01 Day: Arrival Delhi
Meeting and assistance on arrival at the airport, our representatives welcome and escort you by a private car and transfer to the hotel, whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would hand over the documents and brief the tour programme to you. Overnight at the hotel.
Delhi, capital city of the Federal Republic of India. It is one of India's fastest growing cities. It has sprawled over the West Bank of the river Yamuna, straddling the river. Delhi blends an historic past and a vibrant present. Delhi has some of the finest museums in the country. New Delhi was proclaimed the capital of India by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944) & is tree-lined & spacious. Legend has it that the Pandavas, the august heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi, then called Indraprastha, around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.
02 Day: Delhi
After breakfast take sightseeing tour of historic
city visiting Old Delhi visiting the majestic Red
Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the
largest mosque in India, both built by emperor Shah
Jahan of Taj Mahal fame, Rajghat - memorial of Mahatma
Gandhi & a Rickshaw ride past through the silver
street in Chandani Chowk, the city tour continues
covering New Delhi, visiting Rashtrapati Bhawan, one-time
imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India
Gate, a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers
martyred during the Afghan war; the Laxmi Narayan
Temple, built by the Birlas, one of India’s
leading industrial families; Humayun’s Tomb,
lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple , Qutub Minar , built
by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty; in the
evening you can visit see speculative Light and Sound
Show at Red Fort. Return to the hotel for overnight
stay.
Light and Sound Show, A spectacular sound and light show at the Red Fort. Which makes the 5,000 years old history of the city come alive. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic and historic environs of the Red Fort, select episodes from the annals of Delhi's historic and legendary past are vividly brought to life. Special effects combine with the unique ambience to make this show a hauntingly unforgettable experience.
03 Day: Delhi - Mandawa
(275 kms: 5 hrs)
After breakfast checkout the hotel and drive to Mandawa,
on arrival transfer to the hotel. After lunch and
relaxation visit Mandawa town, stroll through the
bustling bazaars and pick up things of your interest.
Evenings there is a special program of music and dance
performed by local artists, participate in the dance
and feel the life of the people and their hospitality.
Overnight at the hotel.
Mandawa, Founded in the mid 18th century. Manawa skyline today is dominated by an imposing mirage like fort now a heritage hotel that is maintained in the classic medieval theme with the modern luxuries. The painted archway is painted with interesting forms of paintings of Lord Krishna and his cowherds. The sprawling architecture houses a different theme in different wings. The spacious rooms are adorned by intricate interior wall paintings and mirror work with open terrace that offers a panoramic view of the whole town.
04 Day: Mandawa - Bikaner
(185 kms: 5 hrs)
After breakfast visit the Shekhavati region an important
town of the years gone by, to see number of remarkable
Havelis and Castles in the nearby towns of Nawalgarh
and Laxmangarh. These havelis are museums in themselves,
numerous havelis built by the rich merchants as their
residence in 18th and 19th century. After lunch, drive
to Bikaner on arrival transfer to hotel. After relax,
take an excursion tour to Deshnok to see the Temple
of Karnimata - at this temple rats are held sacred
& roam freely within the temple complex. Spotting
a white rat in this temple is believed to by lucky.
Evening free for relax. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Bikaner, This is 500-year-old town standing still in time. The rulers here built beautiful forts that echo of opulence and images of monsoon clouds in this dry land. The wealth of its architectural heritage lies in its forts, palaces and temples– magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone, are living. Here is a temple where rats are held sacred. Today the city is known for flourishing industries of food, wool and camel breeding .The genesis of Bikaner dates back to 1488A.D, when a Rathors prince, Rao Bikaji, son of Rao Jodhaji of Jodhpur, chose a barren wilderness called ’Jangladesh’ and transformed it to a charming city called ’Bikaner’, after the founder’s name. Not only do the traditions come alive here in colourful bazaars and Havelis, Bikaner is also famous for the best riding camels in the world.
