Colorful Rajasthan

Delhi, towering capital city of independent and largest democratic country in the world: India. It is one of India's modern and fastest developing cities with charismatic charm on its visitors. Delhi is located and sprawled on the both side banks of Yamuna River. The city is enriched with culture, architecture and human diversity, Delhi city is blend of ancient past of India with vibration of modern world. Delhi houses finest museums, historical monuments, sightseeing places, and temples in the country. Delhi is designed by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944) & is tree-lined & spacious. Legend has it that the Pandavas of epic Mahabharata, the august heroes, founded Delhi, in the ancient time around 1200 BC the name of the city was Indraprastha, Delhi is developed and construed time to time on 7 ancient cities of the old age.

Day 02 : Delhi

After breakfast sightseeing tour to explore the historic city, firstly visiting Old Delhi: (Shahajahanabad) the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest and most splendid mosque in India, both built by emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame, Rajghat, memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, where he was cremated. Later in you opt cycle rickshaw ride past through the bustling and colorful bazaar of Chandani Chowk. The sightseeing continue to explore the best tourist attractions of New Delhi include President House (Rashtrapati Bhawan), the regal residence of British rulers, a palace built for British Viceroys. India gate, this monument was built to honour and tribute to the Indian soldiers, sacrificed themselves during the Afghan war, then visiting Birla Mandir (Laxmi Narayan Temple) built by wealthiest Birla family. Humayun’s Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple, Qutub Minar, built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty; in the evening witness the light and sound show at Red fort. The show projects splendid history of 5000 years old city, a truly memorable experience. Return to the hotel for overnight at the hotel.

Light and Sound Show: An extravagant sound and light show at the Red Fort, makes the 5,000 years old narration of the city come alive. Amidst the harmony of the fabulous panoramic and historic vicinity of the Red Fort, selected occurrence from the archives of Delhi's historic and legendary precedent are colorfully brought to life. To make this show an emotively unforgettable experience, the special effects are combined with the unique ambience.

Day 03 : Delhi – Mandawa (275 kms: 6 hrs)

After breakfast, checkout from the hotel and drive to Mandawa. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later visit the medieval Fort of Mandawa (Shekhwati) gradually rises on the horizon like a mirage. Mandawa is also called the 'open-air art gallery' of Rajasthan. A breathtaking view of the town can be seen from the terrace of Castle Mandawa. Precious collection of arms with jade handles, traditional ceremonial costumes can be seen at the Museum at the Castle. Also visit notably known havelies:Binsidhar Chokhani, Newatia, and Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli. The Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, are famous for its inquisitive paintings. The Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli is known for its erotic paintings and images, now mostly defaced. These havelis are like museums, numerous havelis built by the wealthy merchants as in old days. In the evening you can walk around the narrow lanes of the tradition town, watching locals and shops. Later enjoy the traditional music and dance, live performance by the local artist, during the gala dinner. Overnight at the hotel.

Mandawa: During the mid of 18th centaury this town was founded, located in Shekhawati region in Rajasthan. Mandawa is known for its’ speculative havelies and fort. Now days, Mandawa is known as an imposing mirage like fort now a popular heritage hotel with modern amenities. The structure of this place recalls one of the cultural and tradition this place used to be in the bygone golden era. The affluent and dominant traders and merchants built gigantic havelis, bejeweled with beautiful wall paintings, for the purpose of their residence. In the past time, painting subject was mythology dominated the themes of the frescoes, animals, dancers, religion, portraits, displaying local legends, hunting and wrestling scenes, etc. And some fascinating paintings, portraying Lord Krishnaand his cowherds. During the British ruler in India, the traditions subject was turned in to cars, trains, balloons, hunting, nature, phones, and gramophones etc., a truly monuments city of Rajasthan.

