7 Days 6 Nights with optional extension Land Only Delhi, Agra, Jaipur

Transcription

1 7 Days 6 Nights with optional extension Land Only Delhi, Agra, Jaipur

2 Welcome to! Our representative will meet you in the arrival area of the airport after you clear all immigration and custom formalities. Depart for your hotel and check in for your stay. Delhi is s capital and a major gateway to the country. Perhaps there is no other capital city in the world so steeped in history and legend as the n capital Delhi. It was the magnet, which drew the Mongols, Turks, Persians, Afghans, Mughals and the British, all of whom contributed to its glorious but turbulent past. The fascination with Delhi was such that even though it was abandoned many times, its rulers returned to it again and again rebuilding it at least seven times. Today, the twin cities of Old and New Delhi still intrigue ns and tourists alike as the cultural and political capital of the largest democracy in the world. Accommodation: Hotel in Delhi for nights Breakfast will be served at the hotel you stay. After a short briefing, set out on a tour of Old Delhi, the capital of Mughal dynasty between the 16th and 19th centuries. Visit Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. From here, board the cycle rickshaws for a tour of Chandni Chowk, known as The Moonlit Square of. As you drive through the narrow lanes, witness the architectural marvels, the multicolored facades, beautifully decorated shops, ethnically dressed men and women and get bombarded by the cries of hawkers and fragrances emanating from the potpourri of eateries that line these historical alleys. During the British regime, the street underwent major changes and since then this area has witnessed some of the most important events in n history. Today these splendid ruins and tales of valor are a testimony of the evolution of the times. Chandni Chowk truly reflects the national unity, secularism and diversity of. Continue to a Gurudwara (sikh temple) and witness the community kitchen where thousands of worshippers are fed round the clock. Next drive through New Delhi, passing by Presidential Palace- the one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the Gate - a memorial raised in honor of the n soldiers martyred during the Afghan war, Parliament house and other government buildings built in the first quarter of the 0th century by two famous English architects, Sir Herbert Baker and Sir Edwin Lutyens. It was during this time period that the capital of the British Empire was shifted from Calcutta to Delhi. The tour to Imperial Delhi will include a visit to the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower as well as one of the finest Islamic structures raised in. Then visit Humayun s tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, it is an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style, a precursor of the Taj Mahal. Optional tour Visit Chandmi Chowk by Night A walking experience of life in Old Delhi at Night. The city of Shahjahanabad (17th century) is often regarded as the largest and busiest medieval cities of. A happy mix of commerce, heritage and layers of history of built heritage from across the centuries- Mughal, British & contemporary; mind blowing street food; the lovely people of the walled city and their infectious joie de vivre - all weave a fascinating web for the walker. This excursion has however no agenda but to explore the life of the walled city at night. The treasure- house of experiences continues to delight our senses all the times of the day- and at night the magic of Old Delhi is a different one almost like a parallel life.

3 After breakfast this morning, drive to Agra via the Yamuna Expressway. Agra - Once a small village on the banks of the Yamuna, it was transformed by two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and his grandson Shah Jehan into the second capital of the Mughal Empire Dar-ul-Khilafat, or seat of the Emperor in the 16th & 17th century. A world of contrasting edifices of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys, bustling streets and small buggies, Agra retains the irresistible charm that made this the favorite city of the Mughals. On arrival, check in for your stay. Rest of the day at leisure Optional Tour Walk down the Rustic Village of Kachpura The Heritage Trail of Agra brings you some amazing behind the scenes of life and times throbbing in the shadows of the Taj Mahal. Best part being, the trail is a community based enterprise where a youth from the local community will show you around. Whatever is charged for this trail goes directly to funding various welfare works such as upgrading schools, building toilets etc. in the area and in creating sustainable livelihoods. Rise early and visit Taj Mahal (closed on Friday). It is fitting to see this extraordinary monument by the first light of day as its exemplary beauty is awe-inspiring and will create an unforgettable memory. Said to be one of the most elegant and a harmonious building in the world, Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1630 AD to enshrine the mortal remains of his beloved Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal manifests the wealth and luxury of Mughal art as seen in architecture and garden design, painting, and calligraphy. The 144 foot double dome of the Taj is capped with a finial and the four minarets each 131 ft. high and crowned by an open octagonal pavilion highlight the perfect symmetry of the tomb. Return to the hotel, and after leisurely breakfast. Afternoon, visit Agra Fort the seat and the stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Approachable by two imposing gates and constructed of red sandstone, the citadel was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar between the years 1565 and Encircled by a moat, this dramatic city within a city was the palace of three emperors, Akbar, Shah Jehan and Aurangzeb, each of whom made significant contributions to the wonderful architecture of the inner buildings a combination of Persian (Islamic) and local Hindu styles. Accommodation: Hotel in Limerick for 1 night

