India, The Maldives
India & The Maldives: From Rajasthan to the Reef
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To us, the perfect combination is all about contrast – and nowhere exemplifies this quite like pairing the crowded cities of India with the deserted islands of the Maldives. On this two-week trip, we’ll take you through some of Rajasthan’s most iconic cities, immersing you in the culture and introducing you to some of the friendly locals we’ve met along the way. You’ll then swap the cobalt blue hues of Jodhpur for the azures of the reefs of the Maldives. Two nations, united by vibrant colours but each offering a unique experience quite unlike anything else. Walk a mile in the eyes of a street kid in Delhi, master the art of Jal Sanjhvi in Udaipur before catching a wave off the coast of Six Senses Laamu.
A New Perspective
A city where the old stands side by side with the new, in more than just name, nowhere offers a better introduction to India than Delhi. Check in at the grand Imperial Hotel, before stepping back in time to the Mughal Dynasty on a private walking tour of the Old City. Meander your way through the labyrinthine streets, passing by the intricate minarets and domes of Jama Masjid and absorbing the heady scents of Chandni Chowk market to gain an authentic glimpse of modern Indian culture straight from the word go.
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Start PlanningYour walk then takes a more inspirational turn as you join up with a local guide for a Salaam Baalak walk. One difference? Your guide is a local child who grew up in the neighbourhood surrounding Delhi’s busy railway station. Set up by an NGO working to uplift street kids through the power of education and medical care, the walk is designed to make their voices heard as you see India and the world through their eyes. A truly inspirational experience that fills you with hope; it’s an authentic glimpse of everyday life in India for millions of people and one not to be missed.
Explore Jodhpur and Seek Out Leopards
Next stop; Jodhpur. The iconic Blue City, it makes for a tantalising first taste of Rajasthan as you check in at the luxurious Raas Hotel, lying at the foot of the brooding Mehrangarh Fort. Explore the colours of the city on a private tour, starting with the sweeping views afforded by this hilltop fortress, before heading into the Old City where your guide will reveal unexplored bazaars, exquisitely carved Havelis and unveil traditional skills before leading you into the Kishanji Temple, famous for its garland makers and sweet shops. Three hours out of the city and the landscape quickly changes to one of the rolling hills and meandering rivers of the Aravalli Mountains. Uncover your next stop at the beautiful Jawai Leopard Camp and spend the next two days embarking on game drives through the hills in search of the ever-elusive leopards that roam here.
Ancient Arts & Local Flavours
Bordered by the Aravalli Mountains and centred around Lake Pichola, the beauty of your next stop, Udaipur, is legendary. So too is your next hotel, the floating Taj Lake Palace. Getting your bearings on a private city tour, we’ll take you through the oldest part of the city to share a traditional pot of tea with a local vendor before a masterclass in the dying art of Jal Sanjhvi, led by one of the last few remaining practitioners. Tomorrow, you’ll get a truly authentic glimpse of daily life in Udaipur as you meet up with a local family at the market. Visit their favourite vendors to gather ingredients before returning to their home for one of the most authentic cooking lessons. Trust us, we’ve never had chapattis like those we’ve made here. The following evening, raise one final toast to India over a boat cruise across the ever tranquil Lake Pichola as the sunset bathes the city in a dusky pink light.
Where to Mr. Crusoe?
After a quick overnight in Delhi, continue down to island bliss in the Maldives. Gone are the tuk-tuks whizzing by and the market vendors hawking their wares; instead, there is only the rustle of a palm tree and the gentle lapping of a wave. Hop on a plane and a speedboat and you’ll soon find yourself amid the barefoot luxury of Six Senses Laamu. Spend the next four days in a state of total bliss as you hop between sea, spa and starlit dinner – all with the signature attention of your personal butler. You may never want to leave, but when the time comes, just know we’ll be here to help you return.
