India and Maldives Luxury Honeymoon
Trip highlights
- Glide along Udaipur's shimmering lakes
- Explore the stunning architecture of Amber Fort
- Take a private tour of the City Palace
- Set off on game drives in search of tigers
- Marvel at the Taj Mahal during sunrise and sunset
- Relax on the tranquil beaches of the Maldives
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. This bespoke trip includes:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Expert-guided tours
- Private transfers and internal flights
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1-4 Udaipur
- Days 4-6 Jaipur
- Days 6-8 Ranthambore National Park
- Days 8-9 Agra & the Taj Mahal
- Days 9-14 Maldives
- Days 1-4 Udaipur
- Days 4-6 Jaipur
- Days 6-8 Ranthambore National Park
- Days 8-9 Agra & the Taj Mahal
- Days 9-14 Maldives
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Three nights in Udaipur
The scenic city of Udaipur sits surrounded on all sides by the wooded Aravalli Hills, its grand palaces reflected in serene lakes. The old city is a bustling jumble of alleys and side streets, but tranquility is never far away, be it boating on one of the lakes or a panoramic view from the hilltop Monsoon Temple. For shoppers, Udaipur’s ancient bazaars and a vibrant arts scene make it a great place to find intricate Mughal inspired miniature paintings, marble and silver craft. For those seeking some adventure, the rolling countryside outside the city waits to be explored.
Where you could stay
Udaipur
Overview
The Leela Palace Udaipur is a spectacular modern incarnation of a Mewari palace, reached by an ever-so-romantic boat cruise. But, as grand as the building is, it is the views over the waters of Lake Pichola to the City Palace and the Aravalli mountains beyond that steal the show.
All 72 rooms and 8 suites make the most of the lakeward vista. Each are embellished with traditional elements of Rajasthan design and a roster of contemporary luxuries.
Around the grounds you’ll find a huge lakeside swimming pool, ornate courtyards and a fabulous spa. Dining in the city has been taken up a notch by the fine Indian fare on offer at Sheesh Mahal and intricate international cuisine at The Dining Room. There’s also a well-stocked wine cellar and bar.
Activities on offer from The Leela Palace include heritage walks of nearby architectural gems, lake cruises, horse and camel rides, tours to rural villages outside Udaipur, antique shopping and more.
→ Find out moreUdaipur
Overview
On the banks of Lake Pichola across the waters from Udaipur, The Oberoi Udaivilas stands surrounded by lush gardens and the forests of what were once royal hunting grounds.
The hotel itself is a sprawling palace of ornate domes, breezy courtyards and sunlit corridors – an architectural reflection of Udaipur’s lakes and canals – with glimpses out to Pichola and verdant grounds.
There are 86 rooms and suites, many of which open out onto azure private and semi-private swimming pools with views across the lake to Udaipur’s City Palace, while others look into the estate’s gardens and wildlife sanctuary – home to deer and wild boar. The style is a blend of ornate Mewar with subtle modern amenities. In addition to private pools, the suites feature their own outdoor dining pavilions.
During your time here, explore Udaipur and beyond on private boat and walking tours, venture out into the Aravalli Hills to visit remote tribes and hidden temples, or relax with indulgent spa therapies and yoga sessions.
Suryamahal and Chandni are all-day indoor and outdoor dining venues for multicultural cuisine, with Udaimahal the place for fine Indian dining. Unique dining experiences, such as learning to cook with the chef, lunching while cruising on the lake and intimate private dinners can also be arranged. And naturally the bar is an elegant venue for classic cocktails.
→ Find out moreUdaipur
Highlights
- 66 rooms and 17 suites
- Three restaurants and a bar
- Jiva Spa Boat
- Large outdoor pool
- Classic car hire
- Heritage walks
- Boat rides on Lake Pichola
- Private dining experiences
- City tours
Overview
Built as a pleasure palace by a young prince in 1746, it has since been tactfully restored to its former glory, its fine white marble walls glowing orange at sunrise and purple at dusk
66 rooms and 17 suites are designed to capture a different mood and period from the palace’s long history, each with stunning views across the lake to the surrounding hills and Udaipur or into the lush courtyard gardens.
This spectacular setting is best enjoyed in its panoramic glory from the rooftop Bhairo restaurant. Neel Kamal is the place for authentic Indian specialities, or Jarokha if you’re after a more informal spot to eat throughout the day. Unforgettable private dining experiences – such as out on the lake aboard a 150-year-old boat – can also be arranged.
