It’s not uncommon for a movie to inspire travel – think Eat, Pray, Love for one!
What that film did for Bali, The Best Exotic Marigold movies did for India. And for good reason – the colour, chaos and beauty of Rajasthan was a stunning backdrop for the heartwarming romantic drama acted out by an all-star cast including Dame Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, and Dev Patel.
Set mainly in Jaipur and Udaipur, certain scenes have inspired many a journey. The hotel of the title, Ravla Khempur, now operates as a hotel, about 50km from Udaipur, known for its Marwari horse-breeding stables.
Set on the shores of Lake Pichola and surrounded by hills, Udaipur is a contrast to the harsh deserts of the rest of Rajasthan. Beautiful palaces line the shores, the most romantic of all being the gleaming white Lake Palace set in the middle of the lake. Another, the Jag Mandir, was a refuge of the rebel Mughal prince Shah Jahan, later to become the creator of the Taj Mahal. A walking tour of the old town will reveal a labyrinth of medieval bazaars and flower markets, while a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola highlights the city’s backdrop of many-layered mountains.
Just on the outskirts of Jaipur lies the beautiful Castle Kanota Hotel – you may recognise it as the Viceroy Club in the movies. Once a castle, its open spaces and fruit orchards remain, combined with true family-style Indian hospitality. G&Ts on the terrace anyone? Jaipur’s bustling streets and its flower market were also scene stealers, as was the stunning Narain Niwas Palace, the country residence of a royal family and now a heritage hotel.
If inspired to cast yourself in an exotic marigold India, boutique travel company World Journeys can write the script, tailoring an itinerary to suit.
THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD
11-days Delhi to Udaipur
Capture the essence of the movie while staying in charming heritage hotels dating back to the 17th century. Learn how to cook delicious Indian meals, ride authentic Indian transport, and interact with villagers and locals. This is what India is all about!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Delhi – a rickshaw ride through the forts and chaotic bazaars of Old Delhi contrasts with New Delhi’s modern, cosmopolitan vibe.
Agra – the Taj Mahal at sunrise is a stunning and memorable moment.
Jaipur – take a walk through the bazaars, see a Bollywood movie at a heritage theatre, dine in a local family home, and a stay at the Castle Kanota Hotel.
Pushkar – this lakeside town offers a mystical desert charm with its timeless architectural heritage.
Narlai – a 15th-century village home to a fascinating tribal community.
Udaipur – this stunning city, once a Rajput stronghold, is a beautiful city of palaces and gardens.
For details contact your travel agent, or World Journeys
0800 117311 | worldjourneys.co.nz