Day 04 : Mandawa – Bikaner (185 kms: 4 hours)

After breakfast visit the Shekhawati region an important town of the years gone by, to see number of remarkable Havelis and Castles in the nearby towns of Nawalgarh and Laxman Garh. These havelis are museums in themselves, numerous havelis built by the rich merchants as their residence in 18th and 19th century. After lunch, drive to Bikaner on arrival transfer to hotel. Evening fr ee for relax. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Bikaner: The city was founded by Rao Bikaji in 1488; Rao Bikaji was the son of King Jodhaji of Jodhpur, due to some personal confront with his family, he took the courage to build his own city by adopting desert and barren land and then he transformed into a charming city called Bikaner, and the city was named after the King Bikaji. The 500 years old city standing still with glorious past is located in Northern part of Rajasthan. The Rajpoot rulers here built splendid palaces, temples and forts that resonance of magnificence and images of monsoon clouds in this desert land. The city is barricaded by 7 kms long walls built in 18th sanctuary with 5 huge gates around the city. Today it’s a flourishing city of wool, food and milk. The Bikaner is known also one of the international standard camel breeding farm and rate temple of Karni Mata. Junagarh and Lallgarh palace are major tourist attraction of the city. The city is known for colourful market and camel festival every year. Bikaner is also known as a gateway to Jaisalmer.

Day 05 : Bikaner – Pokhran – Jaisalmer (330 kms: 7 hrs)

After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of the city Bikaner city visiting most popular and magnificent Junagarh Fort - built by Raja Rai Singh, this had never conquered during the entire history of Bikaner. The forts is having around 37 splendid palaces within the fort complex, there is wall of 7 kilometers around the fort and 37 bastions and 2 massive gates. Within the fortress lie extravagantly decorated palaces. Amongst the prominent ones are Karan Mahal, Anup Mahal, Badal Mahal. After visit, drive to Jaisalmer. En route take a halt at Pokhran to visit the massive Fort of Pokharan. The town of Pokhran came to the renown when India’s first nuclear test was conducted here in the 1970's. Pokharan Fort was Built in 1532-1584 the yellow sandstone, though not as conspicuous as some of the others forts in Rajasthan, it has a few exquisite palaces like the Mangal Niwas, the Rani Mahal and the Phool Niwas or the Flower Palace; visit the Pokhran Museum, housed inside the fort’s premises is fairly small and contains an hodgepodge of weapons, pottery paintings, and the costumes which the Maharajas wore. After visiting the fort, proceed to Jaisalmer. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening, you can optionally visit the Gadisar Lake located in the main city. Take a walk along the beautiful lake or visit the local market to acclimatize with the city atmosphere. Return back to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jaisalmer is quite popular for crowing Golden Fort, the city is a fantasy in yellow sandstone in the heart of the Thar Desert. Rawla Jaisal, a Rajput King, founded Jaisalmer in the year 1156 A.D. The desert town is located on edge of the Thar Desert; Jaisalmer is one of most prominent city for tourists in Rajasthan, also known as golden city, by golden sand and golden fort, Jaisalmer is having lots of tourist attractions splendid havelies, camel safari on thrilling Sam dunes, Jain temples, picturesque Gadisar Lake. The city is known for its golden stretched sand dunes, royal heritage and culture. The tour of Rajasthan is incomplete without visiting Jaisalmer. The city is like a land mark of Desert State Rajasthan.

Day 06 : Jaisalmer

Today after breakfast take city tour of Jaisalmer city, firstly visit most popular Golden Fort, also known as Sonar Kila and Jaisalmer Fort, the fort is built on the top of Trikuta hill, having 99 bastions, the most speculator feature is Megh Durbar, also many temples, near the fort there are marvelous havelies built by the wealthy traders of the past time, notably havelies are Nathmal ji Ki Havel, Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki haveli, the splendid mansions with latticework and stone carving, a truly break tacking intricacy. Afterwards visit to the one of the beautiful lake known as ‘Gadisar Lake’ the entrance of the lake is quite artistic and there is past days story behind this lake. If time permits and you wish to cover more of places, you can visit to Amar Sagar and Mool Sagar Lake and temples of Ladawara. In the evening drive to Sam Sand Dunes, the nearest place of the Great Thar Desert, Sam Sand dunes are seems to be golden stretched sands as a gateway to Thar Desert. Enjoy camel ride to on the sand dunes.

