14 Day Secrets of the Maharajas

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1 14 Day Secrets of the Maharajas International airfares Airport transfers 12 nights 5* star accommodation & Heritage hotels Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Maharaja-style elephant safari with picnic Professional guide throughout Sightseeing in all major cities #1 Online Travel Company in Australia Webjet Approved Guides Webjet Crafted Itineraries Always Includes Flights No Hassel Easy Booking Process Day 1: Australia - - Delhi Today, depart Australia to begin your luxury tour of India! On arrival into Delhi International airport after clearing customs and immigration formalities, a Webjet Representative will meet you escort you to your luxury hotel, The Imperial. The Imperial Hotel was designed to be one of the finest monuments of Lutyens grand vision of the Capital City s original master plan presenting a unique blend of Victorian, Old colonial and Art Deco styles. From the time it opened its doors, when India was beginning to write the last chapters of its saga on independence, the hotel provided such a space that Pandit Nehru, Mahatama Gandhi, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Lord Mountbatten met at this hotel under congenial conditions. The Imperial s relationship with art is a long standing one. Since its inception, over 70 years ago, the hotel, known as a museum hotel, has been a repository of art and a home to many famous artists. You may want to enjoy a tour of the Hotel s three main art galleries and a collection of life size oil paintings of the Princely Rulers of India. Hotel: The Imperial (5*) Heritage Room 9 January February March April September October November 2017 (B) - Breakfast / (L) - Lunch / (D) - Dinner Flight Cruise Train Day 2: Delhi (B) This morning, explore the rich diversity and antiquities of the city. Absorb the spirit of Delhi as you enjoy the contrast between the hidden treasures of Old Delhi and colonial edifices of New Delhi. On a walk through the bustling old alleys of Chandni Chowk; experience a sense of excitement as you visit some of the most unique and ancient sites of the old city. Continue to discover the highlights of New Delhi. Enjoy a panoramic tour driving past the India Gate War Memorial Arch, Rashtrapati Bhawan the President s Residence and Government Buildings, completing the tour with a visit to Qutub Minar (Tower of Victory) a superb example of early Afghan architecture built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India and Humayun s tomb, the first great example of a new distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty. Hotel: The Imperial (5*) Heritage Room

2 Day 3: Delhi - Agra (B) Today proceed on a drive to the Mughal citadel of Agra. The city of Agra, the quintessence of the grand Mughal era, reigns to this day in the public mind as the embodiment of royal grace, imposing architecture and power. Agra is globally renowned as the city of the Taj Mahal. But this royal Mughal city has, in addition to the legendary Taj, many monuments that epitomize the high point of Mughal architecture. No tour to India can be complete without paying a visit to the erstwhile capital of the Mughals and the city of the Taj Mahal, the world s most beloved monument. With its laid back lifestyle and its immense wealth of architecture, handicrafts and jewellery, Agra is amongst the most remarkable city of the world. Upon arrival, check-in at The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road, Agra. Gracious interiors, personalized service and The Gateway Hotel's unique style are complemented by Agra's dazzling monument to love, the Taj Mahal. Set amidst six acres of landscaped gardens, many rooms of the hotel offer splendid views of the Taj. Visit the spectacular Taj Mahal with its perfect symmetry and romantic history. Described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love, this stunning mausoleum has become the de facto tourist emblem of India. It was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his second wife Mumtaz Mahal. Continue to visit Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations followed by visit to Kohinoor Jewellers to admire exquisite artefacts and ornaments preserved by a family who were the traditional jewellers to the Mughal court. Experience their exclusive collection of jewellery as well as other works of art as a connoisseur guides you through this awe-inspiring experience. Hotel: The Gateway Hotel (5*) - Executive Taj View Room Day 4: Agra - Jaipur (B,L,D) Today your journey continues onward to the next Royal antiquity city of Jaipur with an en route stop for lunch at Bharatpur. The city of victory, Jaipur presides over the fascinating

3 desert state of Rajasthan and its people: surrounded by rugged hills, each crowned by a formidable fort; and beautiful palaces, mansions and gardens dotted throughout its precincts. The palaces and forts of yesteryear that were witness to royal processions and splendour are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of the people of the "pink city". There is a timeless quality to Jaipur's bazaars and its people. With its historical past, Jaipur revives legends of the ancient Rajputs. Arrive at Rambagh Palace. From the home of the queen s favourite handmaiden, to royal guesthouse and hunting lodge, and later as the residence of the Maharaja, this Jewel of Jaipur has stepped gracefully through many royal transitions. The finest traditions of Rajput hospitality pour out of its every brick and cornice. Its elegant rooms, marbled corridors and majestic gardens echo with history, and every corner has a story to tell. Rambagh Palace is a living legend in Jaipur. In the evening, enjoy a Historical Walk within the hotel through the whims of princes, the romance of princesses, the impeccable pride and craft of royal artisans, the passion of artists and two and a half centuries of royal lives and times. Revel in these echoes of the palace s royal past, painstakingly retained and maintained in a more modern age with a glass of sparkling wine and a sumptuous dinner. Hotel: Rambagh Palace (Heritage) Palace Room Day 5: Jaipur (B,L) The day will leave you mesmerised as you enjoy reliving the special moments as a Royal Guest. Explore the rustic countryside of the Aravallis on elephant back, stopping for a Royal picnic breakfast. Continue to the ancient capital of Amber to see the fabulous Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city. Enjoy a lavish lunch at 1135 AD set within the historic ramparts of the fort. Here the Maharaja s entertained dignitaries from across the world. Indulge yourself in retail shopping as you visit the stores which at one time was frequented by members of the Royal House and their guests. See some of the private treasures and