During the day, find secluded spots around the palace to relax, bathe in the swimming pool, treat yourself on the Jiva Spa Boat or spend some time at handsome Amrit Sagar bar. Across the lake’s waters, explore Udaipur on city tours, heritage walks and even hire a vintage car for the day.
→ Find out moreUdaipur
Overview
Situated in the heart of the countryside, a little way north of Udaipur, RAAS Devigarh is a romantic hill-top palace that has been sensitively transformed into a luxurious boutique retreat.
The dramatic rural setting and ornate 250-year-old architecture have been allowed to take centre stage as interiors were renovated in a minimalist style, a unique blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and subtle modern touches.
There are 39 suites, all large and light with mother-of-pearl headboards and marble-based beds. Some have balconies and window seats – perfect nooks to spend a little time with a book from the library – and others with particularly impressive bathrooms and private sun decks.
Start your days here with a rooftop yoga session as the sun rises over the Aravalli Hills before a day out exploring the surrounding countryside by horse, mountain bike or on foot. There are also excursions to nearby villages and ancient Jain temples as well as into Udaipur itself.
Return to the pampering spa, then enjoy a sunset from the bar, ending the day with wonderfully fresh Indian and international cuisine at the restaurant.
→ Find out moreExploring Udaipur
through architecture
on foot
through art
by bike
through art
by bike
Tour of Udaipur's City Palace
The City Palace, sat on the banks of Lake Pichola, is one of the architectural wonders of Rajasthan, its detailed art and workmanship a tribute to the skills of local craftspeople. A collection of towers, domes and arches, the Palace illustrates several architectural styles including Moghal and Rajput. The royal family claim to be ‘surya vansh’, descendents of the sun, and so the whole structure faces east and there is a stunning bejewelled image of the sun at the entrance. Inside the Palace there is an interesting collection of Rajput miniature paintings and the Crystal Gallery which houses a collection of art and furniture.
Guided walk through Udaipur's old city
Enjoy wandering the old city with your guide, winding your way through lanes that teem with cows, elephants and people. You’ll pass shops, folk art hung on the walls of houses and beautiful latticed haveli windows.
Jal Sanjhvi water painting
Jal Sanjhvi is the art of drawing on water, a popular ritual performed at temples dedicated to Krishna where coloured powders are used to draw iconic images onto water. A full canvas takes about five hours to create, and you’ll arrive in time to see the picture completed.
Cycle tour around Udaipur's lakes and surrounding countryside
This is a great introductory ride to see a side of Udaipur rarely visited by tourists. You will be taken by boat to a jetty where you will hop on your bikes ready to explore. Ride past the three lakes west of Udaipur town and through nearby villages, farms, and rolling green hills.
Two nights in Jaipur
Where you could stay
Jaipur
Overview
Located well away from bustling Jaipur, The Oberoi Rajvilas is a sprawling fort-like retreat with some 32 acres of incredible gardens full of verdant trees, fragrant flowers and strutting peacocks.
Revived local techniques were used to recreate vernacular pink lime walls, grand Mughal arches, gold leaf frescoes, high domed ceilings and magnificent crystal chandeliers, giving the whole place an unmistakably palatial feel.
There are 71 rooms, luxury tents and private villas spread around the resort, many laid out in small clusters ideal for families or small groups wishing to stay near one another.
A serene 18th-century Shiva temple hosts Hindu blessings, meditation and morning yoga classes and a mansion of similar vintage is now the indulgent Oberoi Spa. The resort also boasts a fully-equipped fitness suite, putting green, two floodlit tennis courts, a croquet lawn and an outdoor pool.
Both restaurants have indoor and outdoor dining areas. The Surya Mahal is open throughout the year and has an extensive menu of world cuisine. Raj Mahal is open during the cooler months of October to April and serves rarely found Indian delicacies. Private dining can also be arranged.
→ Find out moreJaipur
Highlights
- 13 rooms and suites including two spectacular Royal Apartments
- Art Deco-style swimming pool
- The Polo Lounge bar
- Two decadent in-house restaurants
- A spacious and relaxing spa retreat
- Situated in the heart of the Pink City
Overview
Built in 1729 as a private rural retreat for the Maharaja of Jaipur’s wife, the RAAS Rajmahal Palace has remained an opulent oasis even as the city has grown around it.
Still owned by the royal family of Jaipur, in the halcyon days of the British Raj it embodied the glamour of ‘Jaipur Life’. As the preferred private residence of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, the dashing polo player, the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, The Duke of Edinburgh, Jackie Kennedy and the Shah of Iran were entertained within its great walled gardens.
Today, it has been meticulously and daringly restored by designer Adil Ahmad, with grand chandeliered rooms embellished with intricate thematic wallpapers and luxurious fabrics.
