Cities of Rajasthan

One of the many highlights of this trip will be seeing the incredible cities of Rajasthan; Jaipur, Pushkar, Jodphur and Udiapur.

Jaipur

Amber Fort, Jaipur – Flick'r photo by McKaySavage

"A flamboyant showcase of Rajasthani architecture" – Rough Guide

India's 'Pink City' (buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876) will dazzle you with its colourful, vibrant streets and incredible sights. Enjoy your rest day here by checking out the City Palace, the Amber Fort, the Jantar Mantar, and the Palace of the Winds. Or just wander the streets, exploring the bazaars (the city is famous for precious and semi-precious stones), temples and restaurants.

Pushkar

Pushkar – Flick'r photo by Dan Searle

While we do not have a rest day scheduled for this holy city, the ride into town is only 60kms  so you will have lots of time to enjoy the spectacular setting. Home of the world famous Camel Fair, this is a very important city for India's Hindu population. Situated around a lake (which is supposed to have been created when Brahma dropped a lotus flower), this small town of about 15,00 is home to over 500 temples and over 50 bathing ghats. Watch for hippies amongst the locals and perhaps enjoy a special Bhang lassi!

Jodhpur

View from Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur – Flick'r photo by Dan Searle

"Jodhpur's famed cubic roofscape, best viewed at sunset, is a photographer's dream" – Rough Guide

Enjoy a rest day in Jodhpur, the "Blue City"! Climb up to Rajasthan's most incredible fort, Mehrangarh, and enjoy the spectacular view. Then climb back down and wander the bazaars of the old city. Maybe buy a pair of baggy  Jodhpurs, the trouser named after the city? Then sit back and enjoy a cold Kingfisher beer.

Udaipur

Lake Palace Hotel, Udaipur – Flick'r photo by Deepak Gupta

"The most romantic spot on the continent of India" – Col. James Tod, Annals & Antiquities of Rajasthan

That quote was from 1829 and in over 180 years not much has changed. The city is stunning – palaces, museums, hills. the lake. Your rest day here will just not be long enough. Splurge and sail out to the Lake Palace Hotel for a wonderful meal; wander through the City Palace; hope back on your bike and pedal the 5kms uphill to the Moonsoon Palace for incredible views back over the city; purchase one of the Mughal miniature paintings that the city's artisans are famous for.

And those are just the major cities. We will also pass through other gems like Ranakpur.

**Incredible India Indeed!!**