Rajasthan - Desert & Palaces

Rajasthan - Desert & Palaces
15 Days
Delhi
Rajasthan
Delhi
India
2,200 km

Overview

This motorcycle journey through Rajasthan combines classic Indian highlights such as Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur with remote and lesser-known regions of this impressive Indian state. Handpicked accommodations in former palaces and carefully designed routes make this tour a truly special experience.

Rajasthan—“the Land of Kings,” as the name already suggests—is a place of grandeur. One of India’s largest states, it encompasses both the vast expanses of the Thar Desert and some of the country’s most fascinating cities. The history of the Maharajas, the aristocracy, and the colonial era is often romanticized. While a critical perspective on the sometimes questionable legacy of monarchic power structures is appropriate, it cannot be denied that these periods left behind remarkable architecture and extraordinary palaces that continue to captivate visitors. The landscape itself is equally compelling, with a strong, rustic charm: the colours, forms, and scenery of this rugged region offer an extraordinary riding experience and leave lasting impressions.

India is an intense interplay of sensory impressions—from food to sounds and smells, and the sheer visual density of everyday life. Poverty, simple living, wealth, and luxury coexist side by side, and Rajasthan brings all of these contrasts together in a striking way. Urban traffic is chaotic and often challenging, yet most travelers handle it well and come to embrace it as an intriguing part of the overall experience. At the same time, great importance is placed on balance, recovery and rest: palace hotels and experienced tour guidance provide comfort, calm, and orientation after demanding riding days.

For many, this journey marks the beginning of a deep connection with an extraordinary country—India: complex, challenging, and profoundly impressive at the same time.

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At A Glance

Best Travel Time October, November, February, March
Tour Start / End Delhi / Delhi
Duration 15 travel days, 13 riding days
Total Distance Approx. 2,200 km
Daily Rides 110 to 340 km
Road Conditions Mainly paved roads, with occasional short sections of gravel or sand. Overall, Rajasthan’s road network is well developed. This tour is well suited for riding with a passenger.
Motorcycles Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. Upon request, Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 or Royal Enfield Bullet 500 (left-side gear shift, electric starter, front disc brake) are also available.
Riding Skills No special requirements, just good nerves and a sense of humor to handle Indian traffic. Suitable for pillion passengers.
Group Size Minimum 4 and maximum 10 riders. There is always space for a passenger in the support vehicle.
Accommodation Mainly former palaces and forts converted into hotels, as well as some mid-range hotels
Included Services Motorcycle rental, fuel, support vehicle, mechanic, all accommodations, breakfast, lunch snack, dinner, drinking water with meals and on the road, all entrance fees, continuous tour guidance
Highlights Taj Mahal, Udaipur (“Venice of the East”), the desert fort of Jaisalmer, the Rajput palaces, and the colorful splendor of traditional Rajasthani attire
Tour Guide From arrival to departure, the entire tour is accompanied and supported by an experienced local, English-speaking guide. Our tour guides ride their own motorcycles and are much more than just road captains — they ensure smooth logistics, share local knowledge, and take care of the group throughout the journey.
Extras Local mechanic in the support vehicle, also available as a replacement rider
Important An Indian visa is required and must be applied for online in good time before the trip (not too early, not too late). Asia Bike Tours also offers a visa service. Simply send us a short email with the subject “Visa Service India”.

