Palaces & Heritage: Royal Hearts of North India
North India Highlights Gay Tour: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur & Jodhpur
Journey through India’s royal heart, where timeless grandeur, vibrant artistry, and warm hospitality come together in an unforgettable 14-day small-group adventure. From Delhi’s Mughal monuments and the sunrise glow of the Taj Mahal to the majestic forts of Jaipur and the blue-hued lanes of Jodhpur, this journey reveals a living mosaic of history, culture, and soul.
Explore ancient observatories, ornate city palaces, lively bazaars, and hidden stepwells — each echoing the legacy of India’s great dynasties and master craftsmen. Experience the quiet elegance of Deogarh Palace and the shimmering romance of Udaipur, where palaces reflect across Lake Pichola in the soft evening light.
Along the way, enjoy meaningful cultural encounters: connect with local LGBTQ+ initiatives, explore traditional block printing, meet miniature painters, and join a hands-on home-style cooking class with a welcoming local family. Cruise the waters of Lake Pichola at sunset, dine in starlit palace courtyards, and share moments of community, friendship, and pride with fellow travellers.
Stay in boutique heritage hotels and restored havelis rich in character and charm. This is more than a journey through India’s regal past — it’s an invitation to experience Rajasthan’s creativity, colour, and warmth, where tradition, connection, and inclusive travel shine as brilliantly as the desert sun.
Quick Facts
- Countries visited: India
- Duration: 13 Nights / 14 Days
- Starts in: Delhi
- Ends in: Delhi
- Group size: Minimum 6; Maximum 16
- Accommodations: Boutique heritage hotels, havelis & royal palaces
- Physical Rating: 2/5 (light walking, some stairs, early starts, optional jeep rides)
- Theme: Culture • Heritage • History • Romance • Community • Pride
- Activities: Palace and fort explorations, heritage walks and rickshaw rides, block-printing and cooking experiences, village safaris and folk performances, temple visits and boat cruises, LGBTQ-friendly community encounters, and shared moments of connection beneath Rajasthan’s royal skies.
Dates and Prices
2026
3 October – 16 October 2026
TWIN SHARE $5,495 AUD
SINGLE $6,995 AUD
SINGLE TO SHARE $5,495
Pricing is also available in USD & EUR
Highlights
- LGBTQ-friendly group travel — 6–16 guests with an inclusive ethos
- Mughal grandeur in Delhi’s Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar & Old Delhi markets
- Sunrise magic at the Taj Mahal and sunset views from Mehtab Bagh
- Stepwell wonder at Abhaneri and royal elegance in Jaipur’s City Palace, Amber Fort & Hawa Mahal
- Creative traditions — block-printing demonstration, bazaar shopping & Bollywood-inspired fun
- Palace stay in Deogarh with a sunset jeep safari through rural Rajasthan
- Blue City charm in Jodhpur & visit to the LGBTQ+ community-run Sambhali Café
- Marble artistry at Ranakpur Jain Temple and folk dance performance by Kala Artists
- Sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola and hands-on cooking class in Udaipur
- Inclusive community, cultural depth & royal heritage throughout
Tour Map
Palaces & Heritage: Royal Hearts of North India
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Delhi: Gateway to India
Historic grandeur, warm welcomes, and your first taste of North India’s rich culture.
Arrive in Delhi, a city where Mughal legacies and modern life blend seamlessly. Your local guide will greet you at the airport and arrange your private transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest after your flight. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a group welcome dinner, where you’ll meet your Adventure Proud host and share stories over delicious Indian cuisine. This first night sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through the royal heart of India — filled with heritage, colour, and connection.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight: Delhi
Day 2 Old & New Delhi: Bazaars, Mughal Marvels & Modern Moments
Bustling bazaars, sacred monuments, and a modern café escape.
Step back in time as you explore Old Delhi, where narrow lanes buzz with cycle-rickshaws, sizzling street food, and the scent of spice markets. Visit the towering Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, before delving into the architectural grace of Humayun’s Tomb—the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Continue to Qutub Minar, a soaring sandstone minaret that narrates Delhi’s early Sultanate stories.
