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Rajasthan Tour Packages >> Rajasthan
Desert Tour
Rajasthan Desert Tour
Duration :
15 Nights / 16 Days
Places to see : Delhi - Jaipur - Pushkar - Bundi - Kota
- Udaipur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Bikaner - Mandawa - Delhi
Day 1: Arrival at Delhi
Company representatives will receive you on arrival at the international
airport in Delhi late in the night or midnight. Transfer to your hotel.
Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis
with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction
to the composite culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope
- that is India.
Overnight at Delhi.
Day 2: Delhi
Breakfast at hotel.
First half of the day relax at hotel. Proceed for a half day tour of Old
& New Delhi.
OLD DELHI - A sightseeing tour of Old Delhi would entail visiting
the Raj Ghat - the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama
Masjid - the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent
fort and palace of the Moghul Empire.
Cycle rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk.
NEW DELHI - An extensive sightseeing tour of New Delhi would include
a visit to the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial
avenue - Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House, the President's
Residence and would end with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.
Overnight at Delhi.
Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur
Drive to Jaipur Continue your drive to Jaipur and on arrival check-in Hotel.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced
back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended
the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana.
In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character
and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly
known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant
pink plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort
of Queen Victoria. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent
palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 4: Jaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for excursion to Amber Fort in the outskirts of Jaipur. 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. It's forbidding exterior belies an inner
paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds it's
ultimate expression.
Proceed for sightseeing of the city.
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. Its 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. Visit a rug factory and
see the ladies at the intricate work or a gem factory and see the gem cutting
and polishing process.
Overnight at Jaipur.
Day 5: Jaipur - Pushkar
Proceed for Pushkar after breakfast. Reach Pushkar by noon and relax. Check
in at PUSHKAR PALACE.
PUSHKAR - Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem
- Pushkar. Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search for his abode
on earth, performed the supremely spiritual VEDIC YAGNA at Pushkar.
It is thus the site of the only Brahma Temple in the world. Blessed with
cultural blends, it is the venue for the famous Pushkar Fair, with people
coming from all over Asia to buy and sell cattle of breeds from across the
world. The consecrated mausoleum of Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti at Ajmer attracts
pilgrims from all over the world. A city of Pilgrimage from time immemorial
with over 500 temples and Ghats Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural
heritage. Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality that casts
a lure to visit again and again. The Pushkar fair is amongst the largest
cattle fairs in the world and amongst the oldest cities in India, with references
in mythology and the Mahabharat. There are 52 bathing Ghats, which are linked
to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake. Each Ghat has its own miraculous
qualities and powers of healing and this city of temples has over 500 temples
built over different eras with varied architectural styles. The rose garden
of Rajasthan - the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported the world
over. Pushkar has the most varied terrain in Rajasthan with sand, rock,
hills, and proximity to a number of heritage properties in the area and
a number of fairs and festivals - especially on the new and full moon days.
Visit the mausoleum, Anasagar and Akbar's Palace.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 6: Pushkar - Bundi
Breakfast at hotel.
Visit the Brahma Temple. (The one and only in the world). Offer Pujas at
the holy lake of Pushkar.
Proceed for Bundi. The town's medieval character, Taragarh Fort and the
palace below are captivating. The Chitrashala in the palace has rooms covered
with miniature paintings depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna
and his consort Radha. Stay at an old hunting Haveli - ROYAL RETREAT
- IN THE TARAGARH FORT COMPOUND for a beautiful experience. The hotel
is of no star category but the experience will be better as this is the
only hotel in the Fort Complex.
In the evening enjoy a "Mashaal Dinner" - The place is lit up
with burning torches and traditional dinner prepared of game is served.
Truly unforgettable experience.
Overnight at Bundi.
Day 7: Bundi - Kota - Udaipur
Start for KOTA after Breakfast.
Rajasthan's largest industrial town situated on the banks of the river Chambal
is well known for its Kota sarees and also for a miniature school of art
which specialized in hunting scenes.
Visit the CITY PALACE AND FORT - On the banks of the Chambal river
close to the Kota Barrage is the fort and the city palace complex, which
houses the RAO MADHO SINGH MUSEUM containing the relics of the former
rulers of Kota.
JAGMANDIR - in the island in Kishore Sagar Lake was built by one
of the queens of Kota. You will take a paddleboat and roam around the same
for a spiritual experience.
Also visit the Govt. Museum and the famous gardens of Chambal and Chatter
Bilas.
Proceed for Udaipur.
Reach and check in at hotel.
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed
in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance
and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences
and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow
lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavor of a heroic past, epitomizing
valor and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the LAKE PICHOLA
is an enticing sight.
Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for
1200 Years.
Relax in the evening. Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 8: Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur, stopping first at City Palace.
Here you will marvel at rooms with mirrored walls and ivory doors, colored
glass windows and inlaid marble balconies and the Peacock Courtyard.
Also visit the lovely Sahelion-ki-Bari Gardens, the Jagdish Temple and
the local folk Museum.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola.
