Royal Rajasthan Tour
Day 1 | New Delhi
Arrive at the international airport, New Delhi in midnight. Our representative will assist you in getting transferred to your pre booked hotel. Check in at the hotel relax for the day. .Afternoon will be free for sightseeing and leisure activities. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Delhi: A Transition through Time - As you walk along the narrow by lanes of this city of dreams, tread softly. Every crumbling wall has a story to tell. Every yesterday is replete with history. Rulers have come and gone. The city has lived through wars and resurrection, repeatedly rising from the ashes. Cradling civilizations since times immemorial Delhi goes back hundreds of thousands of years back into time.
Stone tools belonging to early Stone Age were discovered from the Aravalli tracts in and around Anangpur, the Jawaharlal Nehru University Campus, the northern ridge and elsewhere - evidence that the Early Man lived here. Excavations at Mandoli and Bhorgarh in east and north-west Delhi respectively have thrown up remains of chalcolithic period dating back to 2nd millennium BC, 1st millennium BC as well remains of 4th-5th century AD have been traced here. The excavations of the ancient mound of Indraprastha, capital of the Pandavas, located within the fold of the sixteenth century Purana Qila revealed evidence of continuous habitation of the site for almost 2500 years. According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas founded their capital Indrapratha in the region known as Khandava-prastha.
The second city around Siri by Alaud-Din Khalji (1296-1316); Tughlaqabad, the third city built by Ghiysud-Din Tughlug (1321-51); Firuzabad, the fifth city of Delhi, is now represented by Kotla Firuz Shah, founded by Firuz Shah Tughluq (1351-88). It was Humayun who laid the foundations of the sixth city - Dinpanah. This was destroyed and reconstructed as the Purana Qila by Sher Shah Suri however, it was the Mughals who took Delhi to the zenith of architectural glory.
While some construction activities did continue during the reign of Akbar (1556-1605) and Jehangir (1605-27), it was Shah Jehan (1628-58) who built the seventh city, Shahjahanabad which remained the Mughal capital until 1857. The British in 1911 shifted the capital of India to Delhi. The eighth city of New Delhi took shape in the imperial style of architecture. From then to now Delhi continues to throb with vitality and hop. The ruins and ramparts still stand tall in dignity - and amidst them rise modern buildings and giant skyscrapers. It's a breathtaking synthesis of yesterday and tomorrow, the holding on to the past and surging ahead to the future.
Day 2| New Delhi – Agra (by Road 200kms in 4hrs approx)
After breakfast at the hotel, get driven to Agra, the city of Taj Mahal. Enroute visit Sikandra, tomb of a Mughal ruler Akbar. Reach Agra and check in at your pre booked hotel. Day free in the evening for leisure. Overnight at hotel.
Agra: Agra is the one of the prominent destinations of the World Tourism map with three heritage monuments -The Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri & Red Fort. It is more just a decadent city of graveyards and stones, but it is a vibrant centre of Culture, Art and Religious philosophies that have enriched mankind and shaped human thought over centuries. Agra is famous for handicrafts products such as Inlay work on Marvel, Leather Work, Footwear, Brasswear, Carpets, Jwellery, Zari and Embroidery work.
Sikandra: Sikandra, the former capital of Lodi dynasty, was named after the Afghan ruler Sikander Lodi. The city of Sikandra, located at about 12 km from Agra, houses the tomb of Mughul Emperor Akbar. The design and construction of the tomb was started by Akbar himself and subsequently completed by his son Jehangir. The shape of the tomb is a truncated pyramid with five stories. The first four stories were constructed with red sandstone and the fifth one with white marble. The white marble storey comprises a false tomb of Emperor Akbar. The real tomb of Akbar is located in a crypt right below the false tomb. There are several well laid out gardens in the tomb complex. The Baradi palace in the gardens was built by Sikander Lodi. The ausoleum originally had four red sandstone gates. Now only the southern gate is used as the main entrance to the tomb.
Taj Mahal: It is regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Yamuna River. Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan (died 1666 C.E.) in the memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal at Agra, India. It is an "elegy in marble" or some say an expression of a "dream." Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of Queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and that new name was commonly used by the public. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628. Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of twenty-two years, employing twenty thousand workers. It was completed in 1648 C.E. at a cost of 32 Million Rupees.
Day 3| Agra – Jaipur (by Road 235kms)
After breakfast, early in the morning get driven to Jaipur, the Pink City, founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the ruler of Amber. Reach there and check in at the hotel. Then go for local sightseeing. Explore the beautiful architecture of HAWA MAHAL, CITY PALACE, BIRLA TEMPLE and JANTAR MANTAR, the go to see the well preserve history in the MUSEUM.
Hawa Mahal: Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, Hawa Mahal is the most stunning sight in the city of Jaipur. The palace, part of a huge complex, overlooks one of Jaipur's main streets and was originally constructed to offer women of the court a vantage point, behind stone-carved screens, from which to watch the activities taking place in the bazaar and the surrounding streets. Hawa Mahal Jaipur five-story, pyramid-shaped structure is made up of small casements, each with tiny windows and arched roofs with hanging cornices, exquisitely modeled and carved. Its façade makes Hawa Mahal look more like a screen than a palace.
City Palace: City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture. City Palace complex covers a huge area, which is divided into a series of gardens, courtyards and buildings. Initially, Raja Jai Singh built the outer wall occupying a huge area. The additional grand buildings were constructed later by the succeeding rulers.
Birla Temple: Birla Temple forms one of the major attractions of Jaipur. Birla Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night. Birla Mandir, in pure white marble, dominates the skyline of southern part of Jaipur. The enormous temple was built during the year 1988, by Birla Group of Industries, one of the business tycoons of India. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth. Due to this reason, Birla Temple is also known as Laxmi Narayan Temple.
Day 4| Jaipur
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for an excursion to AMBER FORT in the outskirts of Jaipur. Elephant ride ascent to the fort. Enjoy the wonderful carvings and minute mirror work on the walls & ceilings. In the evening proceed to Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village. It is one its own kind, each of the detailed work in the village tells you about the culture and tradition of Rajasthan. It could be Camel Rides, Elephant Rides, Tonga Rides, Bullock Cart Rides, Bow n Arrows, Turbans or Food, it will make you feel a KING. Dinner and cultural program will be organized for you at Chokhi Dhani. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
Amber Fort: Amber Fort is located in Amber (Jaipur), which used to be the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, till Jaipur was made the official capital in 1727. The Amber Fort looks stunning, all-built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes its foreground. The crystal mirror image of the Fort, on the still waters of the lake, seems to be a beautiful illusion. Amber Fort is usually pronounced as Amer Fort. In 1592, construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh I. However, the Amber Fort took its present form during the reign of Raja Jai Singh I. The outer appearance of the Fort, being rough and craggy is totally different from its core. The interior of the Fort provides a soothing and warm ambience, which is least expected from its outer appearance.
Chokhi Dhani: Capturing the spirit of Rajasthan and ensuring the perfect Rajasthani experience is Chokhi Dhani, a unique Village Resort. Chokhi Dhani literally means a “fine hamlet” i.e. a quintessential village that offers an ideal pastoral experience. Away from the urban life the quaint mud and thatch dwellings in the resort give the right blend of traditions - modern amenities in typical ethnic environmen t. An ideal place for a perfect vacation is Chokhi Dhani Resort and what makes it so?... Without further contemplation it is the multiple facilities fulfilling all needs of guests.
Day 5| Jaipur- Udaipur
After breakfast, drive to Udaipur. Enroute visit Pushkar famous and the only Lord Bramha Temple in the world & Ajmer. On reaching Udaipur check in your hotel & relax. Overnight at Hotel.
