Heritage & Culture of North India (14N/15D)

Day 01: Arrive Delhi

Welcome to India, country of culture, heritage, nature & hospitality. Our Representative will receive and greet you. With rich tapestry of tradition, culture and architecture, Delhi’s white tree line avenues, imposing colonial buildings and notable gardens speak eloquently of its 5000 year history. India’s capital is littered with the relics of lost empires. Modern Delhi is chaotic mix of medial fortifications. Mughal mausoleums and colonial era town planning has reinvented Delhi itself as one of the most forward looking and best run cities in the country. It is a city that seamlessly blends its ancient past and modern present, where the latest trends in art, music, nightlife and fashion attract glitterati from across the globe. Arrive and check in the hotel. Overnight, stay in Delhi.

Day 02: Delhi

After breakfast, start your day with Guided tour of Delhi including heritage walk of narrow lanes of Old Delhi. Enjoy heritage as not only the past but a living tradition. Your leader would be your guide who would unfold the colorful history of Old Delhi which dates back to ages. Visit Chandani Chowk – Silver Square is old Delhi’s main thoroughfare. It is a seething mass of canal lined with trees and some of the most opulent bazaars of the east. During the walk through intricate lanes you will find numerous heritage buildings which were of historical importance during the mutiny 1857.

You will also pay a visit to The Red Fort is the largest monument of Old Delhi rises above hustle and bustle of old Delhi. Red sand stone edifice was built as a replicate to Agra fort in the year 1648. The structure houses lofty Diwan e Aam, house of the commoners where ruling emperor would meet the people of kingdom. Rang Mahal was the palace of kings wives and mistresses. It is beautifully decorated with intricate mosaics of mirrors and gilded turrets. The other attractions of this morning are Rashtrapati Bhawan is the official residence of President of India. Edwin Luyten, the British architect constructed one of the largest edifices in Mughal style architecture and India Gate was built by Lutyen in the year 1921 to commemorate the death 90000 Indian soldiers who died in First World War. The high arch bears an immortal flame which burns throughout day and night.

Pay a visit to The Qutab Minar, first monument of Mughal India. The most important landmark of city towers 72.5 meters high in red sandstone with inscribed versus from Quran and intricate carvings. It was constructed as a symbol of victory during the reign of Qutub ud din Aibak. Also visit Humayun’s Tomb is the Delhi’s first Mughal mausoleum constructed in the memory of the second Mughal emperor Humayun. It was constructed by his senior widow Haji Begum. It is marked as one of the finest sites of Delhi’s history due to its Persian style architecture.

Post sightseeing return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 03: Delhi – Mandawa (Drive 260 kms / 6 hrs)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Mandawa – founded in the year 1755 by Shekhawati, the city arises above featureless landscape. The town houses an imposing fort with tourists up market tourist shops. Upon arrival, check into the hotel.

In the evening, proceed for local sightseeing of various havelis in scattered in city. Naveti Haveli rises above the streets of main bazaars with imposing metal gates with well-preserved paintings of nineteenth century. Goenka Double Haveli is a sun faded adorned with paintings and patterns of European, Rajasthani and Victorian styles. Nand lal Murmuria Haveli are adorned with paintings of Balu Ram, one of the last painters of that era. Thakurji Temple will inspire with its entire murals and decorated corner domes of paintings. Chokhani Haveli is the most unique of Mandawa, housing the twin towers with contrasting paintings of British soldiers and beautiful murals. In the evening return back to hotel. Relax near pool and royal heritage.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Mandawa – Bikaner (Drive 205 Kms / 4 Hrs)

Morning after breakfast drive to Bikaner is smog filled old city dotting beautiful havelis with a great profusion of indigenous sandstone carvings. The city will amaze you with various attractions it has to offer.

Later in afternoon proceed for half day city tour; Visit the Asia’s largest Camel Breeding Farm would be an unforgettable experience. Then proceed for an excursion to Deshnok Temple, popularly known as Karni Mata Temple is one of the most admirable attractions of the country. Step inside this beautiful temple through an Italian marble arched doorway and you will be greeted teeming hordes of holy rodents. It is considered to be a blessing this holy rodent runs over your feet. Inner most shrines will yellow marble image of Goddess Karniji.

