Departure: Anytime, for minimum 2 paxValidity: 01 Oct 2009 – 15 April 2010
This morning, discover the history and heritage of Old Delhi, walking through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk, to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Also visit Raj Ghat, cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi and drive past the splendid Red Fort.
This afternoon, explore New Delhi, visiting Qutab Minar, a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Take a photo stop at the renowned war memorial, India Gate and visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple still in active worship. Also drive past President's House, Parliament House and other Government Secretariat Buildings.
After breakfast, drive to Agra, land of the Taj Mahal. Today, visit the splendid Agra fort, built in red sandstone, encapsulating magnificent palaces, halls of public and private audience and beautiful gardens.
This afternoon, witness the surreal views of the Taj Mahal, sparkling in the glittering rays of the Indian sun. Step inside this eternal symbol of love and appreciate the intricate designs and symmetries that rhyme as a poem written in marble. Taj Mahal is an extravagant display of love, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
After breakfast, drive to Jaipur – the pink hued capital city of Rajasthan. This city of erstwhile Rajput Maharajas, is built in 9 rectangular sectors symbolising 9 divisions of the universe, as per Indian cosmology. En route to Jaipur, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the capital city of the Mughal Empire in the 16th century.
Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at your hotel. Later explore the many facets of Jaipuri crafts such as semi precious jewels, pottery, colourful embroidered fabrics with mirror work, woven carpets etc – watch artisans at work and enjoy souvenir shopping.
Today, explore the princely city of Jaipur, starting with a morning excursion to Amber fort, which was built in the 16th century. An elephant ride (subject to availability) will help you ascend to this hilltop fort; alternatively, you may also choose to climb or drive up to the fort.
This afternoon, visit City Palace, the architectural masterpiece of Jaipur, and the ancient astronomical observatory, Jantar Mantar. Also take a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), built in the 18th century.
ADD AN EXTRA NIGHT FOR...
USD 90pp
Ranthambore (Stay at Tiger Safari Resort or similar + All meals + 2 Jungle Safaris in Wildlife Park …minimum 2 nights stay condition applies)ORKarauli Village (Stay at Bhanvar Vilas Palace + Guided Village Tour)
USD 100 pp
Bharatpur (Stay at Laxmi Vilas Palace + Rikshaw Ride in Keoladeo Ghana National Park)ORAlsisar(Stay at the beautiful Alsisar Mahal + guided tour to havelis and mansions appreciating frescos and paintings of bygone era)ORAbhaneri Desert Camp (Stay at Desert Camp + All Meals + Cooking Demonstration)OR Neemrana (Stay at the splendid Neemrana Fort Palace and discover this architectural jewel cut into an hillside, stepped and rising to 10 levels, with the most amazing views of the region)
USD 115 pp
Ranthambore (Stay at Nahargarh + All meals + 2 Jungle Safaris in Wildlife Park …minimum 2 nights stay condition applies)OR Sariska(Stay at the fabulous Sariska Palace)OR Chomu Palace(Stay in the heritage charm of Chomu Palace)
USD 130 pp (LUXURY)
Samode Bagh(Stay at the splendid Samode Bagh Camp, near Jaipur)
USD 165 pp (LUXURY)
Ranthambore (Stay at Nahargarh + All meals + 2 Jungle Safaris in Wildlife Park …minimum 2 nights stay condition applies)
USD 215 pp (LUXURY)
Samode Palace(Stay at the luxurious Samode Palace, near Jaipur)