Heritage and Culture North India
Tour: Heritage and Culture: North
India
Duration: 15 Nights / 16 Days
Destinations Covered: Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Orcha, Jhansi, Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranakpur, Udaipur, Mumbai.
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive late evening at New Delhi International airport. Upon arrival at International Airport, you will be met by our representative, after a traditional 'Swagat' (Indian welcome consisting of Aarti-Tikka and garlands) our representative would assist you at airport & transfer to hotel for two nights.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
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!
Day 02: Delhi
Enjoy full day sightseeing of New & Old Delhi.
(Including the Qutub Minar, Humayun's tomb and Lutyen's buildings, Jama Masjid, Red Fort and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk)
Old Delhi pulses with the energy and colour, the hustle and bustle of thronged bazaars and is laced by a maze of narrow lanes which twist and turn between tall, leaning houses full of the sights, sounds and aromas of the Indian sub-continent. In Old Delhi you will see the famous Red Fort surrounded by shops, and bazaars (built by the Emperor Shah Jehan - the builder of Taj Mahal), the Jama Masjid mosque with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes, Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi's business nerve center), the hustle-bustle of everyday Indian life all around you and chattering voices.
Note: The Red Fort is closed on Mondays
New Delhi stands in formal splendour, like a lone sentry guarding an outpost of a long-gone empire. It is a city of wide boulevards, which offers ever-changing perspectives of Lutyen's landscaped city. It is a city rich with formal parks and you will see the magnificent Parliament Building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the President of India in the 330 acres of land and designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens), once the awe-inspiring residence of the British Viceroys and now the Presidential Palace, India Gate (a majestic 42-mts high arch, built as a memorial to the Indian Soldiers killed in World War I), Qutub Minar (the 72.5 mts high tower dating back to 13th century and one of the greatest bequests of Islamic Culture), Humanyun's Tomb (built in the 16th century and architecturally the fore runner of the Taj Mahal, has Mughal Architecture at its graceful best).
After finishing the sightseeing tour we drive back to our hotel for Overnight stay
Day 03: Delhi / Varanasi (9W-723 Dep: 1040 / Arr: 1150)
After breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to the airport to board the flight for Varanasi flight 9W 723 depart at 1040, assistance on arrival at 1150 hours, transfer to the hotel.
After relaxing, take an excursion tour to Sarnath – 10 kms visit the deer park and Bodhi Tree where Lord Buddha preached his First Sermon. In the evening you can visit to temples at the bank of holy river Ganga and various Ghats (banks). Overnight at Varanasi.
Day 04: Varanasi
Early morning at the time of sunrise take boat ride on the Ganges at dawn when it is full of pilgrims is an amazing place to witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. While on the boat you will also see the cremation ceremonies of dead bodies as per Hindi Rituals.
After lunch visit to Banaras Hindu University - probably the largest residential university in Asia, in the university visit at Bharat Kala Museum.
Later proceed on a tour of the temples of Varanasi visiting the Golden Temple dedicated to lord Shiva, the Durga temple dedicated to goddess Durga. Interestingly the Durga Temple is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large number of monkeys found in the Temple premises, In the evening you can take a walk through the narrow lane to explore and colourful market of the ancient city. Rest of the evening free for leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 05: Varanasi - Khajuraho (9W 723 Dep: 1220 / Arr: 1300)
Morning after breakfast checkout and transfer to the airport to board the flight to Khajuraho at 1220 hrs departure, arrival at 1300 hrs. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Later visit Western group of Temples consisting of the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Laxman, the Kandariya Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Also visit Archaeological museum with its collection of stone sculptures of the Chandela dynasty.
Return to the hotel for overnight.
Day 06: Khajuraho – Jhansi (Surface) – Agra (Shatabdi Express Dep: 1756 / Arr: 2025)
Early morning visit the visit Eastern group of Temples and visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath, and Shanti Nath. Also visit the temples of Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman both dedicated to lord Vishnu.
