Compare Cycling Through Rajasthan by Exodus Travels vs Jaisalmer – Desert Safari Tour in Rajasthan by Go Hikes

Day 1 Start Delhi

The adventure starts at our hotel in Delhi. The rest of the day is used to assemble the bikes and explore locally before an evening briefing about our cycling adventure. Accommodation: Ashok Country Resort (or similar)

Day 2 Morning cycle tour of New Delhi; afternoon sightseeing tour of Old Delhi; overnight train to Jodhpur

We start cycling early in the morning to get used to the Indian weather and city traffic. After about 15.5mi (25km), we return to the hotel. Post breakfast and a shower, we start our sightseeing of New and Old Delhi by bus. The bikes and main luggage will be transferred to Jodhpur by bus (you are advised to take your required toiletries and other essential items in your day bag for the overnight train journey). In the evening, we transfer to the station and catch the overnight train to Jodhpur. Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Day 3 Arrive Jodhpur; free morning then afternoon city cycle tour including Mehrangarh Fort

We arrive at Jodhpur train station in the morning and take a short transfer to our hotel where we have time to relax or explore the area. In the afternoon, we get the bikes out and go sightseeing on two wheels. Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Roa Jodha and was formerly the capital of the Marwar state. The city is surrounded by an immense wall almost 6mi (10km) in circumference and is dominated by a massive fort that stands on a rocky hill commanding the surrounding desert. In the afternoon, we visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort where we have a great view of the blue houses, painted to distinguish them as those of Brahmins. Accommodation: Shree Ram International Hotel (or similar) Maximum elevation: 400ft (122m)

Day 4 Ride/drive to Udaipur via Jain temple at Ranakpur; cycle towards lakeside town of Udaipur

Today is a long day so we start early, cycling from the hotel for about 25mi (40km). We then take a bus transfer to Ranakpur (approximately 3hr 30min) where there is time to visit the 15th-century Jain temple. The main temple, beautifully carved from marble, is dedicated to Adinath. It has 29 halls supported by 1,444 pillars, each delicately carved with a different design. We then take a 9mi (15km) transfer by vehicle (approximately 30 minutes) to a roadside Hindu temple. From here, we get back on our bikes and ride through the Aravalli hills for about 21mi (34km) and finally transfer by bus (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours) to the lakeside town of Udaipur. Accommodation: Paras Mahal Hotel (or similar) Minimum elevation: 597ft (182m) / Maximum elevation: 2,992ft (912m)

Day 5 Cycle tour around Udaipur including City Palace

Known as the Pearl of Rajasthan, the City of Sunrise and Venice of the East, Udaipur is a beautiful place regarded by both Indians and travellers as the most romantic city in the country. Situated on the east side of Lake Pichola, the main palace commands an unsurpassed view across the shimmering lake to the dusty Aravalli hills with the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel adding to the scene. Lake Pichola has two islands, each with a palace to rival that on the mainland; Jag Mandir and Jag Nivas (the latter is now the luxurious Lake Palace Hotel) rise out of their own reflections in the lake waters. After breakfast, we spend the morning exploring the countryside around Udaipur by bike. We cycle on quiet, flat roads past farmland and small villages as we head to Tiger Lake. Continuing on rural backroads, we can visit Animal Aid, an NGO hospital for injured animals. We finish our ride close to the city, where we visit the impressive City Palace. Accommodation: Paras Mahal Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Ride on backroads to the fort of Kumbhalgarh

This morning, we drive (approximately 1hr 30min) to Iswal where we start our bike ride to Kumbhalgarh. The route stays away from the main road and follows a less direct but quieter series of backroads, allowing us to see the fascinating rural life of India. It can be hot cycling here but the vehicle support will be on hand if required. We arrive in Kumbhalgarh for a late lunch and a rest. Then there is a chance to cycle to Kumbhalgarh Fort, a challenging 3mi (5km) uphill ride (there is an option to take a 4x4). Kumbhalgarh has one of the finest examples of defensive fortifications in Rajasthan, including a lovely temple and palace with panoramic views. Accommodation: Kumbhalgarh Forest Retreat (or similar) Minimum elevation: 2,119ft (646m) / Maximum elevation: 3,2182ft (981m)

Day 7 Ride/drive to Pushkar

It's back to the desert scenery today as we head to the holy town of Pushkar. Our route follows rural backroads to the main highway, where we dismount nd travel the rest of the way in our vehicle (approximately five hours’ drive). Surrounded by desert, Pushkar is a Hindu pilgrimage town on a holy lake. Legend has it that the lake was created from petals that fell from the divine hands of the creator god Brahma and it is here you can see one of the few Brahma temples in the world. Dotted with 52 ghats (flights of steps) and around 400 milky-blue temples, this town is also known for hosting the annual Pushkar Festival, transforming the town into a bustling market. Before heading to our hotel, we spend time exploring the sites and sounds of a town like no other in Rajasthan. Accommodation: Hotel Dera Masuda (or similar) Pushkar Festival departures: 5 November 2024 and 26 October 2025 (Land Only) The itinerary for these departures is slightly amended to spend two nights in Pushkar (days 7 and 8) and one night in Sariska National Park (Day 11), this is done to maximise time at the festival. Accommodation in Pushkar during the festival departure will be provided in Swiss cottage tents (canvas tents designed to emulate Swiss cottages) with attached bathrooms. The facilities are basic and hot water and electricity can be limited but your leader will assist with any issues if they occur. All meals will be included. Minimum elevation: 2,214ft (675m) / Maximum elevation: 2,933ft (894m)

