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The Golden Triangle Tour with Camel Festival Bikaner
(16 Days / 15 Nights)
(Delhi-Jaipur-Bikaner-Jodhpur-Udaipur-Pachewar-Ranthambore-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra-Delhi)
(to view the route of this tour on a Map please click here)
 
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Camel Festival Bikaner
The Camel Festival is an event organized in Bikaner by the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture, Government of Rajasthan, every year in the month of January. Desert region's Folk dances and Music, add on to what is otherwise an exclusive camel affair. A festival when the ships of the desert are seen at their best. Camels fascinate tourists from all over the world with their movements, charm and grace. A spectacle of unusual camel performances: camel races, camel dances, and the bumpy, neck shaking camel rides.
 

Camel Festival in Bikaner, counted among one of the important fairs and festivals in Rajasthan, is a cultural extravaganza. The festival is a sort of a tribute to the "ship of the desert" that is an integral aspect of life in a desert. January is the apt time to indulge oneself in a desert spree and that's what makes Bikaner's Camel Festival such a big hit. In Bikaner, the common sight that one might come across is that of the camels pulling heavy cart loads, transporting grains and working laboriously at the wells. The Camel Festival, Bikaner is kick- started by a procession of gaudily dressed-up camels. The procession is flagged off from the Junagarh Fort but does not remain restricted to that particular area.

The camels are engaged in the task of outshining each other in a number of innovative competitions. These competitions comprise of camel dance, tug of war, acrobatics, the best dressed camel and the camel with the best hair cut amongst others. The onlookers will be surprised at the way the camels tap their food at the instruction of the trainers. During the festival the guests are offered desert sweets that are made of the purest form of camel milk. The camels are literally the star of the show. The Camel Festival, Bikaner extends for a period of two days. The bedecked camels, the snake charmers, the fortune tellers, folk musicians and dancers contribute in their own way to the charm of this extravaganza. The festival reaches its culmination with the spectacular fireworks that are a virtual treat for the eyes.
 


Activities
The festival starts with the procession of beautifully decorated camels. The procession heads towards the open sand grounds. Here, the festivities begin in earnest. The Camel Pageant is held on the first day wherein the camel owners show off their Camels' decorations and jewellery. Camel dance performances are also held. A competition for best decorated camel, fur cutting design, camel milking and the best camel hair cut is organized The camels display amazing footwork, dancing gracefully to the slightest direction of their drivers. Colourful bridles, bejewelled necks, jingling anklets and long, lanky camel shadows on dusky sands, cast a magical spell.

In this festival tea and sweets prepared by camel milk are made available to the visitors interested in enjoying them.

On the second day, the fleetest camels of the region take part in the camel races. The competition is fierce as the best camels vie for the honors. Thousands of excited tourists and locals cheer the favorites.

On both days, the evening ends with a rendezvous with the renowned folk artists of Rajasthan. The jubilant, skirt swirling dances, the awe inspiring fire dances and many other equally interesting performances entertain the visitors. The grand finale is a magnificent display of fireworks which illuminates the desert city of Bikaner.

 


History

Situated in the heart of the desert belt, Bikaner was always an inaccessible land. Before the advent of modern motor vehicles, the survival of the people of this region depended on the 'Ship of the desert' - the Camel. The camels of this region were famous for their endurance as well as their strength and beauty.

In fact, the Bikaner army had an elite camel corps called the Ganga Risala which took active part in both the World Wars. The Ganga Risala was a Camel unit in the army even after the independence and it took part in Indo-Pak wars. Bikaner also boasts of the only Camel breeding center in India.

Camel can still be seen pulling heavy loads on carts in this region. With such a long association with Camels, it is but natural that the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture chose to hold the Camel festival in Bikaner.

 


Camel Festival Bikaner

Time of Celebration:
 04 January 2015 - 05 January 2015
Location: Bikaner, Rajasthan
Main Attraction: Parade of beautifully ornamented camels

Duration of Celebration:  02 Days

Camel Festival in the Coming Years

04-05 January, 2015


 


Day 01. Flight to India (Delhi)

Around midnight arrival in
Delhi. The cosmopolitan city and capital Delhi is the main gateway for travelers. You are met by an Indo Vacations representative and transferred to the hotel.

