Classical Rajasthan Trip - Explore India

DAY 01 ARRIVE DELHI Upon arrival at Delhi Airport. You will be transferred to the hotel where you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. Delhi always remains one of the oldest and charming cities in the world. It will be a great fact to know that the city is a combination of eight different cities. Each city was built in different era, under different dynasty and by different rulers. The foundation stone of this amazing city was laid by George V, Emperor of India during the Delhi Durbar of 1911.The design of this city was done by British architects, Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker. It is purely a mixture of Old and new time which you will witness in this city, on roads and in monuments. The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures. Scratch beyond the gritty surface and you’ll swiftly discover that India’s capital is sprinkled with glittering gems: captivating historical monuments, magnificent museums, a vivacious performing-arts scene and some of the subcontinent’s yummiest places to eat. Afternoon proceed for the sightseeing of New Delhi. Visit Humayun Tomb which is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture which was inspired by Persian Architecture. Visit Qutab Minar 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. Later drive pass the Lutyens Building. It is an area in Delhi, specifically New Delhi, India, named after the leading British architect Edwin Lutyens. Lutyens laid out the central administrative area of the city. At the heart of the city was the impressive Rashtrapati Bhawan, formerly known as Viceroy's House, located on the top of Raisina Hill and then India Gate which is a national monument of India. Situated in the heart of New Delhi, it was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. It commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. Night in Delhi

DAY 02 DELHI-MANDAWA After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Mandawa (about 07 hours drive) Welcome to the world of Rajput warriors and wealthy traders. Just a few hours drive from Delhi, Shekhawati is an arid land famed for its brave warriors, rich merchant community and the beautiful homes they built. Mandawa is one of the many estates established in the region of Shekhawati. Founded in the mid-18th century Mandawa skyline today is dominated by an imposing fort, and havelis. Hindu Gods, Victorian women, freedom fighters, railway engines, and Rajput men stroking their moustaches all share space in these open art galleries. On arrival you will be assisted for check-in at the hotel. Night in Mandawa

DAY 03 MANDAWA-BIKANER After breakfast proceed for the visit of Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli has a depiction of Indra on an elephant and Lord Shiva on His Nandi Bull. Right across it is the Goenka Double Haveli with two gates. The haveli has a monumental façade of elephants and horses. Some of its frescoes are in bad shape. Nearby, the Murmuria Haveli has a train with a crowded level crossing. It also shows a low flying crow above the train. Apart from this there are some fascinating Havelis like Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli & Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli. Later proceed for a private road transfer to Bikaner (about 04-05 hours’ drive) Bikaner is famous for its Old Havelis. Bikaner was founded in 1486 by Bika, one of the fourteen sons of Rao Jodha. Bikaner - lying in the north of the desert state, bikaner is dotted with many sand dunes. More readily called the camel country, the city is distinguished for the best riding camels in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel Research and Breeding farms in the world. Night in Bikaner DAY 04 IN BIKANER After breakfast proceed for the visit of Junagarh Fort. It is an unassailable fortress, which had never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat. Apart from this there are different palaces i.e. Lalgarh & Laxmi Niwas Palace. And overt this there are some must visit temples of Laxmi Nath Temple, Bhandasar Jain Temple and Karni Mata temple. Karni Mata is worshiped as an incarnation of Goddess Durga. This temple is famous for rats which can be seen everywhere in the temple. A white rat, if spotted, in the temple is considered auspicious. Night in Bikaner

