Grand Rajasthan with Taj & Tigers

Day 1 : Arrive Delhi

Warm welcome with fresh flower garlands at New Delhi International Airport. Meet and assist with company representative or tour guide and transfer to the hotel. On arrival in hotel, check-in (standard check-in, 1400hrs). After short rest, proceed for Old Delhi sightseeing.  

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Delhi 

Mystery, magic, mayhem. Welcome to Delhi, City of Djinns, and 25 million people. Like an eastern Rome, India’s capital is littered with the relics of lost empires. Modern Delhi is a chaotic tapestry of medieval fortifications, Mughal mausoleums, dusty bazaars, colonial-era town planning, and mega malls. 

Old Delhi Sightseeing :

Raj Ghat : A simple black-marble platform marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. 

Jama Masjid : A calm respite from the surrounding mayhem, One of India’s largest mosque can hold a mind-blowing 25,000 people. 

You will embark on your local ride from now onto a Rickshaw ride for Old Delhi Market. 

Cruising past the amazing Spice Market, Silver Market & market for shopping of wedding stuff. This ride brings you in the middle of the chaos that is Old Delhi & then swiftly takes you back to your vehicle. 

Red Fort (drive pass) : A drive pass Red Fort in Delhi, converted into a barracks by the Bri sh, this massive fort is a sandstone carcass of its former self, but it still conjures a picture of the splendor of Mughal Delhi. 

Day 2 : Delhi  

Breakfast at the hotel, proceed for sightseeing of Delhi.  

New Delhi Sightseeing  :

Breakfast at hotel, and then start for sightseeing.  

Qutub Minar : is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately a er the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at the top. 

Lotus Temple(Photography Stop) : Designed by Iranian-Canadian architect Fariburz Sahba in 1986. Styled a er a lotus flower, with 27 immaculate white-marble petals, the temple was created to bring diverse faiths together. (closed on Monday) 

Humayun's Tomb : The most perfectly proportioned and captivating of Delhi’s mausoleums, Humayun’s tomb seems to float above the gardens that surround it. This monument strongly influenced the Taj Mahal. 

India Gate, Rashtrapa  Bhawan & Parliament Street : A drive past Lutyen Delhi’s major monuments, a symbol of the colonial development in the capital. 

(Note: This is a high security area & access to roads are many a restricted. Hence the panoramic ride is subject to all security clearances) 

Sikh Temple Bangla Sahib : Topped by golden domes, this handsome white-marble gurdwara was constructed at the site where the eighth Sikh guru, Harkrishan Dev, stayed before his death in 1664. 

Laxmi Narayan Temple: Orissan-style Lakshmi Narayan Temple was erected by the wealthy industrialist BD Birla. Mahatama Gandhi inaugurated the complex  in 1938 as a temple for all castes; a sign on the gate says, ‘Everyone is Welcome.’ 

Agrasen ki Baoli : A remarkable thing to discover among the office towers southeast of Connaught Place, this atmospheric 14th-century step-well was once set in rural land,  ll the city grew up around it; 103 steps descend to the bo om, flanked by arched niches. 

Return to hotel, dinner & overnight. 

Day 3 : Delhi - Pushkar

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by road to Pushkar (04-05 hours). 

On arrival in Pushkar, check-in. Late afternoon, visit the Gayatri Temple with Ropeway & later Brahma temple with local markets.

Pushkar – Land of Lord Brahma :

Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India. Situated at a height of 510 metres, known as ‘the rose garden of Rajasthan’, the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported all over the world. Along with an interesting mythological history, a legacy of  meless architectural heritage makes Pushkar a fascinating city. 

According to legends, Lord Brahma, believed to be the creator of the Universe dropped a lotus to the ground leading to the immediate crea on of a lake. He then decided to name the place after the flower, and thus the name, Pushkar. The city of Pushkar is home to the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the whole world. Hindus consider a journey to Pushkar to be the ultimate pilgrimage that must be undertaken to a ain salvation. 

Brahma Temple with lake & markets :

Start your tour in Pushkar with a visit to Brahma Temple, nestled in the picturesque Pushkar valley beyond the Nangaparvat and Anasagar Lake, the Brahma temple holds a special place in the hearts of Indians. It is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma. According to Hindu scriptures, the sacred Pushkar Lake is described as ‘Tirtha Raj’, the king of all pilgrimage sites. No pilgrimage is considered to be complete without a dip in in the holy Pushkar Lake. 