Later drive to Jhansi enroute visiting Orcha, Once the capital city of Bundela, Orchha is now just a village, set amongst a complex of well-preserved palaces and temples. It’s definitely worth a visit. Orchha was founded in 1531 and it’s golden age was during the first half of the 17th century. A special palace, Jehangir Mahal was built when Jehangir visited the city in 1606. It is of impressive size and there are good views of the countryside from the upper levels.
Visit Raj Mahal nearby has superb murals. Dinman Hardaul’s palace is also interesting palace. Orchha’s worth visiting temples date back to the 17th century. They are still in use today and are visited regularly by thousands of devotees. Ram Raja Temples with its soaring spires. The Lakshmi narayan temple is worth the walk for its well-preserved murals. The walled Phool Bagh gardens, a cool summer retreat, are also worth visiting other places to see include the dilapidated Sundar Mahal and Chhatris (memorials) of Orchha’s rulers, down by the betwa river.
Later you will be transferred to Jhansi Railway station to catch the Shatabdi Express to Agra..
Upon arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay
Day 07: Agra – Jaipur (221 Kms / 05 hours approx.)
After breakfast we checkout from hotel and visit to witness incomparable Taj Mahal with its’ speculative view at the time of Sunrise. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder of the world; this monument is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders of the modern world. Taj, endowed it with some of the loveliest buildings in the world. The tour continues with a visit to the Agra Fort from where one can get the most moving view of the Taj from the little octagonal tower in the Agra Fort, which lies, across the river Jamuna.
Thereafter drive to Jaipur (221 kms), en route visit Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri the deserted, red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the 16th century. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza the largest gateway in the world.
After visiting Fatehpur Sikri we continue drive to Jaipur
Upon arrival in Jaipur, We check in at or pre-arranged hotel for 02 Nights
Day 08: Jaipur S/S
Morning tour of the impressive Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow bu t 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.
Afternoon tour of the City - "The Pink City" is spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills, dotted with ancient ruined fortresses. Your tour will include the imposing City Palace, still home to the Maharaja although several of the rooms are now open to the public. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. You will also visit the Hawa Mahal "Palace of the Winds", and the open-air Jantar Mantar Observatory to see the vast astronomical instruments.
Later we drive back to hotel enroute visiting Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort located at a distance 15 km from Jaipur. Evenings at Chokhi Dhani are very special. A Rajasthani village atmosphere is recreated on the sprawling grounds and includes entertainment by folk dancers and musicians.
Guests can move around freely and enjoy the evening.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 09: Jaipur to Bikaner (324 Kms / 06 hrs approx.)
Post breakfast we we drive to the princely state of Bikaner, founded by Rao Bikaji (1465-1504 AD) in the year 1488 AD. He was a Rajput prince, descendent of the founder of neighbouring Jodhpur. It lies in the north-western part of Rajasthan & has a stark beauty of the desert landscape with wide-spread sand dunes & thorny shrubs growing around. It is a royal city surrounded by a mammoth fortification wall, more than 5 km in circumference & about 5 to 9m high. Fort, Palaces & people with colourful traditional costumes are the chief attractions of the city.
The Camel Breeding Farm in Bikaner is only one of its kinds in the whole Asia & so is the illustrious Camel Festival.
Optionally en route you can visit at Mandawa fort or lunch & can visit to Laxmangarh sightseeing of old Havelis. Continue to proceed to Bikaner. On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Day 10: Bikaner to Jaisalmer (320 Kms / Approx 6 hours)
After breakfast take a sight seei ng tour of Bikaner covering Junagarh Fort - constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, fort has a 986 meter long wall with 37 bastions & two entrances, Bandh Sagar Temple - The 16th century Jain temple, is the most important temple of this complex.
