Day 01 : Arrival / Delhi
Late Night arrival. Traditional welcome with garlands
as your representatives welcome you aboard your
Luxury Car. The ride to your hotel, The Connaught
- a 4* Downtown Hotel, during which time your representative
would introduce, India as well as some common Indian
customs and courtesies.
Upon arrival at the hotel, whilst our representatives
organize your check in, a refreshing welcome drink
is served to you - 'Namaste' and welcome to India
or as we say 'atithi devo bhava' (the guest is an
incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the
opportunity to serve you ! Overnight At Hotel
Day 02 : Delhi / Ahemedabad -
After breakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of
New Delhi, Visiting such sights as Bahai Temple,
Humayun's Tomb (1586), the Qutab Minar 72 meters
high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian
world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries
of weather for over 1500 years. Continue with a
drive through Embassy area, the Government buildings
(1921-1930) and Connaught Place, the heart and main
shopping district of the capital.
Afternoon, cross over to the Old Delhi. The capital
of Muslim India between the 17th and 19th centuries,
Old Delhi seems somewhat anachronistic as compared
to New Delhi. It draws one through congested roads
and lanes, interesting mosques, monuments and forts
relating to its chequered history. Our tour includes
visit to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through
the fabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates
to Moonlight Square) where the throngs of shoppers
and vendors meet in the oldest area of Delhi, on
to the Red Fort (1639-1648 built by Shah Jehan the
builder of the Taj Mahal in Agra) to view the inlaid
and carved Royal Chambers, on to Raj Ghat and nearby
ghats where the founder of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi
and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were
cremated.
The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle
rickshaws. Now these are 3-wheel cycles with a sofa
seat at the back. The Rickshawalla (Rickshaw driver)
sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers
on the sofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way
to explore and picture the hustle and bustle as
well as the colour of the narrow winding streets
bursting with people and pavement shops selling
wares of all description - including a laughing
set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by
peals of laughter both from the passengers as well
as the onlookers.
Evening, transfer to the train station to board
India's flagship train service, The RAJDHANI EXPRESS
for an overnight journey to Ahmedabad. Accommodation
in air-conditioned cabins accompanied by blankets,
sheets and pillows. Overnight At Hotel
Day
03 : Arrival / Ahemedabad (Ahemedabad / Dungarpur)
(125 Kms)
Meeting & assistance upon arrival and
drive to Dungarpur . Upon arrival check into
the Udai Bilas Palace. The history of Udai
Bilas Palace, Dungarpur, Rajasthan dates from
the mid-19th century, when Maharawal Udai
Singhji-II, a great patron of art and architecture
built a wing of bluish grey local stone "
Pareva" overlooking the lake and the
" Ek Thambia Mahal," featuring intricate
sculptured pillars and panels, ornate balconies,
balustrades, bracketed windows, arches and
frieze of marble carvings, a veritable marvel
of Rajput architecture. The Udai Bilas Palace
was enlarged in 1940 by Maharawal Laxman Singhji,
who built three new wings around the "
Ek Thambia Mahal" (Literally one- pillared
Palace) and thus created the famous "
courtyard of the palace. The result is an
architectural expression exquisitely detailed.
Still the royal residence, the Palace offers
accommodation in the houseguest tradition
with seventeen spacious and lavishly appointed
bedrooms.
No two rooms are alike; each room enchants with
its own personality, spaciousness and modern comforts
and offers a unique experience. The Furnishings
are mostly from the 20th century art-deco style,
marble bathrooms with English fixtures and running
hot and cold water. Meals are served either in the
banquet hall, which displays crystal chandeliers,
or in the more intimate family dining room. Continental
or Chinese dishes are also served. Overnight
at Hotel.
Day 04 : Dungarpur
The district is the stronghold of Bheels, a tribe
whose history of occupancy in the Aravalli Range
is said to date back to 4000 B.C. They are one of
the oldest and most primitive tribes of the world.