Day 02. Old - New Delhi

This morning is at leisure. Afternoon sightseeing in Old Delhi. We take a Rickshaw Ride parallel to the
Red Fort through the old city and famous Silk Road and Silver Bazaar. Sightseeing of Old Delhi includes "Rajghat" , the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated and Jama Masjid, the great mosque of old Delhi. Today we also visit the famous “Humayun Tomb” which is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India and “Qutub Minar” which is 71 meter high and was constructed in 1199. Before we proceed to the Hotel we have a drive through New Delhi where we see the India Gate, Government Buildings and Embassies.


Day 03. Delhi - Jaipur (about 270 km / 5-6 Hours)

Today we drive to the Pink City, Jaipur. This city owes its name, foundations and careful planning to the great warrior and astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and famous for its handicrafts and precious and semiprecious stones. In the afternoon we visit the City palace which is still the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. In the museum of the city palace we visit the private collection of the Jaipur Maharajas. We continue to Jantar Mantar, a stone observatory, the largest of Jai Singh's five remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments reveals us the secrets of medieval Indian astronomy.
 

Gangaur Festivals holds a special significance for the Rajasthanis. It is celebrated in honour of Gauri, the goddess of abundance. Young girls adorned in their best clothes pray for a spouse of their choice. The married ladies pray for the welfare of their husbands. This spring festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal all over Rajasthan.
 

Day 04. Jaipur
After breakfast we drive to the ancient capital of
Amber, laying 11 km. away from Jaipur. Amber was the ancient capital of Kachhawaha dynasty for 6 centuries before it was moved to newly created Jaipur. We will ascend to the Palace Fortress on the back of an Elephant. Enroute to Amber we visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), built in 1799 AD, it contains 953 small casements with each having its own balcony. The windows enabled cool air to circulate and the ladies to watch processions below without being seen. In the afternoon we have a walk through the colourful Bazaar of Jaipur and visit a factory to see the famous block printing work being done since centuries in Jaipur. In the evening we drive through the new city of Jaipur and visit “Laxmi Narayan Mandir”, a Hindu temple made out of white marble. We might have an opportunity here to observe a prayer ceremony. Today we have dinner with a presentation of Indian music and dance.
 

Day 05 to Day 06.
 Jaipur - Bikaner (about 330 km / 6-7 Hours)
After breakfast we drive to Bikaner. After a short break in Bikaner we visit the Junagarh Fort (1571-1611 AD) constructed of red sandstone and marble with kiosks and balconies embellishing the structure at intervals. This imposing Fort and its palaces are an unforgettable experience for us.
A lively and colourful event, the Camel Festival is organised by the Department of Tourism, Art & Culture, Rajasthan in Bikaner every year. January is just the right month for a desert spree, and Bikaner just the right place to see the Ships of the Desert. In the camel country Bikaner, these desert leviathans pull heavy cart loads, transport grain and even work at the wells.

 
Day 07. Bikaner - Osian - Jodhpur (about 280 km / 5-6 Hours)
Early morning drive to Jodhpur via Osian. Osian is a great centre of Hindu and Jain religions. The oldest Temple here was constructed in 1178 AD. The city was once the capital of the princely state of Marwar (Land of death). Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is also known as the blue city as most of the houses of the old city are painted blue. The old city is surrounded by a huge 10 km long wall which has 101 bastions and seven gates. Jodhpur lies on the once strategic Delhi-Gujarat trading route and the Marwaris got benefit from the passing traffic of opium, copper, silk which was traded to China. We will visit the Mehrangarh Fort (majestic fort). Mehrangarh Fort was built on a steep hill and is among the best in India with exquisitely latticed windows in residential apartments within. We also visit the Jaswant Thada, a royal cenotaph built in white marble. After the sightseeing we have a walk through the Bazaars of Jodhpur.
 

Day 08. Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur (about 260 km / 6-7 Hours)

Today we drive to
Udaipur. Enroute we will visit Ranakpur. Ranakpur is known for its superbly carved marble Jain Temples. An enormous basement of this temple covers 48,000 sq. feet. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty four pillared halls. The total number of columns is 1,444, all of which are intricately carved, no two being alike. The Ranakpur Jain Temples were built during the 15th century. We have a break in Ranakpur before proceeding further for Udaipur. Udaipur is called the romantic city of Rajasthan. A city built around shimmering, clear, blue water lakes which reflect the green hills of the Aravali ranges.

