15 Day India Tour

• Day 1: 

  Arrival in Delhi
  Arrive in Delhi and transfer to our hotel.
  
  Welcome to India! Anyone visiting the country will be enthralled by its natural beauty, cultural diversity, ancient history and its incredible people. Visitors come to India for its wealth of sights, cultural exuberance, diversity of terrain, and in search of that special something, an extra punch that only India promises and delivers.
  
  Overnight in Delhi.

   

  Included Meal(s): Dinner
• Day 2: 

  Delhi: City Tour
  Today we have a full-day tour of Delhi. We start with a drive north into Old Delhi, passing along the Rajpath (King's Way) and stopping for photos at the India Gate. The 42m high India Gate, an "Arc de Triomphe"-like archway in the middle of a crossroad, commemorates the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during WWI. This landmark also bears the names of British and Indian soldiers killed in the Northwestern frontier in the Afghan War of 1919.
  
  Next we will make a visit to the Jamma Mosque. Located in the heart of Old Delhi, the largest mosque in India can accommodate as many as twenty-thousand worshippers. This imposing architectural monument, with it's three gateways and two minarets, took fourteen years to complete (1644-58). We will also enjoy a cycle-rickshaw ride down Chandni Chowk, once the imperial avenue down which Shah Jehan rode at the head of lavish cavalcades.
  
  We will then re-board our bus, going past the Red Fort (photo stop), a significant historical monument commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Constructed with massive red sandstone walls, the fort is a stunning example of Mughal architectural prowess, blending Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles. Today, the Red Fort stands as a powerful symbol of India's history and cultural heritage
  
  After a stop for lunch we continue our sightseeing with a visit to Humayan's Tomb, an excellent example of Mughal architecture, pre-dating the Taj Mahal by almost 100 years. Persian in style, this is a beautiful red sandstone building inlaid with black and white marble.
  
  We will finish our day with a visit to the Qutub Minar. Few other monuments are as closely identified with Delhi as the Qutub Minar, this first monument of Muslim rule in India. It heralded the beginning of a new style of art and architecture which came to be know as the Indo-Islamic.
  
  Overnight in Delhi.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 3: 

  Delhi - Mandawa
  After an early breakfast, we'll set off for Mandawa, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Shekhavati. We should arrive in the early afternoon, just in time to explore this enchanting town.
  
  Shekhavati, a semi-arid region in northeastern Rajasthan, is renowned for its stunning havelis—grand mansions adorned with vibrant frescoes. As we approach Mandawa, it's like stumbling upon a mirage rising from the sandy plains.
  
  Once we're there, we'll wander through the town's winding streets, admiring the opulent mansions of the Goenkas, Sarafs, Ladias, and Chokhanis. These architectural marvels boast impressive gateways and intricate frescoes that will leave you in awe.
  
  Tonight, we'll spend the night in Mandawa, giving us plenty of time to soak up the local atmosphere and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the stars in the clear night sky.
  
  Overnight in Mandawa.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 4: 

  Mandawa - Shekhavati - Bikaner
  After breakfast we drive to Bikaner, arriving around midday. En route, we stop at some of the ancient settlements of Shekhavati.
  
  Founded at the close of the 15th century, Bikaner stands on high ground, surrounded by fine embattled walls. The 16th century Junagarh Fort contains palaces, temples and a mosque, mostly made of red and yellow sandstone. The marble images are considered to be the finest specimens of Hindu art.
  
  Within the massive edifice of the fort, the entrance of which is flanked by two life-size effigies of elephants, are housed some of the rarest gems of Rajput civilization. The Durbar Hall is in Mughal style, lavishly decorated with paintings. Gilt reliefs, glass mosaics and lace- like mirrors adorn the intimate and graceful Zenana -- the women's wing, separated from the main palace by a broad courtyard with paneled niches.
  
  Overnight in Bikaner.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 5: 

  Bikaner - Manvar Resort
  After breakfast we drive to Manvar, an ideal base to explore the Indian desert life, culture, wildlife and natural beauty. On arrival, we check-in at our comfortable desert resort in time for lunch.
  
  This afternoon we enjoy the unique desert atmosphere by jeep for which this region is famous. Keep an eye out for the chinkara -- a shy gazelle -- as they make way across the silent sands. Our visit allows us to share the fascinating culture of these people and experience the beauty and tranquility of this vast desert.
  
  The evening is enlivened by a campfire, mashaals (traditional songs), and local musicians and dancers. With stunning sunrises, mesmerizing sunsets and dazzling night skies, life in this peaceful wilderness is spectacularly elemental -- and extraordinarily silent.
  