This morning we will visit some of these unspoiled
Bheel hamlets in and around the town. We will witness
and photograph age-old tribal lifestyles and customs
handed down over the centuries. You would have an
opportunity to meet villagers who have never seen
white people!! Say hello to people, allow them to
get used to you and then, you may go ahead with
your pictures. You would soon end up as the pied
piper followed by scores of noisy and happy children!!!
We return to our hotel by mid morning to enjoy the
destination at leisure. Udai Bilas Palace is a round-the-year
paradise for bird watchers. The cooler months from
mid October to February are the best to see winter
migratory birds when birds can be observed in attractive
plumage. One can see from the Palace itself at remarkably
close range egrets, night and pond herons, white
necked and painted storks, coots and winter or resident
ducks among others, depending on the season of your
visit. Birds are also plentiful in the surrounding
wood lands where one can hope to see the Grey Hornbill,
Gray Partridge, Green Pigeon, Peafowl, Peacocks,
Paradise fly-catcher and the Golden backed woodpecker,
to name a few representative species. You may proceed
on a leisurely walk around the lake or heir boat
for a special boat trip on the lake as well as a
gentle trek through the forests so that the nature
lover in you is able to enjoy the beauty of the
place and are able to get a close look at the bird
life.
Late afternoon we visit the ancient fortified ruins
of the Old Fort. Besides fine panoramic view of
the ancient town of Dungarpur the fort has well
preserved examples of natural colour paintings and
incredible art and architecture. Overnight at
Hotel.
Day 05 : Dungarpur
/ Udaipur (100 Kms)
Following breakfast, we drive to Udaipur. Royal
capital of a divine dynasty. Languid Lake City,
strewn with marble palaces, hibiscus - massed gardens,
fountain pavilions, and cobbled medieval gardens.
Welcome to Udaipur, the famed "City of sunrise
". Founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh,
from the lineage of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar
- the decedents of the sun God. A city where the
sun truly never set, where tradition and a strict
code of heroism were happily united with a love
of fine living. A city that has come to be an oasis
of romance in the warrior state of Rajasthan.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival & check
into your hotel Paras Mahal. The Hotel offers you
the best of two worlds : traditional Indian hospitality
and all the modern conveniences. Paras Mahal is
a celebration of this traditional value & gracious
living. The hotel offers well appointed centrally
air conditioned rooms, a multi cuisine restaurant,
24hrs coffee shop, a well stocked bar. In keeping
with the beautiful natural surroundings, the hotel
has a swimming pool, undulating spacious lawns &
a recreational park.
This afternoon, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake
City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart
of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city
in a state where every city has some romantic or
exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering
over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex
in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings
built by successive rulers, it manages to retain
a surprising uniformity of design and affords very
fine view of the lake and the city from the upper
terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace
enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and
his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a
brass image. The temple is a very fine example of
Indo-Aryan Art. Overnight at Hotel
Day 06 : Udaipur / Ghanerao (120
Kms)
Following breakfast, we would have an opportunity
to explore the feudal village of Kumbhalgarh. The
people here are extremely friendly and hospitable.
We witness their ethnic tribal lifestyle
We continue our ride to the interiors of Rajasthan
to witness tribal life untouched by modern times.
Upon arrival at Ghanerao we check into the Royal
Ghanerao Castle, a property of the Royal Family
of Mewar. We stay at the Ghanerao Royal Castle to
step back into the past and re-live it. Here truly
time stands still to let you bask in the sunshine
of the bygone era. Besides all modern comforts the
royal family here have endeavoured to recreate the
lifestyle of the thakurs (feudal lords) in all past
glory. Situated in the picturesque `Godwar` region
of Rajasthan, Ghanerao was founded in 1606 A D Today,
standing sentinel over the villages, The Ghanerao
Royal Castle is a truly magnificent edifice of red
sandstone havelis (mansions), marble citadels and
some miniature paintings on walls, the village is
strewn with old temples, step walls and marble archways.
