Wellness & Heritage Tour of Rajasthan: Yoga, Meditation, and Palace Stays

The retreat begins at Castle Kalwar, a 150-year-old property 20 kilometers from Jaipur, owned by a decorated former general of the Indian Army. He and his wife live on the premises and are known for their gracious hospitality. Each morning starts with a yoga and meditation session on the rooftop, followed by a breakfast of fresh juices, fruit, and traditional porridge. From this base, you'll explore Jaipur's highlights—the Palace of Winds, the Observatory, the Birla Temple, and the Albert Hall Museum—and enjoy lunch at the famous Niros Restaurant. Days two and three take you to the amber-hued Amer Fort, where you can ride an elephant up to the gates, and later to the ethereal step-well of Chand Baori and the temple to Harsh, goddess of happiness. Afternoons include a 45-minute ayurvedic massage with a renowned Jaipur specialist and a folk dance show at the castle.

From Jaipur, the tour moves to Pushkar, an ancient holy town and the site of the world's only Brahma temple. The caravan then travels to the Phool Mahal Palace in Kishangarh, a lake-jutting palace still operated by the heir of the late Maharaja. Here, you'll tour Fort Kishangarh, visit a studio where miniature paintings are taught, and stroll the colorful streets. The itinerary also includes a jeep safari in Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary, home to the largest tiger population in India, and a visit to the 10th-century fort of Swai Madhopur. The tour concludes back in Jaipur at the boutique Khandela Haveli, with an excursion to Samode Bagh, a hidden palace with ornate frescoes. Every destination has its own character, but all share the same thread: a living connection to Rajasthan's royal past, hosted by families who still call these places home.

What sets this retreat apart is its host, KV Singh. A tourism planner for over 40 years, Singh is widely traveled and holds deep personal connections to the region's royal families—he is himself descended from the royal house of Khandela. His wife, a social entrepreneur, conducts study tours for volunteers and students. The retreat's focus is on wellness, but it goes beyond yoga and meditation to embrace the region's culture, history, and people. You will not only practice daily yoga, but also watch folk performances, learn to cook Indian food, and even meet schoolchildren at a village school, bringing fruit to share. It's an immersive, mindful way to see the real Rajasthan.

What's included

- 10 days, 9 nights luxurious accommodation in historical forts, palaces, and castles - 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 9 dinners, unlimited fresh juice & mineral water - Daily yoga and meditation sessions - Ayurvedic massages - Folk dance and puppet shows - Entrance fees to monuments and activities listed in the itinerary - Jeep safari in Ranthambore Tiger Sanctuary - Village school visit - Traditional welcome ceremony with rose petals and drums - Indian cooking lessons - Cultural tips (how to wear a saree or turban) - Meet scions of royal families over drinks and dinner - Airport transfers (Jaipur)

What's not included

- Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, tips) - Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary