Romance of Rajasthan!!
For someone from the West, India provides an authentic adventure – stimulating, absorbing,
daunting, sometimes moving and shocking. Here is one of the world’s great dramas; an ancient,
vast and crowded land committed to the most formidably challenging exercise in mass
democracy. It is a spectacle in which hope, pride, paradox and uncertainty mingle and struggle. It
is conducted on the whole, and to India’s credit in the open. The lasting memories of the land are
hospitality, kindness, good humor and generosity. Here is a society of over a 1000 million people,
growing by a million a month, divided and united by language, caste, religion and regional
loyalties. It has often been described as a functioning anarchy; and it is in many ways an amiable
one, of marvelous fluidity and tolerance. Indeed, the true Indian motif is not the Taj Mahal, the
elephant or the patient peasant behind the ox drawn plough. It is the crowd, the ocean of faces in
the land of multitudes, endlessly stirring, pushing and moving. It is in this human circulation that
one sees India’s color, variety, busyness, and, senses also its power, vitality and grandeur.
Romance of Rajasthan!!
So far I am able to judge, nothing has been left undone, either by man or nature, to make India the most extraordinary country that the sun visits on his rounds. Nothing seems to have been forgotten, nothing overlooked – Mark Twain, from following the Equator
Day 01: Arrival / Delhi
Welcome to India, or as we say ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
Late night arrival, meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car. Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room)(No Meals)
Day 02: Delhi (Akshardham Temple is closed on Monday)
After a leisurely morning, we will proceed for a rickshaw tour in Old Delhi – one of the best examples in the world where you can witness the cultural mixtures of “old and new”. Uncover the sights, scents, and the flavors of “Purani Dilli” (Old Delhi) while you are sitting comfortably and safely in your cycle rickshaw. Our major highlights would include a visit to the Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid, Chandni Chowk market (literally meaning the moonlit square), Darba Kalan (a 17th century jewel street), Kinari bazaar (a market, especially for wedding & traditional outfits), Kari Baoli (Asia’s largest spice market), as well as the narrow alleys of Ballimaran (well-known for the renowned poet Mirza Galib’s house). Moreover, the people and the streets here have many stories to tell you about the yesteryears of Delhi!! Yes, Please, this magical ride will give you a perfect opportunity to discover a different Delhi; all Natural and all earthy from the safety of your rickshaw. Afternoon, we will visit the Akshardham Temple. It is situated along the bank of the Yamuna River, adjacent to New Delhi. It is a large complex of temples made of pink sandstone and white marble.
Temple was built by the Swaminarayan sect as a spiritual center of prayer and learning and as a resource center for the study of Indian Culture. Spread over 30 acres of the Eastern Bank of the Yamuna, the Akshardham Temple is a synthesis of Indian architectural styles. The design of the Akshardham Temple is inspired by temples from different parts of India. The sources include the temples of Badrinath in North India, Somnath in West India and Konark in East India. With a complex of temples and shrines set amidst sprawling lawns, prayer halls and spaces for meditation and communal gatherings, the Akshardham Temple is a new landmark in the National Capital Region. The Akshardham Temple is a religious and cultural highlight of Delhi.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room)(B)
Day 03: Delhi (Bahai Temple is closed on Monday)
Morning, we will also visit Gurdwara Shri Bangla Sahib, one of the most important historical and sacred pilgrimage destinations of the Sikh community in India and the most sacred among the destinations in Delhi. It was actually a Haveli or Bangla where Guru Hari Krishan Sahib Ji, the eighth Sikh Guru of the Sikhs, stayed during his tour to Delhi in 1664. The Guru was entertained as a royal guest by Mirza Raja Jai Singh in this bangla. Later this bangla became the memoir of the Guru and was later converted to gurudwara. It is estimated that more than 10,000 visitors visit this Gurudwara every day. Next, we will embark on a city tour of New Delhi. Our tour includes a visit to the QutabMinar – 72 meters high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Then, we will continue our expedition with a drive to the Lutyens Delhi which is considered to be the corridors of power and serenity. Our tour includes a drive pass through the Rashtrapati Bhawan, this vast, intricate work of mixed Mughal and Western architecture is one of the largest presidential residences in the world we will also visit the Parliament House as well as witness the majestic India Gate – a powerful tribute to our brave soldiers.