The old fort to the south of the castle pock, marked
with cannonballs and destroyed time and again, but
stubbornly refusing to be vanquished. Afternoon
escorted walks through the primitive town to witness
traditional styles of living and occupation. Overnight
at Hotel.
Day 07 : Ghanerao / Narlai (60
Kms)
Following breakfast we ride to Narlai, stopping
several times for photos and walks through the countryside
to interact with and witness the life styles of
the natives. Upon arrival check into Rawla Narlai.
Situated in the Narlai village, Rawla Narlai, is
a 17th century fortress renovated over the years
to have 15 exquisite double rooms. Rawla Narlai
is full of surprises; it is situated in the heart
of a typical Rajasthani village bustling with activity
and bursting with colours. But, inside the Rawla
(fortress) there is only serenity and stupendous
view of a gigantic350 ft single rock of granite
dotted with caves and temples and crowned by a statue
of a white elephant - proud guardian to the open
desert on one side and the crumbling Aravali hills
on the other. Maharaja and Rani Swaroop Singh, and
their sons oversaw the careful restoration of this
hunting lodge, with aesthetics, comfort, and atmosphere
that will embrace your senses. Comfortable rooms
and modern bathrooms blend with the ancient way
of Narlai, while offering a warm and homely atmosphere.
The charming rooms are all stylized from references
from the past adding more to your experience at
Rawla Narlai. The chef prepares you a delicious
meal, garnished with care made from Secret Recipes
handed down for generations to the Royal family.
In the evening bathe in the moonlight under the
starry sky, listening to hypnotic and chanting rhythms
by local musicians whom will rekindle the sprit
in you. The peace and calm of the gentle rustling
leaves, the sun bathed courtyards and the star lit
nights adds an air of romanticism to this wonderful
fortress.
Afternoon, we would have an escorted stroll through
the small town, bustling with activity and bursting
with colour- perhaps pausing to see the rich handicrafts
or even to design your own silver Tabiz, a ancient
lucky charm, both for women and men- worn around
the neck, at the silversmith.Overnight at Hotel.
Day 08 : Narlai / Sodawas (35 kms)
Wake up to the sounds of this 17-century village,
and take in the spiritual energy from descending
from the Shiva Temple, deep in a primal cave, on
the hill overlooking your room. You may hear whispers
of the early morning chanting coming from the many
temples and mosques. At breakfast you are encouraged
to feed the harmless monkeys, if they come down
from the hills, as a token of prayer to Lord Hanuman.
After breakfast we have an escorted stroll through
the small bazaar, bustling with activity and bursting
with colour. Following breakfast we travel to Sodawas.
Upon arrival, check into Sodawas Kot. Sodawas was
given in Jagir (Fief) to Late Thakur Bishan Singhji
by His Late Highness Maharaja Shri Umaid Singhji
of Jodhpur in the Year 1943 along with two other
villages, before which it was a 'Khalsa' Village,
meaning for Three Decades it was under the direct
rule of Marwar State(Jodhpur). Upon arrival you
enter through a grand gateway into the Sodawas Kot,
which is still owned by the family of Thakur Bishan
Singhji.
The Kot has ten bedrooms and every modern amenity.
The family drawing and dining rooms have been opened
to receive guests in true Rajput Hospitality. Traditional
Rajasthani Cuisine for which the House is well known
for, is served with a mild and delicate blend of
spices adapted to your taste. The family will join
you and will give you an opportunity to discuss
their traditions, culture and the rich heritage
of Marwar erstwhile State of Jodhpur. Folk Music
and dance are performed in the evening especially
for us. The beautifully designed stables will interest
Horse lovers. Once the much loved stallion and mare
of the Late Thakur Sahib were stabled here.
Beyond the Kot walls the guest encounters breath
taking green fields of mustard and wheat; and in
the village, one can see artisans working on the
local crafts of the region.This afternoon we walk
through the main boulevard which is wide enough
to take a bullock cart. We visit the local school
here to witness the kids sitting in rows on cotton
mats. We also visit the colourful bazaar as well
as the village temple to witness the day to day.
