Jaipur, the City of Victory is renowned for the triumphs of its proud Rajputs. It is surrounded by the rugged Aravali hills - crowned by formidable forts - and striking palaces, mansions and gardens. Royal processions and parades, in all their brilliance, graced these palaces and forts once. The city is a colourful oasis in the desert and you will notice a timeless quality to Jaipur's vibrant people and bazaars.
Post breakfast, drive to Maharaja Mansingh's 17th century masterpiece, the Amber Fort. It overlooks the stunning Maota Lake. The fort is a sprawling complex of courtyards, halls and rooms adorned with gorgeous mirrors, paintings and precious stones. Behold the Sheesh Mahal, 'Hall of Mirrors', where a single lamplight reflects in many mirrors, and lights up the entire room, to create a glittering effect.
On your way to the Amber Fort, explore the Palace of Winds, otherwise known as the Hawa Mahal. This famous tourist attraction is famous for its intricate pink sandstone carving and a beautiful view of the city.
Thereafter you will visit the prominent City Palace of Jaipur, an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum is home to collections of armory, costumes, rare manuscripts and carpets. Walk across to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory built in the 18th century by Sawai Jai Singh. An incredible achievement for its time the observatory gives accurate readings even to this day.
Lunch at a City hotel.
After a delicious lunch you may choose to participate in one of the optional tours. Make the most of the spa facilities at a palace hotel OR have the opportunity to explore the vibrant bazaars of the Pink City, which offer a wide range of ethnic handicrafts produced in the city-centre.
After a full day of discovering in the royal past of Jaipur, you will return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner on board as it departs for Udaipur.
Breakfast on board, lunch at a City hotel and dinner on board.
Overnight on board the Deccan Odyssey.