23 Day India s Holy Amritsar & the Rajasthan kingdoms Essential Package

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1 23 Day India s Holy Amritsar & the Rajasthan kingdoms Essential Package International Airfares Professional Webjet Tour Guide 21 nights Standard Accommodation Breakfast Daily, plus all meals in Ranthambore National Park In depth sightseeing Dedicated air-conditioned transportation #1 Online Travel Company in Australia Webjet Approved Guides Webjet Crafted Itineraries Always Includes Flights No Fuss, Easy Booking 21 Sep Oct Nov Feb March March April Sep Oct Nov 2018 (B) - Breakfast / (L) - Lunch / (D) - Dinner Flight Cruise Day 1: Australia - - Delhi - - Amritsar Depart Australia today on your flight to Delhi (please note, some flight may depart 1 day before). You will arrive at New Delhi International Airport, here transfer to your connecting flight to the holy city of Amritsar. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection please make your own way to the starting hotel. Amritsar, the Sikh holy city, is the second largest town in the state of Punjab and a premier tourist destination. It was founded in 1577 by Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs. The name Amritsar meaning 'Pool of Nectar' is named after the sacred pool around which the Golden Temple is built. The city is an important regional market centre for agricultural goods and the centre for India's border security. The city is characterized by some of the must visit religious, historical as well as contemporary sites of importance. The Golden Temple, where Sikhs from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification is the major landmark of the place. Day 2: Amritsar (B) This morning we head-out on a tour of Amritsar. Highlights include a visit to the Golden Temple, located in the heart of the city; it is the world-renowned sacred Sikh shrine. Characterized by its four entrance doors (called deoris) in all four directions and the tastefully decorated shrines, in terms of art and architecture, the Golden Temple welcomes everyone regardless of the religion or faith one follows. The stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy tank, flanked by spotlessly clean marble walkways and pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful. Continue to the Jallianwalah Bagh which is located at a distance of five minutes from the Golden temple, where the martyrs of the AD 1919 massacre are immortalized. A historical monument that tells the sad story of mass killing during the independence movement in India. Optional Tour: Heritage Walk in the bylanes - A guided walk showcases some of the richest architectural and traditional heritage from Amritsar s layered past. The walk promises to take Train

2 you back in time as you witness traditional trades and crafts being practised in the same place and in the same manner, as have been done for centuries. The tour commences from the historic Town Hall built by the British in 1866, and is today the centre of Amritsar s local administration. It goes past the Gurudwara Saragarhi, dedicated to the heroism of the twenty-one soldiers of the 36 Sikhs Battalion who lost their lives bravely defending their posts. Weaving its way through Qila Ahluwalia a fort replete with colonial-style architectural features the walk brings you to the Jalebiwala Chowk (Square). The chowk is home to a world famous jalebi (type of Indian sweet) shop that has been in operation since decades and is renowned for creating one of the best melt-in-yourmouth treats Optional Meal: Enjoy a traditional lunch with local delicacies Later, proceed for an excursion to Wagah Border, located on Indo-Pakistan border. A good number of visitors come to this place to witness the Change of the Guard ceremony and the flag hoisting and lowering activities, carried out with great skill and precision by the border security forces of both countries, a sight you cannot afford to miss. Day 3: Amritsar Dharamshala (B) After breakfast, we make our way to Dharamshala (200 km / 6hrs approx.). Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Dhaula Dhar Mountains, Dharamsala is one of the principle towns of the Kangra valley. With dense pine and deodar forests, numerous streams, cool healthy air, attractive surroundings and the nearby snowline, Dharamsala has everything for a perfect holiday. It is a charming town with elegant bungalows nestling in thick conifer forests. Today Dharamsala has become synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile. It is the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, spiritual head of the Buddhists, who is now quartered at McLeodganj. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Day 4: Dharamsala (B) After breakfast, we enjoy a visit to Mcleodganj, a charming Tibetan settlement with bustling bazaars. Also visit the Namgyal Monastery, the Dalai Lama's temple, ensconcing the Centre of Tibetan Studies. It houses giant stucco statues of the Buddha, Avalokiteshwara and Padmasambhava; Gangchen Kyishong, the offices of the Tibetan government-in-exile and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. Continue on to