Life here is very simple and uncomplicated and traditional
virtues still intact. People here may be very poor,
but they are extremely friendly and hospitable,
willing to share out their meagre possessions with
you.Overnight at Sodawas Kot.
Day 09 : Sodawas
/ Rohet (65 kms)
Following breakfast we ride out to Rohet. Upon arrival
check into the Rohetgarh fort. At Rohet, one is
transported in to a world of the past, a world of
honour and of chivalry, of glory and of pride; a
world of vibrant colours and spectacular magnificence.
Past centuries come to life at the historic boundary
walls of Rohet- the 16th century fortified deserted
home of a Rajput clan. Within the precincts of these
time weathered walls is our hotel, the impressive
Rohetgarh Fort- a bastion of proud Rajput traditions
bathed in the ambience of unmistakable Rajasthani
culture where one can, even today experience the
famed warm and courteous Rajput hospitality. Frescoes
on the tall gateway, brightly painted in the traditional
style, using traditional motifs and colour schemes
herald your entry to this charmed world the bygone
era. The gateway leads to a compound where a profusion
of flowers frame the archways in welcome. The portico
is a warm and informal place decorated with the
artifacts and trophies of many years. Exquisitely
carved furniture, delicate hand block prints, original
paintings and photographs decorate your rooms, which
though redolent with the romance of a bygone era,
provide all the modern amenities. Antique hunting
riffles, shields & spearheads, daggers and original
paintings form the backdrop of the dinning room.
The swimming pool here is in beautiful settings
and is an oasis in a dessert.
The food at Rohetgarh is special; each recipe is
both traditional and typical, handed down the generations
and jealously guarded to retain its pristine flavours.
You savour only the very best of Rajasthani cuisine's,
food favoured by the Royalty. The 16th century descendants
of the Rathore ruling family still live here and
host the guests. The members of the Royal family
interact with the guests and interesting stories
and anecdotes are narrated.
This afternoon, we would explore Rohet, which is
a fascinating small feudal town, which seems to
be straight out of the Arabian Nights. There is
no proper road here - only one main dusts trail.
On either side are typical thatched houses and shops
of all kinds - colourful bangles, silver jewellery,
potters, fruit vendors on carts, dress shops, tailors
etc.
Late afternoon we enjoy jeep safaris to visit the
heart of Rajasthan villages where traditions centuries
old still permeate life styles. One can witness
the 'opium ceremony' - a ritual by which guests
are welcomed. Gaily attired men and women carry
on their chores and one can catch a glimpse of their
norms and customs. The smoothened mud floors of
the village huts remind one of the simple and traditional
living here Overnight at hotel.
Day 10. Rohet /
Jodhpur (40 Kms)
Following breakfast drive to Jodhpur. Upon arrival,
check into the legendary Ajit Bhawan Hotel, Set
in the serene desert of Rajasthan, this hotel stands
as an oasis of hospitality and warm Rajput charm.
Built exclusively for Maharaja Sir Ajit Singh, it
is vibrantly alive with the personalized hospitality
provided by the late Maharaja's family who still
lives there. The doors of this truly traditional
yet subtlety contemporary estate is open to you
and offers you Old World elegance, with the modern
comforts of a classic heritage hotel and the essence
of being a guest of the Maharaj's family.Afternoon,
proceed on a guided tour of Jodhpur. Our tour includes
the massive fort. In olden days this must have been
impregnable since its rocky base is scraped straight
down making it nearly impossible to ascend. Once
inside, royal palaces abound with fascinating history
and priceless jewels, on to the armoury and Jaswant
Thada - the Royal Crematorium
This evening, we would ride horse carriages to the
Clock Tower Bazaar. This is one of India's largest
and most colourful wholesale markets especially
with respect to clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables
etc Overnight at Hotel.
Day.11 : Jodhpur / Jaipur
Early morning, transfer to the Railway station to
board INTERCITY EXPRESS (0545 / 1020) to Jaipur.