  Overnight near Manvar.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Day 6: 

  Manvar - Jodhpur - Luni
  After breakfast drive to Luni.
  
  En route we stop at Jodhpur. This is the land of the valiant Rathore kings, whose courage was a match for the tyranny of the Thar Desert. A bleak scarp rears up 120 meters from the desert valley. Straddling the rocky crevices is the massive Jodhpur Fort, its sheer walls reflecting the strength of its warrior builders. The fort is entered through seven gates, each a formidable barrier. The museum within the fort is one of the finest in Rajasthan and displays royal apparel, ancient paintings and manuscripts, fabled treasures of the royal household and an armoury. An interesting section displays folk musical instruments from different regions of Rajasthan. Delicately latticed windows and pierced screens worked in sandstone form the dominant motif within the rugged casket of the fort and the palaces are exquisitely decorated.
  
  On arrival we check in at Luni, known as the “Blue City” due to the vivid blue-painted houses.
  
  Overnight in Luni.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 7: 

  Bishnoi Village Jeep Excursion
  After breakfast, we will visit the Bishnoi village by jeep. The Bishnois are a fascinating community which follows the 29 (bish-noi) tenets laid down by the 15th century Guru Jambeshwar. They fervently believe in the sanctity of animal and plant life so all animals live near their villages without fear. When a Bishnoi dies, he is sometimes buried in the sitting position and often placed at the threshold of the house or adjoining cattleshed. A Bishnoi believes he will later be reincarnated as a deer, hence the herds of blackbuck often seen near their villages.
  
  Later we travel to Ranakpur where the famous Jain temples lie buried in a shady glen and cover a vast area. The central temple is called Chaumukha (four-faced) and is the most complex and extensive of Jain temples in India, covering an area of over 40,000 sq. feet (3600 sq metres). Its 29 halls are supported by 1,444 pillars, none of which are alike. Subsidiary shrines in the shape of side alters throng around in all directions, including a temple dedicated to the Sun God which displays erotic carvings.
  
  Overnight in Ranakpur.
  
  PLEASE NOTE: For our January tour we will be spending an extra night in Ranakpur. Due to absence of the Pushkar Camel Festival we have added in a Leopard Jeep Safari.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 8: 

  Ranakpur - Udaipur
  This morning, we'll take some time to appreciate the serene beauty of the forest, nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli mountain range. After this peaceful interlude, we'll embark on our journey to Udaipur.
  
  Upon arrival in Udaipur, we'll check into our hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind. If you're feeling adventurous, you could explore the vibrant bazaars, where you'll encounter a myriad of shops and artisans' workshops. The narrow, winding streets are a treasure trove of unique finds, perfect for leisurely strolls.
  
  Overnight in Udaipur.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 9: 

  Udaipur: City Tour
  Our morning sightseeing in Udaipur includes a visit to the City Palace, which stands on the crest of a ridge overlooking Lake Pichola. The largest palace in Rajasthan, it was built at various periods but still preserves the harmony of design, enhanced by massive octagonal towers surmounted by cupolas. Now a museum, it is a labyrinth of courtyards richly decorated with inlaid mirror-work, galleries covered with frescos, temples and roof gardens, which afford a wide panorama below. The Jagdish Temple in the old town was built in the mid-17th century and has a remarkable bronze statue of Garuda, the mythical bird, facing his revered master Lord Vishnu.
  
  Sahelion-ki-Bari (Garden of the Handmaidens) is a good example of the Hindu art of landscape gardening on a princely scale. Ornamental pools with finely sculptured cenotaphs of soft black stone are surrounded by a profusion of fountains.
  
  In the afternoon we take a boat ride on Lake Pichola. The steel blue waters of the lake, artificially created in the 14th century, reflect the white phantom Jag Nivas Palace, now the Lake Palace hotel which was built in 1746 as the summer residence of the rulers, and Jag Mandir said to be built by Maharana Karan Singh for his friend Prince Khurram, who was later to become emperor Shah Jehan. Huge seamless stone slabs of translucent thinness where used. The rooms were embellished with inlaid stones -- onyx, jade, carnelian, jasper and agate.
  
  Overnight in Udaipur.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 10: 

  Udaipur - Pushkar
  After breakfast we depart on the drive to Pushkar.* On arrival check in at the resort, set amidst orchards of Indian gooseberry and fields of roses (as Pushkar is a holy town the resort serves no alcohol or non-vegetarian food, though a wide variety of vegetarian delicacies from around the world are on offer).
  
  During our time in Pushkar we will visit the Brahma temple. This town boasts of the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the world. Lord Brahma is the Creator in the Holy Trinity of Gods. You get a chance to walk through the winding lanes of Pushkar before reaching the lake, which is magical at sunset.
  