4 After breakfast, commence your drive to Jaipur. You will stop en-route at Fatehpur Sikri - the deserted red sandstone city, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century and abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its 'ruins' are still in a pristine condition. Continue on your drive to Jaipur passing some incredible scenery. Jaipur - also known as the Pink City, for the abundance of pink plastered stone used to build its massive forts, magnificent palaces and exquisite temples. The city built in 177 A.D by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II followed a grid system, which made it the only planned city of its time. A young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya designed the city in accordance with Shilp Shastra - an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. There is far more to the city than just its famous monuments and to get a complete experience of Jaipur, uncover the mysteries of the bazaars and visit silversmiths, turban sellers and traditional markets. On arrival, check in for your stay. Optional tour Home hosted meal with a local family and a cooking demonstration In the evening, drive to the city for a special culinary session and meal with a local family. After a short introduction, get into an informal chat talking on diverse topics ranging from History, Craft and Culture of this fabled city. You will be given an introduction to common n spices and herbs, a cooking demonstration and a delicious dinner of local specialties with the family. Accommodation: Hotel in Galway for nights After breakfast, visit the sprawling Amer Fort. Jaipur s Maharaja Man Singh, Mughal Emperor Akbar s most successful General, started constructing Amer Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amer was the seat of power. The Fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Once you are on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room.

5 Return to the city, with a photo-stop at Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds). Five stories in height, and built of red and pink sandstone highlighted with white quicklime, it is thought that the women of the royal harem used the many casements to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen. Continue to Jantar Mantar, an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh ll in the 18th century. The Maharajah, a scientist as well as an astronomer, had the principles of Euclid translated into Sanskrit. One of the most remarkable sites in Jaipur, the Jantar Mantar has fourteen major geometric devices for measuring time, predicting eclipses and tracking stars and planets. Just next to the observatory is the City Palace. Built within the fortified area of the original city, it has one of the finest monumental entrances in. The Palace is now principally a museum housing a collection of great treasures, including miniature paintings, carpets, royal garments and other interesting objects from Jaipur's intriguing past. The former royal family retains a part of the palace for their personal use. You will have some leisure time at the hotel or opt to visit the colorful local market. Walk through the old city of Jaipur past the Palace of Winds and market stalls before heading back to the hotel. Please be aware that these are very old market places in Jaipur used almost entirely by local people, hence you should be prepared for the hustle and bustle in the streets. Optional Tour - Hot Air Balloon Experience in Jaipur The 'Pink City' is favored equally for its vibrancy as well as its arresting monuments. Be mesmerized by the city as you fly over and absorb its riotous cocktail of Colors, Forts & Palaces. Best time: From mid- September till mid-april, best have the flight in morning before breakfast. Optional Tour - Watch live cultural show at Kingdom of Dreams in Gurgaon in Delhi Kingdom of Dreams brings to life a blend of 's art, culture, heritage, craft, cuisine and performing art... all with the technological wizardry of today. Upon arrival, make your way to the Nautanki Mahal to watch the world s first live cinematic theatrical experience. This show brings alive the magic of n Cinema in a stunning, electrifying on-stage spectacle combined with Bollywood style entertainment. Later walk to the Culture Gully for a gastronomic experience. This is an air-conditioned 'indoor food street offering cuisines from different parts of the Country. Each of the restaurants highlight the diversity of n cuisine and experience country s uniqueness as you walk around this magnificent food street. After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Delhi. On arrival, assisted transfer to T3 - Delhi International Airport to board your onward flight.