3 Norbulingka Institure, dedicated to the vibrant Tibetan culture its artistic and literary forms. Optional meal: Lunch at a local restaurant Optional Tour: Visit Kangra Fort & Museum - This fort was constructed by the royal family of Rajputs who belonged to Kangra and were the disciples of the Katoch Dynasty. The family goes to trace its roots to the early Trigarta Empire. It is also talked about in the Epic Mahabharata. It is considered to be the oldest and the largest fort in the Himalayan region in India as per the historical records. Day 5: Dharamshala Shimla (B) In the morning, you will be driven to the queen of hill stations, Shimla (270 km / 8 hrs approx). The drive is hilly and spectacular. Resting at the foothills of the majestic Himalayas is Shimla, the queen of hill stations and once the summer capital of the British Raj. Shimla was the most important British hill resort, prior to India's independence. It is named after its patron goddess, Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. Shimla, located at an altitude of 7,267 feet, is inhabited around a crescent - shaped ridge, which is blessed with perennially cool air and amazing views. It provides superb panoramic sights of the valleys, and the lofty peaks of the great Himalayan range, on both sides. On arrival, check in to your hotel where the rest of afternoon is at leisure. Day 6: Shimla (B) Today, enjoy a half day tour exploring the main attractions of Shimla including the The Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge, a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings and Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. Your sightseeing tour also includes a visit to Viceregal Lodge, most historically significant and architectural impressive building. The Viceregal Lodge Shimla is commonly known as the Rashtrapati Nilayam (the President s House) and the reference is to the era between independence to the mid 1960 s when Indian Presidents used the lodge as their summer retreat. The Viceroy Lodge may have been used by modern India presidents but it was conceived at the height of the British raj and their absolute control over the whole of India.

4 Optional Meal: Lunch at a local restaurant The afternoon is then free at leisure. Day 7: Shimla Chandigarh (B) After breakfast we begin the drive to Chandigarh (121 kms / 4 hrs approx.) Optional Tour: Toy Train from Shimla to Solan (5 hours). Enjoy a train ride for a portion of your journey to Chandigarh. The journey is through the hills on the unique Toy Train, winding up through the mountains, thickly forested with pines, spruce and cedars catching a glimpse of the routine activity at the charming wayside stations enroute. From Solan, you will be picked up by your vehicle for a drive to Chandigarh. The city of Chandigarh, which spans 56 square kilometres in area, is the first planned city of India and is the capital of Punjab and Haryana. However, the city does not belong to either and is a Union Territory, administered by the Government of India. The city has well -laid roads, which are lined with endless rows of trees, shrubs and boulevards and the buildings have been brilliantly planned against the backdrop of the mountains. The white domed temple of Goddess Chandi Devi that stands on the slope of a hill, situated in the northeast of Chandigarh, on the edge of the Shivalik hills, is from where the city obtained its name Chandigarh. On arrival, the afternoon is at leisure. Day 8: Chandigarh - - Delhi (B) This morning, explore the architectural splendour and grandeur of the best-planned city in India. Visit some of the epitome of architectural beauty in the city. Explore the Le Corbusier Centre, which displays the life and works of Le Corbusier, the renowned Swiss-French architect and the mastermind behind the planning of this city. The centre emphasizes on preservation, interpretation, research, display of the works and legacy of Le Corbusier who made an outstanding contribution to the Modern Movement; and encourages tourists and future generations to acquaint themselves with the rich cultural heritage of the city. Continue to the Government Museum and Art Gallery. The museum is designed to provide architectural harmony in its interior by the use of colour as well as by means of