Between visits, enjoy chai breaks and colourful snapshots of daily life that mix chaos and charm in equal measure. As the afternoon light softens, unwind at a cosy Delhi café, surrounded by modern design and youthful energy—perfect for reflecting on a city that balances the old and the new with effortless vibrancy.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Overnight: Delhi
Day 3 Agra Arrival: Fortresses, Sunset Views & Rooftop Dining
Epic Mughal architecture, riverside reflections, and a relaxed evening under the stars.
Leave Delhi behind as we journey to Agra, once the jewel of the Mughal Empire. On arrival, explore the majestic Agra Fort, an enormous red sandstone fortress that once housed emperors and artists alike. Wander through elegant courtyards and royal chambers that whisper stories of a bygone dynasty.
Later, cross the Yamuna River to Mehtab Bagh, a tranquil garden that perfectly frames the Taj Mahal at sunset — a photographer’s dream. As night falls, unwind over dinner at a stylish rooftop restaurant, where great food, laughter, and soft music create the perfect end to the day. Raise a glass with your fellow travellers as the glow of the city lights dances across the skyline.
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Overnight: Agra
Day 4 Agra to Jaipur: Sunrise at the Taj & Stepwells of Rajasthan
A sunrise masterpiece, ancient stepwells, and a grand dinner fit for royalty.
Wake early for one of life’s true travel moments — the Taj Mahal at sunrise. As dawn’s first light touches its marble domes, watch the monument shimmer in hues of gold and pink, a breathtaking symbol of love and devotion.
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive toward Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, pausing at the fascinating Abhaneri Stepwell, an ancient geometric wonder of 3,500 perfectly symmetrical steps. Enjoy a relaxed countryside lunch before continuing your journey to the “Pink City,” where vibrant streets and heritage architecture greet you.
This evening, gather for a royal dinner at Narain Niwas Palace, surrounded by flickering lamps, colourful murals, and elegant courtyards — the perfect way to unwind and savour Jaipur’s regal atmosphere.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight: Jaipur
Day 5 Jaipur: Art, Colour & Free Time in the Pink City
Creative encounters, royal artistry, and a free afternoon to explore at your own pace.
After breakfast, begin your day at the stunning Patrika Gate, a kaleidoscope of colours and patterns celebrating Jaipur’s artistic soul. Each archway tells a story — from royal portraits to floral motifs — making it one of the most photographed gates in India. Continue to a government-run workshop for a brief block printing demonstration, where local artisans reveal the centuries-old craft of stamping intricate patterns onto fabric by hand.
The afternoon is yours to explore: browse bustling bazaars for gemstones and textiles, or join locals at Raj Mandir Cinema, Jaipur’s legendary art-deco theatre, for a lively Bollywood film experience. As evening falls, relax at your hotel or enjoy rooftop drinks with the group — a chance to soak in the Pink City’s golden glow and its easy blend of history and joy.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Overnight: Jaipur
Day 6 Jaipur: Forts, Royal Wonders & a Night Safari in the Pink City
Hilltop forts, regal artistry, and the magic of Jaipur after dark.
Begin the morning at the magnificent Amer Fort, rising above Maota Lake with sweeping views of the Aravalli Hills. Wander through marble courtyards, mirrored halls, and mural-lined corridors that once echoed with royal celebrations. Continue to the City Palace, still home to Jaipur’s royal family, and visit the fascinating Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century observatory where massive stone instruments chart the movements of the stars. Pause for photos of the iconic Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds,” before returning to the city for a relaxed afternoon.
As evening settles over Jaipur, discover the Pink City from a whole new perspective. Your Night Safari by open Jeep offers a smoother, quieter way to explore, gliding through the historic Pink City streets when the usual daytime bustle has faded. Pass the beautifully illuminated Albert Hall Museum and admire Jaipur’s glowing facades, which feel even more atmospheric under the night sky.