Following our drive pass to the Lutyens Delhi area, we will now visit the Humayun’s Tomb (1586), built by the Emperor’s widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, and commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture. Later, we will visit Bahai Temple. The Bahai House of Worship at New Delhi is one of the marvels of modern architecture. The temple gives the impression of a half – open lotus flower afloat, surrounded by its leaves. The shining pure white marble, the majestic dome, the petals clearly standing out create a sense of grandeur and awe. All around the lotus are walkways with beautiful curved balustrades, bridges and stairs that surround the nine pools representing the floating leaves of the lotus. It is a remarkable tabernacle of peace and beauty and an engineering feat that will set standards for centuries. Capturing the imagination with its simplicity and elegance this monument in marble is dedicated to the purpose of prayer, meditation and spiritual upliftment. From within its hallowed precincts rise in praise and glorification of the Almighty voices in unison, of Hindus and Muslims, Jews, Christians, Buddhists and Zoroastrians people of all castes, colours and cultures. There is no clergy in the temple, no idols, no pictures, no sermons, and no rituals. It is a place for communication between man and his Creator, God. The daily public services include selections from the holy books of all religions.
Overnight at Claridges, Delhi (Claridges Cabana Room)(B)
Day 04: Delhi / Udaipur (AI 469 - 1055 / 1215 Hrs)
Morning, we will transfer you to Delhi airport for your flight to Udaipur. Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representative will welcome you and transfer you to hotel, Fateh Garh. Evening, we will proceed to visit Shashi Cooking Class for a hands-on culinary experience to discover India and Rajasthan through her gastronomic delights. Our host Mrs Shashi is a well-known personality around Udaipur who is known for her mouth-watering delicacies that she prepares with love. Savour the fragrance of myriad spices, working in harmony to make the session memorable. Your host would also explain the nuances of traditional Rajasthani recipes. This would be an ideal activity if you wish to experience the true flavours and preparations of Rajasthani food in a comfortable and informal manner.
Overnight at Fateh Garh, Udaipur (Renaissance Room) (B)
Day 05: Udaipur
Morning, we will embark on the Heritage Walk, indeed the most romantic town of Rajasthan. We will enjoy the exclusive guided Walking Tour of ‘The Real Udaipur’ — know about the people of Udaipur, their living traditions, appealing localities and vibrant bazaars. We will walk through Udaipur’s most beautiful streets and sites, navigate hidden lanes, meet interesting residents and artisans, also witness pottery and bamboo craft. The tour is led by our expert “City Explorers” whose excellent local knowledge and passion will help us discover Udaipur. Main Features –
> We will make an excursion to the famous Ghats and historic temples on the banks of Lake Pichola.
> We visit an ancient step well which were once used for Drinking water.
> We meet a local family for a cup of tea in their 150 years old residence decorated with fascinating fresco paintings and mirror work.
> We will make a walk through sunarwada, meet silver and goldsmiths at work, we will also observe the traditional way of making clay potteries and water pitchers.
Afternoon, we will proceed on a tour of this ‘Lake City’. Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda – in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art. Then, move out to visit Saheliyon -ki-bari (the garden of maids of honour with numerous fountains which shows the unique life style of the royal ladies who once strolled here. Later, we will enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola. The island palace on the Lake called JagmandirPalace is quite fascinating. The Palace provided inspirations and ideas to the builder of the Taj Mahal. The banks of the lake provide interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and the laundry that takes place here. Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty. sanctuary in Kerala, Muthanga consists of tropical moist dry deciduous, evergreen forests, bamboo thickets and plantations, and is home to many varieties of birds and animals. The Sanctuary has a large population of pachyderms and has been declared a Project Elephant site.Elephants roam freely here and tigers are sighted occasionally as well. Various species of deer, monkeys and birds also live here. A drive along the road to Muthanga and further offers chances to watch these roaming animals.
Jeep Safari: The highlighted ecotourism programmer of Wayanad is the two-hour jeep safari conducted by the forest department in the tourist zone of the jungle. With the help of an expert guide and a driver, you can take on the wild. You would not know how time flies as the jeep bumps along the forest trail, revealing stunning spectacles every now and then. Herds of elephants and gaurs are a usual sight in the trail, while the sight of big cats comes as a bonanza. Jeep safaris are conducted in the morning and evening when animal activity in the tourism zone is relatively high. You need to hire jeeps from the entrance for the safari Timing: 07.00 AM to 10.00 Am (40 Jeeps are allowed) | 03.00 PM to 05.00 PM
Overnight at Fateh Garh, Udaipur (Renaissance Room) (B)
Day 06: Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur (311 Kms) (06 Hrs Drive)
Following breakfast, we will drive to Jodhpur enroute we will visit Ranakpur. Upon arrival in Ranakpur, we will enjoy an excursion to Ranakpur Temple the exquisite Jain Temple. Built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. The basement is of 48, 000 sq. feet area that covers the whole complex. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and eligibly domes supported by over four hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an engrossing sight. In the assembly hall, there are two big bells weighing 108 kg whose sound echoes in the entire complex. The main temple is of Chaumukh or four-face temple dedicated to Adinath. Following the excursion, we will continue our drive to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, we will check in to hotel, Ajit Bhawan.
