Highlights: Visit the most important tourist destinations in the plains north India. Delhi the capital of India nerve center of all the political activities, magnificent forts and palaces of Jaipur. One of the eight wonders of the world the Taj Mahal, fascinating temples of Khajuraho and holiest pilgrimage of Hindus Varanasi.
Day 1 : Arrive Delhi
Arrive IGI airport Delhi. Met upon arrival at the international airport and transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel. Day 2 : Delhi to Jaipur
Morning tour briefing and orientation followed by a full day sightseeing tour of New and Old Delhi. In New Delhi visit Qutab Minar – built in red sandstone during early 13th century, tower of Qutab Minar is one of the tallest tower of its. 72.5 m tall, tapering from 2.75 m in diameter at its peak to 14.32 m at its base, wall consists of the verses from Koran the holy book of Muslims. Complex also hosts mosques and Iron Pillar (Ashoka Pillar) in the courtyard of the mosque, whose quality of the iron is exceptionally pure and has not rusted even after 2000 years.
Morning tour briefing and orientation followed by a full day sightseeing tour of New and Old Delhi. In New Delhi visit Qutab Minar – built in red sandstone during early 13th century, tower of Qutab Minar is one of the tallest tower of its. 72.5 m tall, tapering from 2.75 m in diameter at its peak to 14.32 m at its base, wall consists of the verses from Koran the holy book of Muslims. Complex also hosts mosques and Iron Pillar (Ashoka Pillar) in the courtyard of the mosque, whose quality of the iron is exceptionally pure and has not rusted even after 2000 years. Humayun Tomb – this 16th century monument is known as the first example of the monumental scale that would characterize subsequent Mughal imperial architecture. Built in the middle of the garden Humayun's Tomb is now one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments
in Delhi. Drive pass India Gate- built in the memory of 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their life during I World War fighting for British, this arch built on 1921 is a prominent site in Delhi.
Parliament House – designed by Sir Edwin
Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker the man behind the creation of master piece architecture all New Delhi, this 1927 circular building supported by a central dome is hub of world’s largest democracy. Stop at President House – Located on the Raisina Hills, Rashtrapati Bhawan as it is popularly called President House was originally conceptualized as House of Viceroy of India in1911 when British Empire decided to sift its capital from Calcutta to Delhi. This fortress like 340 rooms palace has been boasts of chandeliers from Belgium, Italian marble, Burmese teakwood, Dholpur stone inside.
In Old Delhi visit Jama Masjid - the last architectural extravagance of Emperor Shah Jahan, which he built shortly after the completion of Red Fort. Highly decorative it is the largest mosque in India its courtyard can accommodate 25000 devotees to offer prayer at one time. Drive pass Red Fort and visit Raj Ghat - cremation site of Father of the Nation ‘Mahatma Gandhi’ now boats gardens and a memorial. Afternoon depart Delhi by surface for Jaipur (264 Km). Arrive Jaipur and check in at hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Jaipur
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Morning proceed on an excursion to Amber Fort - ancient capital of Kachhawaha Rajputs rulers of Jaipur, Amber guarded one of the important defiles from invading enemies. Wander inside the Fort to watch extravagant Palaces to witness the opulence of Rajaput royal lifestyle amongst which summer palace, winter palace and mirror palace etc. are the most popular. Climb atop the forts ramparts on an elephant back. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jaipur city. Visit City Palace – official residence of the present royal family City Palace covers a large area divided into a series of courtyards, gardens and buildings. A part of this Palace is a now a museum housing Armoury, Textiles and Artifacts.
Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jaipur city. Visit City Palace – official residence of the present royal family City Palace covers a large area divided into a series of courtyards, gardens and buildings. A part of this Palace is a now a museum housing Armoury, Textiles and Artifacts. City Palace is delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture. Jantar Mantar - this 17th century astronomical observatory is an excellent example of the marvelous precision wherein each construction has a specific purpose to measure the position of stars, altitudes and azimuths or calculating eclipses and some of them still work.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 4 Jaipur to Agra
Morning depart Jaipur by surface for Agra stopping by en route to visit Abhaneri and deserted capital of Fatehpur Sikri. Abhaneri – One of oldest settlement in Rajasthan one can find the temple of local deity Goddess Mirth and Happiness. Temple is now in ruins and pieces of sculpture showing a fine degree of craftsmanship lie scattered around. However, highlight of the visit to this place is to see 10th century Baoris (step-well) and most awesome in Rajasthan. It is believed that well is an indigenous invention of the locals for rainwater harvesting. This 13 level step well is well fortified with flights of steps on the three sides is an interesting piece of architecture.
Fatehpur Sikri - Just 44 km away from Agra on the way to Jaipur is Fatehpur Sikri, which briefly served as capital of Emperor Akbar. It is believed that city was quickly abandoned due to lack of potable water. Palaces, meeting halls, courtyards inside the complex is in a remarkable state of preservation. Holy shrine of Saint Salim Chisti here is one of important pilgrimage for Muslims and Buland Darwaza which Emperor Akbar built to commemorate his victory on Gujarat is very imposing.
Arrive at Agra and check at hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 05 – AGRA
Morning proceed on a full day sightseeing tour or Agra visiting Agra Fort - four of the mighty Mughal rulers controlled their vast empire from here. Wander around the palaces built by successive emperors, which represents the excellence of Mughal architecture. Fort also serves a vantage point to view the Taj Mahal from a distance and it is believed that the Emperor Shah Jahan spend his file days in exile watching the Taj from here. Itmad-ud-daulah Tomb - built by Begam Nur Jahan wife of Jahangir, in the memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg one of generals in Mughal army, who had been given the title of Itimad-ud-Daula (pillar of the state). Primarily built from red sandstone with marble decorations, this monument also elegantly displays white marble and pietra dura inlay which is considered to be one of the fore runner of the Taj Mahal.