Day 09. Udaipur

Today we visit Udaipur, also known as the city of sunrise. We start our sightseeing with the visit of Sahelion-Ki-Bari. This Garden of the Maids of Honour is well laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks. After the visit of Garden of Maids we visit a Museum of folk art. This museum has a rich collection of Folk dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and paintings on display. After a break we proceed to
City palace, the biggest Palace in India, where 4 generations of Maharajas added their contribution, is so carefully planned and integrated with the original buildings that it is difficult to believe that it was not conceived as a whole. The museum of the palace includes the beautiful peacock mosaic and miniature wall paintings of Indian mythology. Today we have an opportunity to visit a traditional painting school and see the famous miniature paintings done. In the evening we have a Boat ride on the lake Pichola. The famous Lake Palace of Udaipur was the summer residence of the former rulers. The James bond Film Octopussy was shot here and made this palace more known in the west.
 


Day 10. Udaipur - Pachewar (about 350 kms / 7-8 Hours)

Today we leave Udaipur drive to Pachewar. Pachewar is a mute yet vibrant village situated 90 kms. away from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, India. The 300 years old picturesque fort of Pachewar has now been converted into a luxurious heritage hotel with all modern amenities, where one can witness great traditions of royal hospitality. It is located at a distance of 105 kms. from Jaipur Airport and 90 kms. from Railway Station. Built in Indo-European style, Hotel Pachewar Garh is undoubtedly one of the most popular Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan. The fort houses intricate balconies and spacious apartments adorned with elegant antique frescoes.
 


Day 11. Pachewar – Ranthambore (about 190 kms
/ 4 Hours)
Today after the breakfast we leave for
Ranthambore. Ranthambore is known for the world famous Ranthambore National park. After a break and refreshment at our hotel in Ranthambore we will explore the Ranthambore National park on a Jeep. Ranthambore National Park is surrounded by the Vindhyas and the Aravali mountains and covers an area of 392 square km. The Tiger remains the biggest attraction of the Ranthambore National Park.

Day 12. Ranthambore

In the early morning we again explore the park on jeeps. If we are lucky enough we might have an audience with the tiger which are numerous in the park.
 


Day 13. Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (about 250 km / 5-6 Hours)

In the early morning we again explore the park on jeeps. After the Jeep Safari and perhaps with the memories of our encounter with tiger we leave Rajasthan, the biggest state in India and drive through a series of fields, small towns and villages to Agra. Enroute we make a stop and visit
Fatehpur Sikri, which was once an imperial capital frozen in time, constructed by Akbar the Great in the 16th century. This wonderful city constructed by red sand stones was abandoned as abruptly as it had been built. It has been generally stated that it was due to failing in the water supply. Late evening arrival in Agra. Rest of the day at leisure.

 

Day 14. Agra
We start today our sightseeing by a visit to the
Agra Fort, built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors. The construction of this massive structure began in 1565 under Akbar's reign and continued till the time of his grandson's reign, Shah Jahan who built the impressive imperial quarters and mosque. After the visit of Agra Fort we proceed to visit the most beautiful monument of India, the Taj Mahal, an enduring monument to love, with a continually fulfilling beauty. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-52, as a tomb and memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace), who died at the age of 39 giving birth to her 14th child. We spend enough time at Taj Mahal to take this impressive memory home. After the visit of Taj Mahal we have a look at the famous fine marble inlay work which is still being done in Agra by the descendants of the families of builders and artists of the Taj Mahal.
 


Day 15. Agra - Delhi
(about 200 km / 4 Hours)
In the morning after having breakfast we drive to Delhi. Arrival in Delhi in the afternoon. The rest of the day at leisure. (opportunity for the last shopping or enjoy a massage in the Hotel)


Day 16. Flight to Home

Around midnight flight to home destination.
 

Tour Reservation
To get more information or to book this tour please submit the Query Form or send us an e-mail ! Your booking will be activated only after we get a reconfirmation from your side.
 