After rest and relaxation, join us as we step into the blue city of Jodhpur – known for its opulent palaces and regal aura. Scratch the surface and you will be delighted with the eclectic people, living traditions and colorful culture of the city. This heritage walk not only gives you great sights, but also a true insight into the makings and beliefs of this great city of wonder. Take an enchanting walk through the narrow hidden alleys dotted with indigo colored houses, bustling bazaars and quaint boulevards. Mingle with the locals who further reveal the secrets of the blue city. Interact with the ingenious artisans to understand their craft, visit the historic Krishna temple, and meet the priest as well as his family. Also, discover the ancient step-wells (that plays a vital role in the religious and social life of the residents), sample out some mouth-watering sweets of Jodhpur (like GulabJamun, Mave Ki Kachorietc), and, visit the free community Kitchen, to feel the buzz of the city. The tour will be engagingly guided by specially trained “City Explorers” whose excellent local knowledge and passion is infectious. In addition to that, be prepared to be regaled with local tidbits over tea, by the residents of a more than a century-old house embellished with mirror work and fresco paintings.
Overnight at Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur (Vintage Suite)(B)
Day 07: Jodhpur / Osian / Jodhpur
Morning, proceed on a guided tour of Jodhpur. Our tour includes the massive fort. In olden days this must have been impregnable since its rocky base is scraped straight down making it nearly impossible to ascend. Once inside, royal palaces abound with fascinating history and priceless jewels, on to the armoury and Jaswant Tara – the Royal Crematorium.
We will also visit the public areas of Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Following the tour, we would drive to Osian for 01 hour, to experience Camel Safari. About the Activity:
> Riding the state’s most acclaimed animal for an exhilarating experience.
> Enjoy this amazing Camel Safari amidst the golden sand dunes of the Thar Desert.
> Upon arrival at the location of activity, you will be welcomed in the traditional Rajasthani way.
> Also meet with the desert family, have tea with them, and understand the cultures and traditions in this royal state.
> A sumptuous dinner at a well-appointed resort where you can use the washroom facilities also following the safari
> Do not miss a visit to the ancient temple in Osian village nearby
Overnight at Ajit Bhawan, Jodhpur (Vintage Suite)(B & D)
Day 08: Jodhpur / Jaipur (334 Kms) (05 ½ Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival in Jaipur, we will check in to hotel, ITC Rajputana. Morning, we will undertake a special yoga program conducted by a trained yoga teacher with years of experience in the field.The classes focuses on various YOGA asanas with detailed techniques that focus primarily on Pranayama & Dhyana (breathing & meditation).Further, the classes can be specially designed (for you) to overcome the specific ailments including heart and respiratory problems, hypertension, diabetes, orthopaedic conditions, and stress related issues. The class also includes warm up exercises to ensure zero muscle injuries, 8-12 basic yoga postures (Asanas) that help to activate all the chakras (energy centers) from crown to base. This is followed by Pranayama which helps cleanse the Respiratory system and give us fresh energy.
Overnight at ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (Executive Club)(B)
Day 09: Jaipur
Morning, we will proceed on a special tour. We have an interaction with women who are rubbing shoulders with men and are doing activities that were in India an area only for men. Do not be surprised if pretty and smartly dressed women take you through the old pink city on a memorable rickshaw ride. The Pink City Rickshaw group is a non-profit organization that aims to provide a new and unique form of employment opportunity to several women from low income households in Jaipur. Women are no longer prepared to sit in the home and be served by the male members in the family. The new Indian girl power is visible at its best where women are transformed from being inside their homes to making a living outside and in full public view. Ride on your rickshaw with your women drivers and see the highlights of the city. Also, get to know your driver at the same time as you travel through the streets. We will visit a local temple where we will participate in the evening Aarti (prayer) ceremony, visit the flower market and immerse you in the aroma of beautiful
fresh flowers. Also, we will make a stop to meet the local tea seller and have a cup of hot tea (chai) as well as witness the whole process of making tea whilst the Indian way. Our Rickshaw tour also includes a visit to the Albert hall.