Pushkar: Historically, Pushkar always had great strategic importance and was sacked by Mahumud of Ghazni on one of his periodic forays from Afghanistan. Later it became a favorite residence of the great Moghula. One of the first contacts between the Moghula and the British occurred in Pushkar when Sir Thomas Roe met with Jahangir here in 1616. The city was subsequently taken by the Scindias and, in 1818, it was handed over to the British, becoming one of the few places in Rajasthan controlled directly by British rather than being part of a princely state.
Brahma Temple: The Brahma temple is an important pilgrim centre for the Hindus. It is nestled in the Pushkar valley which lies beyond Nagaparvat and the Anasagar lake. This place, full of natural beauty, holds a special place in the hearts of Indian for it is believed that Lord Brahma, together with all the gods and goddesses, performed a Yagya here. Legends also have it that the ancient lake Sarovar had appeared miraculously, when a lotus fell from the hands of Lord Brahma and dropped into this valley. Brahma Temple The most famous temple in Pushkar, this is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma (the creator of the universe according to Hindu mythology) in the entire country. You can identify it by its red spire and by the image of a hans(the goose considered sacred to Lord Brahma).This temple built with marble is decorated with silver coins and there is a silver turtle on the floor of the temple.
Day 6| Udaipur
Early morning start your sight seeing Udaipur, known as the Venice of the east. It is also called the city of lakes. Have your breakfast enroute. Reach there in the afternoon and check in at the hotel. Get ready to explore the culture & places here in Udaipur. Go for a tour visiting places like City Palace, City Palace Museum, Pichola Lake (enjoy boat ride here), FatehSagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, Lake Palace, Jag Mandir Palace etc. Stay overnight at the hotel.
City Palace: City Palace towers over the Pichola Lake. Maharana Uday Singh initiated in the construction of the palace but succeeding Maharanas added several palaces and structures to the complex retained a surprising uniformity to the design. The entry to the Palace is from the Hati Pol, the Elephant gate. The Bari Pol or the Big gate brings you to the Tripolia, the Triple gate. It was once a custom that the Maharana would weigh under this gate in gold and silver, which was distributed to the populace. It is also now the main ticket office. Balconies, cupolas and towers surmount the palace to give a wonderful view of the lake. Suraj Gokhada or the balcony of the sun is where the Maharana would grant public audiences mainly to boost the morale of the people in difficult times.
Pichola Lake: Pichola Lake the beautiful expanse of water that surrounds the islands of the Lake Palace Hotel (JAG NIWAS) and JAG MANDIR. The backdrop of the overlooking City Palace gives this lake its name-Pichola.Apart from this there is also an another version about it's name.It says that the name comes from the nearby small village of Picholi and was originally created early in the 15th century by a local Banjara tribesman who transported grain. Legend has it that, finding his bullocks could not ford the stream at the southern end, he built a dam across it, over which the animals could cross. In 1560, a year after Maharana UDAI SINGH II began building his new capital of Udaipur around the shore; he strengthened the dam and greatly enlarged the lake.
Jagdish Temple: Jagdish Temple is one of the famous temples of Udaipur. Located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur, this temple is made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture. In 1651, Jagdish temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur during 1628-53. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe. It is celebrated for being the largest temple in the city of Udaipur. The gateway of this temple can be sited at a distance of 150 meters from the Bara Pol of the City Palace. This three-storied temple is a wonder of architecture that comprises beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings, painted walls and lush halls. In those times, 1.5 million rupees were spent to raise this structure. The spire of the main temple is around 79 feet high that undoubtedly dominates the skyline of Udaipur. This shikhar (spire) is festooned with sculptures of dancers, elephants, horsemen and musicians making it truly a sight to behold. As and when you approach the temple, you will be welcomed by two huge stone elephants at the entrance.