ITinerary

Day Description
Day 1 Delhi – Neemrana (approx. 120 km): We travel by bus directly from the airport to the palace hotel Neemrana Fort. The comfortable two-hour drive helps us ease smoothly into the atmosphere and spirit of Rajasthan right after landing.
Day 2 Neemrana – Jhunjhunu (approx. 124 km): After a short introduction to the Royal Enfield motorcycles and the basics of Indian road traffic, we do some practical exercises before heading out on our first ride. The route leads into the Shekhavati region, famous for its beautifully decorated town palaces known as “havelis.”
Day 3 Jhunjhunu – Mandawa – Bikaner (approx. 200 km): Today’s ride takes about four hours and brings us to Bikaner. A visit to Fatehgarh Fort offers our first real impression of the opulent lifestyle of the Maharajas. Afterwards, we head to the unusual Rat Temple—certainly not for the faint-hearted, but truly unique. Those who prefer can relax in the gardens of the hotel instead.
Day 4 Bikaner – Jaisalmer (approx. 330 km): A long riding day along the edge of the Thar Desert. The medieval fortress of Jaisalmer rises like a guardian above the desert sands. We explore this beautiful and historic city.
Day 5 Jaisalmer surroundings: Short excursions into the nearby desert and free time to enjoy the sunset from the weathered walls of the old fortress.
Day 6 Jaisalmer – Osian (approx. 230 km): Back on Rajasthan’s open roads, we ride on to Osian. Although the town is small, it is home to an impressive number of ancient Jain temples carved from stone. An introduction to the Jain religion and excellent local food make this day especially memorable.
Day 7 Osian – Jodhpur (approx. 65 km): A short ride takes us to Jodhpur. The day is filled with sightseeing. Mehrangarh Fort is one of the best-preserved fort museums in India. The spice market is equally fascinating—rich aromas, vibrant colors, and insights into traditional trade invite us to linger. In the evening, we enjoy a special dinner overlooking the old city.
Day 8 Jodhpur – Ghanerao (approx. 120 km): We follow smaller roads toward Ghanerao. The charm of this place is immediate. The dry desert is now behind us, the landscape has turned green, and gentle hills add variety to the ride.
Day 9 Ghanerao – Kumbalgarh – Udaipur (approx. 180 km): The route leads through the Aravalli Mountains and the Ranakpur National Park. Hidden in a quiet valley lies the 15th-century Ranakpur Temple, built from white marble and supported by 1,444 finely carved columns holding up 29 temple roofs. We continue through traditional Bhil villages before stopping at the gates of the historic Kumbalgarh Fort, one of the largest fortresses in India, and then ride on to Udaipur.
Day 10 Udaipur: This fairytale-like city sits beside a chain of lakes. The Fateh Prakash complex and the old town are within walking distance of the hotel. A relaxed day with a city stroll, local sightseeing, and a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
Day 11 Udaipur – Chittorgarh – Bijaipur (approx. 130 km): Part of our rural, off-the-beaten-path exploration. We ride to Chittorgarh, one of the largest fortresses in Asia, and continue on to Bijaipur, where village life offers a glimpse of everyday rural India.
Day 12 Bijaipur – Bundi (approx. 140 km): Bundi is a favorite stop for many guests, known for its blue houses, a lively and authentic market with no tourist souvenir shops, and a charming guesthouse.
Day 13 Bundi – Karauli (approx. 75 km): Riding through lush green landscapes, we reach Karauli. The ancient temples and evening rituals are especially fascinating.
Day 14 Karauli – Bharatpur (approx. 160 km): The final riding day of the tour. We enjoy the fertile countryside before ending the day in Bharatpur.
Day 15 Bharatpur – Agra – Delhi (approx. 220 km): A long and rewarding day. An optional bird-watching rickshaw ride through a small national park is available. After breakfast, we continue to the Taj Mahal. Thanks to the new highway, we comfortably reach Delhi Airport on this memorable final day.
Extension Additional nights in Delhi or a short side trip to Jaipur, the “Pink City.”

Dates & RATES

November 14, 2026
November 28, 2026
15 Days

The Rajasthan tour offers an upscale standard with hotel accommodations in palaces and charming havelis.

Rider: €3,780

Pillion (Passenger): €3,280

Single room supplement: €680

February 2, 2027
February 15, 2027
15 Days

The Rajasthan tour offers an upscale standard with hotel accommodations in palaces and charming havelis.

Rider: €3,780

Pillion (Passenger): €3,280

Single room supplement: €490

November 13, 2027
November 27, 2027
15 Days

The Rajasthan tour offers an upscale standard with hotel accommodations in palaces and charming havelis.