In the evening you are free to explore streets of Bikaner and empty your pockets with beautiful handicrafts of this city.

Overnight, stay at hotel.

Day 05: Bikaner – Jaisalmer (Drive 330 Kms / 6 Hrs)

After breakfast check out and proceed for half day city tour of Bikaner visiting to Junagadh Fort is not as massive as other fort of Rajasthan. But the imposing walls of impressive fort houses palaces with stone sculptures and decorative interiors, 37 pavilions and temples are almost unparalleled in its glory. Built by Rai Singh in the late 15th century, Daulat Pole in ort has been the witness to one of cruel practices of early ages Sati, where women voluntary died after the death of their husbands. Karan Mahal built in late seventeenth century is beautifully adorned gold plated paintings to commemorate the victory over Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Lallgarh Palace is a sturdy red sandstone edifice which serves as residence to the royal family of Bikaner. It is known for its fusion of intricate carvings and contemporary architecture.

After sightseeing drive to Jaisalmer – Famous as the golden city of the country, Jaisalmer is a desert town with par excellence. Situated in the westernmost part of Rajasthan, the city seems to arise from fairytale of Arabian Nights. The city is known for its exquisite sandstone architecture.

Upon arrival, check into the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 06: Jaisalmer

After breakfast, proceed for half-day city tour to visit the famous Haveli’ (mansions) known for their frescoes. These mansions are known for their honey pale facades covered with intricate carvings and floral designs. Patwon ki Haveli was constructed by Patwa merchants 50 years ago. This opulent structure will make you witness traces of stylish wall paintings and exuberantly carved Jharokas. In the evening return back to hotel. Salim Singh’s Haveli is a small mansion is the only mansion which commemorates to the memory of Salim Singh, famous ruler of Jaisalmer. Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli is known for its decorative facades of nineteenth century. It was also constructed for Prime Minister of India. Jaisalmer Fort is a massive fort arising from the sands of Thar Desert. This opulent edifice has been built in soft yellow sandstone still serves as the residence to locals. The narrow winding streets and intricately carved facades leads it way through Main Chowk where horrifying acts of Johar took place. The fort is dominated by palace of the Maharawal, the five storey façade and balconies display finest art of masonry.

In the evening, proceed for the excursion to Sam Sand dunes. Located at a distance of 42 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes is the closest point to witness the total sandy desert. You can also see the patterns and motifs created by the shifting sands and air. It offers one of the most irresistible romantic chances to explore the barren sand dunes and sleep under one of starriest skies of country.

In the evening return to your hotel for overnight stay.

Day 07: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur (Drive 290 / 6 hrs)

Morning after breakfast drive to Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is situated on the eastern edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is popularly known as blue city of the country. It is one of the largest cities of the princely state. Blue city is a labyrinthine of old walled town painted in a sky blue color on the mass of cubic houses which is overlooked by an enduring fort.

Arrive and check in the hotel.

Later proceed to visit the Mehrangarh Fort, characterizes the most authentic taste of extravaganza and honor. The fort houses seven gates and the most famous out of them is Loha Pole. The gate was designed to hinder ascent of elephants charging up for war. You can also witness handprints of Maharaja’s widows on the walls of the gate. Meherangarh museum houses a wide collection of solid silver howdahs, palanquins, daggers, photos of Maharajas coronations and massive portrait of Rao Jodha. Jhanki Mahal houses a varied array of colorful cradles of erstwhile rulers.

Also visit Jaswant Thada is a beautiful marble pillared memorial built in honor of Jaswant Singh II. The site is worth a visit as it is one of its own kinds. Also visit Sadar Bazaar and Clock Tower markets where you can see the first rate antique reproductions, embroided fabrics dhurries and Jodhpur’s riding britches.

In the afternoon you are free to walk around, in the colorful and bustling bazaars for personal exploration or shopping.

Overnight at hotel

Day 08: Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur (Drive 290 / 6 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Udaipur, en route visiting Ranakpur.