Your drive continues upward toward Nahargarh Fort, pausing at a scenic lookout (not entering the fort) where the entire city twinkles below you — a mesmerising panorama as Jaipur lights up at sunset. It’s one of the most unforgettable views in Rajasthan.
After your night safari, enjoy a relaxed dinner at the charming Jaipur Courtyard, where cultural performances accompany your meal. It’s the perfect way to end the day — combining heritage, flavour, and local artistry in a warm, inclusive setting.
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Overnight: Jaipur
Day 7 Deogarh: Palace Living, Countryside Views & a Sunset Jeep Safari
Rolling hills, heritage comfort, and a golden-hour adventure in Rajasthan’s countryside.
After breakfast, leave Jaipur behind and journey through the rugged beauty of rural Rajasthan to the charming town of Deogarh (approx. 5 hours). Your destination is the stunning Deogarh Mahal, a centuries-old palace now transformed into a heritage hotel filled with frescoed walls, antique furniture, and warm hospitality.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch and some time to relax — perhaps by the pool or on the terrace with sweeping views of the Aravalli Hills. In the late afternoon, head out on a sunset jeep safari, winding through villages and rocky landscapes bathed in golden light. This immersive experience offers a glimpse of authentic Rajasthani life — from farmers in colourful turbans to children waving as you pass. Return to your palace stay for a peaceful evening under the stars, surrounded by old-world grandeur and quiet charm.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Overnight: Deogarh (Heritage Palace)
Day 8 Jodhpur: Blue City Welcome, Palace Stay & Desert Folk Rhythms
Relaxed travel, vibrant culture, and an evening serenade beneath the desert sky.
Enjoy a slow morning in Deogarh before setting out toward Jodhpur, the famed “Blue City” of Rajasthan (approx. 2.5 hours). Watch as the landscape changes — from rolling green hills to desert plains dotted with temples and small villages.
Arrive in Jodhpur and check into your elegant heritage hotel, Ranbanka Palace, once home to the royal family of Jodhpur. Spend the afternoon at leisure — wander through the gardens, take a dip in the pool, or simply relax in your regal surroundings. As evening falls, gather for dinner accompanied by live Rajasthani folk music, performed by talented local artists who keep the desert’s rhythms and stories alive. The atmosphere is intimate and enchanting — a perfect introduction to Jodhpur’s royal warmth and cultural soul.
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Overnight: Udaipur
Day 9 Jodhpur: Hilltop Forts, Blue City Life & Community Connections
Towering citadels, creative empowerment, and an evening of views and values.
Begin your day at the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most spectacular hilltop fortresses. Its stone ramparts overlook a sea of blue houses and echo with stories of warriors and maharajas. Continue to Toorji ka Jhalra, a beautifully restored stepwell where locals gather to cool off and socialise. Take time to wander the Old City markets, bursting with silver jewellery, spices, and hand-dyed textiles.
Later, visit Sambhali Café & Boutique, an inspiring LGBTQ+ and women-led initiative supporting empowerment and education in Rajasthan’s conservative heartland. Meet the team, hear their stories, and enjoy coffee that truly makes a difference.
As the sun sets, dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the illuminated fort — a magical finale to a day filled with pride, heritage, and heartfelt connection.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
Overnight: Udaipur
Day 10 Jodhpur to Udaipur: Marble Temples, Hillscapes & Folk Dance Magic
Sacred artistry, scenic drives, and an evening of music and movement.
After breakfast, say farewell to Jodhpur and journey south toward the romantic city of Udaipur. Along the way, stop at the magnificent Ranakpur Jain Temple, an architectural masterpiece of white marble adorned with 1,444 intricately carved pillars — no two alike. Enjoy lunch nearby before continuing through the Aravalli Hills, where winding roads reveal glimpses of rural Rajasthan at its most serene.
Arrive in Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” and settle into your hotel. As evening falls, enjoy a performance of Rajasthani folk dance by the talented Kala Artists, a group dedicated to preserving local music and cultural traditions. The rhythmic beats, colourful costumes, and joyful energy capture the very essence of Udaipur — artistic, soulful, and timeless.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Overnight: Narlai (Heritage Palace)
Day 11 Udaipur: Temples, Palaces & a Sunset on Lake Pichola
Temple mornings, palace afternoons, and a golden sunset over tranquil waters.