And later we drive to Jaisalmer (320 kms - 6 hrs), founded in the year 1156 by Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Often described as Golden City & rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage the commanding Fort etched in yellow sandstone, dominates the amber-hued city with its entire awesome splendour. Because of its strategic location it was an important ancient trading centre & camel caravans laden with precious spices & silk crossed the territory en-route India, Sindh, Arabia & Europe. The merchants of the 19th century built Havelis (Mansions) that are exquisitely carved from golden-yellow sandstone & are still in a beautiful condition. The life within the Fortified town conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palace, havelis, temples, & of course skilled artisans & ubiquitous camels.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jaisalmer.
Day 11: Jaisalmer
Today we visit the old town of Jaisalmer & visit Jaisalmer Fort, built in the year 1156 by Rawal Jaisal. Perched on 80m high hill, housing the entire township within its ramparts, the golden hued Fort is standing like a sentinel in the bleak desert landscape. It is the only "Living Fort" in India & within its ramparts has an enchanting cow-web of narrow lanes dotted with some lovely Havelis (Mansions), Palaces & beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th-15th century AD & of course skilled artisans & ubiquitous camels.
We also visit magnificent Patwon Ki Haveli in the heart of the town. It was built by the rich merchant Guman Chand Patwa & his sons, whose business stretched between Afghanistan & China. It is the most elaborate & magnificent of all the Jaisalmer Havelis & is virtually the showpiece of Jaisalmer's legendary architectural wealth. The carving on stone far surpasses in beauty the work on brocade & gold. Later we drive down 40 km away from Jaisalmer to Sam to take theCamel ride on the Sand Dunes of Sam while the sun is setting down.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jaisalmer.
Day 12: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (290 km - 7 hr)
Today we drive to Jodhpur, bustling desert city is the second largest city in Rajasthan & has landscape dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort topping a sheer rocky ridge
.Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan, founded the city in the year 1459 & it is named after him. It was formerly the seat of a Princely state, also known as Marwar.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jodhpur
Day 13: Jodhpur – Ranakpur (180 Kms / 4-5hrs)
Today we take a guided tour of Jodhpur, visiting the Mehrangarh Fort (Majestic Fort), one of the most impressive & formidable structures anywhere in India. Built by Rao Jodha, this 5km long Fort is on a 125m high hill & has some magnificent palaces with marvellously carved panels latticed window. The Fort Museum houses an exquisite collection of palanquins, howdahs (Elephant saddles), royal cradles, miniatures paintings, musical instruments, costumes & furniture.
We also visit Jaswant Thada, a cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in the year 1899 AD in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of various Jodhpur rulers. It is an architectural landmark of Jodhpur.
Drive from Jodhpur to Ranakpur (about 4- 5 hours)
Check in at your hotel for one night
Day 14: Ranakpur to Udaipur (90 kms / 03 hrs approx.)
Ranakpur is situated near the village of Sadri lies the Ranakpur temple complex – one of the biggest and most important clusters of Jain temples in India. Nestled in the Aravalli Range, Ranakpur is a mere 90 kms from Udaipur. The Chaumukha temple, or four faced temple, is the main temple in the complex and dates back to the 15th century. Built in marble, the temple has 29 halls supported by more than 1400 pillars, no two of which are alike.
After visiting Ranakpur Jain temples, renowned for some marvellously carved Jain temples in marble, created in the 15th century AD during the reign o f Rana Kumbha.
Today we drive to Udaipur, was founded in the year 1568 by Maharana Udai Singh after his final unsuccessful attempt to defend the Mewar capital, Chittorgarh from the invading Mughals under Emperor Akbar. The Kingdom of Mewar was considered the most respectable among all Princely states in Rajasthan & still remembered for the courage to protect the Kingdom. The site for Udaipur was chosen for its natural beauty, abundant water & natural protection afforded by the surrounding forests & Aravali mountains. It is set on the edge of three lakes & also known as the "City of Lakes & Palaces".
Undoubtedly one of the most romantic cities in India, its beautiful Palaces are mirrored in the calm waters of Lake Pichola & the city is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces & temples.
Overnight Stay at hotel in Udaipur.