6 Optional Extension: Udaipur Extension Day 7 Jaipur Udaipur Early morning after breakfast, transfer to Jaipur airport to board your flight to Udaipur. Met on arrival at Udaipur airport by representative and check in at hotel Udaipur: Dotted with marble palaces, hibiscus - laden gardens and fountain pavilions, Udaipur appeals to the imagination of poets and painters, travelers and writers like no other city in the country. The city's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past redolent with episodes of heroism and splendor continue to enthrall the visitor even today. Udaipur, the City of Dawn, looms up like a vision in white. It is a truly enchanting city. Later visit Eklingi and Nagda Temples. Eklingji: 14 miles North-East of Udaipur is the village of Kailashpuri which is known for its 108 temples surrounded by a high fortified wall, the whole complex is known as Shri Eklingji temple and has been a holy site associated with Lord Shiva since ancient times. The present structure however, dates from the 16th century. Nagda::Close to Kailashpuri down a rough country road is believed to have been established by Nagaditya the fourth Mewar king a descendant of the Guhadatta who was born in a cave in the Aravali Mountains. There are several temples dating back to the fourth century A.D. Day 8 Udaipur After breakfast, visit City Palace, standing on a crest overlooking Lake Pichola, this majestic palace is a stunning blend of medieval European and Chinese architecture, surmounted by balconies, towers, cupolas and terraces with wonderful views of the city and lake. The main part of the palace is now a museum with a large and eclectic collection of miniature paintings. Stop off next at the three-storey Jagdish Temple, a wonderful Indo-Aryan temple built by Maharana Jagat Singh in Climb up stone steps flanked by sculpted elephants and admire the intricate pillars, carved ceilings, stunning frescoes and the massive black, stone image of Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the Universe. Continue on to the Sahelion-ki-Bari (Garden of the Handmaidens), 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. Later enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Day 9 Udaipur Delhi Departure Morning is at your leisure. Hotel check out time 1 noon Afternoon fly to Delhi (Please note, luggage allowance on this flight is 15 kg checked in baggage and 7 kg hand luggage). Arrive Delhi and connect flight for onward destination.

7 Ranthambore Extension Day 5 Agra Ranthambore Post breakfast, drive for Bharatpur (approx. 1 hour), en-route visiting the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century as an act of gratitude to a penniless saint, this splendid red sandstone city was inexplicably abandoned just fourteen years later. Wandering among the beautifully preserved palaces and red sandstone courtyards it is not hard to take yourself back in time to the days of imperial splendor when the Mughal emperor rode triumphantly through the Bulund Darwaza or Gate of Magnificence. Towering above the courtyard of the mosque and dominating the city, it is the largest gateway in the world. Continue to Bharatpur and board the train for Ranthambore. Assistance on arrival at Sawai Madhopur station and transfer to the hotel Day 6 Ranthambore Early morning and afternoon, game drive to the Park. Ranthambore is considered by many to be one of s most beautiful national parks. Encircled by a series of high escarpments, the forests, lakes and dry scrub that make up the park are dotted with old forts and temples, creating a wonderful atmosphere for both bird and mammal viewing amongst a landscape oozing with ancient Rajput history and Rajasthani culture. Ranthambore is perhaps most famous for being one of the original Project Tiger reserves and it still affords one of the best opportunities anywhere in of seeing a Tiger. With the recent escalation in poaching right across the sub-continent, there has been a worrying decline in both numbers and sightings of this magnificent animal. Today Tiger sightings in the park are on the increase and even though the animal itself is still under serious threat, you will have a good chance of finding one. Whether or not you see Tiger on this holiday, you cannot fail to be impressed by the sheer variety and number of other mammals and birds that make the park their home. Common Langurs are abundant, as are both Spotted (Chital) and Sambar Deer; the latter often feed so far out into the lakes that only their heads show above the water. Nilgai (the largest of 's antelopes) are also fairly common and Barking Deer do occur, although are somewhat harder to find. Day 7 Ranthambore Jaipur Breakfast will be served in the hotel After final game drive early this morning, drive for Jaipur to join the main group