  We will watch an aarti (Hindu prayer ceremony) at the banks of the lake Pushkar. This lake is a scared lake of Hindus and is believed to be created by the fallen petals of Lord Brahma’s lotus.
  
  * Our fall departure coincides with the Pushkar Camel Fair, on the full moon of the Hindu month of Karttika when over 200,000 buyers, sellers and gawkers invade this peaceful, holy village. It is a calibre of mayhem that can only happen in India, an assault of colour, laughter and energy topped with a healthy dose of spirituality. From morning 'til night, it's a non-stop photo op. If you are in the market for a camel, you will have no problem finding one at bargain prices!
  
  Overnight in Pushkar.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 11: 

  Pushkar - Jaipur
  This morning we spend more time at the Pushkar Camel Fair.*
  
  We then head to Jaipur and the afternoon we explore one of the best-planned cities in India, built of rose-pink sandstone by the great astronomer-king Jai Singh II in 1727. The City Palace stands in the centre of the city. Part of it is still the Maharaja's residence, while most of the complex has been developed into a museum containing rare manuscripts, fine specimens of Rajput and Mughal paintings, royal apparel and an armoury. Jantar Mantar observatory was built by the founder of Jaipur, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The huge stone instruments were devised to study the movements of the sun, moon and planets and are incredibly accurate. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is the landmark of Jaipur. Built of pink sandstone with a delicate honeycomb design and rising five storeys high, it is composed of semi-octagonal overhanging windows, each with its perforated screen, which allowed the ladies of the court to look onto the main street without being seen.
  
  * OUR JANUARY TOUR will head straight to Jaipur and begin our touring, hence spending only one night here.
  
  Overnight in Jaipur.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 12: 

  Jaipur & Amer Fort
  After breakfast, we visit Amer Fort (also sometimes written "Amber"), the capital for 6 centuries before Jaipur was built, 11 km north of Jaipur. Rising majestically on the slopes of a hill, this 11th century fort and palace complex is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles -- the earlier constructions in the inner apartments designed by the Hindu founder are austere, while later constructions abound in the rich flourishes characteristic of Muslim influence. Though the option still exists, we choose to access the site by vehicle, rather than by riding elephants to the top.
  
  The afternoon is at leisure.* You have time to wander through the colourful bazaars, a veritable collector's paradise where you can watch ancient craft forms: Meenakari or enameling work, exquisite jewellery in silver or gold sparkling with emeralds, rubies, white sapphires and dangling pearls. In tiny ateliers you can see the age-old tie-dye methods of cloth printing, miniature paintings on cotton or silk, statues hand-carved in wood or bone, fine metalwork and the renowned blue pottery of Jaipur.
  
  * Today, on our fall tour, which spends an extra night in Pushkar, we will proceed to Agra as per tomorrow's program.
  
  Overnight in Jaipur.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 13: 

  Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
  Today we embark on a journey to the historic city of Agra. En route, we make a stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent ghost town that once served as the opulent capital of the Mughal Empire under the reign of Akbar the Great. Perched atop a rugged ridge, this deserted sandstone city is a haunting reminder of a bygone era, its empty palaces, imposing forts, and serene mosques standing as testaments to its former glory. A fascinating blend of architectural styles can be observed here, a result of the diverse pool of skilled craftsmen employed by Akbar.
  
  Upon our arrival in Agra, we check into our hotel, ready to delve deeper into the rich history and architectural marvels of this iconic city.
  
  Overnight in Agra.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 14: 

  Agra: The Taj Mahal & Agra Fort
  The pinnacle of our journey is a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal, an enduring symbol of love and one of the world's most breathtaking architectural wonders. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this magnificent structure took 17 years to complete, employing skilled artisans from across the globe. As the first rays of dawn illuminate its pristine white marble facade, casting a mesmerizing play of colours, we'll be captivated by its ethereal beauty.
  
  Beyond the Taj Mahal, we'll explore the vibrant bazaars of Agra, where we can witness the intricate art of marble inlay work. Later, we'll delve into the grandeur of the Agra Fort, a formidable red sandstone fortress that stands sentinel on the banks of the Yamuna River. This architectural marvel, shaped by the reigns of Akbar, Jehangir, and Shah Jahan, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and military might of the Mughal Empire.
  
  Overnight in Agra.

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
• Day 15: 

  Agra - Delhi - Depart
  Today we return to Delhi by road. Departure from Delhi.
  
  NOTE: Passengers booking their own flights should take into account the road journey from Agra and NOT book flights that depart any earlier than 3:00 pm.
  
  BON VOYAGE!

   

  Included Meal(s): Breakfast

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.