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The Golden Triangle
Tour with Pushkar Fair
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(17
Days / 16 Nights)
(Delhi-Agra-Fatehpur Sikri-Jaipur-Pushkar-Udaipur-Jodhpur-Jaisalmer-Bikaner-Mandawa-Delhi)
(to view the route of this tour on a Map please click
here)
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Welcome |
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Pushkar Fair
is the world's largest camel fair held in the holy town of
Pushkar in Rajasthan. A spotlight of one's holiday in India,
the Camel festival hosts around 50,000 camels in this
magnificent event which are sold, decorated, shaved and raced.
From a mere 14,000 to a massive 200,000! This is how the
population of Pushkar swells during the Pushkar Camel Fair.
Pushkar Camel Fair is an occasion for villagers
from far and near to gather together and enjoys a welcome
break from their harsh life of the arid desert. The village
women dress in their best colorful clothes and finery for this
five-day Camel festival. It is an occasion for Hindu pilgrims
to converge for a holy dip in the sacred Pushkar Lake to "wash
away the sins of a lifetime" and pay obeisance at the only
Brahma temple in the world. Read more about Pushkar Camel
Fair.
Introduction
Also known as Pushkar ka Mela, Pushkar Fair, is the world's
largest camel fair held in the holy town of Pushkar in
Rajasthan. Pushkar Fair is undoubtedly the world's largest
camel fair and it also makes it world's largest cattle fair in
general. Competitions such as the "Matka Phod", "moustache",
and "bridal competition" are the main attractions of this fair
which attracts thousands of tourists. A spotlight of one's
holiday in India, the festival hosts around 50,000 camels
which are sold, decorated, shaved and raced. From a mere
14,000 to a massive 200,000! This is how the population of
Pushkar swells during the Pushkar Fair.
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History & Legends
Puskar has has the only temple of Lord Brahma in the country.
Myth says that Lord Brahma was on his way to search for a
suitable place to perform a 'Yagna' (a fire sacrifice) while
contemplating, a lotus fell from his hand on the earth and
water sprouted from that place. One of them was Pushkar where
Lord Brahma performed "Yagna". Worship of Brahma was
considered highly important at the end of the first millennium
BC. The holy lake has 52 ghats and pilgrim taking a ritual dip
in the lake is a common sight. Although a serene town, Pushkar
bustles with life during the joyous celebration held on Kartik
Purnima. Every year thousands of devotees throng the lake
around the full moon day of Kartik Purnima in October-November
to take a holy dip in the lake. Huge and colourful cattle fair
"The Pushkar Fair", is also held during this time. Pushkar
fair is well-known for it's camel trading and other attractive
activities.
Cultural Significance
Umpteen number of traders gather here and and set up shops.
These traders sell a lot of products like woolen blankets of
Merta, bead necklaces of Nagaur, textiles printed in Ajmer and
Jodhpur, brassware of Jodhpur and Jaipur etc. Saddles, ropes,
and assorted household items are also on sale. Cultural shows
and exhibitions are also organized in this fair to enliven the
event. Movies are shown, competitions are arranged, bards and
poets recite and sing tales of valour and heroism of bygone
days. Animal races and other competitions also add the
attraction.
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Pushkar Fair Programme
The Pushkar Fair is no less than an encyclopedia on the
tradition and culture of the state of Rajasthan. It is the
event when a better population of the state can be found at
one place and at one time. It seems as if the whole state has
come alive at Pushkar to stand witness to its pulsating
cultural heritage. Villagers gather from all around the state
to enjoy and make merry, breaking all the barriers of hectic
schedules of their lives. Colourful sights at the fair can
touch and move even the sternest heart. Hindu pilgrims can be
seen flocking the place to take a holy dip in the Pushkar
Lake, washing away all the sins of the past. Devotees and
worshippers can be seen surrendering themselves at the only
Brahma Temple.
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Pushkar Fair
Time of Celebration:
In the month of Kartik that usually falls in October or November.
The Pushkar Fair will
come in year 2015 on – 18 November - 25 November, 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. |
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Day 03: New Delhi - Agra (about 200 km
/ 4 hours)
Today we drive to
Agra.
In the evening arrive in Agra. Rest of the day at leisure.
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Day 04: 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.
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Day 05: Agra - Fatehpur
Sikri - Jaipur (about 260 km
/ 5-6 hours)
Today we leave Agra, drive to the Pink City
Jaipur. 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. In the evening arrive in 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. |
Day 06: 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 will 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
visit the City Palace that 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, and the largest of Jai Singh's five
remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments reveal us the secrets of
medieval Indian astronomy. Later 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.