8 Mumbai Extension Day 7 Jaipur Mumbai Post breakfast transfer to Jaipur Airport. Morning fly to Mumbai. (Please note the luggage allowance on this flight is 15kg/33lb checked in baggage and 7kg/15lb hand luggage). Mumbai is a city of dreams, the glamour of the movie world, the razors edge of the skyscrapers to the mainland of the harbour, people here come from diverse ethnic backgrounds yet nurture the dream of success, their undying spirit adds colour and flavour to this multicultural city. A throbbing, cosmopolitan metropolis, it still retains the glory of the past, the colonial legacy that coexists with the Maratha influence. Still considered as the heart of business, Mumbai houses the country's vibrant Stock Exchange. The Gateway of is almost literally a symbol of entry into the country by sea or air. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Day 8 Mumbai This morning, you will spend some time at the Gateway of, Mumbai s principal landmark. Later proceed on a tour of the Elephanta Caves. An hour away from Mumbai by ferry, the Elephanta Caves are a network of sculpted caves located on Elephanta Island or Gharapuri (meaning the city of caves) in Mumbai Harbor. The island, located on an arm of the Arabian Sea, consists of two groups of caves - the first is a large group of 5 Hindu caves, the second, a smaller group of Buddhist caves. The rock cut architecture of the caves has been dated to between the 5th and 8th centuries. In the afternoon visit Mani Bhawan, more popularly known as the Gandhi Museum. Mani Bhavan is at the epicenter of n History and traces the life of Gandhi, and his herculean yet non-violent battle to end British rule. You will also see the Dhobi Ghat outdoor Laundromat & visit Haji Ali, a famous mosque. From here, drive past the colonial buildings of the High Court, Sessions Court, University and Museum Buildings, and then the Tower of Silence and the beautiful Jain temple. Stop en-route at the Fort area for a walk. Over two hundred years ago, Mumbai was a fortified city secured by a robust fort wall that covered a substantial part of South Mumbai with three gates. The Apollo Gate that opened at Colaba, the Church Gate that opened at the St. Thomas Cathedral and the Bazaar Gate that opened to the Bazaars of erstwhile Bombay. The Mumbai fort was brought down in 186 for sanitation reasons and to improve trade. Day 9 Mumbai Departure Depending on your flight, transfer to the airport to board flight for onward destination.

9 Pushkar Extension Day 7 Jaipur Pushkar Today after an early breakfast depart by surface for Pushkar. A temple town and its lake used to play host to devotees and visiting traders to the annual camel fair. Today, Pushkar is the destination for revelers, tourists and students in search for a different dimension, from the hum drum to the holy. Pushkar, which means lake of the lotus blossoms, is an ancient settlement that dates back to the 4th century. It stands at the base of a hill called Nag Pahar, in a valley encircled by the Aravallis in central Rajasthan. Hugging it are 5 ghats that give onto a ring of about 500 white washed temples, ashrams and dharamsalas. On the banks of the lake you will see a holy man administering a ceremonial mudan to a screaming child ghat, as his pleased parents stand by a coconut and flowers in their hands. Wandering the lanes of the Pushkar, or watching the people form a roadside stall as you drink Tea, is a exercise that can absorb you for days. The other thing you will notice is the indomitable spirit of Pushkar. Despite the distractions, it remains primarily a religious town. No alcohol or meat may be served within a five kilometer radius of the town. On arrival at Pushkar, check-in to your hotel. Day 8 Pushkar After breakfast, visit the famous Brahma Temple and explore the Pushkar town which has a stunning mix of architectural styles. Most of the mansions and temples are between 00 and 300 years old, built by local chieftains and merchant families. You will be able to see the ritual ceremony being conducted on the holy lake. Rest of the day is at leisure or to explore on your own. Day 9 Pushkar Jaipur Delhi Departure After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred to Jaipur airport to board your flight to Delhi. Assistance on arrival at Delhi airport by our representative and transfer to connect with your International flight