Day 15 : Udaipur
Today we visit the City Palace, an intriguing collection of buildings contributed by various Maharanas (Kings) after Udai Singh & built in the year 1725. The magnificence of the Palace starts right from its entrance at the northern Tripolia Gate that brings us to the central courtyard, the best place to view the facade of filigreed balconies & ornate cupola-topped towers.
Sahelion ki Bari (Garden of Maids of Honour) is an ornamental garden built by Maharana Sangram Singh for his daughter & the Ladies of the Queen's court. He built the garden with several fountains, pools & is decorated with chiselled pavilions & elephants. The fountains worked on the unique hydraulic technique devised in the year 1700 AD & work till today.
Later we visit Jagdish Temple, the Indo-Aryan temple, built in the year 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh, is the largest & the most beautiful temple of Udaipur with noteworthy sculpted images. We also enjoy boat ride on Lake Pichola, the beauty of the lake is enhanced by the surrounding hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats & embankments. The Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) & Jag Mandir, the two island palaces on the lake look like pearls in the lake.
Overnight Stay at hotel in Udaipur.
Day 16: Udaipur – Mumbai (By 9W 709 Dep: 0740 / Arr: 0945 hrs)
Transfer to Udaipur airport to catch the flight for Mumbai, upon arrival in Mumbai you will met our representative and depart for half day sightseeing tour covering the Gateway of India, the entrance to the port of Mumbai. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911. Historically the Gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops, which left independent India by sea, marched through its portals. To be followed by an Elephanta Caves boat cruise from Gateway of India. The caves are at the top of a gentle stairway, which begins almost immediately where the ferry wharf hits dry land. Other attractions would be the Prince Wales Museum & Marine Drive which runs along the shore of the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point past Chowpatty Beach to the foot of Malabar Hill.
Next we head for the airport. Tour concludes. T4U thank you for your patronage and ensure a punctual transfer to International Airport to catch the flight back home
Duration: 15 Nights / 16 Days
Destinations Covered: Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Orcha, Jhansi, Agra, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranakpur, Udaipur, Mumbai.
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Arrive late evening at New Delhi International airport. Upon arrival at International Airport, you will be met by our representative, after a traditional 'Swagat' (Indian welcome consisting of Aarti-Tikka and garlands) our representative would assist you at airport & transfer to hotel for two nights.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
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!
Day 02: Delhi
Enjoy full day sightseeing of New & Old Delhi.
(Including the Qutub Minar, Humayun's tomb and Lutyen's buildings, Jama Masjid, Red Fort and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk)
Old Delhi pulses with the energy and colour, the hustle and bustle of thronged bazaars and is laced by a maze of narrow lanes which twist and turn between tall, leaning houses full of the sights, sounds and aromas of the Indian sub-continent. In Old Delhi you will see the famous Red Fort surrounded by shops, and bazaars (built by the Emperor Shah Jehan - the builder of Taj Mahal), the Jama Masjid mosque with its tapering minarets and wonderful marble domes, Chandni Chowk (Old Delhi's business nerve center), the hustle-bustle of everyday Indian life all around you and chattering voices.
Note: The Red Fort is closed on Mondays
New Delhi stands in formal splendour, like a lone sentry guarding an outpost of a long-gone empire. It is a city of wide boulevards, which offers ever-changing perspectives of Lutyen's landscaped city. It is a city rich with formal parks and you will see the magnificent Parliament Building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the President of India in the 330 acres of land and designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens), once the awe-inspiring residence of the British Viceroys and now the Presidential Palace, India Gate (a majestic 42-mts high arch, built as a memorial to the Indian Soldiers killed in World War I), Qutub Minar (the 72.5 mts high tower dating back to 13th century and one of the greatest bequests of Islamic Culture), Humanyun's Tomb (built in the 16th century and architecturally the fore runner of the Taj Mahal, has Mughal Architecture at its graceful best).
After finishing the sightseeing tour we drive back to our hotel for Overnight stay
Day 03: Delhi / Varanasi (9W-723 Dep: 1040 / Arr: 1150)
After breakfast check out the hotel and transfer to the airport to board the flight for Varanasi flight 9W 723 depart at 1040, assistance on arrival at 1150 hours, transfer to the hotel.