The Ranakpur Jain temples are dedicated to Lord Adinath is among the most popular Jain temples across the country. It is believed that Dharsana, a Jain businessman asked Rana Kumbha for land to build a temple which he had seen in his dreams. The temple was built in 15th century and is known for its carvings and what are astounding are its pillars in temple. More than one thousand four hundred and forty four pillars are beautifully carved and no two pillars are identical. The domes are also intricately decorated and what’s more interesting are the figures of lymph’s that can be found playing flutes in various dance postures.

We’ll continue driving south; arrive in Udaipur; it has been characterized as the most romantic destinations of the country. The city offers the best scenic settings across the state. The skyline of whitewashed havelis and tapering temple shikaras, surmounted by the domes and intricately carved balconies of City Palace, Udaipur is still the finest destination of Asia. Arrive and check in the hotel.

Overnight, stay in Udaipur.

Day 09: Udaipur

After breakfast start your city tour of Udaipur by visiting of Jagdish Temple, was built in the year 1652 and is dedicated to lord Jagannath. The exteriors and towering shikaras are exuberantly cared with figures of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. The temples houses bronze Garuda, a half man and half bird vehicle of Lord Vishnu. City palace & Museums was built in the year 1652 and is dedicated to lord Jagannath. The exteriors and towering shikaras are exuberantly cared with figures of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. The temples houses bronze Garuda, a half man and half bird vehicle of Lord Vishnu. Saheliyon ki Bari is the garden of maids of honor built as a source of source of entertainment to the ladies of royal families. This delightful retreat is surrounded by shady courtyard and fountained garden.

In the evening you will enjoy leisure Boat Ride on Lake Pichola. The stunning expanse of water neighboring the two awe-inspiring edifices the Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir is the life line of Udaipur city. Jag Niwas built in the mid of 16th century was built in Mughal and Rajput style architecture is largest among the two edifices built. It has now been turned in a five star hotel with big rooms each having reflections of lake.

Overnight, stay at hotel.

Day 10: Udaipur – Pushkar (Drive 280 / 6 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Pushkar, 14 kms from Jaipur, it an important Hindu pilgrimage city and is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The village consist of white washed houses and temples located around the village, the sacred Pushkar lake. Legends suggest that creator of universe Rama was search in place of sacrifice and a flower fell from his hand. At the spot where flower fell on the ground, a spring opened and created a lake, a veritable oasis in the deserts. You can enjoy the tranquillity of sunset on the banks of the lake. The city even holds the largest camel fair of the country.

Overnight at Hotel.

Day 11: Pushkar – Jaipur (Drive 150 / 3 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Jaipur is a flamboyant showcase of Rajasthani architecture. Pink City, as popularly called, forms the most important of Golden Triangle circuit. The city boasts some of the exuberant 18th and 19th century palaces with some colorful bazaars known for its hand embroided textiles and jewelry.

Arrive and check in the hotel. Later in the evening proceed for local sightseeing of the city. The tour starts with Hawa Mahal which is the most acclaimed landmark of the city. Built in the year 1799, this five storey façade has 593 intricately carved screens and balconies. It was basically built for ladies to observe street processions and festivals. The beautiful honeycomb pink and white edifice is best appreciated during sunrise and sunset. City Palace is another magnificent landmark was built by Jai Singh. The royal family still occupies a part of palace as a residence. The palace houses Sawai Man Singh Museum displaying various artifacts and antiques used in that era. Mubarak Mahal is a solid marble courtyard in the center of the complex. It houses the textile section of the museum which portrays antique pashmina shawls, throne carpets, and even Maharajas pyjama’s. Jantar Mantar is an unforgettable display of medieval Indian astronomy. The observatory houses eighteen instruments identifying positions and movements of stars and planets. The most impressive instrument is sundial with which you can calculate time within two seconds.

Overnight, stay at hotel.