With an initial 14 royal apartments, suites and palace rooms, ranging from palatial to genuinely royal – one room built specifically for Queen Elizabeth II’s state visit in 1961 – service is both personal and accomplished.
Down the marble staircase, choose to lounge around the art deco pool or treat yourself at the spa. There are three dining options; the relaxed Colonnade, vibrant 51 Shades of Pink, and formal traditional dining at The Orient Occident. The Polo Bar celebrates the talents of Jaipur’s sporting tradition and afternoon tea on the lawn is a must.
If you can bring yourself to venture outside the Rajmahal’s walls, you’ll find Jaipur’s famed forts, palaces and local markets just minutes away, and tailor made culinary, historical and photographic walking tours can be arranged.
→ Find out moreJaipur
Overview
A royal residence dating back to 1835, the splendid Rambagh Palace, within its 47 acres of grounds at the heart of the city, is one of Rajasthan’s finest heritage hotels.
Grand and intricate examples of Jaipur’s craftsmanship abound with hand-carved stone and marble latticework, fine antiques and elaborate Mughal gardens, all adding up to a thoroughly regal feel.
This carries on into the 45 spacious rooms, with their period décor and modern amenities, and is amplified by an order of magnitude in the 23 grand suites.
Enjoy an aptly royal India feast in the French-style ballroom of Suvarna Mahal, or opt for something a little more informal at the Rajput Room or with tea on the lawn. Drink among hard-won trophies at the sophisticated Polo Bar, or beside a restored locomotive at Steam.
After a day exploring Jaipur, head back to the Jiva Grande Spa for traditional and signature treatments, lounge by the pool, try your hand at croquet or perhaps learn about the Rambagh Palace’s own fascinating history with a guided tour of the grounds.
→ Find out moreJaipur
Overview
Once the city house for the rulers of Samode, one of Rajasthan’s wealthiest towns, Samode Haveli has been converted into a luxury hotel that still has all the lavish touches of a royal residence.
Rooms and suites are scattered around a series of courtyards and gardens, each individually designed and reflecting the rich history and culture of the region. Tiled floors, antique furniture and furnishings upholstered in beautiful Indian fabric give them plenty of character. Some of the suites come with elegant arches, alcoves and pillars and the elaborate Sheesh Mahal suite is covered in floor-to-ceiling mosaics.
The wonderfully elaborate dining room is covered in hand-painted murals and lit by huge crystal chandeliers. Guests can also indulge in a decadent afternoon tea in the verandah lounge or enjoy a cocktail under the shade of the poolside cabanas.
Choose to relax in the Jacuzzi, steam room and spa or simply relax take a seat in the verdant gardens. You’re also ideally situated to explore the vibrant city of Jaipur with its myriad of architectural wonders and bustling markets.
→ Find out moreDiscover Jaipur
heritage markets
temples & traditions
architectural marvels
historic fortifications
architectural marvels
historic fortifications
Visit the bazaars of Jaipur's old city
Explore the Badi Chaupad and Johari bazaars in Jaipur’s old city. Wandering through the maze of stalls and studios, you’ll witness craftspeople working on all sorts of forms of local art including zardozi embroidery, gota work, kinary, silver ornament work and precious and semi-precious stonework.
Puja temple ceremony and market visit
Visit a temple and partake in a short puja ceremony, where the temple priest will perform worship for you and offer blessings. You will also take a walk through Jaipur’s traditional markets filled with colourful fruit and vegetable stalls. Set against the backdrop of Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob’s vernacular architecture, the bustling alleyways are still where many merchant families live today.
Visit the Jantar Mantar
Maharaja Jai Singh II, the founder of the pink city, was an avid astrologer and built five observatories around northern India. The Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five and houses what is believed to be the world’s largest sun dial. The observatory consists of 14 geometric devices for measuring time, tracking constellations and observing the orbits around the sun.
Tour of Amber Fort
Amber, the ancient capital of the region, still recalls its heydays in the majestic ramparts rising steeply along the contoured hillsides. It is an extremely well preserved building and during your guided tour you’ll visit the Jagmandir, or Hall of Victory, with its glittering mirrors, the Jai Mahal and Temple of Kali.
Two nights in Ranthambore National Park
Located in the southeastern corner of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park is perhaps the most famous place to spot wild tigers in India – and for good reason. You’ll drive through the park in search of these beautiful and awe inspiring creatures with an expert guide who knows the park and its big cats like the back of their hand. As well as being a top tiger spotting destination, Ranthambore is a beautiful park to explore with the 10th-century fort towering over the surrounding plain, its crenellations now sun loungers for Hanuman langurs looking down onto the lakes below. The rest of the park’s jungle is littered with ancient temple ruins, often a favoured rest stop for wandering tigers.
