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Home >>
Rajasthan Tour Packages >> Rajasthan
with Taj Mahal Tour
Rajasthan with Taj Mahal Tour
Duration :
18 Nights / 19 Days
Places to see : Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Orchha -
Gwalior - Agra - Jaipur - Chhatrasagar - Deogarh - Udaipur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
- Jodhpur - Delhi
Day 01: Delhi
You will be met on arrival at the International airport. 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. Delhi is a perfect
introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land and a window to
the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 02: Delhi
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Start tour of Old & New Delhi.
OLD DELHI - A sight-seeing 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 Mughal Empire.
Enjoy a Cycle rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk.
NEW DELHI - An extensive sight-seeing 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. Also
visit the LOTUS TEMPLE & BIRLA MANDIR.
Enjoy the DANCES OF INDIA SHOW in the evening.
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 03: Delhi - Varanasi
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Transfer in time to airport for flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi,
you will be met and transferred to hotel.
Varanasi is the World's most ancient living city. Sunrise on the riverfront,
as seen from a boat, can be spiritually uplifting sight. Crowded with temples,
and its labyrinth of streets, the city attracts the maximum number of tourists.
The religious capital of Hinduism, Varanasi is the carpet manufacturing
place of India. It was previously known as Kashi - the city that illuminates.
The present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence
of the rivers Varuna and Asi.
Visit Sarnath - 5 miles out of Varanasi for a day excursion: One of the
holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where Buddha preached his first Sermon
in 590 BC. Witness the ruins of a once flourishing Buddhist monastery and
then visit a fine Museum which houses an excellent collection of Buddhist
art and sculptures found at the site.
Overnight will be spent at Varanasi.
Day 04: Varanasi - Khajuraho
In the morning drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the sacred
river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the living traditions
of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. (To start at
0500 hrs. for the best lifetime experience) For you to appreciate this remarkable
city, we'll transfer you to the banks of the River Ganges before the sun
rises. Board a boat with your guide and proceed to the middle of the river,
where at sunrise the sight unfolds before you. Thousands of faithful come
daily to the banks to bathe and pray while in the background, temples and
palaces rise in tiers from the water's edge. Return for a walk through the
cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As shops are opening, the
place now becomes a beehive of activity as the faithful are coming and going.
Return to hotel for a sumptuous breakfast. Proceed for a guided tour of
Varanasi in the afternoon including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Gyanvapi
Mosque, Benaras Hindu University and other important monuments.
Transfer to airport for flight to Khajuraho.
Situated in the heart of India, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho
is a fascinating village with a quaint, rural ambience and a rich cultural
heritage, honoured by the world as India's unique contribution to human
civilization. The Chandela dynasty built eighty-five temples here. Twenty
remain as embodiments of Indian architectural and sculptural art at its
most evolved state. Even ten centuries after they were constructed, the
temples of Khajuraho reflect an eternal philosophy relevant to all mankind.
The temples of Khajuraho is a world heritage site and belong not just to
India but to the world. Khajuraho is one of the few millennium destinations
of the world.
Reach Khajuraho. Transferred to hotel and relax. Visit the WESTERN SET OF
TEMPLES. Overnight will be at Khajuraho.
Day 05: Khajuraho
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for a full day tour of the EXOTIC TEMPLES (EASTERN & SOUTHERN)
of Khajuraho.
Relax in the evening or proceed to the SHILPA GRAM for seeing the local
artisans at work. You can also see the colorful DANCES show. Overnight will
be at Khajuraho.
Day 06: Khajuraho - Orchha - Gwalior
Proceed by surface to ORCHHA.
ORCHHA - A medieval city founded by Bundela rulers with Palaces and temples
of the 16th and 17th century which have remarkable withstood the onslaught
of time. The city is picturesquely flanked by the River Betwa.
Proceed for sight-seeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex.
Lunch will be at Orchha and then proceed to the station (12 km away) for
train to Gwalior. {This is a superfast train with airline type seats}.
Reach Gwalior and transfer to hotel.
Gwalior's colorful history, going back to the eight century, is a mosaic
of Rajput clans of the Pratihasas, Kachwahas and Tomars, each leaving their
marks on the city's magnificent monuments. A trip to Gwalior is incomplete
without a visit to the fort, Scindia Palace and the tombs of Ghaus Mohammed
and Tansen.