From he boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically
above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. Also visit the Jag
Mandir Palace - the other island palace in the middle of the lake. Spend
some time at the Jag Mandir Palace.
Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 9: Udaipur - Jodhpur
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur.
En-route, visit the RANAKPUR TEMPLES,dating back to the 15th century.
200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The Temple abounds
with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits to two more Jain
temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
Reach Jodhpur.
Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes
with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital
of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the
Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic
hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms
on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city
is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.
Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jodhpur - gateway to the desert beyond, home
of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp,
built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a
long sentinel. Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive
rulers. In this palace you would see different miniature paintings &
cradle room. After this you would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial. Proceed
to visit the UMAID BHAWAN PALACE.
Relax in the evening or proceed for shopping.
Overnight at Jodhpur.
Day 10: Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
Morning go for a village safari in the jeep and have a rare glimpse into
the rich culture and true essence of India. Abundant wildlife (game) and
memorable moments of the great desert landscape fascinates one while driving
along the countryside.
Proceed for Jaisalmer.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city
of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with
its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which,
Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent
of the Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy
was fulfilled in 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan
and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital
-Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.
Reach and check in at hotel.
Overnight at Jaisalmer.
Day 11: Jaisalmer
After a relaxed breakfast proceed for full day sightseeing tour of The Golden
City - Jaisalmer. It is in the heart of the Great Indian Desert. Its temple,
fort and palaces are all built of yellow stone. The city is a mass of intricately
carved buildings, facades and elaborate balconies. Visit the JAISALMER FORT
- The oldest living Fort in the world. (This is the highlight of the tour)
See the Patwon-Ki-Havelies, Salim-Singh-Ki-Haveli and Gandhi Sagar Tank.
Also visit Barabagh Hill.
In the afternoon, visit the Khuri Sand Dunes and the typical Rajasthani
Desert Village. Take a camel ride to view the sunset from the dunes,
(Same camels to be used for Safari - getting to know the camels) as the
sky is set on fire. It can be an unforgettable experience.
Return to the village for dinner amidst Rajasthani musicians playing haunting
tunes.
Overnight at Village.
Day 12: Jaisalmer Camel Safari
Proceed on camel backs early in the morning into the desert and reach midway
between Khuri and Jaisalmer.
Camp for overnight stay.
Day 13: Jaisalmer - Bikaner
Continue your camel safari for the first half of the day and reach closer
to Jaisalmer in the afternoon. Due to weather conditions in August - one
and half day should be enough.
Return to Jaisalmer and proceed straight to Bikaner. (The road is very good
and the journey will be comfortable and relaxing)
Reach Bikaner and check in at hotel.
The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal. Lying in the north of the
Desert State, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. Bikaner retains the
medieval splendor that pervades the city's lifestyle.
More popularly called the camel country, the city is renowned for the best
riding camels in the world. The ship of the desert is an inseparable part
of life here. Be it pulling heavy carts, transporting grains or working
on wells, camels are the prime helpers. The wells of Bikaner - an important
source of water are other attractions of the city. These are built on high
plinths with slender minareted towers on each of the Four Corners and can
be noticed even from a distance.
Relax in the evening. Overnight at Bikaner.
Day 14: Bikaner
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing tour of Bikaner.
Rao Bikaji, a descendant of Jodhaji - the founder of Jodhpur, founded this
desert town in the North of the state in 1488. Visit the Junagarh Fort,
constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Jai Singh, a general in the Moghul
Emperor Akbar's army. The city is also called the "Camel Country".
Visit the camel-breeding farm - the only one in Asia. Also visit Gajner
Palace - the palace on the lake.
Overnight at Bikaner.
Day 15: Bikaner - Mandawa
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for Mandawa. The medieval Fort of Mandawa gradually rises on the
horizon like a mirage. A breathtaking view of the town can be seen from
the terrace of Castle Mandawa. Precious collection of arms with jade handles,
traditional ceremonial costumes can be seen at the Museum at the Castle.
The havelies worth a visit are Chokhani, Saraf, Goenka and Ladia in this
town. Built in 1775 by Thakur Nawal Singh, descendant of Rao Shekhaji, who
also founded the city of Nawalgarh. The Castle, now a 51 rooms hotel has
no two rooms alike. It also houses an interesting collection of paintings,
jade, costumes and antiques. The courtyard and the terrace come to live
during evenings with candle-lit dinners and fire-dances during the season.
A two hundred and forty year old fortess, that has been converted by the
family into a fine example of traditional hospitality.
Reach and check in at hotel.
Take a walking tour of the painted 'havelis' of some of the leading business
families of the country. Though they no longer live here, the local caretakers
are happy to show the visitors around. Chowkhani Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia
Haveli, Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli, Mohahanlal Saraf Haveli and Bhagchandika
Haveli are of special interest. Spend the major part of the day looking
into frescoes.
Relax for the evening. Overnight at Mandawa.
Day 16: Mandawa - Delhi
Breakfast at hotel. Leave at leisure for Delhi.
Reach by afternoon and after Farewell Dinner and freshening up - proceed
straight to the airport for flight back home with sweet memories of India.
Rajasthan Desert
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