Day 1 Thursday, January 25 Arrival in Delhi Welcome to Delhi, India a monumental city with a vibrant mix of old and new teeming with bazaars, stately British boulevards, powerful Mughal palaces and forts, and intricate, ethereal towers, temples and tombs. Upon group arrival in Delhi at Indira Gandhi International Airport you will meet our English speaking local guide who will remain with the group for the duration of the tour. Private group transfer to the hotel. As most flights will arrive late in the day and evening you ll be free to relax and unwind at the hotel after check-in. *Broad Escapes will have a group flight from Toronto (preference to Air Canada direct flights). The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time. Private transfers (at an additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different date/time. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes. Overnight in Delhi 2 nights Vivanta by Taj (or similar) Day 2 Friday, January 26 Delhi B/D We begin our adventure to India with a classical morning yoga stretch and meditation to relieve the stresses of the previous day s flights and to energize the various energy channels (chakras) in our body. Learn the history behind this ancient tradition that has gained popularity worldwide. Later we ll set out on a city tour of New & Old Delhi. In New Delhi we ll visit Qutub Minar, a stunning 240-foot minaret, the tallest in the world, Humayun s Tomb, India Gate and Lakshmi Narayan Temple a modern Hindu Temple. Drive past the President s House, Parliament House and Government Secretariat Buildings. In Old Delhi we ll visit Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. We continue to Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India then drive past the famous Red Fort before we trade our vehicle for traditional bicycle rickshaws. On our rickshaws we ll weave through the crooked, congested alleys off Chandni Chowk, one of India s oldest and busiest bazaars, and see the traditional workmanship for which India is well known and still thrives. In the evening we have an enriching cultural and culinary experience with a cooking demonstration and family dinner where we ll relish in Indian food and share a few stories and laughs with a local family. Note: January 26th is Republic Day in India. Some places & routes may be closed due to Delhi Government orders. Overnight in Delhi Vivanta by Taj (or similar) Day 3 Saturday, January 27 Delhi to VaranasiB/D This morning transfer to the airport for a domestic flight from Delhi to the ancient city of Varanasi (1.5 hours), the city of Hindu culture. A holy city dedicated to Shiva, Varanasi has survived the centuries because of its sanctified place in India s religious life. This afternoon visit Sarnath, a major Buddhist centre, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Here we ll visit the Dhamekh Stupa, an imposing cylindrical structure (43.5m high) of the Gupta age, the Buddhist Temple and the Archaeological Museum. This evening, at sunset, visit the ghats (bathing steps) on the Ganges by candle-lit boat and witness the intriguing Aarti Ceremony. Here we will observe the mystical scene of the many ghats lit with oil-lamp lights, Brahmans chanting hymns and numerous floating oil lamps, all part of the daily, evening ceremonies along the Ganges. Varanasi is one of the world s oldest continually inhabited cites and is regarded as one of Hinduism s seven holy cities. Located along the Ganges River, millions of Hindus travel for pilgrimage to worship, to mourn or to die here. It s best to take a boat ride on the Gange River to experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony, performed each evening in Varanasi. The ceremony consists of bell-ringing (to ward off evil spirits) and offering a series of seven, elaborate gifts of light to the river. The gifts of light get progressively brighter as the ceremony proceeds; it ends by floating candles on the water and pouring water into the Ganges - a definitely memorable experience. Overnight Varanasi 1 night Radisson (or similar) Day 4 Sunday, January 28 Varanasi Delhi B/D Early this morning, before sunrise, we drive to the Ghats on the Ganges to take a boat ride on the river. Witness the fascinating early morning rituals performed by Hindu devotees along the river bank which includes morning bathing and the cremation Ghats. We return to the hotel for breakfast followed by a traditional yoga session before touring Varanasi, Hindus holiest city and one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi was already old when Rome was founded, a flourishing trade centre when the Buddha came to Sarnath to preach his first sermon. It was a city of great wealth and religious importance when the Chinese traveller Hiuen Sang visited in the 7th century. During the half day, sightseeing tour we ll visit Bharat Mata Temple, Durga Temple,and the modern marble Tulsi Manas Temple. Tour around Banaras Hindu University and visit the Mosque of Moghul Emperor Aurangazeb built on the site of an ancient Hindu Temple. Afterwards transfer back to Varanasi airport for a return flight to Delhi. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check in. Overnight Delhi 1 night - Vivanta by Taj (or similar) Day 5 Monday, January 29 Delhi to Agra B/D After breakfast we will continue overland to the medieval city of Agra (204km/3hrs). This afternoon we have a city tour of Agra beginning with a visit of Itmad-ud Daulah s Tomb. Often described as Jewel Box and sometimes called the Baby Taj, this tomb is regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. Then visit Mehtab Bagh a garden complex, on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal, also known as The Moonlight Garden. We then make a short visit to the Mother Teresa Home Missionaries of Charity which will allow those interested to meet the nuns at the orphanage who devote their lives to the homeless children of India. Most of the orphans are girls who are more frequently abandoned at birth. The dire poverty of these unwanted children is heartbreaking, and this visit is therefore optional. No one at the missionary will ask you for a cash donation. It is not wanted. Rather, if you wish to contribute something of value, a simple set of sheets that you pack in your luggage would be greatly appreciated. This evening enjoy the Mohabbat-The-Taj