In a land steeped with heritage, picturesque with
exquisite architecture, in a state vibrant with
heroic memories and romance, lies the Dream City
of Jaipur. The people are dynamic, martial and,
need we say it, colourful. Here every walk through
the by lanes is a walk through history. Indeed,
Jaipur could be compared to a vast open-air museum.
Pink turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis' (ladies
scarves). Camel's buggies and elephants are as commonly
found as motorcars and buses. Meeting & assistance
upon arrival & transfer to Hotel Alsisar Haveli
- This is the flagship hotel in a bouquet of heritage
hotels. The Haveli lies tucked away in the heart
of Pink City, Jaipur. It brings back to life the
grandeur of the old days and is a memorable regal
Rajasthan experience for the guests. Refurbished
in 1982, the Haveli incorporates the finesse of
traditional Rajput architecture and a site to behold.
The large elevated platform that dominates the central
area of the ground floor and once used for get-togethers
by the gents of the house is now open to guests
who can witness puppet shows and folk dances while
enjoying their snacks or drinks. The spacious lobby
which opens into the chowk (inner courtyard), was
a century ago used by the ladies of the house and
is now open to guests. You will treasure this experience
of staying in an authentic Rajput home. Afternoon
is designed for walks with our guide in Jaipur's
shady animated streets - or for independent discovery.
The city is best explored on foot and only the inquisitive
visitor willing to go into the rastaas (streets)
and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of the city.
Jaipur's colorful bazaars tantalize the eye with
enameled blue pottery, exquisite gem-studded jewelry,
engraved brass work, traditional block-printed fabrics
and brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together with
traditional crafts and miniature painting. Overnight
At Hotel.
Day 12 : Jaipur
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital
of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the
dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace
11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali
Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements,
the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills
overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenellated
walls lattice the surrounding hills. We will ride
up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted
elephant, passing through the ancient main gate
where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four
hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history
of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded
alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings
that delight today's visitors as they did their
former royal residents.
We shall visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds,
a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with
semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows
overlooking the main street of the old city. It
was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could
peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone
screens.
Afternoon, proceed on a tour of City Palace &
Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the
old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
The centre of the palace is a seven-storied building
called Chandra Palace, with fine vies over the gardens
and the city. The palace lies in the heart of the
city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified
wall has seven gates and was built for protection
from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles,
which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit
the Solar Observatory - an astronomical treasure
house, with solar device that give accurate predictions
till date. Overnight At Hotel.
Day 13 : Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri
/ Agra (245 Kms)
Following breakfast we drive to Fatehpur Sikri for
a guided tour. This abandoned capital of the Mughals
is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the
empire's splendour. The city divided into religious
and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted
buildings. From here we continue riding to Agra.
Upon arrival check into hotel Trident - Hilton,
a 5* Hotel of the prestigious Oberoi Group of Hotels.
Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most
photographed monument in the world. However, there
is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear
about a building so much and once you see so many
pictures of a building your expectations are real
high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal.
No matter how many pictures you have seen or no
matter how high your expectations are, the Taj never
lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty
of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations.
At sun set we visit the Taj Mahal to witness this
spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect
symmetry in every aspect of its construction, the
inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in
pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable. We would
also have an opportunity to visit a marble showroom
where we would be able to witness the inlay work
done on marble just as at the Taj Mahal Overnight
At Hotel
Day 14 : Agra /
Delhi (200 Kms)
Morning, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant
buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis
of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles.
Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards,
mosques & private chambers of the fort echo
the story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid
& other magnificent buildings reflect the skill
of the ancient Indian architects.Following the tour,
we drive to Delhi. Upon arrival check into your
hotel The Connaught for overnight. Rest of the day
is at leisure.Home Visit & A Farewell Dinner
: This evening, we would visit an Indian family
for an Indian home experience. The evening is designed
to give you a 'feel' and insight into Indian family
life as well as experience typical Indian hospitality
and home made Indian food.Overnight At a 4* Hotel
Day 15 : Delhi /
Depature Transfer to the international airport for
your onward flight.BACK
TO TOURS