DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land and a window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.

Overnight will be at Delhi.

Breakfast will be at the hotel.

Start with the sightseeing of Old Delhi. The tour will begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; enjoy the tour of Red Fort which has been restored largely in the last few years. The magnificent Red Fort, overlooking the river Jamuna was built during the years 1638 - 48 when the Moghul Empire was at its peak.

Take the bicycle rickshaw continuing to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.

Visit the GANDHI SAMADHI where the great leader is remembered by his country.

Drive to New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New and Old Delhi is the division between the capitals of the British and the Mughals respectively. The division in the walled city and New Delhi also marks the division in the life-styles. The walled city is all tradition where one will be able to glean a past life-style in all its facets, colours and spells. New Delhi in contrast, is a city trying to live up to the best of 21st century standards.

Imperial Delhi will include the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India and the Humayun’s Tomb which is one of the great monuments of Delhi. There is a saying that this monument was the inspiration for the Taj Mahal hence it is a must to see this place and enjoy the architecture. Visit the LOTUS TEMPLE of the BAHAI sect which represents the modern architecture of India.

The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President’s residence.

End the tour and return to the hotel. Relax in the evening.

By Air
Flight                    : 9W 723
Airlines                 : Jet Airways
Departure           : 1040 hr
Arrival                  : 1150 hr

Transfer in time to airport for flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi, you will be met and transferred to hotel.

Picturesquely situated on the crescent shaped left bank of the holy River Ganges, Varanasi, one of the ancient seats of learning in India, is said to be a compound of the names of two streams, the Varuna and the Assi, which still flow in the north and south of the city respectively. This name seems to have been corrupted, in medieval times to Varanasi, which was in use till May 1956, when it was changed to Varanasi, by an order of the Government of India. Varanasi is probably one of the most ancient living cities in India. From time immemorial it has been a great religious center for Hindus and one of their most sacred places of pilgrimage, being visited by millions of people every year. To every visitor Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience. The rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganges; the high-banks; the temples and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue …soul stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense filling the air…and the refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing at the Ghats. Varanasi – The land where experience and discovery reach the ultimate bliss. Varanasi is also renowned for its rich tapestry of music, arts, crafts and education. Some of the world – renowned exponents India has produced in these fields were schooled in Varanasi’s cultural ethos. Luminaries apart, Varanasi abounds in the art of silk weaving, an exotic work of art which manifests itself in precious Banarasi silk sarees and silk brocades which are cherished as collector’s items across the world today.

Visit Sarnath ‑ 5 miles out of Varanasi: The great Buddha enhanced the sanctity of Varanasi by choosing the environs of the city to preach his first sermon at Sarnath, (only 10 Kms away) after attaining enlightenment. Later, Ashoka, the great Mauryan Emperor erected magnificent stupas and other buildings along with his mighty stone pillar, Dharmarajika Stupa. The 110 ft. tall Damekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached first sermon.Sarnath has been a premier centre for Buddhism. It is a rich collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva images on display at the Archaeological Museum (1000 hrs to 1700 hrs. Open all days except Friday)

Enjoy the evening AARTI at the GHATS. The guide will be giving a commentary to you on the proceedings and meanings of the chants during the AARTI of the river.

Overnight will be spent at Varanasi.

In the early morning drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the sacred river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. (To start at 0500 hrs. for the best lifetime experience) For you to appreciate this remarkable city, we'll transfer you to the banks of the River Ganges before the sun rises. Board a boat with your guide and proceed to the middle of the river, where at sunrise the sight unfolds before you. Thousands of faithful come daily to the banks to bathe and pray while in the background, temples and palaces rise in tiers from the water's edge. Then return for a walk through the cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As shops are opening, the place now becomes a beehive of activity as the faithful are coming and going. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple while returning to the hotel.

Return for breakfast to the hotel.

Proceed for day guided tour of Varanasi including the Bharat Mata Temple, which features a big relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. Also visit the 18th century Durga Temple, commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the huge population of the monkeys. Proceed to the Tulsi Manas Temple, crafted from white marble which features the entire Ramayana inscribed on its walls. Also visit the BHU considered as the biggest residential university in Asia. The University Campus houses an Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Overnight will be in Varanasi.

By Air
Flight                    : 9W 733
Airlines                 : Jet Airways
Departure           : 1220 hr
Arrival                  : 1300 hr

Breakfast will be at hotel.

Transfer in time for flight to Khajuraho.

Situated in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is famous for its enchanting temples and its legendary Khajuraho dance festival. The name Khajuraho is derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which is grown abundantly in the region. The Khajuraho Temples are dedicated to a celebration of womanhood, her myriad moods and facets. Famous for its erotic architecture, the carvings include, women writing a letter, applying eye makeup, combing her tresses, dancing & playing with her child. Her innocent, blushed, charming, seductive, ardent beauty, all depicted in exquisitely sculptured details. These temples have been designed and carved to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to be looking at heaven.

Reach Khajuraho.

Proceed for a tour of the EASTERN & WESTERN TEMPLS. It is best to do the Eastern set of temples first as the Western set is very interesting and takes a lot of time. A lot of our guests want some free time at the Western set as it is really beautiful and quite exhaustive.

Enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the Western Temple Complex. Overnight will be at Khajuraho.

By Road 170 km in 4 hr
By Train
Number               : 2001
Departure           : 1755 hr
Arrival                  : 1855 hr

Proceed by surface to ORCHHA after breakfast.  

ORCHHA – A medieval city founded by Bundela rulers with Palaces and temples of the 16th and 17th century which have remarkable withstood the onslaught of time. The city is picturesquely flanked by the River Betwa.

Proceed for sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex. Lunch will be at Orchha and then proceed to the station (12 km away) for train to Gwalior. (This is a superfast train with airline type seats and snacks / mineral water is served on board)

Reach Gwalior and check in at the palace.

A little southward of Agra is the ancient city of Gwalior. Centuries of history can be witnessed even today in its monuments, temples, museums and cultural traditions. The magnificent Gwalior Fort, with its reflections of art, religion and military might, is an enduring symbol of this glorious past. The colorful history of this city dates back to the eight century and is a mosaic of Rajput clans of the Pratihasas, Kachwahas and Tomars, each leaving their marks on the city’s magnificent monuments. Gwalior's history is traced back to a legend in 8th century AD when a chief tain known as Suraj Sen was struck by a deadly disease and cured by a hermit-saint Gwalipa. As a gratitude for that incidence, he founded this city by his name.  The new city of Gwalior became existence over the centuries.  The cradle of great dynasties ruled the city Gwalior.  With different Dynasty, the city gained a new dimension from the warrior kings, poets, musicians, and saints who contributed to making it renowned throughout the country. The city is also the setting for the memorials of freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope and the indomitable Rani of Jhansi. Today the old settings stand side by side with the trappings of modernity.

Overnight will be at the palace.

Breakfast will be at the hotel.

Proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the following interesting monuments.

Gwalior Fort: Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, Gwalior Fort dominates the city and is its most significant monument. It has been the scene of momentous events, imprisonment, battles and jauhars. A steep road winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues of the Jain tirthankaras, carved into the rock face. The magnificent outer walls of the fort still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearing witness to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of India. This imposing structure inspired Emperor Babur to describe it as “the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind ".

Man Mandir Palace: Built between 1486 and 1517 by Raja Mansingh.The tiles that once adorned its exterior have not survived, but at the entrance, traces of these still remain. Vast chambers with fine stone screens were once the music halls, and behind these screens, the royal ladies would learn music from the great masters of the day. Below, circular dungeons housed the state prisoners of the Mughals. Emperor Aurangzeb had his brother, Murad imprisoned, and later executed here. Close by is Jauhar Pond, where in the Rajput tradition, the Ranis committed mass sati after their consorts had been defeated in battle. At Man Mandir Palace, a poignant ambience of those days of chivalry and heroism still lingers in the silent chambers.

Gujari Mahal: Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st century A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess, the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, and can be seen on request.

Sas Bahu ka Mandir: Two architecturally beautiful 11th century temples.

Jai Vilas Palace: A splendor of a different kind exists in the Jai Vilas Palace, current residence of the Scindia family. Some 25 rooms have been turned into the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum, and in these rooms, so evocative of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. Jai Vilas is an Italianate structure which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes. The imposing Darbar Hall has two central chandeliers weighing a couple of tonnes, and hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength of the roof. Ceilings picked out in gilt, heavy draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets and antique furniture from France and Italy are the features of these spacious rooms. Eye catching treasures include: a silver train with cut glass wagons which served guests as it chugged around the table on miniature rails; a glass cradle from Italy used for the baby Krishna each Janmashtami, silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Aurangzeb and Shah Jahan. These are, besides, personal mementoes of past members of the Scindia family: the jeweled slippers that belonged to Chinkoo Rani, four-poster beds and gifts from practically every country in the world, hunting trophies and portraits. The Scindia Museum offers an unparalled glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely India.

