1300 889 513
My recent escape to Jaipur and Utsav Camp at Sariska was more than just a getaway. It was a journey that unraveled in layers, much like the guided tours we curate at India Unbound. With my colleagues, I rode to Jaipur in a well-equipped car (I mean stocked with snacks, squishy pillows, and Wi-Fi) ensuring the journey was both comfortable and effortless. Our first stop was at magnificent Samode Haveli.
Picture this: a palace with yellow walls, showcasing the best of history, where every corner has a story to tell. The architecture, from intricate frescoes to arched corridors, felt like stepping back in time. But what truly made the stay exceptional was the hospitality. The staff treated us as if we were long-lost friends, greeting us with smiles, warmth, and gestures that made the experience personal.
Our day in Jaipur began with a Bollywood movie at Raj Mandir. It’s worth seeing a film here even if you aren’t into Bollywood, just to see the classic Art Deco interior. Afterwards, we went for a walk in the narrow street markets of Jaipur with our guide, Madhav Ji. His deep knowledge of the city added to our appreciation of the city. Strolling through the bustling lanes near Johari Bazaar, the scent of kachoris and samosas wafting through the air, we couldn’t help but try the offerings. Each bite was a burst of flavour, but nothing prepared me for the rich, spicy warmth of Mirchi ke Tipore or the tangy hit of Ker-Sangri at the famous Pickle Man of India store.
Dinner that night was a complete shift from the hustle and bustle of the markets. We dined at The Johri, where the low lighting and inventive fusion flavours gave the meal a mystical charm.
Day Two began with an early morning Tuk-Tuk ride to the milkman’s auction. We passed locals gathered around in small groups, their brass cans clinking as fresh milk poured out, their laughter and conversations filling the air.
From there, we wandered into the flower market. It was a riot of colours—vibrant marigolds and fragrant roses. It felt like Jaipur was saying good morning in the most beautiful way possible. The air was perfumed with flowers, and everywhere I looked, there were bright splashes of colour against the city’s earthy tones.
Soon after, we tried our hand at brass work at Maniharo Ka Raasta, and though our creations might not have been perfect, the experience was intriguing. Our walk through the city culminated with a visit to Govind Devji Temple, a peaceful stop that left us in awe of the city’s spiritual history.
Afterwards, we were in for a delightful morning tea experience. We found ourselves at a small, bustling stall where tea was prepared over a traditional coal chulha or bhatti. The smoky aroma added a rich depth to each sip, perfectly complementing the warmth of the early morning. As we waited in line, we watched locals savouring fresh kachoris, pakodis, and samosas —a true slice of Jaipur’s vibrant morning life.
The adventure shifted gears when we arrived at Utsav Camp in Sariska, nestled deep in nature, after a short halt at the haunted Bhangarh fort. The camp was serene, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lucky me got a chance to live in a Swiss tent all alone, while others were sharing a room (not to mention, it was a bit scary at night). After settling in, we embarked on a walk with a naturalist through the surrounding countryside—a peaceful yet thrilling experience, with the distant call of birds and the rustle of leaves underfoot. We felt as if we had been swallowed by the wilderness, surrounded by nothing but tall trees, the crisp smell of earth, and the whisper of the wind.
One of the highlights was the possibility of spotting leopards on our evening trek. The anticipation was palpable, each step, each sound in the distance, brought a rush of excitement. Though elusive, the leopards left traces of their presence in paw prints and distant calls, heightening the thrill of the journey.
And then, the sundowner! After the trek, we found ourselves in a secluded spot, where the golden hues of the setting sun washed over the landscape. With drinks in hand, we watched the sky shift from gold to crimson to deep blue. The air was still, except for the occasional rustle of leaves and the call of the wild. It was a perfect ending—a moment where time seemed to slow down, allowing me to soak in the raw beauty of nature.
With some great snaps, hefty notes, and an inscription that even Google failed to translate, we packed our bags and headed back to Delhi.
Looking back on the trip, I realise just how much having a guide enriches the experience. The stories and insights shared added so many layers to the places we visited—layers I would have missed on my own. The seamless transitions, from the streets of Jaipur to the wilderness of Sariska, were made possible by a well-planned itinerary and a good, patient driver. It’s these details and unique experiences that make private tours so special, turning travel into something more—a way to connect deeper with a place.
Until the Next Destination,
Twinkle
