Day 01 New Delhi

Arrive New Delhi International Airport. Welcome on arrival. You will be met and assisted for your transfer to the hotel. Overnight in New Delhi.

Day 02 New Delhi

After breakfast proceed for a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. This fascinating city has been in existence since the 6th century BC and has seen ups and downs from the rule of the Pandavas right up to the British Raj. Visit Jama Masjid, which is the largest mosque in India, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. The courtyard of the mosque can hold about 25,000 worshippers. Enjoy a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk, the busiest market in Old Delhi…noisy, chaotic and uniquely Indian. Drive past Red Fort, President House, India Gate and several other government buildings in Edwin Lutyen’s modern Delhi before you head to Rajghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi that marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Thereafter, visit Humayun’s Tomb, commissioned by Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum in 1562. It was the first garden tomb built in the Indian sub-continent where the Persian architect used red sandstone on a large scale. Later in the evening visit the Qutab Minar, which is the tallest brick minaret in the world; it was commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. Overnight in Delhi

Day 03 Delhi – Mandawa (290 Kms / 6 Hrs drive approx)

After breakfast drive for Mandawa. The city of Mandawa is known for its fort and havelis, which are beautiful adorned with paintings. On arrival, you will check in to your hotel. Later, you will visit the painted Havelis of Mandawa village. Rich merchant families originally inhabited Mandawa village. They built beautiful mansions (havelis) adorned with paintings. Overnight in Mandawa.

Day 04 Mandawa – Bikaner – Gajner (190 + 32 Kms / 5 Hrs drive approx)

After breakfast drive for Gajner Enroute also visit Bikaner …if ever beauty has bloomed in a desert, it has been at Bikaner. Founded in 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji, Bikaner comprises imposing palaces and beautiful, richly sculptured temples of red and yellow sandstone. Visit Junagarh Fort… an unassailable fortress, it never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat. Inside the fort are some magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. The Har Mandir is the majestic temple for the royal family. Later, visit The Bhandashah Jain temple. This temple is oldest existing structure in Bikaner, and is carved in red sand stone and white marble … it is famous for its paintings, structural beauty and artistically designed statues. The rich mirror work, decor and frescoes of Bhandashah and their gold leaf paintings are noteworthy. Later you will proceed to your hotel "The Gajner Palace", a heritage property built on the embankment of a lake. Overnight in Gajner.

DAY 05 GAJNER – JAISALMER (300 KMS / 5 HRS)

After breakfast drive to Jaisalmer. On arrival check inn in  to your hotel.  Later visit Gadisar Lake. In the olden days this man-made reservoir was the only source of water for Jaisalmer. It is surrounded by shrines and attracts many migratory birds. Next you will visit the Vyas Chhatri. This is the cenotaph of the sage Vyas, the author of the Mahabharat. The Vyas Chhatri is also known as sunset point as it allows fantastic views of Jaisalmer, particularly at dusk. Overnight in Jaisalmer.

DAY 06 JAISALMER

After breakfast proceed to visit the Jaisalmer Fort, built in the 12th century and was enhanced by subsequent rulers. The fort includes seven Jain temples. After lunch, you will visit the Patwon ki Haveli. This is the largest and most elaborate mansion of its kind in Jaisalmer. Also visit Nathmalji ki Haveli, a grand mansion that blends Rajput and Islamic architecture. Overnight in Jaisalmer.

DAY 07 JAISALMER – JODHPUR (280 KMS / 5 HRS DRIVE APPROX)

After breakfast drive for Jodhpur. After check in proceed for half-day tour of Jodhpur, which is the second largest city in Rajasthan and also called the ‘Sun City’. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort. This spectacular fort made from red sandstone stands on a perpendicular cliff above the skyline of Jodhpur. The foundations of this fort were laid in 1459; today it houses a museum with a fine collection of arms, costumes, paintings and even a collection of palanquins.  Also visit Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The monument, in its entirety, is built out of intricately carved sheets of marble. These stones are extremely thin and polished so that they emit a warm glow when the sun's rays dance across their surface. Later, drive past the Mandore garden, which showcases cenotaphs of Jodhpur's former rulers; instead of the usual umbrella-shaped cenotaphs these are built along the lines of a Hindu temple. Overnight in Jodhpur

DAY 08 JODHPUR – UDAIPUR (268 KMS / 6 HRS DRIVE APPROX)

After breakfast drive to Udaipur. En route visit the Ranakpur Jain Temple. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Udaipur.