We will visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens. Next, we will visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding hills. We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a Jeep. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their former royal residents. Later, we will visit the Panna Meena ka Kund. This beautiful place was constructed during sixteenth century. The place was mainly utilized as a place of social meetings. People from nearby places come here for getting water, swimming or just to hang out with their loved ones. During ancient times, this place was utilized mainly as water protects pool. This beautiful Kund has a unique architecture and styling. This Kund was designed by a Brahmin and constructed by craftsmen and engineers. We would also stop at Jal Mahal palace for photos. (From Outside Only)
Then, we will proceed on a tour Of the City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles, which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory – an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that give accurate predictions till date We will also visit Nahargarh Fort to achieve sunset views. Nahagarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the pink city of Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The view of the city from the fort is breath taking. Along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort it formed a strong defense ring for the city. During the Sepoy revolt of 1857 Nahagarh served as a refuge for Europeans fleeing from the havoc created by mutineers in neighboring states.
Overnight at ITC Rajputana, Jaipur (Executive Club)(B)
Day 10: Jaipur / Abhaneri / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra (243 Kms) (06 Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.
We will stop at the deserted capital city of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendor. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings.
Next, we will visit Abhaneri, it is a small town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur. The place is popular for the amazing ‘Baoris’ (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. Step wells are the unique concept of India. These big tanks were used as cool places of resort and water reservoir in parched days. It was a ritual to wash hands and feet before visiting the temple. Adjoining the Chand Baori, there is a temple, dedicated to Harshat Mata. This temple serves as the other tourist attraction of Abhaneri. Raised during the 10th century, the wrecks of the temple still boast of the architectural and sculptural styles of ancient India.
Following the visit, we will continue driving to Agra
Upon arrival, we will check in to hotel, ITC Mughal.
Overnight at ITC Mughal, Agra (Mughal Room)(B)
Day 11: Agra
Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down – the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one’s lifetime – Taj Mahal. A dawn visit to the fabled Taj Mahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colours of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Following, we return to our hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles, built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire. Afternoon is at leisure for your independent activities.
Evening, we will visit Mehtab Bagh. The Moonlight Garden was an extension of the Taj Mahal Garden – on the other side of the river. In 1652 Aurangzeb wrote to his father telling of a visit to the blessed tomb and commenting that the Mehtab Garden was completely inundated and has lost its charm, but soon it will regain its verdancy. The octagonal pool and the pavilion around it are in splendid condition. The Mehtab Bagh was lost under the mud but re-excavated in the 1990s. Originally, the garden was planted with fragrant flowers and used in the cool of the night as a place from which to view the Taj Mahal reflected in the octagonal pool and in the river. For those who want a slice of Indian history and a taste of its great cultural and colonial past, this evening we introduce a very special tour for you – “Agra by Night” – a perfect opportunity to view many of Agra’s famous landmarks at its floodlit best. Start the tour with a visit to the charming Agra Fort which marvels deep in the pages of Mughal history (Drive Pass). Plus, on the tour we will visit the Kali temple (Hindu temple of Goddess Kali), a popular Gurudwara (Sikh temple), the St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, and the Tirupathi Balaji Temple. Furthermore, we will now visit the Sadar Bazar (marketplace), where we will stroll around the narrow alleys of the market, and taste some delicious snacks as well as sweets including the famous “Agra Ka Petha” (said to have originated in the kitchens of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.
Overnight at ITC Mughal, Agra (Mughal Room)(B)
Day 12: Agra / Delhi (241 Kms) Delhi / Departure
Following a leisurely breakfast, we will drive to Delhi. Upon arrival, we would visit an Indian family for dinner. The evening is designed to give a feel and insight into Indian family life, as well as experience typical Indian hospitality and homemade Indian food. Following dinner, we will transfer you to International airport for your flight back home.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B & D)
END OF SERVICES
We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and
hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India ‘Please come back soon”
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!
TOUR INCLUDES:
– Accommodation based on Twin Sharing Basis
– Meals as per the itinerary only (B – Breakfast & D – Dinner)
– All journeys as per itinerary in a fine air conditioned Sedan car
– Local English speaking guides
– Entrances fees to the monument as per itinerary
– GST Levy, Toll, and Parking
– All driver expenses
– Bottled drinking water for road journeys
TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDES:
– Camera & video fee to monuments
– Meals other than mention above
– Expenses of personal nature such as laundry, drinks, tips, telephone calls etc
– Credit Card Transaction Fees