Rider: €3,780

Pillion (Passenger): €3,280

Single room supplement: €490

Questions about this tour? Message us on WhatsApp
Deposit: €300 on booking (€400 if a domestic flight is included), balance due 6 weeks before the tour starts. Cancellation fees: up to 60 days before departure 30%, 60–30 days 50%, 30–15 days 80%, after that 100%. Full details in our Terms & Conditions.

Map

Gallery

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More questions? See our General FAQ
Do I need an international driving license?
How many kilometers do we cover per day?
What clothing and gear should I bring for the tour?
Can a local SIM card be purchased in India?
Do I need a visa? Passport, entry requirements and driving license for India
Can I take pictures freely in India?
Can I fly my drone in India?
Cash, Cards & Payments — What You Should Know
What vaccinations are recommended for India?
What are typical souvenirs from India?
Which motorcycles will we be riding on this tour?
What cultural etiquette should be observed in India?
Can I smoke anywhere in India, and what about e-cigarettes?
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What people are saying

Cher Shankar.
J'ai le plaisir de te dire que mon voyage au Népal a été un vrai régal. C'est vrai que tout était fait pour avoir un beau voyage à moto enfield. La météo nous a été favorable, les lieux que tu as choisi pour nous héberger sont accueillants et propre et partout la nourriture est merveilleusement présentées et colorées, on y mange tellement bien.
Les routes sont comme je le recherchai terribles et caillouteuses. Les changements paysages et de climats sont grandioses, quel beau souvenir.
Ce voyage sans toi n'aurai pas eu la même saveur. Tu es joyeux et communicatif. Tu nous emmène dans des endroits encore authentiques vers une population accueillante. Chaque matin on pouvait t'entendre nous décrire le déroulement de la journée avec carte géographique. Aux arrêts tu as souvent une anecdote ou une histoire pour compléter ce qu'on regarde. Le soir aussi tu as de quoi nous en apprendre plus sur ce pays le Népal. Mon voyage prochain sera aussi avec toi en 2025. A bientôt

2025-02-06

Dear Heinrich.

A happy New year.
Last year I tried Edelweise Bike-Tour in NZ.
And Japanese one in Spain&Portugal.
I realized your tour is the best.
I hope everything is fine with you.

Kazuo Yamashita

2012-10-01

Dearest Heinrich:
Steve and I wanted to “THANK YOU” for such a wonderful trip through Shangri-La, China! We had such an incredible time – our heads are still spinning from all of the wonderful culture we experienced. As I mentioned to you many times, I only wish we would have had helmet cameras to capture all of the sights, sounds, animals and cultural dress we saw as we traveled through all of the different villages. It was a once in a lifetime experience and you and your crew made the trip so easy – we could have never experienced that on our own. All of the stories about your travels were so interesting and your knowledge of the area was very captivating. You are PERFECT at what you do. It’s very clear you love your job or can you even call it a job? We really enjoyed the fact you were right with us on the whole trip from breakfast to late evenings sharing a glass of wine.
We watched “Seven Years in Tibet” (as you recommended) and that kind of put it all together about the Tibetan culture and what happened to them. They are such a happy, warm group of people. I feel like we saw terrain from the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia to the Rocky Mountains in Colorado to Baja Mexico. The bikes were perfect for the trip. Being on a dirt bike made it a lot easier navigating on some of the roads.
I only hope we can make it on another one of your trips in the near future – we would love to go to India. It says a lot for your business when you have repeat customers come back and do other trips as well. You are always welcome to come visit us in California – we could do our own little trip through Baja.
We wish you all the best in your travels! If ever you write a book – please put us on the list. I believe this was the best way to see the country – on the freedom of a motorcycle.
THANK YOU FOR AN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME……..
Sincerely,

Shelly & Steve Morefield
shelly & steve, L.A

2011-08-26