4 jewellery of the Royals; admire the Royal Costumes in the Museum followed by an opportunity to visit Textile outlets famous for the block print textiles with Royal designs. Hotel: Rambagh Palace (Heritage) Palace Room Day 6: Jaipur - Jodhpur (B) Today we proceed to Jodhpur the epitome of all the romance and feudal splendour of Rajasthan. The majestic Mehrangarh Fort towers over resplendent palaces, colourful bazaars and the sands of the Thar Desert. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 and due its strategic location on the overland trade route it soon became a flourishing trade centre. The special riding breeches, known the world over as jodhpuris, were designed here. Arrive at RAAS, situated in the prestigious north-eastern quarter of the Walled City, in the very shade of Mehrangarh's Victory Palace and Gate, and a stone's throw from the Clock Tower; RAAS comprised, in fact, of four charismatic buildings in Jodhpur's very own 'rosered' sandstone. The oldest, the Haveli proper as it were, was built towards the end of the 18th Century and with its delicately carved stone panels - the hall-mark of Rajput Architecture - served as the exclusive and intimate residence of the family. The new buildings are modern and contemporary in their use of space and light and context; and yet grounded in tradition. Hotel: Raas (Heritage) Garden Room Day 7: Jodhpur (B) The exquisite palaces, forts, temples and havelis stand as a testimony to the imperial grandeur of Jodhpur. The traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people who treasure this former Princely state form the most alluring part of the city. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, which has been described by Rudyard Kipling as the creation of angels, fairies and giants. The forbidding ramparts of this fort are in sheer contrast to the richly decorated palaces within. The extensive museum within the fort displays paintings, thrones, banners and weapons. The royal apartments also form part of the outstanding museum. Wander through the streets in the old city on tuk-tuks as you come across local people, tie-dyers, puppet makers and traditional spice markets.

5 Later, enjoy Village Safari in the countryside of Jodhpur with the feudal members of Rohet. Showcasing the best of the land, it is a complete cultural experience, which encompasses all that this region has to offer. From the warm and hospitable people, to the various customs and ceremonies and the abundant wildlife, you have the privilege of being welcomed into people s homes and interacting with them. Enjoy high-tea after the experience. Hotel: Raas (Heritage) Garden Room Day 8: Jodhpur Deogarh (B,L) This morning, drive to the charming hamlet of Deogarh en route stopping at Ranakpur for lunch and to visit the exceptionally beautiful Jain Temples. Deogarh Mahal was converted into a hotel by the present owner Rawat Nahar Singh and a part of the Mahal is still occupied by his kin. The family is closely associated with the hotel which has made Deogarh a benchmark of Heritage hospitality in Rajasthan. Every guest is special and is treated with the customary Mewari hospitality. As soon as you glimpse the Deogarh Mahal, you can see that its rulers must have been serious players in the Mewar aristocracy, their magnificent fort a fitting stronghold for one of its sixteen umraos - the most senior feudal barons attending on the Maharana of Udaipur. Hotel: Deogarh Mahal (Heritage) Deluxe Room Day 9: Deogarh (B,D) Explore the intricate mosaic of Rural and Royal Deogarh - her colourful villages and understand the ancient bonding of the feudal lords with their subjects. Unravel the treasure and view the private Vintage Car Collection with one of the members of the feudal family (subject to availability) followed by a village walk. Catch a glimpse of the humble surroundings and ancient traditions and customs. In the evening, indulge in a culinary experience of the Royals. Flavour the Mewari cuisine as you enjoy cooking demonstration and dinner typical to the resident feudal family. Hotel: Deogarh Mahal (Heritage) Deluxe Room

6 Day 10: Deogarh Udaipur (B) Today your journey continues to next antiquity city of Udaipur. There is no city in India, which appeals more to the imagination of poets and painter, travellers and writers than the exquisite city of Udaipur. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, a city of lakes and palaces, Udaipur is an oasis in the desert. The celestial City of Sunrise, presents an enchanting image of marble palaces, placid blue lakes and green hills an oasis of colour and beauty. Following arrival into the city, the rest of the day is at leisure to relax in the Royal comfort of your Palace Hotel, the Taj Lake Palace. Soak in the beauty of the picturesque environs surrounding the Lake Pichola. Later today, walk through a bygone era of this Royal palace. Get an insider s perspective on this enduring symbol of elegance and romance. A glass of sparkling wine adds a royal touch to the experience. Hotel: Lake Palace (Heritage) Palace Room Day 11: Udaipur (B,D) The day will bring alive the splendour and extravagance of the Royal House of Mewar. Step back in time when you visit the magnificent City Palace and walk through the old city, exploring the winding lanes and bustling bazaars of the magical city of Udaipur. Also visit, Arts & Frames, an art gallery dedicated to modern, contemporary and traditional art. In the evening, enjoy the Royal moments as you indulge in a fine dining experience later tonight. Hotel: Lake Palace (Heritage) Palace Room Day 12: Udaipur - - Delhi (B) Today, your journey continues as you fly to the departure city of Delhi. A Webjet Representative will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport for flight to Delhi. Hotel: Taj Palace (5*) Deluxe Room

7 Day 13: Delhi - - Australia (B) A Webjet Representative will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the airport for your flight to your onward destination, bid adieu to the Secrets of the Maharajas. Day 14: Australia Arrive home today