5 structure with spaces flowing into one another, allowing long and deep uninterrupted views. Witness the collection of art objects, paintings, sculptures and decorative arts especially the rich collection of Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature paintings. Also, visit the Rock Garden is a surreal fantasy land fashioned from fragments of shattered plates, neon strip lights, pots, pebbles, broken bangles and assorted urbanindustrial junk. Later you will be assisted with transfer to railway station for your train to Delhi (3 hrs approx.). You can safely forget media images of overcrowded suburban trains with people sitting on the roof. On a long distance train in an air-conditioned carriage all seats are reserved and it s a safe, civilised & comfortable way to get around India. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel. India s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds the ancient with the modern. Amidst the fast spiraling skyscrapers, the remnants of a bygone time, in the form of its many monuments, stand as silent reminders to the region s ancient legacy. Delhi is a food-lovers haven and has something to please every palate. There is an unlimited variety available across cuisines, across price-brackets and across experiences from street food of North India to International cuisine and from road-side dhabas to fine-dining Delhi has it all. Day 9: Delhi (B) Today we head out on a full day to explore Delhi. Begin your day with a guided tour of the Old City of Shahjahanabad. Your introduction to the city will start with a visit to Raj Ghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive past the Red Fort the magical monument in red sandstone built at the pinnacle of the Mughal Empire. After, continue on to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in Asia built by Shahjahan. Later, enjoy a guided walk through the bustling streets of Old Delhi. Optional Tour: Rickshaw Ride - Enjoy a traditional Rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old Delhi and immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals which has remained unchanged for centuries.

6 Ride through the narrow streets, past the glittery shops selling wedding ceremony items in Chandni Chowk Optional Meal: Lunch at Chor Bizarre A restaurant that completes the eating out experience - great décor, distinct ambience enhanced superlative food and charming 'old world' service. Continue on a guided tour of New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. Enjoy a photo stop at the imposing India Gate (War Memorial Arch), drive past the Parliament buildings and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President s residence). Stop for a visit to Agrasen ki Baoli, a 60-meter long and 15-meter wide ancient step well. Then, proceed to the holy shrine of Sikhs, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Originally, a bungalow owned by Raja Jai Singh, this huge complex features a devotion centre, a large pond for a holy dip, a missionary school, an art gallery, a charitable hospital and the free kitchen called Langar. Later, visit the museum dedicated to the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Optional Tour: Guided visit to Humayun s Tomb - Proceed to Humayun s tomb, the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun and today a World Heritage Site. It was the first great example of a new distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty Optional Tour: Guided visit to Qutab Minar - Visit Qutab Minar, the tallest stone tower in India built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India. Day 10: Delhi Agra Dholpur (B) After breakfast you will be driven to the Mughal city of Agra (a journey of 202 km/ 4 ½ hrs drive approximately). Known to the world as the city of the Taj Mahal, Agra is still associated with the Mughals, who besides being great rulers were also great builders. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, forts and palaces is a vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. From the Taj Mahal to the massive Agra Fort; Agra is amongst the most remarkable city of the world and a must visit. On arrival we proceed to possibly India s most incredible sight, the Taj Mahal! The Taj Mahal, celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. Emperor Shah Jahan built this exquisite white marble mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz Mahal.

