIGHT – OBEROI UDAIVILAS, PREMIER ROOM. Please note we will not have exclusive use of Oberoi Udailvila.
Breakfast.
Today we explore Udaipur, the enchanting City of Dawn, whick looms up like a vision in white. The City Palace was built in 1725, and has various palaces inside such as Dilkush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, the Palace of Krishna, all of which are ornately decorated. Saheliyon Ki Bari, the “Garden of Maids of Honour”, is a small ornamental pleasure garden, containing an elegant lotus pool, gushing fountains, beautiful black marble kiosks on the corners of the pool and stunning bougainvilleas covering the wall of the enclosures. We will also visit the beautiful Jagdish Temple, which is still in use and very much an alive temple.
Later we will walk the winding lanes of the old city, sharing space with cows, elephants, people, gaining insight into the “small town India” lifestyle. Shops selling a variety of items, unexpected folk art decorating the walls of houses and small architectural gems like latticed work Haveli windows, plus bit of shopping time.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Later in the day we will have a hands-on cooking lesson with a local chef at her home followed by dinner.
OVERNIGHT – Oberoi Udaivilas – Premier Room. Please note that we will not have exclusive use of Oberoi Udaivilas.
Breakfast.
To experience a festival in India is truly memorable. Today we will celebrate Holi, the “festival of colors”, which is a 2 day festival representing the abundance of spring. According to Hindu mythology, it also signifies the victory of good over evil, and is named after “Holika”. As part of the celebrations on this day people throw colored powder and water on each other, enjoy parties and dance under water sprinklers. It is a very carefree festival. We will spend the morning celebrating in a traditional style with a local family or you can choose to spend a quiet day relaxing at our lovely hotel. Or, a bit of both 😉
After lunch we will also explore the beautiful Eklingi and Nagda temple.
Group Dinner
OVERNIGHT – Oberoi Udaivilas – Premier Room. Please note that we will not have exclusive use of Oberoi Udaivilas.
Breakfast
Lunch
Today our journey continues back to Delhi in time for you to connect with your return flight back home. Please schedule your return flight for AFTER 9:00 pm. Our journey together comes to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Due to the fact that we are sharing each hotel with other discerning travelers, there will be no bell rung 15 minutes prior to activities. Please bring a watch or a cell phone so you can keep track of time, and of course you can always arrange a wake up call as well.
OPTIONAL: We will be visiting a children’s charity while in India. If interested you are welcome to bring items such as pens, pencils, journals, small toys, coloring books, toiletries & spare clothing. Any items you bring can be transported in our van, rather than transported via plane.
All U.S. citizens need a valid passport and valid Indian visa to enter and exit India for any purpose. Please ensure you have the correct type of visa (tourist) for your planned activity in India. If you have the incorrect visa you may be refused entry. Please visit the Indian government’s website for electronic travel authorization for additional information regarding eligibility and requirements for this type of visa.
If you prefer to use a Visa service we recommend CIBT Visas: https://cibtvisas.com/escapeartiststravel.
We will be sending you all necessary details for filling out your Visa form 3 months in advance of your arrival into India.
Ready for the adventure of tracking the endangered tiger by day, and the luxury of your gorgeous tented camp by night? Or would you like to delve deeper into Buddhism & Hinduism with a stop in Varanasi or Rishikesh? Explore Ayurveda in the south or hike from village to village in the north? We have wonderful guides & resources to bring your dream extension in India to life!
Erica is an acclaimed yoga teacher, known for teaching a strong, yet playful Vinyasa flow practice. She is largely inspired by the journey of yoga, the subtle to the grand discoveries each individual makes through their practice, inviting students to have fun while experiencing their body in a whole new way through each unique practice. With classes always set to music, from tribal to lounge to classic rock songs, students are able to find their own personal rhythm and expression through each asana. Additionally, Erica is co-founder and co-owner of Escape To Shape, which she created to fill a gap in the travel and wellness market — combining her two passions into one unique, memorable and results-driven holiday. Erica contributes to AFAR, Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, Charlotte’s Book and Well + Good, amongst others, as a Travel & Wellness Expert.