DAY 05 BIKANER-JAISALMER After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Jaisalmer (about 07 hrs drive). Jaisalmer which is sometimes known as "The Golden city", is a town in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the houses and temples are finely sculptured. It evokes utter magic and vibrancy of the desert. It’s straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. The surrounding desolate landscape evidences a stark, austere beauty. Night in Jaisalmer. DAY 06 IN JAISALMER After breakfast visit the Jaisalmer fort, it is situated on Meru Hill and Named as Trikoot Garh had seen the scene of many battles. Its massive sandstone walls are a tawny lion colour during the day, turning to a magical honey-gold as the sun sets. & Patwa ki Haveli There are five beautifully carved Havelies (Houses) near Mahaveer Bhawan, build by Patva brothers in 1800-1860 A.D. From the top of the Havelis we can see Golden view of the city and fort. It looks very fine during sun-rise time and full moon night. Afternoon will go to Sand Dunes. There will Camel Safari, Jeep Ride, Quad Biking, Cultural Dances and Music Shows and Gala Dinner in Dunes. Night in Jaisalmer(Hotel/Sand Dunes)

DAY 07 JAISALMER-JODHPUR After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Jodhpur (about 06 hrs drive) The Jodhpur city is well known by its nick name i.e. Blue City of India, was founded by Rao Jodhajo in 1459. Today it is the second largest city in State of Rajasthan where every building at a stretch of 10 Km is painted in same blue colour, earning Jodhpur the name of “ Blue City “. The city has a calm and peaceful life but its strategic location makes it an important base of Indian Army & Air Force. It is rich in history, which makes it one of the most vibrant places to explore. The Music, food, art and language blend in perfectly to gives one a lively experience of Indian culture that is very distinct to this region. Being at the onshore of Thar Desert, life has been influenced with ways of the desert folks. The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by the walls of the Magnificent Mehrangarh Fort. From its ramparts, enjoy a spectacular view of the Blue city and also the Grand Umaid Bhawan Palace, which is the residence of Current maharaja of Jodhpur Gaj Singh and also a Grand Heritage Hotel in the city of Jodhpur. On arrival you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. Evening walk in Local Market of Jodhpur. Night in Jodhpur DAY 08 IN JODHPUR After breakfast proceed for the sightseeing of Jodhpur, starting with Mehrangarh fort. It is one of the most splendour and impressive fort not only of Rajasthan but also in India. Fort which stands 100 feet on a perpendicular cliff and 400 feet above the sky line of Jodhpur, fabricated with red sand stone, which gives an amazing beauty to it. The author Rudyard Kipling defines it in a very charming way i.e. “A palace that might have been built by Titans and colored by the morning sun”. Then visit the Jaswant Thada which is towards the left of Mehrangarh fort, a white marble amazing monument is built which is known as Jaswant Thada. It is a 19th century cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II Night in Jodhpur

DAY 09 JODHPUR-NARLAI After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Narlai (about 03 hrs drive) On arrival you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. The drive to Narlai takes you through an enchanting forestscape and narrow roads, which are at times occupied by herds of cattle, who have to be slowly shephered out of the way. Quaint alleyways overrun by colourful bougainvillea and vibrant houses are the first features to catch your eye. cafes and colossal historic forts; instead, it offers forgotten stories, lost in the sandstorms of time. Afternoon tour of Narlai Village and interaction with villagers. Chance to know their life style, culture, food and about them. Night in Narlai