Start your day with a visit to one of Udaipur’s historic temples, where soft chants and fragrant incense fill the air. Then step into the regal world of the City Palace, a vast complex of courtyards, balconies, and museums that overlook shimmering Lake Pichola. Wander through rooms adorned with glass mosaics and antique mirrors, discovering the artistry and legacy of the Mewar dynasty.
As afternoon turns to evening, embark on a sunset boat ride across the lake — a serene journey that offers breathtaking views of the Jag Mandir Palace, rising elegantly from the water. As the sun sinks below the hills, enjoy the tranquil beauty and golden reflections that make Udaipur one of India’s most romantic cities.
Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Overnight: Jodhpur (Heritage Palace)
Day 12 Udaipur: Astrology, Artisan Traditions & a Home-Style Cooking Class
Royal insights, artisan encounters, and a joyful evening of cooking and connection.
Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore Udaipur at your own pace. Perhaps take a peaceful walk by the lakeside or relax with coffee and a view of the city’s ornate skyline.
Later, discover why Udaipur is known as a centre of creativity and spirituality. Visit a local astrologer for an introduction to royal palm reading, an ancient art said to reveal personality and destiny. Continue on to meet miniature painters, descendants of artists who once adorned the City Palace — watch as they transform natural pigments from stones and vegetables into exquisite works of art.
In the evening, join a hands-on cooking class with a local host in her family home. Learn to prepare classic Rajasthani dishes, share stories over home-cooked food, and experience the warmth of true Indian hospitality.
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Overnight: Jodhpur
Day 13 Udaipur to Delhi: Reflections, Relaxation & a Farewell Feast
A scenic flight, shared memories, and a celebratory final night together.
After breakfast, enjoy a final glimpse of Udaipur’s lakes and palaces before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Delhi.
Upon arrival, check into a comfortable hotel near the airport and take time to relax or enjoy some last-minute shopping at Aerocity’s boutiques and cafés.
In the evening, gather with your travel companions for a farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable journey you’ve shared — from palaces and forts to friendships and pride. Raise a toast to new connections, vibrant cultures, and the spirit of discovery that defines every Adventure Proud experience.
al meal with your fellow travellers.
Meals included: Breakfast Dinner
Overnight: Delhi (airport hotel)
Day 14 Delhi: Farewells, Reflections & Departure
Fond goodbyes, final memories, and the promise of future adventures.
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning before your departure transfer to Delhi International Airport. Take with you the colours, sounds, and stories of India — from the bustling bazaars of Delhi and the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal to the royal palaces and warm smiles of Rajasthan. As you bid farewell to your fellow travellers, reflect on the connections you’ve made and the experiences that have touched your heart.
Though your journey comes to an end, the memories of India’s heritage, pride, and hospitality will travel with you long after you’ve returned home.
Meals included: Breakfast
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Arrival & departure transfers to/from the joining & finishing point hotel (Delhi)
- Adventure Proud Tour Host from start to end of the tour
- Local guides in each destination for deeper cultural insight
- Domestic flight: Udaipur → Delhi
- Accommodation in boutique 3–4 star heritage hotels, havelis & palaces
- Daily breakfasts, plus 7 lunches and 8 dinners as per itinerary
- Private, air-conditioned transport for all included activities
- Guided sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
Jeep safari in Deogarh, boat ride on Lake Pichola, and cultural performances - Adventure Proud’s inclusive small-group ethos — community, connection & pride
What’s Not Included
- International flights to/from India
- Visa fees for India
- Meals not specified in the itinerary (most lunches, some dinners)
- Drinks, including alcohol, unless otherwise stated
- All items of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, minibar, etc.)
- Mandatory travel insurance (must include medical & evacuation coverage)
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Optional activities (e.g. astrology readings, personal shopping)