DAY 09 UDAIPUR

After breakfast proceed for City Tour of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, standing on the east bank of Lake Pichola. The complex is a massive series of palaces built at different times from 1559. The balconies of the palace provide panoramic views of the Lake Palace Hotel and Jag Mandir on one side, and the city of Udaipur on the other. The City Palace boasts of a wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese architecture. The various towers, domes, arches, paintings, mosaics, intricately carved 'chhatris' and the architecturally brilliant facade all contribute to making your visit to the City Palace a truly memorable experience. The 'Krishna Vilas' is known for the miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor while Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is known for its breathtaking mirror work. 'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. Thereafter, visit a picturesque garden, Sahelion ki Bari. It features beautiful fountains, a delightful lotus pool and marble elephants. You will visit also visit Jagat Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Ambika- a form of Goddess Durga. Built in 961 A.D, this temple is renowned for its intricate carvings in the exteriors. Evening enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, which is an artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD. Overnight in Udaipur.

DAY 10 UDAIPUR – DEOGARH ( 140 KMS / 2 HRS 30 MIN DRIVE APPROX)

After breakfast proceed for Deogarh, Also known for its plethora of religious monuments. En route visit Nagda-Eklingi. Nagda and Eklingi are famous for their old Indian temples with interesting architectural features. On arrival, you will check in to your hotel. Evening walk to through the local village and explore the area. Overnight in Deogarh.

DAY 11 DEOGARH – JAIPUR (290 KMS / 5 HRS)

After breakfast drive to Jaipur, also called the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur is the city of royalty. Filled with palaces and forts, Jaipur is the perfect place for visitors to get a glimpse into Rajasthan and its culture. En route, you will visit the Pushkar, one of the oldest cities in the country and famous for its annual cattle fair. On arrival you will check in to your hotel and overnight in Jaipur.

DAY 12 JAIPUR

Today, enjoy a full-day sightseeing trip of Jaipur , also known as the ‘Pink City’. The city of Jaipur is capital to the state of Rajasthan, famous for its colorful culture, forts, palaces, and lakes. Jaipur owes its name to the founder of the city, warrior king Sawai Jai Singh II. The old city of Jaipur is painted pink, which gives it a magical glow in the evenings. Visit the Amber Fort, bordering the Maota Lake; this beautiful citadel is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The best way to explore the fort is to ride up to it on elephant back. Prominent structures inside the fort are the Diwan-i-Aam, adorned with latticed galleries, the Ganesh Pol, with a beautiful painted image of Lord Ganesh, and the stunning Sheesh Mahal, a hall decorated with thousands of tiny mirrors. Later, stop to photograph the beautiful Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of the Winds.” This beautiful façade with its ornately carved latticework windows was designed so the ladies of the palace could look out onto the streets unobserved. Post lunch you will visit the City Palace… again, a synthesis of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The museums here showcase rare and ancient manuscripts, arms dating back to the 15th century, and costumes of erstwhile royalty. Later, visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory, comprising geometric devices for measuring time, and tracking stars in their orbits. You will also visit the Albert Hall, which was modeled on the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. Overnight in Jaipur.

DAY 13 JAIPUR – AGRA (240 KMS / 5 HRS DRIVE APPROX)

After breakfast drive for Agra. The city of Agra is believed to have been founded in 1504 by Sultan Sikander Lodi. The city flourished under Mughal rule and is most famous as the home of the Taj Mahal and other fine examples of Mughal architecture. En route visit Fatehpur Sikri. Built by the emperor Akbar about 40 kms from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is home to many historical buildings. Akbar wanted to make Fatehpur Sikri his headquarters, however, he had to abandon it due to shortage of water. Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World heritage site. On arrival in Agra check in to your hotel. Overnight in Agra.

DAY 14 AGRA – DELHI (204 KMS / 4 HRS)

After breakfast proceed for City Tour visiting The Taj Mahal which is considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this gem of a monument defies description. The Taj Mahal is actually a mausoleum, commissioned by Enperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Construction of this marble wonder began in 1632 and was completed around 1653. Thousands of laborers were employed to construct the monument, that is replete with decorate inlays, carvings and calligraphy. To this very day, the Taj is considered an architectural marvel. Also visit Agra Fort. This is a 16th century Mughal fortress built of red sandstone and comprises of many fairy tale palaces. Post Lunch drive to New Delhi to connect onward flight connection.

HOTELS ENVISAGED OR SIMILAR

                                                                                                VALIDITY - From 01 April/30 September’2011

COST PER PERSON IN US$

                                                                                                VALIDITY - From 01 Oct’11 /31 March’12

COST PER PERSON IN US$

*** RATES ARE NOT VALID FROM 02/11 NOVEMBER’11 (PUSHKAR PERIOD) & FROM 20 DEC/10 JAN’12

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