DAY 10 NAELAI-RANAKPUR-UDAIPUR After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Udaipur (about 03 hrs drive) enroute visit The Ranakpur Temples. Visit these spectacular white marble Jain temples which is situated in the Aravalli hills. The Jain Temples of Ranakpur are certainly creditable for their splendid architecture. There are more than 1400 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple. In the complex, there are several temples including Chaumukha temple, Parsavanath temple, Amba Mata Temple and Surya Temple. Amongst all of them, Chaumukha Temple is the most important and as the term Chaumukha suggests, this temple is four-faced. A place where the romance and beauty comes hand in hand, Udaipur, city of Lakes. The elevated hills and the beautiful lakes make a picture-perfect backdrop to the Udaipur city. Udaipur is regarded as one of the most romantic cities of the World and subsequently, also known as the 'Venice of East'. Udaipur city of Rajasthan state is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences - an inspiration for the imagination of the poets, painters and writers. Udaipur's kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, grand temples, lush green gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. The huge and amazing City Palace lines the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, with its balconies gazing out at Udaipur’s other famous landmark, the Lake Palace – a fairy-tale confection that seems to float on the lake’s waters, gleaming by day and spot lit by night making it a must see attraction which will be in your eyes forever. On arrival you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. Night in Udaipur. DAY 11 IN UDAIPUR After breakfast proceed for the visit of City Palace which was built over a period of nearly 400 years. The City Palace was built in a kind of flamboyant style and is the largest palace of its type in Rajasthan. If you closely experience then you will find a fusion of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. It gives an eye catching view of the city and surroundings because of its location on a hill. Continue you sightseeing by visiting Sahelion ki Bari also known as Garden of Maidens which was built in 18th century which depicts for the lifestyle of ladies in olden days. All around you will find the gardens, pools, and different variety of flowerbeds. Afternoon visit the Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Lord Shiva of Rajasthan. Initially the temple complex was initially built in 734 AD Bappa Rawal. The temple was re-built in 15 century. The marvellous carvings in this temple consists of 108 small and medium temples built in marble and sandstone and over this every Monday evening the Maharaja of Udaipur comes to this temple to pray. Later visit the Nagda temples, which was founded in 6th century, it consists of various small and big temples but the main temple in all is the “Sas & Bahu Temple” of 10th century. In which Sas (means Mother-In-Law) &-Bahu (means Daughter-in-law) respectively and this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Night in Udaipur

DAY 12 UDAIPUR-JAIPUR After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Jaipur (About 07-08 hrs drive) Jaipur, is also known with its nick name "The Pink city” of India, which was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, after whom the city has been named. In 1876, Prince Albert of Wales and Queen Elizabeth II visited the India. So to welcome him the whole city was painted in pink colour and after that pink marbles and paints are being used in the making of new buildings too and this put a tag of Pink city to it. This royal place is rich in heritage, culture and architecture. With amazing and splendid fortresses, majestic palaces, beautifully carved temples and havelis; which makes this city as an attraction in the minds of the tourist who is coming to India first time. It is not just the royal buildings and palaces that this city offers. Other than these captivating attractions, Jaipur displays exquisite handicrafts and spectacular jewellery. On arrival you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. Night in Jaipur. DAY 13 IN JAIPUR After breakfast proceed for the visit of Amber Fort which is set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592. Amer Fort is known for its artistic style of Hindu elements. With its large ramparts, series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks the Maota Lake, at its forefront. The aesthetic ambiance of this formidable fort is seen within its walls on a four level layout plan in a well turned out opulent palace complex built with red sandstone and marble consisting of the Diwan-e-Aam or the "Hall of Public Audience", the Diwan-e-Khas the Sheesh Mahal (mirror palace) and the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over the water cascade within the palace. The fort can either be reached by Jeep, on foot or, subject to availability, on elephant back. On the way back from Amber Fort stop at Jal Mahal for photography. Afternoon visit the City Palace was built between 1729 and 1732, initially by Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber. He planned and the outer walls, and later additions were made by successive ruler’s right up to the 20th century. The palace consists of many different courtyards and gardens which gives an amazing view and experience to the palace visit. The structure includes Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Pitam Niwas Chowk, Diwan-I-Khas, Diwan-I-Aam, Maharani Palace and Sri Govind Dev Ji temple. Over this Diwan-I-Khas are officially recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest sterling silver vessels. Then drive pass the Hawa Mahal which is also known as the “Palace of winds”. It was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, and designed by Lal Chand Ustad in the form of the crown of Krishna, the Hindu god. Later visit the Observatory also known as Jantar Mantar which is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments. The observatory consists of fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses, tracking stars' location as the earth orbits around the sun, ascertaining the declinations of planets, and determining the celestial altitudes and related ephemerides. Night in Jaipur