Note: Optionally you can stay overnight at the Sam Sand dunes in luxury tented accommodation, enjoying the starry night with ethnic food, folk dances, bone fire and camel safari in dues in nights hours.

Day 07 : Jaisalmer – Manvar (180 kms: 4 hours)

After breakfast take a sight seeing tour of Jaisalmer covering Jaisalmer Fort - built on the highest point of the Tricuta hill, consisting of 99 bastions. Outstanding features are Megh Durbar & various temples, Salim Singh-Ki-Haveli & Patwon-Ki-Haveli - some of the beautiful mansions with stone carving and latticework of breath taking intricacy, visit followed by Gadisar Lake. Later after lunch drive to Sam Sand Dunes - 45 kms en route visit the ancient Temple of Lodurwa, Amar Sagar and Mool Sagar Complex, built in 1815 AD, The complex also houses a summer palace where some beautiful paintings and pictures are displayed. On arrival at Sam Sand Dunes and transfer on Camels and enjoy camel safari to discover the various sights and sounds, the ruins and the temples in and around Jaisalmer in an authentic and leisurely fashion with entertainment by folk performers, visits to villages, and chatter from colorful guides thrown in. After safari drive back to Jaisalmer for overnight stay.

Manvar Resort is located right in the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert. Its an unprecedented tourist destination offering a rare opportunity to enjoy Rajasthan desert life, culture, wildlife & beauty. The Resort is spread over 5 acres. Constructed using local materials & techniques. The resort consists of 21 well designed stone cottages with thatched roofs, thatched roof eateries, open air courtyard sit outs, book & gifts shop, reading room and a swimming pool. The interiors have been designed as clean and restful spaces.

Day 08 : Manvar – Jodhpur (110 kms: 3 hours)

Early morning take a jeep safari to explore nearby by desert village to see their living and life style, villagers craftsman, carpenters, metal smith potters, cobblers. After village safari return to the resort to check out and drive to Jodhpur. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. After relaxation, take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting massive the Clock Tower, the massiveMehrangarh Fort, magnificent Jaswant Thada (Mausoleums of the great Rajput King: Jaswant Singh), Umaid Bhawan Palace and museum – India is one of most imposing and regal palaces, built by Maharaja Umaid Singh, designed by of famous architect Edwardian and Henry Vaughan Lanchester, who constructed this wonderful palace, a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. A part of the palace has been converted into hotel, one part is the museum and the remaining is still occupied by the royal family. In the evening, you may choose ‘On the rocks’ at Ajit Bhavan, an open air restaurants with Rajasthani hospitality, offering authentic food and folk music and dance. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jodhpur: The home of Rajpoot, (Rathors) – The awesome significant city of Rajasthan. Founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha, today Jodhpur is one of the largest and flourishing city of Rajasthan, known as white city of Rajasthan. Jodhpur was once upon a time was the capital of Marwar state (Northern Part of Rajasthan). Mehrangarh fort, the crowning old palace is major tourist attraction of Jodhpur. Another pride of Jodhpur is Umaid Bhawan Palace; this grand palace is now converted into heritage hotel and present residence of the Royal family of Jodhpur. This palace is most sought after regal and splendid palace for royal wedding in Rajasthan. So many world fame celebrity and business tycoons organized their wedding at this heavenly palace. The city carries rich heritage and culture and blossoming market and industry of lether goods, handcraft, wood, cattle, salt and agricultural crops.

