Arrive Delhi international airport by midnight flight, meet & greet with our office representative, assistance and transfer to hotel check in. Rooms on ready occupancy. Overnight at hotel.
Breakfast at hotel, drive past Red Fort & Chandni Chowk Bazar, Khari Baoli spice market. Visit Jama Masjid (Mosque). Shah Jahan (King of the World) founded the city of Shahjanabad, now referred to as Old Delhi, in 1648. Opposite the fort is the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the world, built by Shah Jahan to dominate his city. Raj Gath: The memorial of Mahatma Gandhi where he was cremated after his assassination. Qutab Minar: The building complex dated back on the onset of Muslim rule in India and are fine examples of Afghan architecture. Himayun’s Tomb: Build by wife of Humayun, the second mughal king. It is an early example of Mughal architecture. India Gate: The 42m high stone "Arch of Triumph", erected in the memory of Indian soldiers who died in the First World War; Drive through Rajpath "Kingsway" a VVIP area of Delhi including Rashtrapati Bhawan. Laxmi Narayan Temple: Garishly colored modern temple is erected by the industrialist Birla. This temple is dedicated to Laxmi - the goddess of wealth and Narayan - Lord Vishnu, husband of Laxmi. Overnight at Hotel.
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Agra, check in at hotel. Rest day free and easy for personal activities relax. Overnight at hotel.
Evening optional; Mohabbat the Taj “Saga of Love”; The world of romance and eternal love personified in the epic love story of the emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved Mumtaz Mahal is woven into the mesmerizing dance drama Mohabbat The Taj. Set in the 16th century, the dance-drama portrays the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era. The highligh of the show is a replica of the Taj Mahal in Makrana marble weighing 8,500 kg with inlay work, which presents various moods and shades, very similar to the original Taj Mahal. Embellished costumes and the extravagant stage setting make for an interesting portrayal of the 16th century and allow one to see Mughal grandeur coming alive.
Afternoon visit Taj Mahal: One of the Seven Wonder of the World was build by Shah Jahan in 1631 AD and was completed in 1651. This symbol of love was build in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Described as the most extravagant monument ever build for love. It was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his queen Mumtaz Mahal, made out of white marble took 22 years to complete. Ustad Ahamad Lahori, a Parsian Architect, is said to be the main designer and planer of this magnificent memorial. On full moon night, the glory of the Taj is at its best. (Taj Mahal remain closed on every Friday)
Agra Fort: build by the famed Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Construction of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of the Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565, though additions were made up until the rule of his grandson, Shah Jahan region it has partially become Palace. The fort presents a good sampling of their favoured architectural styles. Akbar drew on Islamic and Hindu traditions and the result is eclectic. By Shah Jahan's time the style had become so homogenized that it is impossible to separate the Hindu and Muslim strands. The Diwan-I-Am (public audience hall) the beautiful Diwan-I-Khas (private audience hall) were also added by Shah Jahan.
Breakfast at hotel, check out from hotel. Visit AItmad-ud-daulah's Tomb; Built between 1622 and 1628 by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, boasts of marble trellis work and inlaid with-precious stones, this mausoleum on the opposite bank of the Yamuna from the Taj, exhibits a strong Persian influence. Itmad-ud-Daula often describe as Jewel Box. The Tomb of Mir Ghias Beg, Vazir (minister) of Emperor Jahangir, was built between 1622 and 1628 from red sand stone with marble decorations as Akbar?s tomb in Sikendra in Agra. Itmad-ud-daula has important place in history as well as architecture. This is actually the very first tomb in India that is entirely made out of Marble. It is most important monument in Agra after Taj Mahal and Agra fort. Overnight at hotel.
Drive to Jaipur, Enroute visit to Fatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 yrs. Due to scarcity of water. Predominately, a red sandstone construction sprawling over a huge area, the architectural style is very much in tune with emperor’s dream & partakes of both Hindu & Muslim styles. See the graceful buildings including Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other places.
Salim Chishti Dargah; built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 yrs. Due to scarcity of water. Predominately, a red sandstone construction sprawling over a huge area, the architectural style is very much in tune with emperor’s dream & partakes of both Hindu & Muslim styles. Salim Chishti (1478-1572) was one of the famous Sufi saints of the Chishti Order in India. Salim Chishti was the descendant of the famous Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti whose tomb is in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
Your second stop enroute to Jaipur is Abhaneri; is a small village, situated at a distance of 95km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by the King Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named as Abha Nagri, which means the city of brightness, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the present name. In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still it attracts tourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for 'Baoris', which are the unique invention of the natives for harvesting rain water. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes.
On arrival check in at Castle Kanota; a built-in Museum and a Library which displays gold work and unique collection of rare books, the castle takes you back to the grandeur of the past. There might be various heritage hotels in and around Jaipur but there is only one - Castle Kanota - with lots of unique qualities and live sign of rural tourism. During your stay at Castle Kanota, you will discover the secret of the grandeur of the Rajput royalty, when you see the exquisitely decorated walls and ceilings that are fully covered with frescoes and paintings. The period furniture placed all over the hotel is more than a visual delight.
