Highlights: : Witness the royalties of Rajasthan – perhaps the most colourful region of India. The king and his army fought a valiant battle till their dying breath as the queen and the women flung into glowing embers to save their honour. Such tales of valour and sacrifice are rampant in this desert land of Rajasthan. Today, the numerous forts and palaces stand mute testimony to these events. Each fort boasts its own story and each city its own heritage.
Day 1 : Arrive Delhi
Arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport/ Railway Station in New Delhi where our representative will receive you and escort you to your hotel.
Day 2 : Delhi to Neerana (120 kms/ 2.5 hrs drive approx.) After an early breakfast at your hotel, our driver will pick you up for a day of sightseeing of the capital city. This sightseeing will comprise of parts of both New Delhi as well as Old Delhi.
Following sites will be covered in New Delhi –
Qutb Minar Complex – This site just south of Delhi is an ensemble of three monuments: The Iron pillar, The Quwwatul-Islam mosque and The Qutb Minar (minaret).
The Qutb Minar was built by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Muslim Sultan of Delhi. This tapering, fluted structure is set in red sandstone, stands 73 meters high and has five storeys - each marked by intricately carved projections or balconies.
The most remarkable is the Iron Pillar, situated in the courtyard of the mosque. It is made of such pure iron that it has not rusted even after 2000 years, a standing testimony to the metallurgical skill of ancient Indians.
Humayun Tomb – Yet another magnificent Mughal building, the tomb of the emperor Humayun was built by his wife in 1565-66. This finely proportioned structure in red sandstone and marble, set in a square enclosed garden, served later as a model for the Taj Mahal and many other Mughal tombs.
(Drive past the following sites in New Delhi)
India Gate – At the heart of the capital city is this elegant 42 meter arch in buff colored sandstone. The memorial is dedicated to the 70,000 Indian soldiers killed
during the First World War and bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers. The foundation stone of the memorial was laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and was designed by Edwin Lutyens.
Parliament House – The circular design with 144 pillars flaunts excellent architecture by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker. Built in buff and red sandstone, the beautifully proportioned structure has a circumference of nearly one third of a mile. There are chambers of Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and the library inside the sprawling building. Indian Nationals can apply at the Parliament Secretariat in
order to have the visitor's pass whereas the Foreign Nationals have to apply through their respective Embassies or High Commissions.
President House – Built atop Raisina Hill, the 340-roomed Viceregal Lodge is now the residence of the President of India and is known as the 'Rashtrapati Bhawan'. Though Lutyens claims the dome to be inspired from the Pantheon in Rome; the architecture of the palace bears much evidence to the Indian architecture. The Mughal Gardens inside the premises is one of the major attractions.
Following sites will be covered in Old Delhi –
Jama Masjid – Located just opposite the Red Fort is the imposing Jama Masjid with its black and white striped domes and minarets. It is one of the largest mosques of India. The sprawling courtyard has a capacity to hold 25,000 devotees at a time. One of the major attractions of the mosque is the treasure room where - a hair of the beard of Hazrat Muhammad, his used chappal, the canopy of his tombstone, the footprint of Muhammad on the stone and a chapter of the holy book is kept. People following other religion are not allowed to enter the premises form 12:30-2 pm.
Raj Ghat – Raj Ghat is the last resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the
Nation. The memorial stone of Mahatma Gandhi placed there is a simple square platform made of black stone, with the words "Hey Ram" inscribed near it. As homage to the Mahatma, an eternal flame, in a copper urn, keeps on burning there. Every Friday, a remembrance ceremony takes place at the Delhi Raj Ghat National Memorial.
In the evening drive from Delhi to Neemrana. Upon arrival check into your hotel, have dinner and rest.
Day 3: NEEMRANA to MANDAWA(168 kms/ 4 hrs drive approx.)
After breakfast in the morning, explore the Neemrana Fort and the surrounding village.