05 Day: Bikaner - Jaisalmer
(330 kms: 7 hrs)
After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Bikaner
covering Junagarh Fort - constructed between 1588
and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, fort has a 986 meter long
wall with 37 bastions & two entrances, Bandh Sagar
Temple - The 16th century Jain temple, is the most
important temple of this complex. If time permits
visit Camel breeding farm. Later visit Lalgarh Palace,
residence of Royal family of Bikaner. After visit
drive to Jaisalmer - 330 kms, en route visit to the
massive Fort Pokharan, the town Pokhran came to the
limelight when several nuclear tests were conducted
here during the 1970's and the 1990's. Pokharan Fort
is Built in 1532-1584 the yellow sandstone Pokhran
fort, though not as grand a fort as some of the others
in Rajasthan has a few exquisite palaces like the
Mangal Niwas, the Rani Mahal and the Phool Niwas or
the Flower Palace, visit to Pokhran Museum: housed
inside the fort’s premises, after visit continue
to drive to Jaisalmer, on arrival transfer to the
hotel. In the evening you can visit Gadisar Lake in
the main city or the local market to acclimatize with
the city atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel.
Note: Optionally you can stay overnight at
the Sam Sand dunes in luxury tented accommodation,
enjoying the starry night with ethnic food, folk dances,
bone fire and camel safari in dues in nights hours.
Jaisalmer, the city of the golden fort is a fantasy in yellow sandstone in the heart of the Thar Desert. Rawla Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput King, founded the city in the year 1156 A.D. Perched atop the Trikuta Hill; it stands tall against miles of gleaming sand. The sunset has a peculiar glow here. As the night descends, the sky goes up in flames, which fade leaving a few embers, till it becomes black. A breathtaking sight indeed! Every house, here, is exquisitely carved, having filigreed work all over. These houses date back to 12th – 15th century. And hence Jaisalmer is called ’the Museum city’.
06 Day: Jaisalmer
After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Jaisalmer
covering Jaisalmer Fort - built on the highest point
of the Tricuta hill, consisting of 99 bastions. Outstanding
features are Megh Durbar & various temples, Salim
Singh-Ki-Haveli & Patwon-Ki-Haveli - some of the
beautiful mansions with stone carving and latticework
of breath taking intricacy, later after lunch drive
to Sam Sand Dunes - 45 kms en route visit the ancient
Temple of Lodurwa, Amar Sagar and Mool Sagar Complex,
built in 1815 AD, The complex also houses a summer
palace where some beautiful paintings and pictures
are displayed. On arrival at Sam Sand Dunes and transfer
on Camels and enjoy camel safari to discover the various
sights and sounds, the ruins and the temples in and
around Jaisalmer in an authentic and leisurely fashion
with entertainment by folk performers, visits to villages,
and chatter from colorful guides thrown in. After
safari drive back to Jaisalmer for overnight stay.
07 Day: Jaisalmer -
Jodhpur (290 kms: 6 hrs)
After breakfast checkout and drive to Jodhpur, en
route visit to Osian Village, ruins of an ancient
city called Osian, an oasis in the desert, a drive
to this ancient township takes one past undulating
terrain, punctuated by desert stretches and little
hamlets. Osian has 15 beautifully sculpted Jain and
Brahmanical temples. Of these, the most outstanding
ones are the earlier Surya or Sun Temple and the later
Kali temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the main temple
dedicated to Lord Mahavira. On arrival transfer to
the hotel. In the evening you may opt to visit On
the Rocks a garden restaurant serving ethnic food
followed by live music and folk dance, located at
Ajit Bhawan. Later return to the hotel for overnight
stay.
Jodhpur, The home of Rathors – The awesome princely city of Rajasthan. Founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha, today Jodhpur is one of the largest city of Rajasthan. Once the capital city of the Marwar State, crowning it is the imposing Mehrangarh Fort. The old city is situated at foothill of a hillock. The city built in a high wall 10kms, long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. Umaid Bhawan Palace could be defined as Taj Mahal of North India. The city carries rich heritage and culture and flourishing industry of wood, cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops.
08 Day: Jodhpur - Mount
Abu: (275 kms: 6 hrs)
After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Jodhpur
including Clock Tower, Mehrangarh Fort situated at
an altitude of about 125 meters and is spread over
an area of 5 sq. km and it has seven gates, Jaswant
Thada is a white marble memorial built in memory of
Maharaja Jaswant Singh, followed by visit to Umaid
Bhawan Palace which is a majestic Palace building
that presently functions as a hotel and museum. After
lunch check out the hotel and drive to Mount Abu.