Day 09 : Jodhpur – Bishnoi Village – Jodhpur (Excursion 25 kms: 45 min one way)

After breakfast, take an excursion to Bishnoi Village, the villagers known by cast “Bishnois” the guardians of animals. Bishnois are vegetarians and thus they have great revere for all living things. Sure they keep buffaloes, sheep and goats but only for the milk, the wool and the manure. Then visit to the local handicrafts viz shoe makers, pottery hand weaving and also men in their traditional attire, women clad with ancestral silver Jewellery, en-route watch and photograph the beautiful wildlife black buck, chinkaras, peacock etc. liberally moving in plenty of care by the local villagers. After visit drive back to Jodhpur for overnight stay at the hotel.

Bishnoi Village: a survivor of a great famine, which raged in 1485, already thought the principles of the ecology of centuries ago. Jambeshwar or Jambhoji, observed that the famine was the result of the deforestation in the region (already at that time!). He formulated a list of 29 rules, among other things don't kill any animals, don't cut down green trees, take from the fields only what you need, etc. These 29 rules (Bish-noi means '29' in the Hindi language) form the base of the Bishnoi-philosophy. Of course they are vegetarians and therefore they have great respect for all living things. Sure they keep buffaloes, sheep and goats but only for the milk, the wool and the manure. The last one they use as fuel and as construction material for they houses. The Bishnoi people accordingly expect that the tourist respect their way of life, the nature.

Day 10: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur (276 kms: 5 hours)

After a leisure breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Udaipur. En route visit at ancient Ranakpur Jain Temples,built in 12 Century – The group of temples, made of intricately sculpted white marble, built out of marbles more than 100 beautifully carved pillars each carved differently from others, you may opt for lunch at one of the best hotel in Ranakpur: Maharani Baugh you can watch out local families on the way to see their customs and living. Afterwards continue to drive to Udaipur. . In the evening you may walk through the old narrow street of the city to watch local houses and people. Or you may opt to visit at Lake Pichola for boat ride or a dinner at one of the luxurious hotel ‘Taj Lake Palace’ (of your own), you can also enjoy the boat ride at Lake Pichola in the evening. Afterwards return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Udaipur: One of the most romantic and beautiful city of North India, the city was founded in 1568 AD by Rajput King Udai Singh., located on the banks of the shimmering Pichola Lake, is one of the most romantic city of Rajasthan. Udaipur is cuddle up in lush green Aravali mountain range. The city is also known as the ‘Venice of the East'. It is a kaleidoscope of wonderful lakes, enchanting temples, lake side gardens, amazing forts and palaces and narrow lanes of the old city with historical past, Udaipur characterize chivalry and velour of the Rajpoot clan who had ruled this city for years and valor and chivalry. There are so amazing places to visit in this incredible city of Rajasthan.

Day 11 : Udaipur

After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Udaipur visiting wondrous City Palace complex, significant landmark of the town, the palace is a splendid white marble architectural historical place of Rajpoot Rulers, in the palace vicinity you will see notable places like Durbar Hall, Palace Museum, Crystal Gallery and Jagdish temple, followed by Sahelion Ki Bari, a beautiful recreation garden for queens and princes of the rulers. Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal, an ethic places to see the traditions and culture of Rajasthan, ethnic ornaments, exhibiting folk traditional outfits, puppets, masks, dolls, classical paintings, fold musical instruments. In the evening visit to Lake Bageela 22 kms for sightseeing tour of ancient Eklingji and Nagda Temples, after finishing the sightseeing tour of the day, return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 12 : Udaipur – Chittorgarh – Bijaipur (160 kms: 3 - 4 hours one way)

After breakfast, checkout from the hotel and drive to Bijaipur, Enroute visit Chittourgarh city, to visit mightiest and largest historical fort of India: Chittorgarh, this crowning historical Fort stands a jaded reminder of the characteristic and bravery of Rajpoot Clan in Rajasthan, sprawled over 700 acres, area, the fort houses historical monuments: Tower of Victory, Rani Padmini Palace, Man Mahal, Mira Temple and several ruins of temples of Shiva. Chittourgarh echoes with the tales of romance and velour unique to the Rajput tradition. A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular 'chhatris' in the fort vicinity visit Kirti Stambha, Rana-Kumbha Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera Temple and Kumbha Shyam Temple and Kalika Mata Temple, State Archaeological Museum. Later precede to Bijaipur,on arrival transfer to the Castle Bijaipur, This 16th century castle set in the serene Vindhyanchal ranges. This fort echoes the sounds of many fierce battles of historic importance fought against Mughals and Marathas. Enjoy the traditional folk dances with your dinner at Castle Bijaipur.