Neemrana Fort - Neemrana Fort Palace is amongst India’s oldest Heritage Resorts. Neemrana became the third capital of the decedents of Prithviraj Chauhan III, who was killed in battle by Mohammad Ghori in 1192 AD. The property covers 25 acres/ 10 hectares and the stepped palaces of this architectural jewel cut into the hillside and rises to 10 levels commanding the most splendid views including a vista pool to the horizon. From 1986 the ruins of this Fort Palace have been sensitively restored and reconstructed. The rooms are
furnished with an eclectic mix of traditional Indian and colonial furniture. In the evening get ready to drive to Mandawa. Upon arrival and check into your hotel and rest.
Day 04 – MANDAWA to BIKANER(190 kms/ 4 hrs drive approx.)
This day after breakfast, get out and explore the city of Mandawa founded in the mid 18th century.
Old Havelis - The beautiful wall paintings that decorate the havelis of Mandawa have seen the themes changing from time to time. In the earlier days, mythology dominated the themes of the frescoes, displaying local legends, animals, portraits, hunting and wrestling scenes, etc. 19th century saw the themes being changed to reflect the British influence on the Indian culture. The traditional subjects were exchanged for cars, trains, telephones, gramophones, English men in hunting attires and portraits of the haveli owners immaculately dressed, etc.
Mandawa Castle -Apart from the havelis, another major feature of Manawa is its
massive fort, now converted into a heritage hotel.The archway of the fort is painted with fascinating paintings, depicting Lord Krishna and his cowherds. Displaying architectural brilliance, each wing of the fort is set up with a different theme. Exquisite wall paintings and amazing mirror work adorn the rooms of the fort.
Late in the afternoon get ready for your onward journey to Bikaner. Upon arrival and check into your hotel and rest.
Day 5 Bikaner
After breakfast proceed for some sightseeing. Built in 1488, the city of Bikaner figured importantly on the great caravan trade route that linked North India with Central Asia.
Following sites will be covered in Bikaner –
Junagarh Fort - Built in 1593 this fort in Bikaner is one of those forts in Rajasthan that stand proudly to tell the tale of its invincibility. Encircled by a moat followed by 986 mts wall with 37 bastions, this fort is dotted with some beautiful palaces built by successive rulers within. Some of the interesting palaces inside are the Anup
Mahal famous for its gold leaf painting, the Ganga Niwas, the Rang Mahal and the Badal Mahal. Har Mandir was the majestic chapel for the royal family for worshipping their gods and goddesses. Part of the premises also houses a museum which is an array of a rich collection.
Karni Mata Temple - Millions throng the Karni Mata Temple at the village of Deshnok, 30 km south of Bikaner. At this place, holy rodents flourish all over and are fed milk by the devotees. The rats are known as kabas and it is considered extremely auspicious if they oblige by running over your feet.
Camel Breeding Farm - Located in the outskirts of Bikaner, this government-managed farm is unique and the largest in Asia. One can learn and observe here as to why the camel takes an important place in the life of a desert and how interesting the animal is. In the afternoon hundreds of camels return to the center after grazing; this is quite an interesting sight to watch! One can try some thick camel milk while listening to a Raika or Rebari - a camel breeder's tribe telling you about the camels history.
Lalgarh Palace - This architectural masterpiece built in red sandstone in the 19th century was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father. The architecture of the palace is a fusion of Rajput, Muslim and European styles having beautiful latticework and filigree work.
Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum – This museum was established in 1937 near Lalgarh Palace to commemorate Golden Jubilee of Ganga Singh. It has one of the richest collections of Terracotta ware, weapons, miniature paintings of Bikaner schools etc. Some of the exhibits here are master pieces from the Harappan civilization and sculptures of the late classical time.
In the evening return back to your hotel, have dinner and rest.