Enjoy the spa and overnight will be at the palace.

Enjoy breakfast at the palace and drive to Agra.

Reach Agra and transfer to hotel.

AGRA: Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously. 

SIKANDRA – This beautifully maintained monument is where EMPEROR AKBAR was buried. It is a very low profile monument but it has one of the most awe – inspiring tombs. It is surreal how one of the greatest emperors has been put to rest. The manicured lawns has spotted and other varieties of deer roaming in them. Named after the Afghan ruler Sikander Lodi, Sikandra is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar. The Emperor began the construction of his own garden mausoleum during his lifetime. However, the construction was completed by his son Jahangir in 1613. An impressive marble - inlaid gateway leads to the spacious four - tiered monument which is crowned by a white marble cenotaph and screen. What is interesting is that the structure imbibes the best of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain motifs, signifying the new religion started by Akbar – the DEEN E ILAHI.

Relax at the beautiful hotel.

Overnight will be at Agra.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

Proceed for day sightseeing of Agra.

TAJ MAHAL: Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.   

AGRA FORT - Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone.  Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat.

After Agra Fort we will visit BABY TAJ – The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj.

Overnight will be at Agra.

By Road 232 kms in 6 hrs

Enjoy breakfast in the hotel.

Proceed to Jaipur enrouting Fatehpur Sikri and Abhaneri.

Fatehpur Sikri is 37 km west of Agra. JALAL – UD – DIN – MUHAMMAD AKBAR named Akbar, Humanyun's son, accessed the throne at the tender age of 14. While hunting around Sikri his curiosity was aroused by the songs of some minstrels about the celebrated Khwaja -Mu'inu'd-din Chisti, the founder of the Chisti order of SUFIS. Akbar, who was without a male heir heard about Saint Salim Chisti and visited him in the year 1568, the saint blessed him with 3 sons and in gratitude Akbar ordered the great mosque of Fatehpur Sikri, built under his supervision. As a mark of respect to the saint, Akbar shifted his capital to Fatehpur Sikri and built various secular buildings like the Diwan -I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodhabai palace, Birbal's house, Marian's house and the Panchmahal.

Abhaneri Village: is situated on the Jaipur/Agra Highway (NH 11) near Sikandra in Dausa District.  It is an ancient village in Rajasthan famous for its post Gupta or early medieval monuments. The sculpture and architecture of Abhaneri suggests that it must have been a great center of art and architecture. The sculptures of Abhaneri are the best example of Gurjar Pratihari art.  This flourishing town has ruined by the Mughal Emperor Mahmud Ghaznavi in one of his invasions. The village has contributed numerous pieces of sculpture to various museums worldwide. The name of the village Abhaneri is so called because the local Goddess Harshat Mata is shown portrayed in a joyous mood and spreads brightness or Abha all around. The village’s original name was Abha Nagri. The village is said to have been founded by the legendary King Raja Chand and thus the village could be over three thousand years old. It is; however, felt that the mythological Raja Chand could be King Bhoja, who ruled Gurjar Kingdom in the ninth century AD.

Harshat Mata Temple: The Harshat Mata Temple dates back to the tenth century AD. Daily worship is offered to the deity in the temple. The ruins of the temple conform to 10th century architectural and sculptural styles. All walls & surroundings around the Temple were of carved stone depicting the abodes of Gods & Goddesses Aradhnarishwar, Nag-Nagin, Prem Mudrakan, Natraj, Lord Vishnu & Budhas.  This Temple which was looted and destroyed by the Mughals is in ruins and pieces of sculpture showing a fine degree of craftsmanship lie strewn around. The Archaeological Survey of India is trying to restore the Temple.  Annual fair is held in the Hindu month of chaitra (March/April) in honour of Goddess Harshat Mata which lasts three days and numerous devotees and merchants gather from neighbouring villages. The statue of Harshat Mata originally was of blue sapphire. 
 