DAY 14 JAIPUR-AGRA After breakfast proceed for a private road transfer to Agra (about 06 hours’ drive) enroute visiting Abhaneri Village & Stepwell. Chand Baori (stepwell) in the Abhaneri village is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Rajasthan. It was built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty in 9th century AD. One of the largest stepwells in the world, Chand Baori was built to conserve water and provide a respite from the intense heat. It was a community gathering place for locals as well as royals. Chand Baori is an architectural wonder with 3,500 perfectly symmetrical, narrow steps. It is this exquisite geometry that draws local and international visitors to it every year. But Chand Baori is not easy to find, making it one of India’s hidden wonders. The play of light and shadow on the steps is what makes the structure so captivating. The baori narrows as one gets closer to the bottom. A double flight of steps on three sides takes one to the surface of the water below. The fourth side is a three-storeyed pavilion with intricately carved jharokhas (windows), galleries and balconies meant for the royal family to sit in. Adjoining the Chand Baori is the Harshat Mata Temple. This 9th-10th century temple is dedicated to Harshat Mata, who is considered to be the goddess of joy and happiness for the whole village. Agra, a city which is not known as the former capital of India (Hindustan) but as a city of Taj Mahal. It is situated on the banks of river Yamuna. Though Agra's history is largely recognised with Mughal Empire, the place was established much before it has linkages with the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is know that Sultan Sikandar Lodi, the Ruler of the Delhi founded Agra in the year 1504. After the Sultan's death the city passed on to his son Ibrahim Lodi. The golden age of this city began with the rule of Mughal Empire. During this period of time lot of building activity took place in Agra which had put this on the world map now. The founder of the Mughal Dynasty, Barbar, laid out first Persian garden on the banks of river Yamuna, which is known as Garden of Relaxation. His grandson Akbar raised the towering ramparts of the Great Red Fort along with a new city on the outskirts known as Fatehpur Sikri. His son Jahangir laid many gardens inside the Red Fort. And last but not the least Shah Jahan gave Agra city one of its priceless monument i.e. The Taj Mahal. Which was built in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Today this is one out of the Seven Wonders of the World. On arrival you will be assisted for check in at the hotel. Night in Agra

DAY 15 AGRA-DELHI Early morning visit The Taj Mahal which was known as “Crown of Palace” built by Shah Jahan as an eternal symbol of his love for his favourite and 3rd wife, whom he called Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is widely recognized as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage. The structure took 20,000 laborers and 22 years to complete. The Taj changes color depending on the time of day. Return hotel for breakfast After breakfast visit the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum in the city of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Often described as a "jewel box", sometimes called the "Bachcha Taj" or the "Baby Taj", the tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah is often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. Later proceed for a private road transfer to Delhi (about 04-05 hrs drive) On arrival you will visiting Old Delhi covering The Jama Masjid which is the last monument built by Shah Jahan in 1656. The Jama Masjid was designed to be a royal statement in many ways. It is located on a natural hill, south of Chandni Chowk, it was also called Masjid-I-Jahanuma (Mosque commanding a View of the world). After the visiting of Jama Masjid take a rickshaw ride through the snaking narrow lanes arranged accorded to trades, which is a fascinating experience. Some of these are Dariba, the silver and Jewellery market; Kinari Bazaar, specializing in trousseau wear and theatrical costumes. Later drive pass the Red fort which was constructed in 1638. The fort lies along the Yamuna River. It was the residence of the Mughal emperors of India for nearly 200 years, until 1857. It is located in the centre of Delhi and houses a number of museums. Later visit the Raj Ghat which is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi is a simple black marble platform that marks the spot of his cremation on 31 January 1948. It is left open to the sky while an eternal flame burns perpetually at one end. Evening will be drop at Airport or your Hotel. Tour End (Or) Note:- 1 extra night can be booked for you with additional charges. If you want an extra night. Otherwise, the Trip will end on the 15th. Evening will be assisted for check in at the hotel. DAY 16 LEAVE DELHI In the time, you will be assisted to board your flight for onwards sector.