Day 06 – Bikaner to Jaisalmer (327 kms/ 7 hrs drive approx.) This morning after an early breakfast, gather all your belongings and get ready to drive to Jaiselmer. Upon arrival check into your hotel and take some rest.
In the evening visit the Sam Sand Dunes.
Sam Sand Dunes – A magnificent stretch of sweeping sand dunes, Sam is a true desert experience. One can enjoy one of the best sunset views from the top of these dunes. Also, enjoy a short camel ride here.
In the evening get transferred back to the hotel.
Day 07 – Jaisalmer
After breakfast proceed to the reception where our guide & driver will be waiting to take you for a day of sightseeing of Jaiselmer.
Following sites will be covered in Jaiselmer –
Trikutta Fort or The Golden Fortress - Built in 1156 by the Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal this living fort, wherein a large population of Jaisalmer still resides, is situated on
Trikuta Hill. Built in tawny lion color sand stone with 30 feet high wall and 99 bastions the fort transforms into honey-gold as the last ray of evening sun hits on the wall creating a magical site. Raj Mahal (Royal palace) and five Jain temples are the main sites of attraction inside the fort. It also commands a panoramic view of the city.
Jain Temples - There is a group of five temples lying within the fort and built between the 12th and 15th centuries, these temples are an achitectural marvel. Visitors are allowed only till 12 O' clock in the afternoon.
In the afternoon go for a walk on the narrow alleyways of Jaiselmer town visiting some of the famous havelis.
Patwon ki Haveli – This is the largest, most magnificent and most elaborate haveli of Jaisalmer. It is a five story complex that was built by a wealthy merchant and banker called Guman Chand Patwa. Salim Singh ki Haveli - Built by the scheming Prime Minister, Salim Singh during 19th century this haveli has carvings on the façade of the walls that are a viewer’s delight. Nathmalji ki Haveli - Built by a Prime Minister of princely state of Jaisalmer, its facade is a riot of ornamentation: flowers, birds, elephants, soldiers, a bicycle and even a steam engine.
In the evening get transferred to your hotel and rest.
Day 08 – Jaisalmer to Jodhpur (306 kms/ 6 hrs drive approx.)
This morning after breakfast proceed to the reception where our driver will be waiting to help you with your luggage and drive you to Jodhpur. World famous for the baggy horse-riding trousers of the same name, Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. Upon arrival check into your hotel and take some rest.
In the evening visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Umaid Bhawan Palace –This Palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh during the period of 1929-34 when Jodhpur was struck with famine to provide food for work to a large number of suffering people. Located at the top of the Chittar hills, the palace is built of the Chittar sandstone. The palace is a classic example of the Rajput architecture with extending balconies, large courtyards, huge terraces, blooming gardens and royal rooms. The palace is segregated into three distinctive parts. The first one of the three parts is used by the royal family of Gaj Singh, grandson of Umaid Singh, for personal use while the second part has been converted into a museum. The third and the last part of the palace, today serves as a heritage hotel.
In the evening get transferred to your hotel and rest.
Day 09 – Jodhpur to Rohet(40 kms/ 1 hr drive approx.) After breakfast in the morning proceed for some more sightseeing of the city.
Following sites will be covered -
Mehrangarh Fort - Located atop a hill 150 m high, the impressive Mehrangarh Fort overshadows the other attractions of Jodhpur. The name Mehrangarh itself means 'majestic fort'. Much of what stands today date back to the 17th century, a time when Jaswant Singh held the reins of Jodhpur. The fort, which has 36 metre high and 21 metre wide walls, is entered after crossing seven gates. This fort reminds
one of the royal past of the Rajput. It is a legacy of the courageous denizens who once inhabited the fort.
In the afternoon drive to Rohet. A short distance from Jodhpur lies this sleepy village of Rohet. Upon arrival, proceed for a village safari – drive through the dirt tracks visiting rural ponds where you will get a chance to see antelopes and local wetland birds. Also visit Bishnoi ki Dhani in the village to know the true rural life in Rajasthan. Bishnoi is a local tribe which is very famous for their conservation work. Participate in the Opium ceremony if one is in progress at the time you visit.