Show a Saga of Love depicting the romantic love story of Emperor Shajahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Overnight Agra 2 nights Jaypee Palace (or similar) Day 6 Tuesday, January 30 Agra B/D This morning visit the world famous Taj Mahal at sunrise. Built by the Moghul Emperor Shahjehan to enshrine the mortal remains of Queen Mumtz, the construction on this poignant mausoleum started in 1631 and took 20,000 artisans 22 years to complete. Afterwards visit Agra Fort. Its massive walls stretch for 2½ km and are surrounded by a moat over 10 meters wide. The fort is really a city within a city. This afternoon get to know Agra the local way, by exploring the city s hidden laneways, bustling spice market, and religious mosques and temples on a Guided Heritage Walking Tour. Sample treats at a 200 year-old sweet shop, hop on a cycle rickshaw, and learn why Hindu families dress their idols. Overnight Agra Jaypee Palace (or similar) Day 7 Wednesday, January 31 Agra to Jaipur B/D Travel overland to Jaipur (280km/7hrs including stops), Rajasthan s capital also known as the Pink City. The origin of this nickname becomes immediately apparent as you enter the old city walls and greet the pink-colored buildings that rise at every turn. Jaipur is an excellent place to enjoy unparalleled shopping and people watching. This afternoon we ll stop in Sanganer, a town known for its famous textile block printing and handmade paper industry. Continue on to Jaipur for hotel check in. Overnight in Jaipur 2 nights Shahpura House (or similar) Day 8 Thursday, February 1 Jaipur B/D This morning we will drive a short distance outside of the city to Amber Fort. This is a beautiful and very well preserved structure, built on four levels and surrounded by ruins. Travel up to the fort on elephant back as the Maharajahs of the past once did (on availability). Return to the city and drive past the grand Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This magnificent structure was built to allow the royal ladies of the palace to discretely watch the grand processions along the main street. Visit Maharaja s City Palace and the impressive Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the great warrior-astronomer to which this city owes its name. There will also be time this afternoon to visit the market. Spend time in the oldest and busiest of markets in the walled city, Johori Bazaar, a true feast for the senses. Aromatic spices fill the air, while oxcarts, rickshaws, cows, bejeweled women and men with shocking pink turbans jostle through the labyrinthine streets. Overnight in Jaipur Shahpura House (or similar) Day 9 Friday, February 2 Jaipur to Udaipur B/D This morning after breakfast we travel to Udaipur (408km/7hrs including stops), founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559 and fondly referred to as Rajasthan s most romantic city. Set amidst the Aravalli hills of South Rajasthan, Udaipur (City of Sunrise) is a beautiful city regarded as one of the most romantic in India. Presenting an enchanting image of marble palaces, placid lakes, attractive gardens and green hills, it has been called the Venice of the East. On arrival check in to the hotel before heading out for a boat ride on Lake Pichola, fringed with hills, palaces, havelis, ghats, embankments and temples and offering spectacular views of the city. Visit the Jag Mandir Island with its exquisite Gul Mahal Pavilion before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Udaipur 3 nights Trident Udaipur (or similar) Day 10 Saturday, February 3 - Udaipur B/D We begin our day at the City Palace, overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola. The palace consists of a number of beautiful courtyards and gardens, a museum and opulent artifacts and original works of art. We will continue walking towards the lavish Jagdish Temple to study its many remarkable friezes. Here we will visit a village to meet with locals and learn about their daily routine. Afterwards explore the Old City, wandering through its bustling streets lined with art shops, spice vendors and tailors. Overnight in Udaipur Trident Udaipur (or similar) Day 11 Sunday, February 4 Udaipur to Piplantari to Udaipur B/D Today is a very special day; visit Piplantari a village where the community celebrates birth and gives back to Mother Earth. For each daughter born to a local family - 111 trees are planted. Here we ll meet with local families and learn how their community adopted the tradition of planting trees for daughters. Overnight in Udaipur Trident Udaipur (or similar) Day 12 Monday, February 5 Udaipur to Mandore B/D After breakfast depart for Mandore Guest House, on the outskirts of Jodhpur (350km/6hrs including stops). This family run,eco-friendly, small resort boasts a lush green garden with a variety of seasonal plants and flowers. It offers a tranquil environment and an immersion of cultural experiences. There ll be free time upon arrival to walk among the beautiful gardens. This evening enjoy the songs and dances expressing the traditional way of life with a Kalbelia Dance group. Overnight near Jodhpur 2 nights Mandore Guest House (or similar) Day 13 Tuesday, February 6 MandoreB/L/D This morning we will be immersed in the culture of the community with a jeep safari to visit a Bishnoi village. One of the oldest ecologically-minded communities in the world, the Bishnoi have been living in western Rajasthan for centuries. They believe in conserving the flora and fauna of this ancient region, even to the extent of sacrificing their own lives to protect the environment. During the visit, we ll experience the culturally rich lives of the Bishnoi, while connecting with stunningly clad women and charming men in headgear. Here we ll visit the authentic craftsmanship of the potters and