Day 8 Ride/drive to Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan via rural villages and Rupnagar

We leave Pushkar on our bikes travelling through desert backroads and small villages to the town of Rupnagar; a centre for working marble. There is the option to extend the ride by another 21mi (34km) to the Naraina railway crossing, where we transfer by vehicle to Jaipur (approximately 1hr 30min to two hours' drive). Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar) Minimum elevation: 1,135ft (346m) / Maximum elevation: 1,4992ft (457m) Cycle: Approximately 37mi (60km) or 58.4mi (94km) including optional ride

Day 9 Optional early morning city heritage ride, Jaipur sightseeing

If you’re up early, we have an optional ride around this wonderful pink city, cycling through its fascinating narrow laneways. Passing havelis (private mansions) and sacred temples, we head for the majestic Albert Hall, which was built to welcome the Prince of Wales on his visit during the 1870s. Along the way, we stop at popular food stalls where you can sample what the local people enjoy for breakfast. After the ride, we have time back at the hotel to freshen up before we head out for a wonderful day of sightseeing. We visit the Amber Fort and enjoy the fine museum within the City Palace, former residence of the Maharaja. A trip to Jaipur must include a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). This city is also the centre of many handicrafts, such as woven rugs, carpets, printed cloth, semi-precious stones and leatherware. During our stay, we have time to visit the markets and possibly pick up a souvenir. Optional cycle: Approximately 7mi (12km) Accommodation: Lilypool - The Heritage Jal Mahal (or similar)

Day 10 Ride/drive to Sariska National Park via Pratap Garh

We leave Jaipur with a combination of cycling and a transfer and return to rural India. We transfer by vehicle to Jamwa Ramgarh (approximately 45 minutes to one hour) and then cycle to Sariska via Pratap Garh and through the beautiful Aravalli foothills. Accommodation: Ram Bihari Palace (or similar) Pushkar Festival departures: 5 November 2024 and 26 October 2025 (land only) The itinerary for these departures is slightly amended to spend two nights in Pushkar (days 7 & 8) and one night in Sariska National Park (Day 11), removing the optional afternoon cycle ride. On Day 11, after arriving in Sariska, we head off in open 4x4s for our early evening game drive. Sariska is a beautiful and interesting park to explore with an abundance of wildlife, including leopards, deer, wild boars, antelopes, jackals, hyenas and more. The following morning will continue to Bharatpur National Park. Minimum elevation: 1,115ft (340m) / Maximum elevation: 1,519ft (463m)

Day 11 Game drive; optional afternoon ride

Before breakfast, we head off in open 4x4s for our early morning game drive. Sariska is a beautiful and interesting park to explore with an abundance of wildlife, including leopards, deer, wild boars, antelopes, jackals, hyenas and more. A large variety of bird species also grace the landscape.  We return to the hotel for a late breakfast and, in the afternoon, there is the option to cycle to the nearby Siliseth Lake. This takes us on backroads through rural villages and farmland. We can have tea at the Lake Palace Hotel with stunning views across the waters to the Aravalli hills. Those who would prefer to relax can enjoy the garden and swimming pool at the hotel. Optional cycle: Approximately 9mi (14km) Accommodation: Ram Bihari Palace (or similar)

Day 12 Ride/drive to Bharatpur National Park, renowned for its bird sanctuary, later visited by bike

Day 13 Cycle to Fatehpur Sikri, transfer to Agra; visit Taj Mahal at sunset

In the morning, we leave Bharatpur and cycle on backroads passing through Fatehpur Sikri, the emperor Akbar's deserted royal city. Later we transfer to Agra (approximately one to two hours’ drive) in time to see the sun set over the Taj Mahal. This romantic monument was built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. The Taj is serenely beautiful and never fails to amaze a first-time visitor; the white-marble exterior changes colour according to the position of the sun and is matched by the rich interior detail. Accommodation: Taj Vilas (or similar) Minimum elevation: 475ft (145m) / Maximum elevation: 5182ft (158m)

Day 14 Visit Agra Fort; transfer to Delhi

In the morning, we visit the imposing Agra Fort of Akbar, where mighty sandstone walls enclose the beautiful white-marble pearl mosque, palaces, halls, courtyards and fountains of his sons and successors, Jehangir and Shah Jahan. In the afternoon, we transfer to Delhi by bus (five to six hours' drive, depending on traffic) arriving early evening. Your leader will arrange a group dinner for those who would like one last time together to share memories of the trip. Accommodation: Hotel Deventure (or similar)

Day 15 Fly to London.