On arrival transfer to the hotel. In the evening you
can visit Sunset point and Nakkhi Lake. Overnight at the hotel.
Mount Abu, The only hill station of Rajasthan, crowning at the highest peak of the Aravali hills at altitude of 1220 meters. It is one of the prettiest hill stations in the country. Mount Abu was dedicated to Lord Shiva before it became a Jain Pilgrimage Centre. The biggest draw for Mount Abu is the Dilwara Jain Temple for its carvings. The hill boasts of a rich vegetation and thick forest. It stands out like an oasis in arid environs.
09 Day: Mount Abu -
Udaipur (220 kms: 5 hrs)
After breakfast sightseeing of natural attraction
and splendid temples: Dilwara temples consisting of
five Jain temples built at the beginning of the 11th
century with intricate ornamental carvings represent
the climax in the art of decoration in stone, followed
by Gomukh temple, Vimala Vasahi, Bhramkumari Temple,
Achalgarh Fort. Later drive to Udaipur En route visiting
the Jain temples at Ranakpur Temples of 12 Century
– The cluster of temples, made of intricately
sculpted white marble, built out of marbles with 108
carved pillars each carved differently from others,
Come across as a marvellous feat of architecture.
One can have lunch at Maharani Bagh Hotel in Ranakpur
and visit to local families on the way. After visit
continue to proceed to Udaipur, on arrival transfer
to the hotel. In the evening you can take a boat ride
at Lake Pichola, opt for a dinner at one of the most
speculative and luxury hotel: Lake Palace, amidst
at the lake. Overnight at the hotel.
Udaipur, On the banks of the shimmering lake Pichola, is one of the most romantic cities of Rajasthan. Nestled among the lush hills of the Aravali, it has inevitably been dubbed the 'Venice of the East'. It is a kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carries the flavor of the heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. Founded in 1568 A.D by Maharana Udai Singh, the city is a harmonious Indian blend of whitewashed buildings, marble palaces, lakeside gardens, temples and Havelis. According to the legend, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder was hunting one day, when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the Lake Pichola. Maharana followed the advice of the hermit and founded the city. The marvelous architecture of the palaces is spelled bounding.
10 Day: Udaipur
After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Udaipur,
visiting City Palace built in 1559, a small palace
over looking at the Lake Pichola, the additions were
made to it by successive Kings of Udaipur gradually
evolved become the larges place in Rajasthan, main
attraction of Place are Durbar Hall, Crystal Gallery,
Palace Museum and Jagdish Temple. Later visit Saheli
Ki Bari that is a small ornamental garden built in
the honour of Royal Ladies for recreational purpose
and visit Lok Kala Mandal collection of folk art items
like folk dresses, ornaments, puppets ,masks, dolls
folk musical instruments, folk deities and paintings.
Opened seven days a week, puppet shows and folk dancing
are conducted every evening from 1800 to 1900 hours,
in an adjacent open air theatre. & Shilpgram to
see the village arts & crafts. Followed by visit
to Eklingji & Nagda Temples - built in white marble
with a double storied porch on the bank of Lake Bageela
- 22 kms from Udaipur. Overnight at the hotel.
Chittourgarh, the town known for its massive fort atop hill, crowned on a 6kms long hill, covering an area of 280 hectares with fortifications, temples, towers and palaces. The city can be single out for its glorious past and valor, unique to the Rajput tradition. Chittourgarh is fortified settlement, which is history witnessed a number of sieges but refused to bow before foreign invaders. Tales of Princess Padmini are told here who was known for her chivalry and beauty. A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts and palaces.
11 Day: Udaipur - Chittourgarh
- Udaipur (112 kms: 3 hrs)
After early breakfast, first take an excursion to
Chittourgarh. Spread over 13 square kms, unlike other
forts you can explore this fort by the vehicle you
are traveling, Chittourgarh fort is the mightiest
Fort in Indian History, The pride and glory of Rajasthan.
A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its
imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular 'chhatris'in
the fort vicinity visit Kirti Stambha, Rana-Kumbha
Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera Temple and Kumbha Shyam
Temple and Kalika Mata Temple, State Archaeological
Museum. Later drive back to Udaipur. In the evening
free for individual activities. Overnight at the hotel.
