A Gentle Introduction to India

Upon arrival at Udaipur Airport, you’ll be welcomed by your personal chauffeur and transferred in comfort to RAAS Devigarh, an 18th-century palace-turned-boutique hotel nestled in the peaceful village of Delwara, about 45 minutes away. As you ascend the driveway through rural landscapes and ancient stone walls, the sight of the palace emerging from the hills is nothing short of magical. Once checked in, you’ll have the afternoon to unwind in your elegant suite or take in the tranquil views from the marble terraces. The evening can be spent enjoying a gentle walk through the property, sipping herbal tea on the veranda, or indulging in a light Ayurvedic massage to shake off any travel fatigue. A relaxed, candlelit dinner awaits in the palace’s restaurant, with locally inspired cuisine tailored to your preferences.

Today begins at your own pace. After a relaxed breakfast in the courtyard, a local guide will accompany you on a calm, insightful walk through Delwara village. This hidden gem is home to remarkable stepwells, centuries-old Jain temples, and a warm, welcoming community. You’ll observe quiet daily life, perhaps meeting a local artisan or visiting a tiny temple mid-prayer. Return to the hotel in time for lunch, which you can enjoy on the terrace overlooking the Aravalli Hills. The afternoon is yours to relax — perhaps with a dip in the infinity pool, a good book in a quiet alcove, or a session at the spa. In the evening, choose between dining in the palace or enjoying a private courtyard meal under the stars, accompanied by soft instrumental music.

Start the day with a rejuvenating morning yoga or meditation session in the palace gardens, surrounded by serene hills and temple spires. After breakfast, you may opt for a short, guided drive to the nearby Eklingji Temple complex or stay back and fully engage yourself in the palace atmosphere. The hotel staff can curate a quiet picnic lunch in the gardens or prepare a custom thali meal in your suite. This is the perfect day to rest, reflect, and recharge. As dusk approaches, head to the rooftop for tea and watch the sun dip behind the hills. End the day with a slow-paced, multi-course dinner accompanied by a light conversation with your butler, who can share gentle stories of the palace’s history.

After breakfast, you’ll go on a scenic 3.5-hour drive through Rajasthan’s peaceful countryside to RAAS Chhatra Sagar, a refined tented camp nestled beside a serene reservoir near Nimaj. On arrival, you’ll be greeted with cool drinks and shown to your beautifully appointed luxury tent, featuring stunning views over water and open farmland. The afternoon is yours to relax. You might sit quietly on your private deck watching birds, take a gentle stroll through nearby fields, or simply enjoy the tranquility. Dinner is served alfresco, with gentle breezes and star-studded skies creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The silence here is meditative — a true balm for the senses.

Wake to the sound of birdsong and enjoy tea brought to your tent. After a leisurely breakfast, join a guided nature walk along the dam, where you may spot herons, kingfishers, and egrets. You’ll also visit the nearby village of Nimaj, where time seems to stand still — friendly locals may invite you in for chai, and you’ll see traditional crafts and daily routines without any crowds. Return to camp for lunch and some downtime. In the late afternoon, you can choose to take a short jeep ride into the countryside to watch the sunset, or simply stay put and enjoy the cooling breezes. Dinner again is a peaceful, personalized experience served by the lake.

This morning after breakfast, you’ll set off for Jodhpur, about 3 hours away. The landscape gradually shifts from rural farmlands to the ochre-and-blue cityscape of Rajasthan’s second city. You’ll check into RAAS Jodhpur, a stunning heritage hotel nestled at the base of the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. After settling in, enjoy lunch in the hotel’s airy courtyard. The afternoon offers a gentle walking tour through the quiet alleys of the old city, guided at your pace. You’ll explore the peaceful Clock Tower Market and maybe stop for some saffron-scented chai or browse for handmade souvenirs. Return to the hotel by dusk and dine on the rooftop terrace with a view of the fort lit in golden hues.

After breakfast, head to the towering Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most spectacular and serene historic sites. Your private guide will tailor the visit to your comfort level, avoiding crowds and focusing on the most beautiful and quiet corners of the fort. The museum within the fort houses centuries of Rajput art and culture, and the views from the ramparts are breathtaking. You’ll return to the hotel in time for lunch and perhaps a nap or spa treatment in the afternoon. The evening is free — you may enjoy dinner in your room, in the courtyard, or even request a private dining setup with light acoustic music.

This morning, you’ll be transferred to Jodhpur Airport for a short, comfortable flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, your chauffeur will meet you and escort you to The Imperial Hotel — one of India’s most graceful and storied heritage hotels. Spend the afternoon however you like: unwind in your elegant room, take a slow walk through the hotel’s museum gallery, or enjoy a massage in the spa. If you feel up to it, a short drive can be arranged to India Gate or Lodhi Gardens for a soft introduction to Delhi’s landmarks. Tonight, enjoy a refined meal at one of the hotel’s classic restaurants like 1911 or The Spice Route.

After a relaxed breakfast in the serene veranda restaurant, your driver will escort you to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your onward flight. As you leave, you’ll carry with you the quiet joys of India — palace sunrises, temple bells, village smiles, and the unmatched calm of a journey made just for you.