Chittorgarh, the town known for its massive fort atop hill, crowned on a 6kms long hill, covering an area of 280 hectares with fortifications, temples, towers and palaces. The city can be single out for its glorious past and valor, unique to the Rajput tradition. Chittourgarh is fortified settlement, which is history witnessed a number of sieges but refused to bow before foreign invaders. Tales of Princess Padmini are told here who was known for her chivalry and beauty. A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts and palaces

Castle Bijaipur, is a 16th century castle set in the serene Vindhyachal ranges in the Mewar region, near by to Chittourgarh (Rajasthan, India) was built by Rao Shakti Singhji the younger brother of the great warrior Maharana Pratap. A wildlife sanctuary adjacent to the castle has leopard, chinkara, spotted and four-horned deer, crocodile and wild boar as well as a variety of birds. Jeep and camel safaris, trekking and camping, visits to nearby pangarh fort and boating and fishing in its lotus lake, and local tribal folk songs in the evenings are other amusement activities arranged here.

Day 13 : Bijaipur – Bundi (100 kms: 3 hours)

After breakfast checkout and drive to Bundi, en route visit Shivji Temple on the edge of a hill where Menal Water fallscommence, this is a very scenic place. Proceed to Bundi on arrival transfer to hotel. Later visit Taragarh Fort builtin 1354 A.D.,Bundi Palace, Chhattar Mahal, Ratan Daulat, Chitrashala, Nawal Sagar Lake, Raniji - ki - Baori (Step well), Sukh Mahal, Phool Sagar, and eighty-four pillared cenotaph (All near Taragarh Fort and Bundi Palace). Overnight at the hotel.

Bundi: In 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles seeked shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors move towards the Chambal valley and overpowered the Meena and Bhil tribals-thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches of Hadas formed two separates states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the river Chambal. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on the three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. The place offers a unique culture with baoris , palaces & forts , lakes and the beautiful natural surroundings. Bundi is known for attractive step wells and tanks. These are about 50 in number and mark the town's streets and bylanes. Interesting monuments including impressive medieval forts, palaces, 'havelis', temples and 'chhatris' with elegantly carved pillars, along with a picturesque lake in the heart of the town, add to its appeal.

Day 14 : Bundi – Pushkar (200 kms: 4 hours)

After breakfast, checkout and drive to Pushkar. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Pushkar is well-known for the world’s largest cattle fair every year in the month of November, with glorious celebration. A conurbation of Pilgrimage from the time of immemorial with over 500 temples and ghats, Pushkar begets an inheritance of enduring architectural heritage. Pushkar emit an ambience of spirituality and peace that casts an allure to visit this place again and again. Take a sightseeing tour of the city visiting temple of Lord Brahma surrounded by Pushkar Lake. Witness the devotees taking dip into the holy waters and offering prayers on the banks of the lake. Also visit the Pushkar Fair site, which is right opposite the Pushkar Lake. Evening free for relax or take a walk through to see beautiful Pushkar Lake and colorful market of Pushkar. Optionally you can visit to Shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, at Ajmer, (11 kms from Pushkar). Overnight at the hotel.

Pushkar: Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem - Pushkar. Lord Brahma, known to be the creator of the world, in a search for his abode on earth performed the supremely pious Vedic yagna here in Pushkar, thus making it the site of the only Brahma Temple in the world. With over 500 temples and ghats, a pilgrimage center from time immemorial, Pushkar begets an inheritance of timeless architectural legacy. Pushkar is worldly famous for biggest cattle fair in the world. Pushkar emits an ambience of peace and spirituality that entices people to visit again and again.