7 The monument was commissioned in 1631 and took 20,000 artisans, 22 years to complete. Once here, there is plenty of time to explore the grounds of the Taj or enter the tomb to see the wonder up close. Optional Tour: Guided visit to Agra Fort - Explore the Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Shah Jahan, the Taj's creator, spent the last years of his life imprisoned at the fort by his son Aurangzeb. It was built in the late 1560`s by their predecessor, Akbar, with later embellishments by Jahangir, his son, and Shah Jahan, his grandson. Optional Meal: Peshawari Lunch Enjoy north-western Indian cuisine at a Peshawari restaurant. After, we continue on to Dholpur (a journey of 60 km/ 1.5 hrs approx). Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel. Day 11: Dholpur (B) This morning, enjoy half day sightseeing tour of Dholpur Old Town. About 4kms from Dholpur lies Muchchhkund, an ancient sacred place and is named after Raja Muchchhkund, who is said to have reigned nineteen generations before Lord Rama. Muchchhkund is surrounded by a series of temples of different deities, Machkund temple is an ancient place having reference in Puranas and Shri Madbhagwat. It is believed that after visiting to all Theerth Sthaan (pilgrimage) one need to take a holy dip in Machkund then only the pilgrimage is complete. Optional Tour: Boat Safari on Chambal River - The best way to experience the Chambal Sanctuary is to take a boat safari in Chambal river, experiencing the magnificent Ravines on one side of the bank and happening wildlife on the expanse of the river, the other side. Your boat escort takes you quite far in to the river bed to experience the natural habitat of Ghariyals, Crocodile, turtles and close to 300 species of resident and migratory birds. Continue to visit the Gharial Breeding Farm where Gharials (a kind of alligator) which was developed for protection of gharials and their habitat, involving further research on ecology. After, we return to the hotel. Day 12: Dholpur Ranthambore (B,L,D) Today, we make our way to Ranthambhore (a journey of 220 km / 5.5 hrs approx).

8 Nestling at the foot of the Aravalli Hills is Ranthambore National Park, a famous tiger reserve and an outstanding example of Project Tiger's efforts at conservation in the country. The forests around the Ranthambore Fort were once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. One of the most popular parks with tiger sightings at its best, a photographers dream come true, dotted with lakes and ponds around which the wildlife abounds, predators and prey enact their day to day drama. Ranthambore, hailed as one of India's finest wildlife locations, is also categorized as a heritage site because of the picturesque ruins of the fort that dot the park. Our lunch today is included at the hotel. After, we explore off the beaten track, stopping at the local village. Enjoy interacting with the locals witnessing their daily lifestyles before visiting Dastkar centre a noble craft s community project for income generation, especially for the women in the villages surrounding the Ranthambore National Park. See the skills being practiced here by local women including block printing, patchwork, pottery, leatherwork amongst others. Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel. Day 13: Ranthambhore (B,L,D) Wake up early today to undertake an experience you ll never forget, a thrilling jungle safari in open top jeeps through Ranthambhore National Park. The experience is likened to an African safari. Drive to the dense jungle of Ranthambore for tiger tracking and bird watching accompanied by a naturalist. The scrub woodlands of Ranthambore were the erstwhile hunting reserve of Maharajas of Jaipur, and royal hunting parties were hosted in the Park. Today, it is a sanctuary for India s exotic wildlife, and famous for spotting the majestic predator the tiger. The park is also home to a large variety of other animals, including sambar deer, panthers, marsh crocodiles, jungle cats, civets, wild boar, sloth bears and leopards, as well as being a birdwatcher s delight with more than 250 species of birds nesting there. After, return to the hotel for breakfast where the rest of the day is at leisure. Optional Tour: Afternoon jungle safari - Get another chance to track the wildlife as you embark on another game drive into Ranthambore National Park in an open air game vehicle.

9 Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel. Day 14: Ranthambore Jaipur (B) After breakfast at the hotel you will be driven to the pink city of Jaipur (185 Km / 4.5 Hrs approx). Jaipur, popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the state of Rajasthan. It has long been established on tourist itineraries as the third corner of India's Golden Triangle. The old city of Jaipur is partially encircled with seven gates - the major gates are Chandpol, Sanganeri, and Ajmeri. The 'pink city' label, applies specifically, to the old walled quarter of the Rajasthani capital, while in the northeast of the town, glorious palaces and temples, in an assortment of styles, spanning centuries, are scattered throughout the predominantly urban area. Jaipur is a tourist's delight. It is an extremely colourful city, and in the evening light, the pink and the orange buildings exude a magical glow, which is complemented by the vibrantly attired Rajasthanis. Later today, enjoy a trip to Sanganer. Located 16 km south of Jaipur, the town of Sanganer famous for its handmade paper and block printed fabrics, is entered through the ruins of two tripolias or triple gateways. This small village is an important trade and industry centre and produces the finest hand-printed textiles (block printing or silk screen). A perfect place for souvenirs from your Jaipur holiday, the blue pottery available here makes excellent gift options. Truly, a shopper s paradise! Day 15: Jaipur (B) This morning we visit Amer Town. The town around Amber Fort consists of beautiful small temples and a step well called Panna Meena. Amer was a flourishing settlement originally occupied by the Meena tribe. Explore this atmospheric ancient town as you pass numerous local shops selling traditional sweets, historic temples, havelis, and water harvesting structures amidst the natural beauty of Aravali mountain range with your guide. Optional Tour: Amber Fort - Situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city, surrounded by fortified battlements, Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar s most successful General, started the