weavers. Continue with a visit to a village school and an opportunity to interact with the local children before returning to Mandore Guest House. The afternoon will begin with a cooking lesson and cultural activities. We ll learn about the history and cultural importance of the Indian Henna and have a designer create a beautiful Henna on your hand (for those who are interested). Later, discover how to tie a Sari, the traditional wear for women in most parts of India. Overnight near Jodhpur Mandore Guest House (or similar) Day 14 Wednesday, February 7 Mandore to Jaisalmer B/D Today we drive to Jaisalmer (305km/6hrs including stops). There is something magical about Jaisalmer, which rears out of the inhospitable Thar Desert like a mirage from the "1001 Nights". Once a staging post on the trading routes west, it is a walled citadel, formidably fortified, of a sand colour that turns golden in the setting sun, and is home to a complex fort surrounded by palaces and temples. Below the forest of intricately carved spires and turrets is a merry jumble of buildings, alleys, animals, humans, shops and cafes, wonderful golden havelis and numerous fine Jain temples. Camel trains can often be seen taking visitors out into the desert on camel safaris. Overnight in Jaisalmer 2 nights Gorbandh Palace (or similar) Day 15 Thursday, February 8 Jaisalmer B/D After breakfast spend the day exploring Jaisalmer, founded by Prince Jaisal in 1156. Jaisalmer was a major staging post on the trade route across the forbidding Thar Desert. The first glimpse of the honey colored walls of the fort, rising out of the hot and barren desert is magical. Untouched by time, Jaisalmer, with its golden crenulated walls, narrow streets lined with exquisite havelis, has a medieval ambience. The fort, often referred to as the Golden Fort because of the color of the stone, encloses palaces decorated with delicate jali or lattice worked screens, carved doors and floral carvings and elaborately carved 12th to 16th century Jain temples. Later in the day enjoy a unique camel ride excursion at Sam Dunes to experience the enormous sand dunes that make a surrealistic landscape patterned by the wind. Here we ll enjoy dinner on the dunes before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Jaisalmer Gorbandh Palace (or similar) lead to quaint bazaars selling textiles, antiques, silverware and handicrafts. Tonight will be enjoy a farewell dinner to reminisce with your fellow BE travellers about the experiences and highlights of this incredible journey through India. Overnight in Jodhpur 1 night Ranbanka Palace Hotel (or similar) Day 17 Saturday, February 10 Jodhpur to Delhi B/D This morning visit the massive Meherangarh Fort, a living testimony of the military strength of the Rajputs. With the strategically located cannons on the walls, the fort is spread over an area of 5 km at an altitude of about 125 meters. A bird's eye view of the city from above the fort is fascinating. Continue on to the Jodhpur Domestic Airport to check in for the domestic flight from Jodhpur to Delhi. Upon arrival, check into the hotel with time to relax and freshen up. Say farewell to India on the private group transfer to Indira Ghandi International Airport and check in for your overnight flight home. Day room Delhi Lemon Tree Aerocity (or similar) *Broad Escapes will have a group flight to Toronto (preference to Air Canada direct flights). The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time. Private transfers (at an additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different date/time. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes. Day 16 Friday, February 9 Jaisalmer to Jodhpur B/D After an early breakfast continue on to Jodhpur (320km/6hrs including stops) called the Blue City and once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar. It was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is now the second largest city in 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 a marvelously 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. Visit the colorful Sardar Market. The narrow alleys in the market
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Although the Tour Manager and Coach Driver supervise the transfer of luggage to and from the motorcoach and every effort is made to handle luggage as carefully as possible, Ellison Travel & Tours cannot assume liability for loss, theft or damage due to breakage, fire, water, etc. Accommodation: All hotels listed in itineraries have been confirmed at the time of printing, but are subject to change. On most tours, TWIN refers to two persons sharing one room with two beds; however, in some areas, only one double bed may be available, so please specify at time of booking if you wish two separate beds. TRIPLE or QUAD usually refers to three or four persons sharing one room with two double beds, all with private bath. Please keep in mind that in some areas local customs may mean that there is a change in the type of accommodation provided. Items not included: Items of personal nature such as laundry, telephone charges and drinks with meals other than noted in the tour Inclusions. 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