Savitri Temple :

Savitri Temple, dedicated to Lord Brahma's first wife, Goddess Savitri, this temple is situated on a hillock right behind the Brahma temple. While climbing with  ropeway, one can catch a panoramic view of the lake, surrounding temples and sand dunes. The presence of the only Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the outcome of Savitri’s curse to Brahma for marrying another Goddess, Gayatri, while star ng his yagna in Pushkar. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 4 : Pushkar - Udaipur via eklingi

Breakfast at the hotel and drive to Udaipur. En-route visit the Eklingi and Nagda Temples.  

Arrive in Udaipur, check-in.

Eklingi & Nagda Temples (Sas Bahu Temples) :

Eklingji is a 1000-year old temple complex dedicated to the god Shiva. It is an ideal choice to explore Hindu religious practices, as the temple is usually not too crowded and in remarkably good condi on. The quality of the upkeep is due to the fact that Eklingji is serviced by the personnel of the Rajasthani Maharana himself, who visits the temple every Monday, on the holy day of Shiva. 

Nagda, the abandoned capital of the Mewar region, is an ancient group of temples da ng from the 7th century, situated beside an ever-expanding lake covered by a floa ng forest of lotus flowers. Most buildings were destroyed by the Mughals or have been submersed by the lake over the years. Yet, the surviving pair of 10th century temples, called the ‘mother-in-law’ and ‘daughter-in-law’, still offer a breath-taking glimpse into the colourful history of the city. 

Udaipur - City of Lakes  :

Often referred to as the 'Venice of the East', the city of lakes Udaipur is located around azure water lakes and is hemmed in by lush green hills of Aravallis. The  famous Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is one of the most beau ful sights of Udaipur. The beautiful City Palace adds to the architectural beauty and grandeur of the city. The city is also known for its profusion of zinc and marble. The ten-day Shilpgram Festival which starts from 21 Dec to 30 Dec pulls in a large number of people interested in arts and crafts. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 5 : Udaipur  

Breakfast at the hotel and proceed for sightseeing Udaipur. Later, sunset boat ride at Lake Pichola.

Udaipur Sightseeing :

Udaipur city tour comprises of visit to Sahelion-ki-Bari, which is good example of the art of landscaping, a beau ful garden was built for the 48 maidens meant to be a part of the dowry of the princess. Arrive at City Palace, Standing on the edge of the Lake Pichola and built by Maharaja Udai Singh, the gorgeous City Palace is a marvel in marble. Majes cally set on a hill, it is accentuated with balconies, towers and cupolas along with superb views of the lake and the city that can be admired from the upper terraces. 

Later, a short walk to the Jagdish Temple, lets you immerse in local life & get great pictures. 

Lake Pichola, situated in Udaipur city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is an ar ficial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362, named a er the nearby Picholi  village. It is one of the several con guous lakes, and developed over the last few centuries in and around the famous Udaipur city. Two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are located within Pichola Lake, and have been developed with several palaces to provide views of the lake. This one was built by one of the Maharanas of Udaipur to enjoy the sunset on the lake. It is also a sanctuary catering to a variety of birds, including tu ed ducks, coots, egrets, terns, cormorants and kingfishers.Three of the numerous lakes found in the vicinity of Udaipur which connect with the Pichola lake and the Swaroop Sagar Lake connected by an arched bridge built by Maharana Swaroop Singh (1842-1861) which in turn connects to the Fateh Sagar Lake, the crystal watered lake in the midst of tree lined hills and the smaller Arsi Vilas. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 6 : Udaipur - Jodhpur

Breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Jodhpur (3-4 hours). On arrival in Jodhpur, check-in to the hotel.

Jodhpur - The Blue City :

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befi ng as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. The strapping forts that tower this magnificent city sum up to a spectacle you would not want to miss. The mammoth, imposing fortress of Mehrangarh has a landscape domina ng a rocky ridge with the eight gates leading out of the fortress. The new city is located outside the structure. Jodhpur is also known for the rare breed of horses known as Marwari or Malani, which are only found here. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 7 : Jodhpur  

Breakfast at the hotel. Sightseeing of Jodhpur city and visit to local markets.

Jodhpur Sightseeing :

Mehrangarh Fort, Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill which is 125 metres above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort. This historic fort is one of the most famous in India and is packed with history and legends. Mehrangarh Fort s ll bears the imprints of cannonball a acks courtesy the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. Jaswant Thada, This milky white memorial built towards the end of the 19th century as a tribute to the leader Jaswant Singh is a huge tourist a rac on. Jaswant Singh, who ruled Jodhpur, invested well in his state. Next visit Umaid Bhawan Museum, The museum displays glass, porcelain wares, memorabilia, informa on nailed on the building along with unique charms like the stuffed leopards and a huge symbolic flag. 

