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Day 01. Flight to
India
Around midnight arrival in
Delhi. The cosmopolitan City and capital Delhi is the main gateway for travellers. 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 site 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.
We will also visit
"Qutub Minar” which is 71 meter high and consists of five stories. In 1199 work began on this tower which was intended to be the most glorious tower of victory in the world. This tower was damaged twice and repaired in 1326 and
1368. We will also visit today a woman organization and have the opportunity to discuss the "role of woman" in India.
Day 03. Delhi - Sariska (about 180 km)
Today we leave the capital and drive to
Sariska
which is situated in the northern part of Aravali hills. Sariska has an area above 479
square km and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973 from the government of India. We take a Jeep ride
in the
Sariska National Park
to watch the activities of various animals
like Sambars, Chitals, Nilgais, Chausinghas, Jackals, Wild boars, langurs
etc.
Day 04. Sariska - Jaipur (about 125 km)
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.
Day 05.
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.
Day 06. Jaipur
- Shekhawati (168 km)
Today after having breakfast we will drive to
Shekhawati
region. Arrival in Shekhawati in the late evening.
Shekhawati lies 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. The marwaris enjoyed protection by Maharajas and many of them built grand
havellis.
Day 07.
Shekhawati
- Bikaner (about 190 km)
In the morning we visit the grand havellis of the Shekhawati area.
The havellis 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
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.
Day 08. Bikaner - Jaisalmer (about 330 km)
Today we drive through the desert and proceed for
Jaisalmer.
Very often one can see along the road to Jaisalmer some of the antelopes of this region. Blackbuck and fast running
Chinkara are the most common among them. We arrive in Jaisalmer in the evening.
Day 09. 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 havellis (grand
mansions). In medieval times, its 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. 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.
Day
10. Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (about 290 km)
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 benefited 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
11. Jodhpur - Mount
Abu (about 250 km)
Today we drive from Jodhpur to
Mount Abu by a road which curves uphill through the coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan nestling in the bosom of the picturesque Aravali mountains. Entire hill side in Mount Abu is covered by the mango, bamboo, eucalyptus, date-palm, silk, cotton and lime trees. Arrival in the late afternoon. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day
12. Mount Abu
Mount Abu is a famous pilgrimage centre for Jains as the most famous Dilwara Jain temples are situated here.
In the morning we visit the
Dilwara Jain Temples. Dilwara Jain Temples were constructed between 11th and 13th centuries. We will visit Vimal Vasahi, the oldest temple, built in 1031 A. D. Vimal Vasahi is an outstanding example of Jain temple architecture and famous for its superb carvings in marble. In the afternoon we will have a walk at the focal point of the town,
Nakki Lake. This artificial lake is ringed by hills and overhung by the enormous Toad Rock. We will walk through the
Bazaar up to Sunset Point from where the best mountain view can be savoured and we enjoy the sunset as the sun gradually drowns itself in the azure sky between two mountain peaks.
Day
13. Mount Abu - Ranakpur
- Udaipur (about 230 km)
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
14. 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
15. Udaipur - Pushkar (about 330 km)
Today we leave Udaipur and drive to
Pushkar. Pushkar being one of the most religious places for Hindus has the atmosphere of an ancient religious town. 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 where Farmers, breeders and camel traders buy and sell. (if this tour takes place during the time of Pushkar Festival we will spend 2 nights in Pushkar instead of one and therefore the duration of this Tour will be extended for one more day making it
22 days tour).
Day
16. Pushkar - Ranthambore (about 300 km)
Today we leave the Pushkar and drive to
Ranthambore.
After a break and refreshment in Ranthambore we will explore the
Ranthambore
National Park. 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
17. Ranthambore - Bharatpur (about 250 km)
In the early morning we again explore the park. After the Jeep Safari and perhaps with the memories of our encounter with tiger we leave the Ranthambore National Park and proceed to
Bharatpur. Bharatpur has its fame due to Keoladeo Birds National Park
or
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Bharatpur was earlier a duck shooting resort of the Maharaja. Keoladeo National Park with its 375 species is one of the best water bird sanctuary in the world. In winter there are many migratory birds from the northern hemisphere including the rare Siberian crane.
Day
18. Bharatpur - Fatehpur
Sikri - Agra (about 70 km)
Today we leave Rajasthan, the biggest state in India and drive through a series of fields, small towns and villages in direction of 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. “The status of a woman in the Indian Society after
marriage" is the topic today on which a lecture will be held in the
hotel.
Day
19. 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. In the afternoon we will have a walk through a bazaar of Agra.
Day
20. Agra - Delhi (about
220 km)
In the morning, after having our 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 21. Flight to 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.
Our
Services Include:
Accommodation in double rooms on twin sharing basis with bath and WC
in the
chosen category.
Rooms
on the departure day.
American/continental Breakfast.
Rickshaw Drive in Delhi.
Elephant
Ride in Amber.
Camel Safari in
Jaisalmer.
Boat Ride in Udaipur.
One Dinner will be with a presentation of Indian music and
dance in Jaipur.
Services of qualified local guides (English speaking
or languages of your choice)
at every place of sightseeing.
All
Transfers and departures on arrival and departure by Indo
Vacations
representative.
All Transfers and Sightseeing throughout the tour by an
air-conditioned Car with
driver. For groups an individual air-conditioned bus (Except
Standard Hotels) will be
provided.
Exclusions:
Any Kind of Personal Expenses such as Tips, Laundry, Telephone Bills
and Alcoholic
beverages.
Camera Fees (Still
or Movie).
Any Flight Charges.
Monument Entrances.
Unspecified Meals etc.
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We always look forward for any changes in the itinerary as wished
by you for your individual trip. |
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If you are willing
to travel in a group - the
Group
Departure dates are available ! |
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Check
our
Festival calendar to know about
the dates of various festivals of
Rajasthan during your travel ! |
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Visit
Rajasthan Tours for more Tours &
information on
Rajasthan ! |
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If you are a
group over 15 people please
e-mail us
with the number of participants
and the wished dates to enable us to workout the tour
cost ! |
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Please have a
look at our
References
to read the testimonials of tourists & guests
who have traveled with us.
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Please
also check our
FAQ
page to get more information.
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