12 Day: Udaipur - Deogarh
- Pushkar: (275 kms: 6 hrs)
After breakfast checkout and drive to Pushkar en route
visit the magnificent Deogarh Mahal and see the royal
past of the glorious palace now converted into a heritage
hotel. You can opt for lunch at in royal heritage
hotel. Later continue to drive to Pushkar, on arrival
at Pushkar, transfer to the hotel, evening free for
relax or a walk at the Ghats of Pushkar Lake. Overnight
at the hotel.
Deogarh in Rajasthan is situated on the boundaries of Mewar, Marwar and Merwara, about 80 miles north-east of Udaipur. At a height of about 2100 ft above sea level, it is cooler than other parts of Rajasthan. The chief of Deogarh, known as 'The Rawat' was one of sixteen umraos (feudal barons) entitled to wait upon the Maharana of Udaipur, the capital of Mewar. These type of feudal estates, called 'Thikanas' were sanctioned by the ruling Maharana to a nobleman either due to blood relationship or for an act of valour. Deogarh is also famous as a school of miniature painting. Some Deogarh miniatures embellish the personal collection of the present Rawat Sahib. Frescoes of this art form can also be seen on the fort walls. The palace also has some interesting rooms to venture through - Sheesh Mahal - the colourful hall of mirrors, is one of them.
Pushkar Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem - Pushkar. Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search for his abode on earth, performed the supremely spiritual Vedic yagna at Pushkar. It is thus the site of the only Brahma Temple in the world. A city of Pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and ghats Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage. Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality that casts a lure to visit again and again.
13 Day: Pushkar - Jaipur
(135 kms: 3 hrs)
After breakfast visit the only temple of Lord Brahma
surrounded by Pushkar Lake. On the banks of the lake
you will see devotees taking dip into the holy waters
of Pushkar & offering prayers. Also visit the
Pushkar Fair Site, which is right opposite the Pushkar
Lake. Optionally you can visit Ajmer Khwaja Dargah
in Ajmer (11 kms). After lunch drive to Jaipur, on
arrival transfer to the hotel. Later in the evening
visit to Birla Temple, speculator marble temple, glitters
in the in the night, afterwards at the time of dinner
visit to Chokhi Dhani - an ethnic 5 star resort serving
Rajasthani & Continental cuisine with live music,
astrology, games, folk dances and music, puppet shows
in an ambiance of an ethnic village. Return to the
hotel for overnight stay.
Jaipur, Widely known as the ‘Pink City. This city is color washed pink to welcome Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria of England who visited India in 1883 A.D. The city was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides, crowned by formidable forts and majestic palaces, mansions and gardens. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is sub-divided in to nine rectangular sectors symbolizing nine divisions of universe. Jaipur is the first planned city designed in accordance with ‘Shilpa Shastra’- epochal treatise of Hindu architecture.
14 Day: Jaipur
Today after breakfast explore the Pink City with an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, enjoy the experience of ride on elephant back to and from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. Afternoon sightseeing tour of City Palace in the heart of Jaipur is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum. Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was constructed for the royal ladies to watch the royal processions without being seen, all monuments are located in the vicinity of City Palace Complex of Jaipur. Later late afternoon is kept free to visit the famous Markets of Textiles, Gems, Carpets, and handicrafts. Jaipur is an ideal place for buying souvenirs. In the evening take a cycle rickshaw ride to explore the colourful market of Jaipur city, optionally you can see the movie at Raj Mandir Cinema Hall, which is most beautiful cinema hall in Asia. Overnight at the hotel.
15 Day: Jaipur - Samode
- Jaipur (45 kms: 1 hr)
Today morning take an excursion to Samode, (45 kms:1 hr) - the old caravan city of Samode locked up in its walls and dominated by the castle, on arrival after refreshment visit at Samode Palace, the Sheesh Mahal- the hall of mirrors. Late afternoon take camel cart ride to explore the Samode Fort and the semi desert village of Samode, witness the culture and traditional of villagers. Later in the evening drive back to Jaipur. Overnight at the hotel.