Old City & Clock Tower :

A short walking tour (or addi onally tuk-tuk) in the old town in Jodhpur, walk across the local bazaar & find the clock tower surrounded by the local life in Jodhpur. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 8 : Jodhpur - Desert camp

Breakfast at the hotel, leisurely check-out and drive to Desert Camp. On arrival at camp, check-in to your tents. At the  me of sunset, camel ride or jeep ride in the sand dunes.  

Retun to the camp for Folk Dance and cultural show with Dinner.

Overnight at the camp. 

Day 9 : Desert Camp - Jaisalmer

Breakfast at the camp, drive to Jaisalmer. On arrival in Jaisalmer, proceed for sightseeing of the city with fort. Later, check-in the hotel.  

Jaisalmer - The Golden city :

The city of Jaisalmer acts as the guard to western Rajasthan (and India’s) fron er. This 'Golden City’ is located close in close proximity to the Thar Desert. The city’s most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist a rac on. It houses shops, hotels and ancient havelis (homes) where genera ons con nue to live. This fort is a world heritage site and forms an important plot point in one of Satyajit Ray’s famous Feluda stories and corresponding movie, Sonar Kela. 

Jaisalmer Sightseeing :

Proceed with sightseeing of Jaisalmer Fort, The Jaisalmer Fort also goes by the name Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) as it rises from the desert itself and seems to become one with the golden hues of the sand. The se ng sun adds its own magic and shrouds the fort with mys que. The fort is constructed in the classic style of the royals by local cra smen. Jain Temples Of Jaisalmer, located inside the Jaisalmer Fort date back to the 12th and 15th centuries. The temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdevji, famous Jain hermits known as 'Tirthankars' (wise teachers who taught people how to a ain nirvana). 

Havelis of Jaisalmer. 

Salim Singh Ki Haveli, This haveli was built in the first half of the 18th century and a part of it is s ll occupied by descendants of the original residents. The high arched roof is supported by carved brackets designed in the shape of peacocks. Patwon Ki Haveli, Among the largest and the most elaborately carved havelis in Jaisalmer, this five-storey structure sits proudly in a narrow street. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 10 : Jaisalmer - Bikaner

Breakfast at the hotel, drive to Bikaner (3-4 hours). On arrival in Bikaner, check-in and in the a ernoon proceed to visit Karni Mata Temple & Camel Breeding Farm.  

Return to Bikaner and have a tuk-tuk ride into the Bikaner markets to vist the Jain Temple.

Bikaner is a vibrant, dust-swirling desert town with a fabulous fort and an energising outpost feel. Bikaner is situated in the northern region of Rajasthan. One of the earlier established, Bikaner still displays its ancient opulence through palaces and forts, built of red sandstone, that have withstood the passage of  me. The city boasts of some of the world’s best riding camels and is aptly nicknamed ‘camel country’. It is also home to one of the world’s largest camel research and breeding farms. Bikaner hosts some of very few places where one can procure legally Camel Leather protected under fair-trade practices. 

Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok :

The Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok is a beautiful structure made of stone and marble, inside which resides an image of Karni Mata. The image is decorated with a ‘mukut’ ( ara) and garlands. The images of her sisters and the sisters of Avad Mata give her company on either side. The temple is known the world over for the presence of kabas (rats) that roam freely within the temple precincts. 

Local Market on Tuk-tuk & Jain Temples :

Take a tuk-tuk ride in the market of Bikaner. Bikaner markets are very famous for spices, local namkeens (snacks) & havelis. Go around hoping in markets in your tuk-tuk, also visit a local Jain temple, famous for its leaf painting, frescos etc. This temple a racts many pilgrims from around India from Jain community. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 11 : Bikaner - Jaipur

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit the Junagarh Fort and then drive to Jaipur (03 hours). On arrival in Jaipur. Check-in the hotel.  

Junagarh Fort :

Junagarh fort is an impregnable bas on that holds the dis nc on of having never been captured. It was constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most dis nguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an a rac ve assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows. 

Jaipur - The Pink City :

Jaipur holds the distinc on of being the first planned city of India. Renowned globally for its coloured gems, the capital city of Rajasthan combines the allure of its ancient history with all the advantages of a metropolis. Jaipur traces back its origins to 1727 when it was established by Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amber. He shi ed his capital from Amber to the new city because of the rapidly-growing popula on and increasing water scarcity. Noted architect Vidyadhar Bha acharya used the established principles of Vastu Shastra to build the city. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Day 12 : Jaipur

Breakfast at the hotel, proceed for sightseeing of Amer fort & Jaipur city.  