End your safari and get transferred to your hotel, have a sumptuous meal and rest.
Day 10 – Rohet to Udaipur(240 kms/ 5 hrs drive approx.)
This morning after breakfast, collect all your belongings and get ready to drive to Udaipur. Enroute stop to visit the famous Jain Temple of Ranakpur.
Jain Temple of Ranakpur - Ranakpur is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur in a valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. This renowned Jain temple at Ranakpur is dedicated to Adinatha. Light colored marble has been used for the construction of this grand temple. The temple, with its distinctive domes, shikhara,
turrets and cupolas rises majestically from the slope of a hill. Over 1444 marble pillars, carved in exquisite detail, support the temple. The pillars are all differently carved and no two pillars are the same. The dating of this temple is controversial but it is largely considered to be anywhere between the late 14th to mid-15th centuries.
Upon arrival in Udaipur, get transferred to your hotel. Evening is at leisure or free for optional activities.
Day 11 – Udaipur to Jaipur (1 hour by air approx.) In the morning after breakfast get out to explore the city of Udaipur. Udaipur has very rightly been called the `Venice of the East`. Indeed with it`s enchanting palaces surrounded by mirror-like lakes, undulating hills and colourful bazaars, this city looks as though it has been lifted straight from the pages of an Arabian Night`s fairy tale book.
Following sites will be covered in Udaipur -
City Palace - The City Palace of Udaipur is one of the most remarkable constructions
of the Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. Located in the heart of the city of Udaipur and towering over the Lake Pichola, the City Palace unfailingly infuses a sense of awe in the hearts of its onlookers. It is the standing testimony of Rajput passion for art and architecture despite the fact that the exterior is not as elegant as the interiors.
The old part of the palace complex today serves as a museum that stores the legacy of the Rajput rulers for the visitors. Two of the newer portions of the palace have been converted into hotels.
Sahelion ki Bari - Saheliyon ki Bari recreates regal grandeur as you walk along marble pathways flanked by life size marble sculptures of elephants and lions spurting water into exotic water pools. Also known as 'garden of maids', this place was designed and built under the express guidance of Maharana Sangram Singh II. It is believed that Saheliyon ki Bari was constructed for 48 maids who accompanied the Maharana's wife as dowry. Also visit the museum located within the complex that displays a variety of objects that were in use in the royal households.
Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum – Dedicated to folk arts of the region, this museum has a rare collection of typical rural-dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments, folk deities and paintings.
In the evening get transferred to the domestic airport to board your flight for Jaipur. Upon arrival lookout for our driver who will be holding a placard with your name on it. Get transferred to your hotel.
Day 12 –In Jaipur
After breakfast, our driver will pick you up for a day of sightseeing of the “Pink City” - Jaipur.
Following sites will be covered in Jaipur –
Amber Fort - At a distance of around 11 kms from the city of Jaipur, on the Aravalli hills is located the famous Amber Fort. The fort is an ideal example of Rajput passion for grandeur and their patriotism. For visiting tourists, the Amber fort holds forth numerous attractions in form of palaces, temples and gardens. In fact
reaching Amber Fort itself is a wonderful experience. Sitting on the back of an elephant, tourists feel like a king or queen of the Rajput clan. Walking up the fort is also an option.
City Palace – The palace, which was originally used for official purpose, today serves as a museum. The museum was established in the year 1959 by Sawai Man Singh II who wished to safeguard the cultural property he had acquired from his ancestors. The City Palace is a splendid blend of the Rajasthani and the Mughal style of architecture. The entire complex is divided into numerous courtyards, gardens and buildings. There are two main entrances from to the palace; the first one is from Jaleb Chowk and the other one from Tripolia Gate.