10 Today, leave Jaipur behind you as we make our way to Udaipur (410 Km / 8 hrs approx.) the City of Lakes. It is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The chequered history of Mewar is showcased in the city of Udaipur, which is akin to an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan. It is a rich and beguiling tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, temples, havelis and gardens, reflecting the varied influences of the centuries. Also called Venice of the East, Udaipur is located in the Aravalli ranges of the royal state of Rajasthan. Surrounded by ancient mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, it is a beautiful old city with narrow lanes meandering through it. construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. At the foot of the hill you will be taken on the jeep up to the main gate. Tour the chambers and hallways of the palace, famous for the excellence of its design and decoration. Optional Meal: Traditional thaali lunch Enjoy a traditional thaali lunch in the shadows of historic 11th century Amber Fort. This afternoon, enjoy a heritage walk in the pink city. Starting from the massive Tripolia Gate, make your way through the bustling lanes of Jaipur as you walk past the beautiful old temples and painted havelis. Wander through the streets as you see some of the gorgeous temples on both side of the roads dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman and the many forms of Lord Krishna. Appreciate the beautiful murals on their exterior walls as you continue to the big terracotta red building called the Jaipur College. Proceed through the narrow alleys seeing a collection of textiles, utensils, wedding attires and street food vendors. Optional Tour: City Palace Museum & Jantar Mantar - Explore the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes, and armoury of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiseled handles. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit. Proceed to the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century. Day 16: Jaipur Udaipur (B)

11 Day 17: Udaipur (B) This morning we head out to explore Udaipur. Built in 1567, the City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola and is surrounded by crenulated walls. City Palace is an intriguing mixture of Rajput and military architecture and Mughal-style ornamental techniques. Its firm, fortress-like façade, topped by a plethora of graceful balconies, cupolas and turrets, has been justly described as a massive plain cake topped with fabulous icing. Continue to Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour), a small ornamental garden which was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the name. Also, visit the Jagdish Temple, which was built by Maharana Jagat Singh. Located north of City Palace s main gate, this 17th-century temple has an enormous black stone image of lord Vishnu in its profusely carved main shrine. A bronze image of Garuda (the mythical bird who is Vishnu s vehicle) stands in front of the temple and the stone elephants flank the entrance steps. This afternoon, enjoy a walk around the bazaars in the colourful and bustling markets of Old town. Browse through the shops selling embroidered and block printed fabrics, jewellery, paintings and carved wood artefacts. Optional Tour: Boat ride on Lake Pichola - Lake Pichola derives its name from Pichola Village, with the City Palace extending along its eastern bank and the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir enclosed in its vast expanse. Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city of Udaipur. The lake is surrounded by hills and its panoramic beauty is best viewed against the backdrop of the setting sun. Day 18: Udaipur - Ranakpur - Jodhpur (B) Today, leave the lake city of Udaipur for one of the jewels of Rajasthan, Jodhpur (280 km / 7hrs approx.). Enroute, we stop at the town of Ranakpur. Here there is time to enjoy lunch or enjoy a visit to the famous Jain Temples for those that wish. Optional Tour: Visit to the famous marble Jain Temples - Deep in the forest, tucked away in a remote and quite valley of the Aravalli Range, some 90 km from Udaipur is Ranakpur. It boasts of some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country famous for their intricate friezes and