After relaxing, take an excursion tour to Sarnath – 10 kms visit the deer park and Bodhi Tree where Lord Buddha preached his First Sermon. In the evening you can visit to temples at the bank of holy river Ganga and various Ghats (banks). Overnight at Varanasi.
Day 04: Varanasi
Early morning at the time of sunrise take boat ride on the Ganges at dawn when it is full of pilgrims is an amazing place to witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. While on the boat you will also see the cremation ceremonies of dead bodies as per Hindi Rituals.
After lunch visit to Banaras Hindu University - probably the largest residential university in Asia, in the university visit at Bharat Kala Museum.
Later proceed on a tour of the temples of Varanasi visiting the Golden Temple dedicated to lord Shiva, the Durga temple dedicated to goddess Durga. Interestingly the Durga Temple is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large number of monkeys found in the Temple premises, In the evening you can take a walk through the narrow lane to explore and colourful market of the ancient city. Rest of the evening free for leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 05: Varanasi - Khajuraho (9W 723 Dep: 1220 / Arr: 1300)
Morning after breakfast checkout and transfer to the airport to board the flight to Khajuraho at 1220 hrs departure, arrival at 1300 hrs. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Later visit Western group of Temples consisting of the massive Laxman Temple dedicated to lord Vishnu, the Laxmi and Varaha temples dedicated to Vishnu’s consort Laxman, the Kandariya Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chausath Yogini temple dedicated to goddess Kali. Also visit Archaeological museum with its collection of stone sculptures of the Chandela dynasty.
Return to the hotel for overnight.
Day 06: Khajuraho – Jhansi (Surface) – Agra (Shatabdi Express Dep: 1756 / Arr: 2025)
Early morning visit the visit Eastern group of Temples and visit the Jain temples of Parsvanath, Adinath, and Shanti Nath. Also visit the temples of Vamana and Brahma/Hanuman both dedicated to lord Vishnu.
Later drive to Jhansi enroute visiting Orcha, Once the capital city of Bundela, Orchha is now just a village, set amongst a complex of well-preserved palaces and temples. It’s definitely worth a visit. Orchha was founded in 1531 and it’s golden age was during the first half of the 17th century. A special palace, Jehangir Mahal was built when Jehangir visited the city in 1606. It is of impressive size and there are good views of the countryside from the upper levels.
Visit Raj Mahal nearby has superb murals. Dinman Hardaul’s palace is also interesting palace. Orchha’s worth visiting temples date back to the 17th century. They are still in use today and are visited regularly by thousands of devotees. Ram Raja Temples with its soaring spires. The Lakshmi narayan temple is worth the walk for its well-preserved murals. The walled Phool Bagh gardens, a cool summer retreat, are also worth visiting other places to see include the dilapidated Sundar Mahal and Chhatris (memorials) of Orchha’s rulers, down by the betwa river.
Later you will be transferred to Jhansi Railway station to catch the Shatabdi Express to Agra..
Upon arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay
Day 07: Agra – Jaipur (221 Kms / 05 hours approx.)
After breakfast we checkout from hotel and visit to witness incomparable Taj Mahal with its’ speculative view at the time of Sunrise. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder of the world; this monument is a fine example of the fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders of the modern world. Taj, endowed it with some of the loveliest buildings in the world. The tour continues with a visit to the Agra Fort from where one can get the most moving view of the Taj from the little octagonal tower in the Agra Fort, which lies, across the river Jamuna.
Thereafter drive to Jaipur (221 kms), en route visit Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri the deserted, red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the 16th century. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza the largest gateway in the world.
After visiting Fatehpur Sikri we continue drive to Jaipur
Upon arrival in Jaipur, We check in at or pre-arranged hotel for 02 Nights
Day 08: Jaipur S/S
Morning tour of the impressive Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow bu t 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.
