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Day 01
-
Arrival / Delhi
Arrive in Delhi, the capital city of India. After
completing formalities with customs and immigration, you
will be received by our representative with Traditional
Indian Welcome (with garlands).
Delhi is the capital of India since old times. Delhi's
history dates back to the first millenium BC, when it
was known as Indraprastha. The Tomar Rajputs built Lal
Kot, the core of the first of Delhi's seven cities. It
is the epicenter of the nation's politics, economy and
culture. History is alive and throbbing in Delhi, the
capital of India.
Afterwards transfer to your hotel for the overnight
stay.
Day - 02
In Delhi.
Following breakfast, embark 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.
Cross the city and into the walled gates of 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. Visit includes
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
Prime Minsters of India Late Smt. Indira Gandhi and
Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.
Home Visit & A Welcome Dinner :
This evening we visit and 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 will be in Delhi
Day 03 -
Delhi / Ahmedabad - {Rajdhani Express 1935 / 1000*}
Following breakfast, embark on the visit to the "Delhi
Haat", a bustling crafts village where artisans and
craftsmen from various parts of India arrive to display
and sell their wares. Here one can have an excellent
opportunity to shop for fabrics, paper mache, woodcraft,
etc. This place is very popular with middle class
Indian's as the quality and price here are both very
good.
Late evening, transfer to the train station to board the
Rajdhani Express to Ahmedabad.
(Overnight On Train)
Day 04 -
Arrival / 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 will be in Dungarpur.
Day 05 -
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 BC. 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 interacted with people from
outside their village!! 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!!!
Return to the 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 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 will be in Dungarpur.
Day
06
-
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.
Upon arrival check into the hotel Jagat Niwas .
Afternoon is at leisure for nature walks, visits to the
bustling bazaars or just to enjoy your charming heritage
hotel overlooking the tranquil Lake Pichola.
Overnight will be in Udaipur.
Day 07 -
Udaipur
Morning, 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 will be in Udaipur.
Day 08 -
Udaipur / Kumbhalgarh (90 Kms)
Following breakfast a two-hour drive to Kumbhalgarh. We
would have photo stop several times as we walk through
the countryside as well as interact with primitive
tribals.
Upon arrival we check into the beautifully preserved
Aodhi Lodge - a property of the Royal family of Udaipur.
Afternoon, we explore the beautifully preserved and one
of the most majestic forts of India. 13 mountain peaks
surround the impregnable fortress of Kumbalgarh (54 Kms)
at a height of 3281 ft. Seven towering gateways pierce
the massive walls of this prominent fortress of Mewar.
The young Udai Singh founder of Udaipur took shelter
here from his treacherous uncles. Emperor Akbar was
defeated by these impregnable walls dotted with
cannonballs.
Overnight will be in Kumbhalgarh.
Day 09 -
Kumbhalgarh / Ghanerao (35
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 will be in Ghanerao.
Day 10 -
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
stylised 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 who 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 will be in Narlai.
Day -11:
Narlai
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. Afternoon at
leisure.
Overnight will be in Narlai.
Day - 12:
Narlai / Sodawas (45 kms)
Following breakfast 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 specially 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 colorful 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 meager possessions with you.
(Overnight at Sodawas Kot.)
Day - 13:
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 flavors. You savior only the very best of
Rajasthani cuisine's, food favored 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 dust 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.
(Overnight: Rohetgarh)
Day -14:
Rohet
Morning at leisure to enjoy the amazing palace hotel of
whimsical charm and the surrounding fairy tale town of
Rohet.
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: Rohetgarh)
Day - 15:
Rohet / Jodhpur (40 Kms)
Following breakfast, we drive to Jodhpur.
Upon arrival, check into the legendary Ajit Bhawan
Palace Hotel, which is beautifully set amidst well
appointed gardens.
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 armory and
Jaswant Tara - the Royal Crematorium.
Tonight you have the option of participating in the New
Years eve festivities hosted by your hotel.
Overnight will be in Jodhpur.
Day 16 :
Jodhpur
Morning at leisure to recover from the new years eve
festivities of last night.
Afternoon, we would ride horse carriages to the Clock
Tower Bazaar. This is one of India's largest and most
colorful whole sale markets especially with respect to
clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables etc.
Overnight will be in Jodhpur.
Day - 17 :
Jodhpur / Jaipur (335kms)
Following Breakfast, we ride 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 motor cars and buses.
Upon arrival, check into Hotel.
Afternoon is designed for escorted 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 will be in Jaipur.
Day - 18 :
Jaipur
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of
the royal Jaipur. 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.
Following lunch, 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. The Palace Of
Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone has
semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows
overlooking the main street of the old city.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day - 19:
Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
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
splendor. The city divided into religious and secular
parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings. From here
we continue riding to Agra. Upon arrival, check in to
the hotel Howard Park Plaza.
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 will be in Agra.
Day - 20 :
Agra / Delhi
Following breakfast, 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.
Afternoon Drive to Delhi, stopping on the way at well
appointed midway restaurants for washroom facilities and
refreshments.
Upon arrival, check into Hotel.
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 21 :
Delhi/Departure. |