Day 12: Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra (Drive 150 / 3 hrs)

After breakfast visit Amer Fort is popularly known as the lost treasure of Rajasthan, as it was hideaway to rulers of Kuchwahas. Built in the year 1600, the fort houses the largest canons of Asia. The museum portrays a collection of photographs, old maps, medals, stamps and hand-drawn plan floor plan of the fort. Sheesh Mahal is the most dazzling part of the complex as it was the private room for queens and Maharajas. Interiors and exteriors of Mahal are beautifully decorated with mirrors.

Later drive to Agra en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, is a testimonial to Mughal architecture in late 15th century. It offers unique blend of architectural styles of high quality. It is a masterpiece in sandstone, shining in slightly changing shades of pink and red as the day progresses’ and light diminishes. The sheer beauty of palaces, courts and mosques ensures the significance of it’s to Mughal grandeur.

Upon arrival in Agra check into your hotel. Rest of the day is free at leisure.

Day 13: Agra – Varanasi (Overnight Train)

Morning is at leisure. Later check out and proceed for half day city tour to Agra visiting Taj Mahal is the marvel in marble. The mausoleum constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The beauty of this marvelous building has been described as ‘tear drop on the face of eternity’ by Rabindranath Tagore. The glory of marvel cannot be justified in words especially during sunrise. The marble marvel plays with its color from grey to yellow to pearly cream and then to a dazzling white. Construction of this unsurpassed beauty employed workmanship of 20000 artists and took 20 years for its completion.

Also visit to Agra fort is UNESCO world heritage site that draws huge number of tourist throughout the year. You can find your way to this massive red sandstone structure through Amar Singh Gate. As you walk through you will find yourself in giant complex of marble palaces, inner courtyards and gardens. The architecture displays a beautiful blend of Islamic and Hindu styles.it was one of three strategic courts built during Mughal reign. The fort is more robust in terms of military strategies. Ruins of Akbar Mahal show great influence of Rajput style of architecture.

In time transfer to the Railway Station to board train to Varanasi.

Overnight in train.

Day 14: Arrive Varanasi

Reach Varanasi in the morning & transfer to your hotel and relax. Varanasi is a city that was first inhabited in the world. Each corner of the city is surprised bound and it is a city which truly defines your Imagination about India. Located on the banks of River Ganga, the holiest city of India was discovered by lord Shiva. Dotted with temples in the intricate lanes and cows standing midway, Varanasi is popularly called as the religious capital of India.

Later proceed for an excursion tour to Sarnath – where Buddha preached his first lesson.

SARNATH: A town that holds Buddhist importance dotted with many beautiful stupa and temples. It is a site from where Buddha preached its first sermon and houses various architectural marvels. Chaukhandi Stupa houses numerous sculptures of Buddha and serves as the gateway to enter Sarnath. You can also witness ruins of excavated monasteries and Buddha statue at Thai monastery. It was built in 4th and 6yh century during the reign of Gupta rulers. This red sandstone edifice holds a great importance as it Lord Buddha met his five disciplines after attaining enlighten. Ashoka pillar, the national emblem of the country was built to commemorate the visit of Emperor Ashoka. This impressive structure is 50 m tall and consists of four lions on the top along with ashoka chakra, elephant, lion and a bull at the bottom.

In the evening, we will head towards the Dasaswamedh Ghat with Rickshaw Ride. It is one of the oldest and important ghat located on the banks of River Ganga. It is believed that this ghat was created by Lord Brahma to welcome lord Shiva. Witness Ganga Aarti in the evening after sunset, with a group of young men choreographing to the chanting draped in saffron colour clothing and holding the lamps. Numerous earthen lamps are immersed in the waters of Ganga. This auspicious event is started with a blow of conch which is followed by a chant of mantras and aarti songs. Return back to the hotel. Enjoy a lavish dinner.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 15: Varanasi – Delhi (By Flight) – Depart

Just before sunrise, we will take you for the well-known Boat Ride on the River Ganges sailing slowly through holy waters of Ganga. In sometime you will be greeted by sun spreading its rays through sparkling waters which you would surely want to capture in your cameras. On the contrary you will see people on Ghats dipping in holy waters and praying to Sun.

Return back to hotel, after for breakfast check out and transfer to the domestic airport to board the flight for Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi airport,proceed to check in to board flight for onward destination.