Amber & Jaipur Sightseeing :

We start with Amber Fort. Elephant ride uphill & Jeep ride downhill at the fort. Amber (pronounced Amer) is at a distance of about 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the bas on of the Kachwahas of Amber. The palace is a beautiful melange of Hindu and Mughal styles. The contrast between the harsh exterior and the invi ng interior couldn’t be more surprising. During downhill, visit a very heritage structure – Panna-Meena ka kund, which is a square-shaped stepwell, with adjoining stairs on all four sides and a room on the northern wall. 

We will make our way back to the city, en-route we will stop at Jal Mahal, Possibly the most serene sight amidst the chaos of Jaipur is the beau ful Jal Mahal Jaipur, the Water Palace. Short stops at the Jewel & Carpet Workshops in Jaipur are must to witness how the local ar sans create marvels from raw materials. 

Later in the second half of the day, visit Jantar Mantar, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. It contains sixteen geometric devices, designed to measure  me, track celes al bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the sun. 

City Palace, A beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is s ll home to the last r.uling royal family which lives in a private sec on of the palace. The City Palace Complex includes the Mubarak Mahal (the palace of recep on) and the Maharani’s Palace (the palace of the queen). Before you start exploring the local markets, stop for photography at the one world’s most famous façade Hawa Mahal.  

Post your exploraon in the local market.

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Day 13 : Jaipur - Ranthambore

Breakfast at the hotel, drive to Ranthambore (3-4 hours). On arrival in Ranthambore, check-in. Lunch & dinner at the hotel.  

Ranthambore Na onal Park – Royal Tigers :

The Ranthambore Park gets its name from the Ranthambore Fort situated within its boundaries. The National Park, situated amidst the Aravalis and Vindhya ranges is spreads over an area of 392 sq.km of thick forest punctuated with pleasant waterfalls. It is home to the elusive  ger, other animals found here include chinkara, sambhar, cheetal and over 300 species of birds. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Day 14 : Ranthambore

Breakfast, lunch & dinner at the hotel. Morning and a ernoon jungle safaris.

Morning Jeep Safari in Ranthambore

Morning safari in the Ranthambore National Park in your private Jeep.

Afternoon safari in the Ranthambore National Park in your private Jeep. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Day 15 : Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra :

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by road to Agra (04-05 hours). 

Recommended Optional Tour, visit Abhaneri Stepwell (Jaipur - Agra) 

On arrival in Agra, check-in to your hotel. 

Fatehpur Sikri Fort :

Post breakfast and checkout, drive to Fatehpur Sikri (200kms,4-4.5 hours), An epic in red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1572-1585 A.D. A sonless Akbar had gone to Sikri to seek blessings of Sufi Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti  and he was blessed with a son. In gratitude, he constructed his capital city and named it Fatehpur Sikri. Later, due to shortage of water and unrest in north-west, Akbar had to abandon this city. 

You will be taken from parking to the fort in Govt. The beau ful marble tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti attracts thousands of tourists at places like Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai’s Palace, Pachisi and Birbal Bhavan. 

Continue your drive towards Agra (50kms,1-1.5 hours). On arrival, check-in at hotel for overnight stay. 

Optional - Abhaneri – Chand Baori Stepwell :

Chand Baori is a stepwell situated in the village of Abhaneri in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It extends approximately 30m (100 ) into the ground, making it one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India. 

Agra :

Agra has been immortalized as the City of the Taj. Yet, it doesn’t take much for the roving eye to discover that there’s more to Agra than just the fabled Taj Mahal. The city is a virtual gateway to a world of discovery. A freeze-frame from a resplendent era that’s long since gone by. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.  

Day 16 : Agra - Delhi

Early morning visit to Taj Mahal. Return to the hotel to freshen up and breakfast. Later visit the Marble Factory & Agra Fort.  

Post Agra Tour, start your drive to Delhi (04 hours), on arrival in Delhi, check-in to your hotel.

Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit :

Sunrise visit of the Taj Mahal: Taj Mahal was built by a grief stricken Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is phenomenal not in its beauty alone that shines forth, but in the deep planning and design that went into its making, and the ethereal idea of immortalizing love. Delicate carvings in marble vie with gorgeous pietra dura for a en on.Lapis-lazuli, Cornelian, Mother of pearl, Agate and Emerald are inlaid in floral and geometrical patterns in the marble itself. (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays) 

Agra Fort :

Agra Fort : Built by Akbar in 1565 A.D, this Fort is a masterpiece of design and construc on. Within the Fort are a number of exquisite buildings, including Masjid, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas etc. 

Return to the hotel. Overnight.

Day 17 : Departure Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel (subject to  me availibility) 

Transfer to airport as per your flight  timings. 

End of the tour