12 sculptures. The main shrine of Adinath, with its 1444 exquisitely carved columns is the largest and most complex Jain temple in the country. Two Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little distance away are also noteworthy. After, continue on to the city of Jodhpur. Jodhpur, also called the "Blue City" located on the edge of the Thar Desert was once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar state founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan; the monuments temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multifaceted grandeur. It is still a marvellously medieval city. While the graceful palaces, forts and temples bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza. Day 19: Jodhpur (B) After breakfast, we enjoy a morning of sightseeing. Proceed to Jaswant Thada, just off the fort road, is a white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The cenotaph built in 1899, was followed by the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs that stand nearby. There are some beautiful marble jali (lattice) work and fine views from the terrace in front of the cenotaphs. Next, you will proceed towards the city where you walk through the bazaars and experience the rich, ethnic, diverse and extremely colourful life of Jodhpur. After, return to the hotel where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore this incredible city. We then visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort including lunch - One of Rajasthan's finest forts, Mehrangarh Fort looks down protectively over the city, from the hilltop. Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. There are seven gates that lead into the fort. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace apartments with marvellously carved panels, latticed windows have evocative names such as Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant howdahs (used when

13 the Maharajas rode their elephants in processions), miniature paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. Optional: Lunch at a local restaurant. Optional Tour: Afternoon Village Safari in the Countryside - Proceed on a half day village safari. The countryside south of Jodhpur is strewn with villages, their mud and thatch huts inhabited by the Bishnoi and communities of potters and weavers. A visit to this area provides an opportunity to get an insight into the daily life at these hamlets. At the village, you will be greeted with a traditional ceremony. The Bishnois are passionate environmentalists and their faith bids them to protect every living being, if necessary with their lives. Bishnois believe they will be reborn as deer. Experience the warm hospitality of the villages, taste traditional food, learn herbal remedies and see beautiful traditional crafts like spinning and carpet making being practiced. Day 20: Jodhpur Pushkar (B) This morning, you will be driven to the holy city of Pushkar (200 km / 5hrs approx.). Pushkar is a peaceful pilgrim town of lakes and temples. Pushkar lies in a narrow valley overshadowed by rocky hills that offer a spectacular view of the desert at sunset. Legend claims Pushkar s lakes were created from petals that fell from the divine hands of Brahma the Creator, thus the name Pushkar pushpa (flower) and kar (hand). Life in Pushkar, today, revolves around its lakeside ghats, temples and vibrant colourful bazaars, and it is this harmonious mix of the spiritual and commercial that draws people to Pushkar. The charm of this holy, lakeside settlement so captivated the great Indian poet, Kalidas, that it found a place in his classic, Abhigyan Sakuntalam. The Hindu epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana also make references to Pushkar. Evidence points to its having existed during the Fourth century B.C. A lake in the inhospitable surroundings of a desert is no less than a miracle and shimmers like an Oasis. Today, Pushkar is a buzzing tourist spot, overflowing with travellers from all over the world. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure. Day 21: Pushkar Ajmer - - Delhi (B) Today we explore fascinating Pushkar. The holy town of Pushkar is a very sacred town for the Hindus. Situated 11 kilometres North-West of Ajmer this little town is dotted with

14 more than 400 temples dedicated to various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. We ll begin by visiting the main temple, the Brahma Temple, which is considered the only Brahma Temple in the world. We then continue down to the Pushkar Lake. Here you can witness the many people bathing in its holy waters and see the famous blue houses which line the lake s bank. It is considered that the famed waters of the Pushkar wash away the sins of whole life. After, we continue for a walk in the Pushkar market to see the many merchants which have remained almost unchanged for centuries. This afternoon you will be driven to Ajmer (1 hr approx.) railway station where you will board your train for Delhi. Our train journey to Delhi takes around 8 hours giving you time to watch the world go by. On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel in Delhi. Day 22: Delhi - - Australia (B) After breakfast, the day is at leisure. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport for your onward flight home. Day 23: Australia Arrive home today