Hawa Mahal - The Hawa Mahal is counted amongst the most gorgeous and captivating piece of work by the Rajput rulers. The Rajputs were strictly traditional and did not wish their women folk to be seen in public. The Rajputs women were themselves immensely particular about their dignity and did not prefer to come out in open with the common public. However, this did not deter them from taking interest in the proceedings of the court. So, Hawa Mahal was a window to the outer world for the royal ladies and the Rajput ruler who ordered its construction in the year 1799 was Sawai Raja Pratap Singh. The Hawa Mahal is an elemental part of the City Palace complex of Jaipur, yet it stands away from it and commands its own identity from the passer-by.
Jantar Mantar - Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh. Jantar Mantar draws its name from Sanskrit terms 'yantra' and 'mantra'. The former term means instrument while the latter means formulae. Built between the period of 1728-34, the Jantar Mantar is based on the astronomical studies conducted by Sawai Jai Singh and his men around the world. This astronomical observatory is an excellent example of the marvelous precision, wherein each construction has a specific purpose to measure the position of stars, altitudes or azimuths, calculating eclipses. Some of them still work!
In the evening return to your hotel and rest.
Day 13 – Jaipur to Agra (232 kms/ 5.5 hrs drive approx.) After breakfast, collect all your belongings and proceed for Agra with our driver. Enroute stop to visit the deserted capital of Fatehpur and Abhaneri.
Fatehpur Sikri - Just 44 km away from Agra on the way to Jaipur is Fatehpur Sikri that briefly served as capital of Emperor Akbar. The majestic marble and red stone structures of the city still narrate the formidable past of this ancient city. 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 the important
pilgrimages for Muslims and Buland Darwaza which Emperor Akbar built to commemorate his victory on Gujarat is very imposing.
Abhaneri – Abhaneri is an ancient village in Rajasthan, famous for its early medieval monuments. The temple is now in ruins; pieces of sculpture showing a fine degree of craftsmanship lie scattered around. However, highlight of the visit to this place is to see the 10th century Baoris (step-well). It is believed that this well is an indigenous invention of the locals for harvesting the rainwater. This 13 level step-well, fortified with flights of steps on three sides is indeed an interesting piece of architecture.
Upon arrival in Agra, check into your hotel and rest.
Day 14 – Agra to Delhi (187 kms/ 3 hrs by train approx.) After breakfast proceed to the reception of your hotel where our guide & driver will be waiting to take you for a day of sightseeing of Agra.
Following sites will be covered in Agra –
Agra Fort - ThisFort, built by the successive contribution of three Mughal generations – Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jehan – still fascinates the entire world with its majestic glory. More like a city inside, the fort was built to fulfill the military purpose which spreads on the banks of Yamuna enclosing a humongous area of 3
km radius. The Agra Fort gained its actual elegance, lavishness and royalty of a palace at the time of Emperor Shah Jehan. The Fort also serves as a vantage point to view the Taj Mahal from a distance and it is believed that the Emperor Shah Jahan spent his days in exile watching the Taj from here.
Itmad-ud-daulah Tomb – This tomb was built by Begam Nur Jahan wife of Jahangir, in the memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. He was one of the generals in the Mughal army who had been given the title of Itmad-ud-Daula meaning - “Pillar of the State”. Primarily built in 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 runners of the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal – One of the eight wonders of the world – The Taj Mahal is often described as "the epitome of love" & "a monument of immeasurable beauty". Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to enshrine the remains of his beloved empress Begum Mumtaz Mahal which manifested the immortal love between the two. The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used and its picturesque location, all make this monument gain a place amongst the most magnificent buildings of the world. You can stay on to view the monument changing its mood with the soft light of the setting sun. The Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays.
In the evening get transferred to the Agra Cantonment Railway Station to board your train for Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, lookout for your driver and get transferred to your hotel
Day 15 – Depart Delhi
Transfer to International Airport/ Railway Station for onward journey.