Overnight will be at hotel.
Day 07: Gwalior - Agra
Proceed for sight-seeing after breakfast.
Visit the historic Gurjari Mahal, Man Mandir Palace, Sas Bahu ka Mandir,
Royal Palace, the Suraj Kund in the fort and also the Scindia Palace and
cenotaphs.
Proceed to Agra after lunch. Reach Agra and relax.
AGRA: Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little
village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving
it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra
is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white
marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that
this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that
modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.
Visit TAJ MAHAL at sunset. Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 08: Agra
Proceed for sight-seeing of the city after breakfast. First, proceed to
TAJ MAHAL which is just walking distance from the hotel.
TAJ MAHAL: The fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, built it in 1631 in the
memory of his second wife, Mumtaz Mahal, a Muslim Persian princess. She
died while accompanying her husband in Behrampur in a campaign to crush
a rebellion, after giving birth to their 14th child. Her death so crushed
the emperor that all his hair and beard were said to have grown snow white
in a few months. When Mumtaz Mahal was still alive, she extracted four promises
from the emperor: first, that he build the Taj; second, that he should marry
again; third, that he be kind to their children; and fourth, that he visit
the tomb on her death anniversary. He kept the first and second promises.
Construction began in 1631 and was completed in 22 years. Twenty thousand
people were deployed to work on it. An Iranian architect designed it and
it is best appreciated when the architecture and its adornments are linked
to the passion that inspired it. It is a "symbol of eternal love".
Having buried her down at Behrampur, it was time for the emperor to keep
his promise and build a tomb there itself. But by and by, it was felt that
it was virtually impossible to transfer all the marble there, as it would
cost an entire fortune and an entire lifetime. So, when Agra was chosen
as the only alternative, astonishingly her grave was uprooted and brought
to Agra, only to be finally transferred to the monument, completed twenty-two
years later.
Proceed to Agra and visit Agra Fort- which was built by Akbar In 1525 AD.
After Agra Fort we will visit Baby Taj - The interiors of which are considered
better than the Taj.
Visit TAJ MAHAL at sunset. Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 09: Agra - Jaipur
Proceed for Jaipur after breakfast.
Visit FATEHPUR SIKRI - The deserted, red Sandstone City, Emperor Akbar built
that as his capital and palace in the late 16th century is an exhilarating
experience. It a veritable fairytale city and its "ruins" are in pristine
condition ... it's not hard to imagine what the court life must have been
like in the days of its grandeur. Also visit the Buland Darwaza, the largest
gateway in the world.
Continue your drive to Jaipur.
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 its character
and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. It is
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.
Reach Jaipur and check in at hotel. Spend the evening relaxing at this beautiful
hotel or visit a couple of temples like the BIRLA MANDIR.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 10: Jaipur
Breakfast will be at hotel. Proceed for a morning excursion will be taken
to the Amber Fort. Enjoy the fort ascent on elephant back in a royal manner.
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. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise
where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
Proceed for city sight-seeing after lunch. The sites to include:
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. It is a 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.
Shopping and relax in the evening. Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day 11: Jaipur - Chhatrasagar
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed to NIMAJ. (Chhatrasagar)
The fort of Nimaj was built in 1733 by the valiant ruler- Thakur Jagram
Singh. Situated in the heart of the town, it is a massive structure built
in traditional Rajput style with courtyards and separate wings for men &
women. The little township is surrounded by places of historical interest,
like the 9th century temple Magar Mandi, 3 kms away. Visit nearby villages
to see local craftsmen at work & a little further see blackbucks, blue
bulls etc.
Lakes in the desert region are a rarity having their own charm. Chhatra
Sagar, 4 kms from the fort is a beautiful water body nestled between two
hillocks. Built as a summer retreat, the lush green lawn, flowering trees
and clear waters are like an oasis in the otherwise dry region. Boating
and angling is possible. It is surrounded by lush green fields and vast
grazing pastures. Chhatra Sagar, a hundred-year old reservoir with a periphery
of about 10 kilometers, is an ideal destination for nature lovers and a
perfect getaway from the chaotic city life.