Castle Kanota has a royal ambiance that segregates it from the rest of the heritage hotels. Its enchanting façade and unmatched interiors gives it a royal look. The stay in castle is an irreplaceable experience offering you a holiday that you will never forget. This heritage hotel is truly a place where one can enjoy traditional Rajput hospitality with all modern amenities in the same old environment. Overnight at Castle Kanota, the heritage hotel where The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movie was shot.
Breakfast at hotel drive to Jaipur, visit Amber Fort and enjoy Elephant Ride (upto the hills). Raja Man Singh the Rajput commander of Akbar’s army constructed the fortress palace in the end of 16th century. Amber is superb example of Rajput architecture, situated on a hilltop, overlooking a lake. Amber Fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. The fort borders the Maota Lake. Amber was originally built by the Meenas in the town they consecrated to Amba, the Mother Goddess, whom they knew as `Gatta Rani' or `Queen of the Pass'. Built over the remnants of an earlier structure, the palace complex which stands today was commenced under the reign of Raja Man Singh, Commander in Chief of Akbar’s army and a member of the Emperor's inner circle of nine courtiers, in 1592. The initial structure of the fort was entirely completed by his descendant; Jai Singh I. Amber was modified by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II.
After visiting fort check in at hotel. Afternoon city tour of 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 - 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. Main tourist attractions of Jaipur are City Palace with its fine collection of textiles, costumes and armory and the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds. Maharaja Jai Singh was a great astronomer of his time. He built here extraordinary (and very accurate) stargazing Observatory here named as “Jantar Mantar”. Overnight at hotel.
Evening optional; dinner at Chokhi Dhani Ethnic Village; dinner at Chokhi Dhani (40kms/ 1hrs one way); 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 environment.
Breakfast at hotel, drive to Kishangarh, check in at heritage hotel, Phool Mahal Palace or at Roopangarh Fort. Visit the stunning place with much great history in art, crafts and culture. The state was established by the Rajput King Kishan Singh of Rathore dynasty. A Navgrah temple located at the heart of the city attracts many devotees. It is believed that the sacred river Saraswathy flows under this desert region of Kishangarh. The main attraction of Kishangarh is the miniature paintings of this ancient cultural state. These miniature arts depict mostly the love life and romance of Radha and Krishna described in Hindu mythologies and epics. It is believed that the famous artist Nihal Chand led the painting activities here during the 18th century. The paintings are breathtakingly attractive, painted on the background of pristine environment and lusting green landscapes. The Bani Thani paintings of the Kishangarh attract the art lovers to this princely place. Overnight at Pool Mahal Palace or at Roopangarh Fort, the heritage hotel where The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movie was shot.
Breakfast at hotel drive to Udaipur enroute visit the Dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti; located at the end of a dusty alley in the main market, makes Ajmer an important pilgrim centre for Muslims from all parts of the world and Pushkar is the abode of Lord Brahma, which devout Hindus aspire to visit at least once in their lifetime. Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpara, In 1193 A.D, the Afghan Mohammad Ghori conquered Ajmer and converted a Sanskrit school into a mosque by adding a seven arched wall in front of the pillared hall in just two-and-a-half days. Ana Sagar Lake, This beautiful lake was built by King Anaji (AD 1135-1150), the grandfather of Prithvi Raj Chauhan at a picturesque site located to the north of Ajmer. Daulat Bagh Gardens, which was created by Jehangir, is located next to the lake. Baradari or the marble pavilion was added to the lake by Shahjahan. Continue drive to Udaipur; on arrival check in at hotel Ravla Khempur.
Evening: Enjoy a Boat cruise on Lake Pichola on which the majestic Lake Palace Hotel is situated. See the ghats along the lake and the interesting buildings on the banks. The view of the city palace from the lake is spectacular. Lake Pichola is an artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD, named after the nearby Picholi village. It is one of the several contiguous lakes, and developed over the last few centuries in and around the famous Udaipur city. The lakes around Udaipur were primarily created by building dams to meet the drinking water and irrigation needs of the city and its neighborhood. 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. Overnight at Ravla Khempur, the heritage hotel where The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movie was shot.
Breakfast at hotel, city tour of Udaipur: a splash of colour in Rajasthan that is brighter when tinged with the tones of local lore and legends. Visit the City Palace, built in 1725, which houses the Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal - studded with glittering Belgium Mirrors, Moti Mahal and the Palace of Lord Krishna all of which are ornately decorated. Later visit the Jagdish Temple. This temple built in 1651 is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu Trinity of Gods. Also visit the Sahelion Ki Bari gardens and fountains. Later drive around the Fatehsagar Lake. Visit Eklinji and Nagda Temple. Eklingji was built for the tutelary deity of the Maharanas of Mewar, of sand stone and marble in 734 A.D. Its 108 temples are enclosed by high walls and has a pyramidical roof composed of hundred of knobs. Later visit Nagda, one of the ancient Palaces of Mewar dating back to the 6th century A.D. The Sas-Bahu Temples are among the most exquisitely carved temples. Overnight at Ravla Khempur, the heritage hotel where The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel movie was shot.
Breakfast at hotel, transfer to airport, to board flight for Delhi. From Delhi board connecting flight for your onward destination.