India s Rajasthan Revealed Tour 13 Days

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1 India s Rajasthan Revealed Tour 13 Days Day 1:- Australia - - Delhi On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure to relax and explore Delhi. Day 2:- Delhi After breakfast our day of sightseeing starts! First stop the Red Fort, Delhi s most famous monument, the Red Fort, stands as a powerful reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled India. Afterwards we head to Jamia Masjid. Masjid is another marvellous treasure of the Old City, and is the largest mosque in India. Its courtyard can hold an incredible 25,000 devotees. The mosque took 13 years to build, and was completed in After Masjid, we stop via Chandni Chowk Street, the main street of old Delhi, is a shocking contrast to the wide, orderly streets of New Delhi. Cars, cycle rickshaws, hand-pulled carts, pedestrians, and animals all compete for space. It s chaotic, crumbling and congested, but completely captivating as well. Onwards then to Humayun s Tomb. Humayun s Tomb looks a bit like the Taj Mahal in Agra and houses the body of the second Mughal emperor. After we pay our respects to Humayun, it is off to the Qutab Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. It was built in 1206, but the reason remains a mystery. Some believe that it was made to signify victory and the beginning of Muslim rule in India. Next is the Lotus Temple and India Gate. The towering archway of India Gate at the centre of New Delhi is a war memorial, built in memory of the Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army in World War I. Finally we finish the day with the Laxmi Narayan Temple, one of the major temples in Delhi. The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on the stipulation that people of all castes shall be allowed to enter the temple. Afterwards we head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Day 3:- Delhi - Agra After breakfast we travel to Agra. After checking in to our hotel we see the big one the Taj Mahal! The monument stands proof for the brilliance of Mughal architecture. Named as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal has stood the test of time. Afterwards we head for Agra s other treasure, the Agra Fort. The 16th century monument is yet another proof of the architectural brilliance of Mughals. This is situated near the gardens of the world famous Taj Mahal. Called the Red Fort of Agra, you will be awe inspired by the powerful fortress. The entire fortress is a symbol of Mughal s grandeur. Finally we finish with India s first tomb to be

2 made out of marble, Itmad-ud-Daulah. Itmad-Ud-Daulah signals the beginning of new era in Mughal architecture. Until then, it was buildings of red sandstone. It was constructed during Jahangir s period. The 21-meter high tomb was constructed in memory of Mirza Ghiyas. Influenced by Islamic architectural style, the monument s towers display Persian touch and the wall paintings inside are sheer beauty to view. Afterwards we head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Hotel: Royal Residency Day 4:- Agra - Jaipur After breakfast we head to Jaipur. On route we visit Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Akbar, the Mughal emperor in 1570, the city was a tribute to Sufi Saint. FatehpurSikri is a perfect blend of Indian, Islamic and Persian architecture and it was built using red sandstone. For around 10 years, the city remained the capital of Mughal Empire. The city has a 6-kilometer long wall on three sides and there are towers and gates. On arrival to Jaipur we will check in to the hotel before starting a sightseeing tour of the city. Our first stop is the City Palace, situated in the heart of the old City, it occupies about one seventh of the old city area. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, it houses a Seven storeyed Chandra Mahal in the centre. Once we have had time to explore the City Palace, we head to the Jantar Mantar. Built in 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the huge masonry instruments were used to study the movement of constellations and stars in the sky. Enormous sun-dial still provides accurate time. Next is the most photographed building in Jaipur, Hawa Mahal. Built in 1799, by Maharaja SawaiPratap Singh, is the most recognizable monument of Jaipur. The 5 storied stunning semi-octagonal monument having 152 windows with over hanging latticed balconies is a fine piece of Rajput architecture. Originally designed for the royal ladies to watch and enjoy the processions and other activities, on the street below. Now it houses a well laid out museum. The display Jaipur past and present is the special feature of this newly setup museum. Finally, before heading back to our hotel we visit the Albert Hall Museum. This graceful building was founded in 1876 by Prince Albert (also known as Albert Hall). It has a rare collection of archaeological and handicraft pieces. Afterwards we head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Hotel: Rajputana Haveli Day 5:- Jaipur Today we have another day exploring this vibrant city! We kick things offer with the Amer Fort.