Chand Baori: Chand Baori is about 100 feet deep open well with flights of steps on three sides is another 10th century monument. The stairs of the Chand Baori are in the shape of an inverted English letter “V” in sets of 4-5 steps. This Baori is not an ordinary structure, but is a marvel of Architecture. The Chand Baori has beautiful carved panels inserted into the sides. No body has been able to count the steps. One can see the two royal toilets with carved windows and Jharokhas, which were used by the then Kings & Queens. The water for the royal toilets was used to be pulled from the Baori with the help of bulls. The carved stone pillars, which have now been damaged, were once strong enough for supporting pulleys to draw water. One can also witness all 24 Avtars of Lord Vishnu which were carved on the stone inside one of the cenotaph.  There are three tunnels which have opening of about 20 Kms away from Chand Baori, were being used by the rulers as escape routes in case of attack by the enemies. An encyclopedia of stone architecture showing a fine degree of craftsmanship lies strewn all around the village. In fact, Chand Baori is a unique example of its own kind of stone architecture where one can see the ladies figures with various kinds of musical instruments and the dancing posses.

There is a resort as well where we can organize lunch for our guests by company or on direct payment basis. We recently had a group visited this place in the month of March and they have given us a very good feedback.

Enjoy lunch at Abhaneri.

Continue drive to Jaipur. Reach and check in to the hotel.

Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the KSHATRIYA warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth and authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British Raj that followed.

The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal. Literally translated this would mean ’one and a quarter’, suggesting that the Mughal thought this emperor to be more valuable than just ‘one’. Jaipur is known as the ’Pink City’ on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink in honor of a State Visit from Prince Albert.

Overnight stay will be in Jaipur.

Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
       
AMBER FORT PALACE – Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace.  Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I.  Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb up to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honoured fashion. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years to build and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Moghul ruling families.

Continue sightseeing.

CITY PALACE – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city.  It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.

JANTAR MANTAR – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country.  This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.

HAWA MAHAL – The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur.  It is a five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.

This afternoon is free for you to relax, shop or explore independently. Shopping is superb in Jaipur, particularly for gold and silver jewellery, pottery, tie-dye materials, silk, saris, wooden handicrafts and carpets.

Overnight will be at Jaipur.

By air
Flight          : IC 895
Airlines          : Indian       
Departure          : 1715 hr
Arrival          : 1750 hr     

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars. Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving, semi-precious stones and local crafts which still thrive from the day of Maharaja Jai Singh's patronage when he designed special areas in the city for the 'bandhanas', the 'cheepas' and the 'meenakari' workers.

Take a flight to Delhi in evening and reach the airport and proceed to the International airport to board the flight for home with sweet memories of India.

• ACCOMMODATION AT SUGGESTED HOTELS – 1 DOUBLE ROOM,
• DAILY BUFFET BREAKFASTS,
• SIGHTSEEING TOURS AS MENTIONED IN THE ITINERARY,
• ALL TOURS AND TRANSFERS IN AC PRIVATE TOYOTA INNOVA AT DISPOSAL WITH DRIVER,
• ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE FOR ALL MENTIONED TOURS,
• MONUMENT ENTRANCES,
• ASSISTANCE AT THE AIRPORTS ON ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE,
• ASSISTANCE AT STATIONS ON DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL,
• 24 HRS DEDICATED TOUR MANAGER,
• UNLIMITED MINERAL WATER AND TISSUES DURING DRIVES,
• PORTER CHARGES AT STATIONS,
• TRAIN FARE IN AC CHAIR CAR FOR THE MENTIONED SECTOR,
• ECONOMY CLASS AIRFARE FOR THE MENTIONED SECTORS,
• ALL APPLICABLE TAXES AND SERVICE CHARGES, AND
• ALL ROAD TAXES, GOVERNMENT TAXES AND DRIVER ALLOWANCES.

• RICKSHAW RIDE AT OLD DELHI BAZAAR,
• BOAT CRUISE IN GANGES AT VARANASI,
• AARTI CEREMONY AT VARANASI,
• LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW AT KHAJURAHO,
• LUNCH AT ORCHHA,
• HORSE CART RIDE TO TAJ MAHAL IN AGRA,
• THEATRE SHOW KALAKRITI IN AGRA,
• LUNCH AT ABHANERI,
• PRAYER CEREMONY AT BIRLA TEMPLE IN JAIPUR,
• ELEPHANT RIDE AT AMER FORT – JAIPUR, AND
• BOAT RIDE AT UDAIPUR – IF WATER LEVEL PERMITS.