Where you could stay
Ranthambore
Overview
In Ranthambore National Park’s buffer zone, surrounded by ruggedly beautiful landscapes, the Aman-i-Khas is the most opulent way to safari here.
There are ten sumptuous tents spread out in the sun-dappled brushwood forest, each echoing Mughal pavilions with high canopied ceilings, huge beds and a sunken marble bathtub. White cotton curtains divide the sleeping, living and dressing areas with a sprawling daybed at the tent’s centre.
An outdoor fireplace is the heart of the camp, where stories of the day’s game drives are shared over G&Ts each evening. Other communal areas include the cool swimming pool and dining tent with its daily changing menu of local Rajasthani specialities or culinary concepts from Kerala made with vegetables and herbs grown in the camp’s organic garden.
Aside from twice daily game drives in search of Ranthambore’s abundant wildlife, explore nearby Khandar Fort or head out on birdwatching treks, all to be arranged with the round-the-clock help of your personal ‘batman’ butler.
→ Find out moreRanthambore
Overview
Just ten minutes from the wilds of Ranthambore National Park, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is a sumptuous way to spend your time on safari.
Spread around acres of verdant gardens, 25 expansive luxury tents evoke Raj-era royal caravans, with great awnings, four-poster beds and standalone baths, and luxurious modern features such as temperature control.
Follow torch-lit pathways past the lily pond to the swimming pool, sumptuous Oberoi spa and restaurant, where dining is centred around a great fire in the winter months and enjoyed in the gardens during balmy summer evenings. For something really special, the observation tower at sunset makes for a wonderful private dining setting.
Explore the famous Ranthambore National Park in search of tigers and other incredible wildlife, head out on walks with the resident naturalist, learn about the local heritage on cultural tours, take cooking classes and relax with yoga sessions. There are also a range of tailored children’s activities making The Oberoi Vanyavilas a great place for families.
→ Find out moreRanthambore
Highlights
- 12 luxurious canvas tents
- Organic herb and vegetable garden and farm
- Specialist photographic safaris
- Lively cooking classes and demonstrations
- Private evenings under the stars
Overview
Owned and run by a family who have played an active part in Ranthambore’s conservation efforts for over four decades, Sher Bagh is a luxurious camp that blends pioneering sustainability with an opulent style redolent of grand British Raj-era safaris.
Authentic and intimate, there are just 12 hand–stitched canvas tents pitched under a canopy of indigenous trees, each furnished with teak campaign-style furniture with en–suite stone bathrooms and wonderfully comfortable beds.
The exquisite Burra Sahib suite is set in a generous private space with its own swimming pool and unobstructed views of the reserve, while the Pukka Sahib suite has a walled garden surrounding a Jacuzzi and open-air shower. Both come with a private butler attending to your every need.
Thoughtfully designed menus combine Anglo–Indian and European lunches, with traditional Indian dinners cooked in outdoor clay ovens, all made with home-grown ingredients, handpicked from the organic herb and vegetable garden and the Sher Bagh farm. The culinary arts are central to life at the camp and guests are invited to participate in and learn from live cooking demonstrations. Meals can also be served in more secluded areas of the camp for those looking to spend a private evening under the stars.
Wildlife experiences here include expertly guided safaris inside the national park to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears and more. For those with specialist interests, birding walks are on offer as well as safaris accompanied by an expert photographer.
There are also tours to Ranthambore Fort and visits to meet local craftswomen from Dastkar Ranthambhore, a non–profit organisation that produces a wide range of colourful handicrafts. And, of course, one can opt to indulge in a range of treatments and therapies at the Sher Bagh Jungle Sp
→ Find out moreThe impact of your stay:
- Recognising the critical importance of Ranthambore National Park and the imperative for tiger conservation, the camp actively contributes to the cause. Over the past years, SUJÁN Sher Bagh has made a significant financial contribution of USD $ 2.197,777 million to Ranthambore National Park, solely through gate receipts. This substantial support underscores the camp’s commitment to wildlife conservation, making it a model for responsible and impactful travel.
- SUJÁN has adopted several schools across Rajasthan, where they play a crucial role in providing additional teaching staff to address shortages in qualified manpower. By fostering environmental education and improving sanitation facilities, the group contributes to the overall well-being and sustainable development of the regions it serves.