3 The old capital of the Kachhwahas stands atop a range of craggy hills. The solemn dignity of its red sandstone and white marble pavilions, when reflected in the lake at the foot hill, is a sight to behold. Next it is on to the Jaigarh Fort. Standing on a hilltop, overlooking the palaces and city of Amer. The world s biggest cannon on wheels- the Jai Ban is positioned here, built during reign of Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh. It has a twenty feet long barrel for a single shot. We then continue on to the Nahargarh Fort which sits about 600 ft above the city below, the fort was built in After visiting Nahargarh Fort we stop for a photo opportunity of the Jal Mahal, a picturesque palace set in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. We finish our day at the Galta (Monkey Temple). This holy pilgrimage centre has a temple dedicated to the Sun God (Which is the only one of its kind in this part of the country) and natural spring. It crests the ridge over a picturesque gorge and provides an impressive view of the city. As the legend goes, sage Galav performed a difficult penance here. Afterwards we head back to the hotel to relax or explore Jaipur s nightlife. Hotel: Rajputana Haveli Day 06:- Jaipur - Jodhpur After an early morning breakfast we proceed to Jodhpur. On arrival we ll check-in to our hotel, leaving the afternoon to get acquainted with this fascinating city. Jodhpur is famously called the Sun City, as the sun is visible here first every morning. Jodhpur was founded in the year 1459 by Rao Jodha and the city earned its name after him. The second largest city in the state of Rajasthan is divided into old city and new city. The city is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces. This evening we visit local markets and immerse ourselves in the colourful nightlife. Hotel: Hotel Kuchaman Haveli Day 7:- Jodhpur After breakfast we head out to explore the city. First it is off to the Mehrangarh Fort. It is among the largest Indian forts. This invincible fort stands magnificently 400 feet above the city. The grandeur in architecture is awe-inspiring. It offers stunning views of the city and the fort stands as a symbol of power. After Mehrangarh Fort it is just a short distance to Jaswant Thada. Jaswant Thada was built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh, the Second in the year Inside you will find the portraits of the Rathore rulers. Next it is on to Ummaid Bhawan Palace. The massive 347-roomed palace is named one of the largest private residences in the world. The palace boasts of a combination of Indian and European style of architec-

4 ture. A part of the palace still serves as a residence to the former royal family, while other two parts of the palace are converted into Taj Palace Hotel and museum. Finally we visit Mandore Gardens. Mandore, belonging to the 6th century, was Marwar s capital before Jodhpur was established. Mandore Gardens here attract tourists in great numbers. The Mandore Gardens also house a government museum, a Hall of Heroes and a temple to 33 crore Gods. Various artifacts and statues found in the area are housed at the museum. The architectural splendor of the bygone era is clearly evident here. Afterwards we head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Hotel: Hotel Kuchaman Haveli Day 8:- Jodhpur - Pushkar After breakfast we depart for Pushkar! After check in to the hotel to afternoon its yours to soak up the vibrant life in Pushkar. This evening we visit Pushkar Market. The bazaar offers a variety of items, especially during the annual Pushkar Fair. The items available here are Rajasthani costumes and puppets, embroidered fabrics, souvenirs, bangles and beads, decorative pieces and accessories, curios, embroidered shoes, brass utensils, glass lamps, bags, belts and many more handicraft items. Majority of the traditional items are brought to the Pushkar Bazaar from Barmer District and other tribal areas of Rajasthan. Afterwards we head back to the hotel. Hotel: Hotel Master Paradise Day 9:- Pushkar After breakfast we start a sightseeing tour of Pushkar. First stop is the Pushkar Lake. Hindus from all across India consider Pushkar Lake to be one of the most sacred lakes of India. According to legend, the origin of this lake was the lotus flower petals that fell on earth from Lord Brahma s hands.the lake is surrounded by 52 palaces, 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats, which are a series of steps leading to the lake. Next is Brahama Temple, where Lord Brahma, the Creator of the World is worshipped. Built in the 14th century, the temple comprises a raised platform, red spire, stone slabs, marble floors and an image of hans or swan. Afterwards we visit Savitri Temple. The temple houses the statue of Goddess Savitri and offers good views of the surroundings, including the sand dunes of nearby villages and of the Pushkar Lake. We then head back to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Hotel: Hotel Master Paradise

5 Day 10:- Pushkar - Delhi After breakfast we make our way back to Delhi. It is a longer driving day today, however on arrival we will check in to hotel and freshen up. The evening is then yours to do what you wish. We suggest a visit to the vibrant Local Markets for some last minute shopping of to try the local delicacies. Day 11:- Delhi After our journey yesterday, today is yours to sleep in or explore Delhi one last time! Why not head to the Hauz Khas Village. The tight alleyways of this arty little enclave are crammed with boutiques selling designer Indian-clothing, handicrafts, handmade furniture and old Bollywood movie posters. Day 12:- Delhi - - Australia Today you ll be transferred to the Airport for your flight hotel. Day 13:- Australia Arrive home today.