For those who are on the flight inclusive package we depart for Delhi airport in the morning for the day flight back to London. The arrangements for those not flying with the group ends after check out. However, if you’d like more time to explore Delhi, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Day 1: Explore Palaces, Lakes & Museums

Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is known as Golden Fort of Rajasthan. The architectural design of the fort having beautiful carved windows, doors and walls is one of the fine example of the rich heritage in India. It was constructed by Raja Jaisal, Rajput ruler in the year 1156 AD.

It ranks amongst the largest forts in the world. The golden and yellow mixed sandstone displays magical look to the Fort. Rising from the desert sands like a mirage, the fort is a real sight with its 99 turrets during night. The Fort stands tall and proud displaying the magic of Rajasthani architecture.

Gadi Sagar Lake

The lake was built in the 14th century as a water conservation tank.The Gadi Sagar Lake is the best place to visit for sightseeing tours in Jaisalmer, which is today a popular tourist hangout.

Boating is allowed here and hence you could take a trip round the lake to enjoy the serene atmosphere.

The lake encircles several temples with Krishna Temple that is located on top of the Tilon Gate.

The best time to visit the Gadi Sagar Lake is during the Ganguar Festival, which is usually held in March or April.

Jaisalmer Tour Package

The Thar Heritage Museum

Thar Heritage Museum is located at the main market of the city. Laxmi Narayan Khatri was the founder of this museum.

The museum presents you the history, culture, art and architecture of the famous Thar Desert. Sea fossils aging over million yearslet us in on how the sea eventually became the Thar Desert. The museum houses unique ornaments of the ship of the desert and horses. Documents and coins of Jaisalmer, ancient manuscripts and weapons are some of the collections found in this museum.

Day 2: Explore Rajasthan Haveli

Patwon-Ki-Haveli:

Patwon-Ki-Haveli is located in the main city. It was built by a famous trader named Guman Chand and his sons.

His massive five-storied construction has five intricately decorated huge suites. The large corridors and the decorated walls are excellent representations of the art form that prevailed. The entire construction is made of yellow sandstone. The grandeur and the architecture of the monument add immense value to the cultural heritage of the city. Out of the five havelis, one is converted into a museum.

The third haveli houses the works of local craftsmen of the bygone era.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli:

A distinct architecture that you will come across in Jaisalmer city is the Haveli of Salim Singh from the 17th century which has an extended arched roof in the shape of a peacock. It is an incredible silhouette that is crafted with 38 balconies, each having distinct designs.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli is one of the heritage attractions to explore when you are travelling to Jaisalmer.

Desert safari: Sam Sand Dunes

Jaisalmer Tour Package

Sam Sand Dunes is the ideal location to experience the Desert Safari.

You will love the safari on camelback that would take you along crests and troughs. Also, you could watch the picturesque sunset on the desert.

Jeep safaris are available as well. Desert festival is organized in the months of February and March.

If you are around this time, you would not want to miss the folk dances, camel races and other cultural events conducted here.

You can choose from half day to 4 days desert safari packages.

Starting from the camp, you can enjoy an afternoon camel ride to isolated sand dunes, visiting some Dhanis (small villages) on the way. While riding on your camel you can experience the beautiful

sunset after which you will arrive at the dunes for chai/tea/coffee and can watch your tasty dinner being freshly prepared for you over the camp fire.

Day 3: Desert Safari

Desert Nation Park:

Desert Nation Park is one among the largest parks in India. Very unfriendly locality for species to survive and hence you will find fauna and flora live on the desert’s edge. However, migratory birds can be viewed in large numbers. You could take a jeep safari to enjoy the magnificent landscape, which offers view of extinct lakes in this park.

The Vyas chhatri:

The Vyas chhatri is a marvel in the midst of the sand dunes and exhibits the typical Rajasthani style of architecture.

Dedicated to sage Vyas, who completed the Hindu epic Mahabharata, Vyas chhatri is the Rajasthan’s spin to monuments.

It is also popular as one of the best places in Jaisalmer to observe a sunset.

Jaisalmer Tour Package

Jain Temple:

The Jaisalmer Fort houses a group of Jain Temples that dates back to the 12th and 15th century. The group of Jain Temples is a fine example of Dilwara style of architecture that uses yellow sandstone. The temples are dedicated to various Jain Tirthankars.

Bada Bagh:

Located 6 kilometers away from Jaisalmer city, Bada Bagh is a beautiful place that houses several cenotaphs of the royal families from the 16th century to 20th century.

It also maintains several other attractions like a garden, a tank, a dam and the Govardhan Stambh (pillar).