Overnight in Agra
It has graced the pages of books for centuries but nothing quite prepares you for seeing the Taj Mahal for the very fist time. The ultimate symbol of eternal love, this is one of India’s most memorable and emotive sights. The Taj Mahal sits on the banks of the holy Yamuna River within 42 acres of beautiful gardens. It is flanked by a mosque and a guest house, both made from red sandstone and mirror images of each other. There is no denying that the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is one of the main reasons people visit Agra. However, it’s well worth lingering to explore the city’s magnificent fort that lies just 3 kilometres to the west.
Exploring the Taj Mahal
At dawn
At dusk
Sunrise visit
As the light changes, so too does the colour of the Taj Mahal. One of the best times to visit is in the early hours when it is bathed in the ethereal glow of the morning light.
Sunset visit
Visiting the Taj Mahal at sunset is a truly magical experience, as the light plays on the marble of the tomb and its reflection shimmers in the water. Heartbroken after the death of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, during the birth of their 14th child, Shah Jahan set about building the world’s most beautiful monument in her honour. It took a workforce of more than 20,000 men 22 years to build, painstakingly making sure every slab of marble, precious stone and stroke of calligraphy was perfect. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive sights on earth and the world’s greatest symbol of love.
Five nights in the Maldives
Spend your days relaxing on the picture-perfect islands of the Maldives. While away the hours on the powder soft sand or take to the sparkling waters to discover the wealth of marine life that teems beneath the surface. Your luxury accommodation is the perfect place to simply switch off and enjoy the fine dining and impeccable service, but as soon as you want to take it up a gear and explore, the Maldives are one of the world’s most beautiful destinations in which to do so.
Where you could stay
Maldives
Overview
One for design-savvy travellers, the resort was conceptualised by the go-to-guy for extravagant hotels, Jean-Michel Gathy, who has now brought detailed perfection to the Maldives.
Every element of the resort oozes chic style, from the sand-disc artwork to the palm-fringed slate-lined pool and marbled bar. The 45 villas, each with its own private infinity pool, overwater deck, private beach and exquisite bathroom, have drawn celebrities and royalty including Prince William.
Travel 40 minutes by seaplane from Malé to reach this eye-pleasing oasis. Guests can pamper themselves with spa treatments, an onsite hair salon and impeccable service with each villa assigned its own butler and concierge.
Other than the obvious water sports options including snorkelling and diving at nearby reefs, the resort also has a tennis court, gym and a kids’ club.
→ Find out moreMaldives
Overview
This lively barefoot resort sits on a secluded island just 25 minutes from Malé via seaplane. With house reefs to discover the thriving marine life and a sociable atmosphere in the evenings, there is no need to venture beyond its tantalising white sand shores.
The wooden, bamboo and thatched roof bungalows unite a tranquil feel with modern-day amenities. The villas that sit on the wooden decking over the sea allow you to slip straight into the shallow lagoon for snorkelling. Beach villas are more simplistic with front terraces leading onto the sand.
Dining here consist of the main sand-floored buffet restaurant, offering an extensive range of international dishes. Or there’s the à la carte beachfront grill just a few steps from the waters edge. As the sun sets, head to one of the bars for DJ-spun tunes.
As well as some of the best diving and snorkelling available, leisure is more than catered for here too, with 15 exclusive spa villas including four water treatment villas.
→ Find out moreMaldives
Overview
The embodiment of minimalist elegance, the 33 overwater villas sit on snaked wooden decks, where you can slip straight into the soothing turquoise lagoon for world-class snorkelling and diving on the private reef.
The suites on Makunufushi island resemble a collection of Kerelan boathouses, each with a private sundeck, vintage-style ceiling fans, whitewashed walls, and lavish en-suite with roll-top bathtub. The ultra-private one-bedroom villas also offer dining bales and outdoor showers.
As one of the smaller resorts, there is a definitive calmness to Cocoa Island that is hard to beat. From the gardens to the infinity and hydrotherapy pools, yoga pavilion to the renowned COMO Shambhala spa, wellbeing is central to life here.
The resorts main restaurant, Ufaa, has a daily-changing menu specialising in Southeast Asian and Mediterranean dishes, using organic vegetables and freshly caught seafood. Romantic candlelit dinners and glamorous picnics are served on the beach.
Diving and snorkelling are the main attraction here, with parrotfish, rays and small sharks spotted in the surrounding waters.
→ Find out moreWhy book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
Jacada designed a once-in-a-lifetime trip to India and the Maldives for our honeymoon. We spent 9 nights in northern India, traveling to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Udaipur then 4 nights in an overwater villa in the Maldives. The travel designer and concierge team member from Jacada assisted us with planning every last detail and provided excellent, well-informed recommendations for all…