Afternoon tour of the City - "The Pink City" is spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills, dotted with ancient ruined fortresses. Your tour will include the imposing City Palace, still home to the Maharaja although several of the rooms are now open to the public. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. You will also visit the Hawa Mahal "Palace of the Winds", and the open-air Jantar Mantar Observatory to see the vast astronomical instruments.
Later we drive back to hotel enroute visiting Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort located at a distance 15 km from Jaipur. Evenings at Chokhi Dhani are very special. A Rajasthani village atmosphere is recreated on the sprawling grounds and includes entertainment by folk dancers and musicians.
Guests can move around freely and enjoy the evening.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 09: Jaipur to Bikaner (324 Kms / 06 hrs approx.)
Post breakfast we we drive to the princely state of Bikaner, founded by Rao Bikaji (1465-1504 AD) in the year 1488 AD. He was a Rajput prince, descendent of the founder of neighbouring Jodhpur. It lies in the north-western part of Rajasthan & has a stark beauty of the desert landscape with wide-spread sand dunes & thorny shrubs growing around. It is a royal city surrounded by a mammoth fortification wall, more than 5 km in circumference & about 5 to 9m high. Fort, Palaces & people with colourful traditional costumes are the chief attractions of the city.
The Camel Breeding Farm in Bikaner is only one of its kinds in the whole Asia & so is the illustrious Camel Festival.
Optionally en route you can visit at Mandawa fort or lunch & can visit to Laxmangarh sightseeing of old Havelis. Continue to proceed to Bikaner. On arrival transfer to the hotel.
Day 10: Bikaner to Jaisalmer (320 Kms / Approx 6 hours)
After breakfast take a sight seei ng tour of Bikaner covering Junagarh Fort - constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, fort has a 986 meter long wall with 37 bastions & two entrances, Bandh Sagar Temple - The 16th century Jain temple, is the most important temple of this complex.
And later we drive to Jaisalmer (320 kms - 6 hrs), founded in the year 1156 by Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Often described as Golden City & rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage the commanding Fort etched in yellow sandstone, dominates the amber-hued city with its entire awesome splendour. Because of its strategic location it was an important ancient trading centre & camel caravans laden with precious spices & silk crossed the territory en-route India, Sindh, Arabia & Europe. The merchants of the 19th century built Havelis (Mansions) that are exquisitely carved from golden-yellow sandstone & are still in a beautiful condition. The life within the Fortified town conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palace, havelis, temples, & of course skilled artisans & ubiquitous camels.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jaisalmer.
Day 11: Jaisalmer
Today we visit the old town of Jaisalmer & visit Jaisalmer Fort, built in the year 1156 by Rawal Jaisal. Perched on 80m high hill, housing the entire township within its ramparts, the golden hued Fort is standing like a sentinel in the bleak desert landscape. It is the only "Living Fort" in India & within its ramparts has an enchanting cow-web of narrow lanes dotted with some lovely Havelis (Mansions), Palaces & beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th-15th century AD & of course skilled artisans & ubiquitous camels.
We also visit magnificent Patwon Ki Haveli in the heart of the town. It was built by the rich merchant Guman Chand Patwa & his sons, whose business stretched between Afghanistan & China. It is the most elaborate & magnificent of all the Jaisalmer Havelis & is virtually the showpiece of Jaisalmer's legendary architectural wealth. The carving on stone far surpasses in beauty the work on brocade & gold. Later we drive down 40 km away from Jaisalmer to Sam to take theCamel ride on the Sand Dunes of Sam while the sun is setting down.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jaisalmer.
Day 12: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (290 km - 7 hr)
Today we drive to Jodhpur, bustling desert city is the second largest city in Rajasthan & has landscape dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort topping a sheer rocky ridge
.Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan, founded the city in the year 1459 & it is named after him. It was formerly the seat of a Princely state, also known as Marwar.