Samode, a serene little village, recognized for its Haveli, baugh (lavish garden) and fort, main attractions are Samode Palace and Samode Baugh The Samode Palace, now converted in to lavish heritage hotel, surrounded by hills and lush greens, is an incredible exhibition of Rajasthani architecture and décor. Built in the late 16th century, the Samode Palace was Amber ruler Prithviraj Singhji's gift to one of his sons. Stained glass windows, frescoes-adorned staircases, intricately carved walls and painted ceilings make the palace look splendid. The Samode Bagh was built by Rawal Sheo Singhji in the 17th century. Resembling a Mughal Garden the Samode Bagh was the private relaxation zone of the Rawals of Samode. Having an enviable collection of flora, surrounded by water fountains, the baugh is a must-see during travel to Samode. Camel safaris and elephant rides are organized here daily for the amusement of tourists, especially children. The evenings witness cultural music and dance shows. The Rajputana Splendour tour of Samode will help you get a feel of Indian culture.
16 Day: Jaipur - Agra:
(230 kms: 4 hrs)
After breakfast check out the hotel and drive to Agra, en rout stop over at Fathepur Sikri, the Old deserted town of Mughal Dynasty –Fatehpur Sikri built in red sandstone in honor of Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important edifice here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwan-e-Khas entirely unique in its concept is a tall vaulted room with an intricately carved central pillar and capital supporting a platform that once held the emperor's throne. The airy Panch Mahal a 5 storied structure rising in pyramidal fashion was probably used by the ladies of the court. Set like a jewel in a courtyard of pink sandstone is the finest building here, the marble Tomb of Salim Chisti enclosed by finely carved, lacy marble screens. The Buland Darwaza, an imposing gateway 54 m high was built to commemorate Akbar's Aligarh the famous university town is a center of Islamic studies. Akbar built in 1492, The Tomb is combination of Muslims and Hindu Architectural styles. Later continue to proceed Agra. On arrival check in to the hotel. Optionally in the evening you may visit to the souvenirs market of Agra, one should visit Oswal Emporium where they have built a Mini Taj Mahal inside their showroom and it took 10 years for the artists to complete the mini replica of the Taj. Overnight at the hotel.
Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. A pleasant town with comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendant of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra, and the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri, is conveniently close to Delhi. Besides the Taj Mahal are Agra Fort, Sikandra, Ram Bagh and Itmad-Ud-Daulah-35 kms away are the imperial ruins of the Mughal city, Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabanad, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.
Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.
17 Day: Agra - Delhi
(200 kms: 4 hrs)
Early morning witness incomparable Taj Mahal, it’s
speculative view at the time of Sunrise, the architectural
modern day wonder of the world; this monument is a
fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles
is one of the wonders of the modern world. Taj, endowed
it with some of the loveliest buildings in the world.
Later drive to Delhi en route you visit to en route;
you can visit Sikandra to see the Tomb of Mughal Emperor
Akbar. Also visit to Mathura “Land of Krishna”.
Visit the temple in Mathura followed by a visit to
Krishna Janam Bhumi and the museum. Proceed there
after visiting the Bankey Bihari temple, ISKCON temple
and other temples in and around Vrindavan. After visit
continue to drive to Delhi, on arrival transfer to
the hotel. Evening is free for individual activities.
Overnight at the hotel.
Mathura, is the nucleus of Brajbhoomi. This is the place where Lord Krishna was born in a prison cellar. The city, today, is famous for its many temples dedicated to the Lord. Located at Katra, Keshav Deo, the temple is thronged by pilgrims from all over the world. The Dwarkadesh Temple, built by Seth Gokul Das of Gwalior in 1814, is situated in the heart of the city. It is adorned with some exquisite paintings depicting the entire life of Krishna. The Vishram Ghat on the bank of Yamuna is the place where Krishna rested after killing Kansa.
Vrindavan, 15 kms from Mathura, is famous for its numerous temples - both old and modern. It is believed to have been the stage of Krishna's romantic trails. Vrindavan is home to about 4,000 temples- both big and small. The Hindus for ritual bathing use the numerous bathing ghats here. Perched on a high cliff near the Kalia Mardan Ghat is the Madan Mohan Temple. Another temple of importance is that of Radha Ballabh built by Sundar Das in 1626. The Govind Dev Temple stands among the most impressive temples of Vrindavan. Among the modern places of worship, the colossal temple of Pagal Baba and the impressive ISKCON Temple are names worthy of mention.
18 Day: Delhi - Hometown (By Air)
The day is free for leisure and individual activities.
Later transfer to the airport to board
the scheduled flight for hometown. On departure the
tour concludes with happy memories.