Afternoon visit the fabled Taj Mahal - the most beautiful monument of love, which is flawless to its conception and execution (remain closed to visitors on Fridays). It is aptly said that “beauty of the Taj Mahal cannot be described, it can only be experienced”. Stay on to view the monument changing its mood with the fading light of the setting sun.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 06 – AGRA to KHAJURAHO
Morning transfer to Agra Cantonment railway station to board the train for Jhansi. Arrive Jhansi and board awaiting coach to visit Orcha (30 Km) followed by lunch. Orcha - Founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap, Orcha’s grandeur has been captured in stone, the palaces and temples retain much of their pristine perfection. Visit Jehangir Mahal built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orcha.
Its strong lines are counterbalanced by delicate chhatries and trellis work, the whole conveying an effect of extraordinary richness. Raj Mahal Palace with its plain exteriors, crowned by chhatris, give way to interiors with exquisite murals, boldly colourful, on a variety of religious themes. Rai Praveen Mahal - the palace built for the beautiful paramour of Raja Indramani. It is a low, two storied brick structure, designed to match the height of the trees in the surrounding, beautifully landscaped gardens of Anand Mahal, with its octagonal flower beds and elaborate water supply system. Skillfully carved niches allow light into the Mahal which has a main hall and smaller chamber. Ram Raj Temple - the palace-turned temple with its soaring spires and palatial architecture - is one of the most unusual in India; also are the Chaturbhuj temple and the Laxminarayan temple.
Continue drive to Khajuraho (140 Km). Arrive Khajuraho and check in at hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 07 – KHAJURAHO
Morning start full day sightseeing tour of Khajuraho. Khajuraho temples were constructed between 950 and 1050 A.D. during the reign of Chandel Empire. Derives its name from the palm tree (Khajur) found in abundance in the area. Temples are considered the "high point" of Indian architectural genius in the Medieval period. Exquisitely carved sculptures on the temple walls depict scenes of daily life to erotic carvings parting lessons of art of love making. Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 exists today. Temples here are divided into two groups western and eastern. Some of the famous temples in eastern groups are Parsavanatha Temple - largest in the group of three Jain temples this temple was installed in 1860. The sculptures on the northern wall depict everyday activity, in awesome detail.
Within the temple, a throne faces the bull emblem of first tirthankara, Adinath. Ghantai Temple – another Jain temple depicting the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother, and a multi-armed Jain goddess perched on a winged Garuda. Adinatha Temple - the last of the Jain temples in the series is dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinatha, and is gorgeously adorned with sculptures of yakshis among others. Three Hindu temples in this group are the Brahma Temple, which has a four-faced lingam. The Vamana temple which is embellished with images of ravishing apsaras at their alluring best and Javari Temple, with its ornate gateway and lavish carvings. Some of the famous temples western group and certainly the best amongst the existing ones are Kandariya Mahadeo - largest and most typical Khajuraho temple dedicated to Lord Shiva soars 31 m high. The sanctum enshrines a lingam, while the main shrine is ornately carved and depicts various gods, goddesses, heavenly maidens in elaborate detail that leave the visitor spellbound. Chaunsat Yogini - the oldest surviving temple in the group (900 A.D.), this is the sole granite temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Vishwanath Temple - which enshrines a three-headed image of Lord Brahma. The exteriors are profusely carved, and facing the shrine is a Nandi Temple with a massive, 6 ft high Nandi bull. Lakshamana Temple - the lintel over the entrance of this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, shows the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu's consort. The sanctum is adorned with a three-headed idol of Vishnu's incarnations, Narasimha and Varaha. The latter, the boar incarnation also appears as a nine-feet high statue at the Varaha Temple.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 08 –KHAJURAHO to VARANASI
Morning at leisure or free for optional activities. Early noon transfer to airport to board the flight for Varanasi. Arrive Varanasi and drive to visit Sarnath - the place where the Buddha turned the Wheel of Law and delivered His First Sermon. See the Chowkandi and Dhamek Stupas, the ruins of 9th and 10th century monasteries and temples, the temple built by the Mahabodhi Society in 1931, and the Tibetan Temple. Visit the famous Sarnath Museum. Drive to hotel on finishing the visit.
Evening transfer Dasawamedh Ghat to witness evening Arati. Arati at Dasawamedh Ghat is a very vibrant experience, when a group of priests offer their evening prayer to mother Ganges with big multistory butter lamp beautifully synchronizing their rhythm with roaring sound drums and symbols. A beautiful site is created here when devotees float oil lamps on leaf boat on the river.
Dinner and overnight at hotel.
Day 09 – VARANASI to DELHI
Early morning transfer to riverfront for a dawn boat ride on the river Ganges. Observe the morning life along the ghats that line on river - when devotees offer their morning prayer offering water to Sun God seeking blessings for the day after taking a holy dip in the river. Later in the morning walk on the narrow alleyways of old Varanasi visiting some of the most important temples. Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Standing on the western bank of the Ganges this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the most revered temples in the country. in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt. This temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 so that the citizens could respect Mother India in statue form.
The statute is built in marble. It is a replica of undivided India in three dimension which has the mountains, plains and oceans in right proportion. Tulsi Manas Temple - Tulsi Manas Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple is built in the place where Goswami Tulsidas composed the epic 'Ramacharitramanas' which provides us with detailed description of the history and deeds of Lord Rama. The Temple was constructed by a philanthropist family in 1964.
Afternoon transfer to airport to board the flight for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and transfer to hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 10 – DEPART DELHI
In time transfer to international airport to board the flight for onward destination.
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