Overnight Stay at the hotel in Jodhpur
Day 13: Jodhpur – Ranakpur (180 Kms / 4-5hrs)
Today we take a guided tour of Jodhpur, visiting the Mehrangarh Fort (Majestic Fort), one of the most impressive & formidable structures anywhere in India. Built by Rao Jodha, this 5km long Fort is on a 125m high hill & has some magnificent palaces with marvellously carved panels latticed window. The Fort Museum houses an exquisite collection of palanquins, howdahs (Elephant saddles), royal cradles, miniatures paintings, musical instruments, costumes & furniture.
We also visit Jaswant Thada, a cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in the year 1899 AD in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of various Jodhpur rulers. It is an architectural landmark of Jodhpur.
Drive from Jodhpur to Ranakpur (about 4- 5 hours)
Check in at your hotel for one night
Day 14: Ranakpur to Udaipur (90 kms / 03 hrs approx.)
Ranakpur is situated near the village of Sadri lies the Ranakpur temple complex – one of the biggest and most important clusters of Jain temples in India. Nestled in the Aravalli Range, Ranakpur is a mere 90 kms from Udaipur. The Chaumukha temple, or four faced temple, is the main temple in the complex and dates back to the 15th century. Built in marble, the temple has 29 halls supported by more than 1400 pillars, no two of which are alike.
After visiting Ranakpur Jain temples, renowned for some marvellously carved Jain temples in marble, created in the 15th century AD during the reign o f Rana Kumbha.
Today we drive to Udaipur, was founded in the year 1568 by Maharana Udai Singh after his final unsuccessful attempt to defend the Mewar capital, Chittorgarh from the invading Mughals under Emperor Akbar. The Kingdom of Mewar was considered the most respectable among all Princely states in Rajasthan & still remembered for the courage to protect the Kingdom. The site for Udaipur was chosen for its natural beauty, abundant water & natural protection afforded by the surrounding forests & Aravali mountains. It is set on the edge of three lakes & also known as the "City of Lakes & Palaces".
Undoubtedly one of the most romantic cities in India, its beautiful Palaces are mirrored in the calm waters of Lake Pichola & the city is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces & temples.
Overnight Stay at hotel in Udaipur.
Day 15 : Udaipur
Today we visit the City Palace, an intriguing collection of buildings contributed by various Maharanas (Kings) after Udai Singh & built in the year 1725. The magnificence of the Palace starts right from its entrance at the northern Tripolia Gate that brings us to the central courtyard, the best place to view the facade of filigreed balconies & ornate cupola-topped towers.
Sahelion ki Bari (Garden of Maids of Honour) is an ornamental garden built by Maharana Sangram Singh for his daughter & the Ladies of the Queen's court. He built the garden with several fountains, pools & is decorated with chiselled pavilions & elephants. The fountains worked on the unique hydraulic technique devised in the year 1700 AD & work till today.
Later we visit Jagdish Temple, the Indo-Aryan temple, built in the year 1651 AD by Maharana Jagat Singh, is the largest & the most beautiful temple of Udaipur with noteworthy sculpted images. We also enjoy boat ride on Lake Pichola, the beauty of the lake is enhanced by the surrounding hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats & embankments. The Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) & Jag Mandir, the two island palaces on the lake look like pearls in the lake.
Overnight Stay at hotel in Udaipur.
Day 16: Udaipur – Mumbai (By 9W 709 Dep: 0740 / Arr: 0945 hrs)
Transfer to Udaipur airport to catch the flight for Mumbai, upon arrival in Mumbai you will met our representative and depart for half day sightseeing tour covering the Gateway of India, the entrance to the port of Mumbai. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911. Historically the Gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops, which left independent India by sea, marched through its portals. To be followed by an Elephanta Caves boat cruise from Gateway of India. The caves are at the top of a gentle stairway, which begins almost immediately where the ferry wharf hits dry land. Other attractions would be the Prince Wales Museum & Marine Drive which runs along the shore of the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point past Chowpatty Beach to the foot of Malabar Hill.
Next we head for the airport. Tour concludes. T4U thank you for your patronage and ensure a punctual transfer to International Airport to catch the flight back home