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Day
7 to Day 8 Jaipur
- Pushkar (about 145 km / 3 hours)
In the morning after having breakfast we drive to
Pushkar,
an ancient religious town. Pushkar is one of the most religious places for
Hindus. The only temple of God Brahma is in Pushkar thus making Pushkar an
important pilgrimage city for Hindus. Pushkar has become famous in the world
due to its Pushkar Festival which takes place in the month of November when
the whole of Pushkar is transformed into a spectacular fair ground where
thousands of pilgrims come to bath in the holy water of Pushkar lake and the
biggest cattle and camel markets take place here. In Pushkar after having a
small break we visit the
God Brahma temple and the
Pushkar Lake.
Pushkar is famous
for its colorful annual fair during Kartik Poornima (full moon) in the month
of November each year. At this time, this otherwise peaceful and gentle
village on the banks of holy Pushkar Lake is thrown into colorful confusion
when the desert tribes and camel caravans meet to trade cattle, camels,
goat, sheep, clothes, jewellery and spices. Stay overnight at the Camp.
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Day 8: Pushkar
You will spend
full day at the fair. Built as 'an explosion of fun, frolic, games and
laughter', the fair provides some wonderful photographic opportunities and
is a rare change to see Rajasthani women decked out in all their traditional
jewellery, dress and finery. It is worth getting up early to see the camels
and tribes rousing themselves in the pink of the dawn desert light.
Overnight will be at the Camp.
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Day 09. Pushkar - Udaipur
(about 301 km /
6-7 hours)
After having breakfast drive to
Udaipur. Udaipur is called the romantic city of Rajasthan. This city is
built around shimmering, clear, blue water lakes which reflect the green
hills of the Aravali ranges. Arrive in Udaipur by the evening. Rest of the
day at leisure.
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Day 10. 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.
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Day 11. Udaipur - Jodhpur (about 275
km
/ 5-6 hours)
In the morning after having breakfast we drive from Udaipur to
Jodhpur. 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.
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Day 12. Jodhpur - Osian -
Jaisalmer (about 290 km / 5-6 hours)
Today we drive through the desert and proceed for
Jaisalmer via
Osian. Osian is a great centre of Hindu and Jain religions. The oldest
Temple here was constructed in 1178 AD. After visiting Osian, we proceed
further for Jaisalmer. In medieval times Jaisalmer prosperity was due to its
location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, |
Arabia, Africa and the West. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and this city remains
one of the most exotic city not only in Rajasthan but in the whole of India.
We have the rest of the day at leisure and therefore enough time to relax.
Day 13. Jaisalmer
Sightseeing of the medieval city of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer's crenellated
golden sandstone walls and its narrow streets lined with exquisitely carved
buildings makes this city unique. Jaisalmer is famous for its carved
Havelis (grand mansions). Some of the visitors called this city "a living
museum". We have a walk through the old city and visit the
Fort and the
Jain temple. In the afternoon we drive around 40 km. away
from Jaisalmer to
Sam dunes where we enjoy the sunset before we drive back to Jaisalmer.
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Day 14. Jaisalmer - Bikaner (about 330 km / 6-7 hours)
Today early morning we drive through the desert and proceed for
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.
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Day 15. Bikaner - Mandawa (about 190 km / 4 hours)
After having our Breakfast we take leave from Bikaner and we drive to
Mandawa (Shekhawati region). Arrival in
Shekhawati in the evening. Shekhawati is situated in the North east
region of Rajasthan and is the homeland of Marwaris. The Marwaris form one
of the most important merchant and business groups in India. They developed
their business acumen on the trade routes between Delhi and the coast
between India and Central Asia.
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Day 16.
Mandawa - Delhi (about 250 km / 5-6 hours)
In the morning we visit the grand
Havelis of the Mandawa (Shekhawati) area.
The Marwaris enjoyed protection by Maharajas and many of them built grand
Havelis. The Havelis are mansions, elaborately and attractively decorated
with a strong main entrance. The walls are often covered with murals, local
legends and religious scenes from Hindu Mythology. After the visit of
Shekhawati area we proceed to Delhi. The rest of the day at leisure.
(opportunity for the last shopping.)
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Day 17. Flight Back Home
Around midnight flight
back 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.
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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 mouments as per the tour itineray.
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.
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.
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Hotel Florence, Delhi*** |
Delhi
3 |
Hotel Howard Park Plaza**** |
Agra
2 |
Hotel Ramada /
Park Prime**** |
Jaipur
2 |
Tent with all meals |
Puskhar
2 |
Hotel Ram Pratap Palace, Udaipur
(Deluxe)***
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Udaipur
2 |
Hotel Devi Bhawan (Heritage)*** |
Jodhpur
1 |
Hotel Rang Mahal*** |
Jaisalmer
2 |
Hotel Gajner Palace
(Heritage)***** |
Bikaner
1 |
Hotel Mandawa Haveli (Heritage)*** |
Mandawa
1 |
Total Nights |
16 |
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;
Testimonials &
References from the customers who already
traveled with us!
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