An Indian Honeymoon: Discovering the Palaces of Rajasthan, Delhi & Mumbai

Included the itinerary - A visit to Delhi's most beautiful baoli, these ancient stepwells were built in the 15th century to conserve freshwater for drinking and washing. The morning begins at the archaeological site of Mehrauli, with a visit to Jamali Kamali and its fort, which houses the baoli of Rajon Ki, built in the Lodhi period. Then a drive to Purana Qila, the oldest fort in Delhi, whose underground baoli (89 steps deep) is covered with a roof to keep the water cool. Another baoli is located in Agrasen ki Baoli on Hailey Road - its design and ease of access make it Delhi's most popular. Then embark on a culinary walk to discover the most typical recipes of Old Delhi's traditional street cuisine. On the menu: jalebis sweetened with syrup, Aloo chaat (potato pieces with sauces, onions, and spices), filled paranthas and myriad tasty desserts. Go again to Old Delhi in the evening for a completely different atmosphere. Visit Sisganj Gurudwara, one of the city's most sacred Sikh temples; the Sunehri Masjid Mosque; stroll through Ballimaran's many bakeries and chai shops before stopping in Kanwarji, a confectionery which has become something of an institution in Old Delhi. The tour ends in Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the country. Then head to the Chandni Chowk bazaar, whose shops remain open until the early morning - the best way to explore is to just get a little bit lost.

Get back on the road to Agra and stay for two nights in a monumental princely palace, in the heart of a 15-acre landscaped park. Inspired by Mughal architecture, its long colonnade galleries extend through torch-lit gardens, along with terraced lawns, and enhance the small well-designed living spaces. Beyond the courtyard and entrance hall, one enters a world of luxury and serenity in the very heart of Agra. The Taj Mahal is only a few hundred feet away - you can admire it from the balconies of the hotel rooms. Service is exceptional, highly personalised and attentive.
Included the itinerary - A visit to the Taj Mahal, a magnificent Mughal mausoleum of white marble erected by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. The best time to visit is at dawn and dusk, when the light reflects off the tiled dome, which is nothing short of spectacular. The tour is followed by a champagne aperitif in the comfort of your accommodation, as the sun sets over the mausoleum.

Included the itinerary - A visit to Agra to admire its architecture. After breakfast in the hotel and a visit to the Taj Mahal, the morning continues at the Red Fort. This imposing red sandstone citadel is home to a large number of Mughal imperial pavilions. Later in the morning, visit the Itmad-Ud-Daulah mausoleum, which embodies the transition from early Mughal architecture, which used red sandstone with marble decorations, to the second period, with its piece de resistance - the Taj Mahal.
After the tour, head west to Jaipur. Spend two nights in an elegant hotel with classic Mughal architecture in the heart of a vast landscaped park with gardens, exotic trees, fountains and swimming pools. This is a unique place with its comfortable villas and large, exquisitely refined tents.

Included in the itinerary - Morning visit to the market for flowers, fruit and vegetables, where producers from the surrounding villages meet. Then head to Amber Fort, just outside Jaipur, which you'll explore with a private guide. Built in the late 16th century over Maota Lake (in the centre of which is a lovely garden), this extensive Hindu-style fortress which displays some exceptional artwork, such as the splendid Sheesh Mahal, the Mirror Palace, and the subtle marble bas-relief of the Magical Flower. Walk to the local market in the late morning and then, in the afternoon, take a private tour of the City Palace and Astronomical Observatory. The City Palace is a collection of palaces that are royal residences. Its architecture combines Hindu canons and Rajpout, Mughal and European elements. While the observatory made it possible to carry out accurate surveys of astronomical themes and to determine periods favourable for a variety of public or private acts.

Take a day's drive to Rohet, a small village in Rajasthan, south of Jodhpur, which offers an authentic taste of India. In the heart of the Thar desert, your accommodation is perched on top of a dune; a magnificent sand-coloured building inspired by the rural architecture of western Rajasthan - think lime-coated walls, soft corners, alcoves and fireplaces. The interiors feature intricate door motifs, carved headboards and stone mantles inlaid with small Rajasthani mirrors, as well as thick flat-woven carpets, in the tradition of 'dhurries', on the floors. This accommodation is a starting point for understanding the area's rich history and discovering its natural heritage. From horseriding to royal picnics, you'll have a thousand opportunities to savour Rohet's way of life.

Included in the itinerary - Private visit of Jodhpur, founded in the 15th century on the edge of the Thar desert. The maze of small alleyways, shades of blue from turquoise to indigo, and the bazaar of the old city which sells saris, spices, and piles of grain, are dominated by Mehrangarh, a sandstone fortress set at the top of the city, with its fresh-looking marble, delicate Persian motifs and sparkling mirrors.
Optional - At night, a private visit and dinner at Mehrangarh Fort - The Umaid Bawan Princely Palace, a huge palace built on a hill overlooking the city, with 347 rooms! It still houses the residence of the princely maharaja family of Jodphur, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the princely family.

Head south to Jawai Bandh. You'll stay in a stylish camp in an area of Rajasthan away from the crowds. The canvas and leather tent opens onto a private terrace, surrounded by rocky savannah landscapes, steep granite formations, and Jawai Bandh Lake, one of the largest water reservoirs in western Rajasthan, home to migratory birds, flamingos, geese and cranes.
Included in the itinerary - Two leopard watching safaris, 4x4 and on foot, accompanied by a naturalist guide and a driver. And after a day exploring the surrounding area, enjoy the spa or a dip in the infinity pool.

Road to Udaipur. Two nights' accommodation in a beautiful contemporary hotel, decorated in traditional Rajasthani style: glass inlay, embroidery on silky fabrics, small engraved marble furniture.
Included in the itinerary - Late afternoon, sailing on Lake Pichola. The splendour of the temples and palaces of Udaipur is probably best appreciated by boat.
Optional - A drive through Udaipur in a vintage car.

Included in the itinerary - Private visit to Udaipur. Udaipur is one of the country's most charming ancient cities, with narrow streets, white houses and beautiful havelis, extending to the shore of its lakes. And overlooking the largest of the five lakes, the City Palace is a fortress. A labyrinth of narrow passages and tiny staircases and a hanging garden, you can sit and relax while you look out over the pool. Nearby is the largest religious building in Udaipur, the Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Krishna. There is also the Saheliyon ki Bari, a delightful garden with kiosks, fountains, lotus pond, and more.
Optional - Dinner with views in the hotel's open-air restaurant overlooking Lake Pichola. Here you can enjoy cuisine with a subtle blend of traditional Indian recipes and contemporary overtones, all served in candlelight, under the starry sky.

Private transfer to the airport and flight to Mumbai. A further private transfer to the Apollo Bunder waterfront, opposite the Gateway of India, and a two-night stay in prestigious accommodation dating back to the early 20th century. The hotels is purely Victorian in style with a magnificent dome; it combines legendary Indian charm, refinement and impeccable service.

Included the itinerary - A one-day visit, with a private guide and driver. Lapped by the Omani Sea, Mumbai stands witness to India's industrial success, the glitter of Bollywood, its cricket matches - not to forget the charm of its colonial districts. It is through different experiences - combining history, culture and gatherings - that Mumbai reveals herself to visitors. Included the itinerary: a stroll through the colonial quarter, a visit to the spice market, an introduction to dance with a Bollywood dance choreographer and a local food-tasting experience.
Optional - Visit the Elephanta Island caves.