10 Accommodations: Cities Hotel Nights Delhi Agra Jaipur The Suryaa Deluxe Room or similar Ramada Plaza Deluxe Room or similar Holiday Inn City Center Superior Room or similar Udaipur Ranthambore Mumbai Pushkar Ramada Spa & Resort Deluxe Room Tree House Anuraga Deluxe Room or similar The Fariyas Standard Room or similar Dera Masuda Deluxe Room or similar *REF/16/10PC Optional Tours Price/person Day : Visit Chandmi Chowk by Night 91 Day 3: Walk Down the Rustic Village of Kachpura 69 Day 05: Home hosted meal with a local family and a cooking demonstration 143 Day 06: Hot Air Ballooning in Jaipur 319 Day 06: Cultural Show at Kingdom of Dreams with dinner 18

11 TOUR PRICE PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY minimum persons *REF/16/10PC Departure Date 3 Guests 4 6 Guests Single Supplement Jul 01 - Sep 30, Oct 01 - Dec 19, 016 Jan 05 - Mar 31, Optional Extension Date 3 Guests 4 6 Guests Single Supplement Udaipur Extension Ranthambore Extension Mumbai Extension Jul 01 - Sep 30, Oct 01 - Dec 19, 016 Jan 05 - Mar 31, Jul 01 - Sep 30, Oct 01 - Dec 19, 016 Jan 05 - Mar 31, Jul 01 - Sep 30, Oct 01 - Dec 19, 016 Jan 05 - Mar 31, Pushkar Extension Jul 01 - Sep 30, Oct 01 - Dec 19, 016 Jan 05 - Mar 31, ALL PRICES ARE IN CANADIAN DOLLARS PRICE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. RATES ARE NOT VALID DURING FAIRS, EXHIBITIONS, SPECIAL EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS Above given rates are not valid for Christmas / New Year period (0 December 016 till 05 January ).

12 Your Tour Package Includes Accommodation of 06 nights on TWIN/ DOUBLE share basis at hotels mentioned above or similar Daily breakfast Transportation by vehicles as per the itinerary o - 3 guests: Air-conditioned Innova o 4-6 guests: Air-conditioned Tempo Traveler Services of English speaking local guides during sightseeing Entrance fees to the places of visit as per the itinerary Rickshaw ride in Delhi Elephant ride in Jaipur Packaged drinking water in the vehicle throughout the tour Current applicable taxes Udaipur Extension: Shared boat ride in Udaipur Ranthambore Extension: Meal Plan: Full board basis (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) Train fare for travel between Bharatpur to Ranthambore in Air conditioned chair car class 03 Jungle Safari at Ranthambore by shared jeeps including Naturalist Entrance fees to the park. Mumbai Extension: Motor boat ride to reach Elephanta caves by common boat. Pushkar Extension: One camel ride Your Tour Package Does NOT Include International Airfare from Canada to Any optional tours/extension that are not specified in the itinerary Any applicable weekend and other surcharges imposed by airlines. Any taxes, airport fees and fuel surcharge. Travel insurance, Travel Visa and all personal expenses. Tipping and gratuities to local guides, drivers, and hotel staff. Any items not specified as included.