Lake Palace: Udaipur Lake Palace is one of the most romantic places on this earth. The Palace situated amidst the scenic Pichola Lake offers a heavenly view to the onlooker. The imposing Aravalli Hills on one side and soaring palaces on the other, make the perfect background to this beautiful Lake Palace. Raised in white marble, Lake Palace was constructed by Maharana Jai Singh II in 1746. The magnificent Palace stretches across a four-acre island creating a dream-like impression. Originally, the Palace was named as Jag Niwas after the name of the Maharana. In the present times, it is popular by the name of Lake Palace.
Day 7| Udaipur – Ranakpur – Jodhpur (7hrs Drive)
Early morning get driven to Jodhpur, also known as Sun City enroute visit Ranakpur the famous jain priligrim. Reach there and check in at the hotel. Then go for a city tour see places like the gorgeous Umaid Bhawan Palace, which still serves as the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur in part, and many other monuments and tourist attractions. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 8 Jodhpur
After breakfast day free for leisure. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 9| Jodhpur – Jaisalmer (by Road 285kms approx)
After breakfast, go on an excursion to Mehrangarh Fort, the most magnificent fort in Jodhpur is the Mehrangarh Fort. It is situated on a 150m high hill. Rao Jodha, the then chief of Rathore clan, constructed it in 1459. There are a number of attractions within the fort like several palaces, galleries, a museum, and temples and so on. Rest till evening and then enjoy the glimpse of the sunset from the thar desert where you will enjoy camel & your stay shall be in swiss tent along traditional dinner & cultural programme.
Day 10 / Jaisalmer
After breakfast day free for local sightseeing. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 11| Jaisalmer – Bikaner (by Road 333kms approx)
After breakfast go for half day city tour of the beautiful desert city. In the evening, you can see Havelis with convoluted designs and latticed windows such as Patwaon-ki-haveli and the Gadisar Lake, which seems beautiful at sunset. Later get driven to Bikaner, the desert city of Rajasthan famous for its picturesque golden sand dunes, striking red sandstone forts, stunning Palaces and Havelis and certainly its camel safaris. Reach there and check in at a pre booked hotel and relax till evening. Evening will be free for leisure activities and shopping around. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 12| Bikaner – Mandawa (by Road 150kms approx)
After breakfast at the hotel, go for a half day sightseeing, visiting places like the awesome 15th century, Junagarh Fort, the one fort said to have never been captured. Also see houses with red sandstone and marble palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal, a royal temple called Har Mandir, Museum and the beautiful Lalgarh. Bhanda Sagar Jain, Karni Mata Mandir (Rat Temple) etc Come back to the hotel and relax. Later proceed towards Mandawa.
Junagarh Fort: The fort was built by Raja Rai Singh, the sixth ruler of Bikaner who reigned from 1571 to 1612. Rai Singh had conquered part of Marwar and had been granted territory in Gujurat and Burhanpur by the Mughal emperor Akbar as a reward for his services as military commander. This, as well as funding from Jodhpur, enabled him to build the fort. Rai Singh held high rank in the imperial courts of both Akbar and his successor, Jehangir. During his imperial service he travelled extensively, giving him an appreciation of art and architecture. These ideas have been incorporated meticulously into the architectural style of Junagarh Fort.
Day 13 Mandawa – Delhi
After breakfast, get driven to Delhi , enroute do the local sight seeing of Mandawa also known as the open art gallery of India. The paintings on the walls of Havelis here are marvelous peaces of art and skill. Upon reaching Delhi in time get transferred to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel.
Mandawa: Mandawa is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India. It is part of Shekhawati region. Mandawa is situated 190 km off Jaipur in the north. The town lies between latitude 28°.06’ in the north and longitude 75°.20’ in the east. Mandawa is known for its fort and havelis. The fort town of Mandawa is well connected with the other places in region through a good network of roads.
Day 14 Delhi
After brealfast day free till departure. Drive to Delhi airport to board your flight.