Day 15 : Pushkar – Jaipur (135 kms: 3 hours)

After breakfast, morning is free for relaxation and individual activities. Later check out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening visit at modern artistic temple, Birla Temple, speculator in white shimmering marble, glitters in the night hours. Afterwards enjoy your evening at the most authentic and ethnic village resort: called Chokhi Dhani, designed on the theme of an ethnic village of Rajasthan with lots of traditional environment and entertainment like folk dances, puppet shows, astrology, music, astrology, camel ride, Here you can enjoy the traditional Rajasthani food. Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Jaipur widely known as the ‘Pink City’ of India. The entire walls houses and buildings of the city were washed with pink colour for a grand and royal welcome of Prince Albert and Queen Victoria from Britain, who visited Jaipur in 1853 A.D. This splendid city as was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is designed accordance of Hindu architecture science called Shilpa Shastra, the town is had been designed in rectangular shape of 9 blocks, depicting the 9 partition of universe. This fascinating city houses majestic forts, grand palaces, lavish gardens, havelis and museums, while visiting these places you will have a true vision of Royal golden past of Rajasthan.

Day 16 : Jaipur

Today after breakfast explore the Pink City with an excursion to splendid Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, built in 15th Centaury by Rajput King Man Singh, later visit another mighty and majestic Nahargarh fort, which is nearby to Amber fort. Later drive back to the main city to visit imperial ‘City Palace’, a miraculous places to witness the real Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Present residence of the royal family of Jaipur. Distinguishing Jantar Mantar innovated and constructed by Jaipur King Swai Jai Singh, he built 5 observatories, and Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is one of them. Visiting splendid Hawa Mahal, also known ‘Palace of Winds’ built with a concept for the woman of royal families to speculate the royal ceremonies and festivals being hidden from the public eyes. City palace houses both the monuments. In the evening you can explore the bustling market of Jaipur by cycle rickshaw ride, which is paradise for shopping lovers, Jaipur is worldly famous for hand woven carpet, precious stones, handicraft, marble, textile, blue pottery, handmade papers, later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 17 : Jaipur – Ranthambhore (180 kms: 4 hours)

After early breakfast checkout and drive to Ranthambhore, the hunting place of Royal Family of Jaipur and one of finest tiger reserve of India. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later in the after noon take a jungle safari by canter with naturalist guide at the tiger reserve of Ranthambhore, one of the best places in India to see a tiger in its natural habitat. In the dry season tigers can be seen near the watering holes and are clearly visible in the dry forest. Rest of the evening is free for leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Ranthambhor, hailed as one of India's finest wildlife locations, It was established as a sanctuary in 1959 and included in the very first phase of Project Tiger in 1972. The park derives its name from the fort of Ranthambhor, which sits on a rocky outcrop in the forest. The fort dates back to the 11th century when it was a vital citadel for the control of central India. Though overrun by vegetation, remnants of the summer palaces, temples and guard stones within the fort still remain. Earlier, the hunting preserve of the Maharajas of Jaipur, the Park at Ranthambhor was once the scene of royal hunting parties. Today, it is famous for its tigers and is one of the best places in the country to see these majestic predators in the wild. The tigers can be spotted quite often even during the day, busy in their normal pursuits - especially stalking or hunting and taking care of their young. With the strict measures that have been taken for their conservation, they seem quite accustomed to human activity and are not disturbed.