About Hotels:
We provide you the accommodation as per your budget mentioned above in the table of hotels category for any of the booked tour. Hotels provided by us are from budget to luxury class hotels. Luxury hotels are all five stars or of above standard. Deluxe would be a combination of 3 and 4 star Hotels and standard would be a combination of 2 and 3 star or similar hotels. The criteria for selecting hotels by us remains the best value of your money. We also provide you wherever possible accommodation in heritage hotels. Heritage Hotels are old Palaces, Forts and Grand mansions of Maharajas which have been later renovated and converted into Hotels. Rooms are decorated all individually. Rooms are comfortable, romantic and present the flair of olden Maharaja days.

 

Group Travel Dates

Tour cost in USD from 1 person to 08 person

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

 

Room Type*

SGL

DBL

DBL

DBL

DBL

DBL

DBL

DBL

SRS*

SGL* = Single room , DBL* = double room * SRS = Single room supplement
 

 Proposed Hotels

Nights

Indo Vacations – Inclusions:

Accommodation in a double room with shower /bath & WC in the hotels as indicated.

Half board (breakfast and dinner in the booked Hotels).

Rickshaw ride in Delhi, Elephant ride in Amber, Boat ride in Udaipur

Breakfast & Dinner in the Hotel during the tour.

One Dinner will be with a presentation of Indian music and dance.

 An experienced English speaking Tour Guide / Tour Escort for the local 
     sightseeing throughout the whole tour (An Accompanying Tour Escort will be provided on the group strength above 10 traveler).

  An air-conditioned vehicle, including insurance, fuel etc. with chauffeur   
     (experienced, reliable and English speaking) during the entire tour.

  All entrance fees of the monuments as per the tour itinerary.

  All taxes.
 

Not included are: International Flights, Camera fees, gratitude, drinks and personal expenses of any nature!

   

Note:

  We suggest that you book the international flights in your country as this is mostly cheaper.

  Please note you will need a visitor visa for India. We recommend to apply for the same well in advance.

  For individual travelers joining the group will not  be charged extra for both the airport transfers (advance notice required)

  If the desired travelers do not register for the tour – An option will be available to operate the group tour with less people with some extra charges. These charges will be informed well in advance and till then there is no obligation or no cancellation charges of registration.

  Registration for the group tour with Indo Vacations is without any cost. Only at the time of confirmation we will send you the travel documents and ask for 25 % of the total amount as advance payment. The due amount can be paid after your arrival in India. (more information is available on query).

   Indo Vacations reserve the right of changes which may be beyond our control.

Testimonials & References from the customers who already traveled with us!

Hotel Florence, Delhi****

Delhi

3

Hotel Ramada / Park Prime****

Jaipur

2

Hotel Gajner Palace, Bikaner
(Heritage)
***

Bikaner

2

Hotel Devi Bhawan, Jodhpur (Heritage)***

Jodhpur

1

Hotel Rampratap Palace (Deluxe)***

    Udaipur

 2

Fort Pachewar (Heritage)***

   Pachewar

 1

Hotel Tiger Den (Resort)***

Ranthambore

  2

Hotel Howard Park Plaza****

   Agra

   2

Total Nights

   15

 

Heritage Hotels:
Heritage Hotels are old Palaces, Forts and Grand mansions of Maharajas which have been later renovated and converted into Hotels. Rooms are decorated all individually. Rooms are comfortable, romantic and present the flair of olden Maharaja days.

 

Details for the vehicles used are available at the below given links:

For 1 person – Tata Indigo - (4 seats)    http://www.indovacations.net/english/tataindigo.htm

For 2 person – Tata Indigo - (4 seats)    http://www.indovacations.net/english/tataindigo.htm

For 3 person – Tata Indigo - (4 seats)    http://www.indovacations.net/english/tataindigo.htm
For 3 - 5 person – Tavera Chevrolet / Toyota Innova - (6 seats)    http://www.indovacations.net/english/tavera.htm;    http://www.indovacations.net/english/ToyotaInnova.htm

For 6-9 person - Tempo Traveler - (10 seats)    http://www.indovacations.net/english/tempotraveler.htm;

 

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