As a hunting preserve of the Nimaj Estate, Chhatra Sagar has witnessed many
exciting shikar camps and leisure parties. Today, the campsite, situated
on the dam, offers breathtaking views of the sunrise, sunset and the Aravalli
ranges on the horizon. The old shooting box - Aodhi has been put to good
use as it provides a closer view of the water fowl and birds of prey.
Watch the birds, go for nature walks, soak in the fresh air, sit around
the bonfire and listen to old folk lore - or be more adventurous and take
one of the many safaris on offer. Experience the warm hospitality, and enjoy
some truly delicious Indian and traditional Rajasthani meals cooked with
farm fresh vegetables in the family kitchen.
Relax in the tastefully designed and well-appointed tented accommodation.
Each tent has an attached bath with running hot and cold water, and its
own private sit out overlooking the lake.
Overnight will be at the camp.
Day 12: Chhatrasagar - Deogarh - Udaipur
Proceed to DEOGARH after a leisurely breakfast.
Deogarh lies on the borders of Mewar, Marwar and Merwara, about 80 miles
north-east of Udaipur. Its chieftain known as 'The Rawat' was one of sixteen
UMRAOS (feudal barons) privileged to wait upon the Maharana of Udaipur,
the capital of Mewar such feudal estates, called thikanas were granted by
the ruling Maharana to a nobleman either due to blood relationship or for
an act of bravery. Deogarh is also renowned as a school of miniature painting.
Some Deogarh miniatures adorn the personal collection of the present Rawat
Sahib. Frescoes of this art form can also be seen on the fort walls. The
Mahal also has some exciting rooms to browse through - Sheesh Mahal - the
colourful hall of mirrors, is just one of them!
Deogarh Mahal was converted into a hotel about 3 years ago, by the present
owner Rawal - Nahar Singh. A part of the Mahal is still occupied by his
kin. The family is closely associated with the hotel and personally supervises
and monitors the on goings. The care is reflected in the minutest details
which have made Deogarh a benchmark of Heritage Hospitality in Rajasthan.
Have lunch at the DEOGARH MAHAL and find out more about the PRINCELY STATE.
Proceed to Udaipur.
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.
Overnight will be at Udaipur.
Day 13: Udaipur
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for sight-seeing 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
Royal Cenotaphs.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola.
From the 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 will be at Udaipur.
Day 14: Udaipur - Jodhpur
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for 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.
Overnight will be at Jodhpur.
Day 15: Jodhpur
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for morning sight-seeing 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.
Afternoon 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.
Relax in the evening or proceed for shopping.
Overnight will be in Jodhpur.
Day 16: Jodhpur - Jaisalmer
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 will be at Jaisalmer.
Day 17: Jaisalmer
After a relaxed breakfast proceed for full day sight-seeing 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 Patwaon-Ki-Havelies, Salim-Singh-Ki-Haveli and Gandhi Sagar Tank.
Also visit Barabagh Hill.
Proceed to the SAND DUNES by jeep after lunch for visiting the typical Rajasthani
Desert Village. Start your CAMEL SAFARI from the village. Ride into the
desert passing through small villages and camel herds grazing. View the
sunset from the dunes, as the sky is set on fire. Reach you camp and dinner
will be served in the camp.
Stay overnight at the TENTED CAMP.
Day 18: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur
Breakfast will be at the camp.
Start CAMEL SAFARI winding your way back through a new route to the village.
On your way see the villagers starting their day and the womenfolk setting
out to fetch water from the desert. The children would be going in groups
to the school. Also pass by solitary temples at times.
Reach the VILLAGE and your jeep would be waiting there to take you back
to Jaisalmer. On reaching Jaisalmer have a hearty lunch at the beautiful
HERITAGE HAVELI HOTEL of NARAIN NIWAS PALACE. (Your extra luggage would
have already moved here)
Start for Jodhpur and reach by evening. Relax in the evening.
Day 19: Jodhpur - Delhi
Breakfast will be in the hotel. Proceed to the airport to take the flight
to Delhi.
Reach and check in at a hotel for the day. Enjoy the day in the hotel relaxing
or do some last minute shopping. Late evening check out as per flight timing
and proceed to the airport for flight home.
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