Day 18 : Ranthambhor

Today morning take Jungle Safari by open Canter accompanied by an expert naturalist to explore The Ranthambhore wildlife Sanctuary, one of the best places in India to see a tiger in its natural habitat. In the dry season tigers can be seen near the watering holes and are clearly visible in the dry forest. Return to the hotel for a lunch. Later visit Ranthambhore Fortover looking the National Park and Jogi Mahal. Also visit the famous Temple of Ganesha in the Fort. Rest of the evening free for leisure activities at the jungle resort. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 19 : Ranthambhore – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra (280 kms: 5 - 6 hours)

After breakfast checkout and drive to Agra, Enroute stop over at Fatehpur Sikri, the old deserted town of the Mughal kingdom, built in red sandstone in honour of Saint Salim Chisti who blessed birth of 3 sons to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability combined with originality. Each important structure here represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the Diwane e Khas; Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, and the Buland Darwaza, one of the largest and tallest gateways in the world. After sightseeing continue to proceed to Agra, on arrival transfer to hotel. After relaxation, visit the Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula, 35 kms from Agra, built by Empress Noorjehan daughter of Shahjahan, this monument a tribute to her great father. Later return to the hotel the hotel for overnight stay.

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. A pleasant town with comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendant of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra, and the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri, is conveniently close to Delhi. Besides the Taj Mahal are Agra Fort, Sikandra, Ram Bagh and Itmad-Ud-Daulah-35 kms away are the imperial ruins of the Mughal city, Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabanad, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.

Day 20 : Agra

Early morning visit world’s most popular and beautiful monument: Taj Mahal with its’ fabulous view at the time of sunrise. Taj Mahal, beautiful architectural monument among the 7 wonders of the world; this historical masterpiece is illustration of the fusion of diverse architectural styles. Taj Mahal is crown of all the loveliest buildings in the world, a symbol of eternal love. The tour continues to visit Agra Fort,was built in 1576 AD., by great Mughal Emperor Akbar, structured and designed with red stoned barricaded; in the fort you will find most splendid Pearl Mosque and various other classic example of art: Jahangir Mahal, Moti Masjid, Macchhi Bhawan, Nagina Masjid, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e-Am, Meena Bazaar and Musamman Bhurj where from Emperor Shahjahan, prisoner of his son rebellious Aurangzeb, he put his father in the cell ofAgra fort, where from he could see his love reflecting through the Taj Mahal, where his loveliest wife was cremated. In the evening one should visit Oswal Emporium to watch the replica of Taj Mahal it took 10 years for the artists to built this artistic epitome, also enjoy light and sound show “Mohabbat-the-Taj: the saga of love”, theonly show of its kind in India! Later return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.

Day 21 : Agra – Delhi (210 kms: 4 hours)

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to Delhi. Enroute you may opt to stop over at Mathura - Vrindavan, the birth palace of Lord Krishna, to visit some of notable temples Bankey Bihari and Iskcon. Later continue to drive to Agra, on the way visit at ‘Sikandra, a marvelous mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Akbar, spectacularly designed structure of Hindu and Muslim architecture, afterwards proceed to Delhi. Rest of the evening is free for shopping in the colorful markets of Delhi. Overnight at the hotel.

Mathura, is the nucleus of Brajbhoomi. This is the place where Lord Krishna was born in a prison cellar. The city, today, is famous for its many temples dedicated to the Lord. Located at Katra, Keshav Deo, the temple is thronged by pilgrims from all over the world. The Dwarkadesh Temple, built by Seth Gokul Das of Gwalior in 1814, is situated in the heart of the city. It is adorned with some exquisite paintings depicting the entire life of Krishna. The Vishram Ghat on the bank of Yamuna is the place where Krishna rested after killing Kansa.

Vrindavan, 15 kms from Mathura, is famous for its numerous temples - both old and modern. It is believed to have been the stage of Krishna's romantic trails. Vrindavan is home to about 4,000 temples- both big and small. The Hindus for ritual bathing use the numerous bathing ghats here. Perched on a high cliff near the Kalia Mardan Ghat is the Madan Mohan Temple. Another temple of importance is that of Radha Ballabh built by Sundar Das in 1626. The Govind Dev Temple stands among the most impressive temples of Vrindavan. Among the modern places of worship, the colossal temple of Pagal Baba and the impressive ISKCON Temple are names worthy of mention.

Day 22 : Delhi – Hometown (By Air)

After breakfast check out of the hotel and transfer to the International airport to board the scheduled flight for hometown. Tour concludes here with happy memories.