RAJASTHAN - A ROYAL EXPERIENCE

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A Royal Experience
Tour Ref. # RV/445    BOOK NOW
Rajasthan the 'Land of Princes' still living in its’ historic past. Palaces, castles and forts of stunning artistry, a romantic background for noble people legendary for their courage and valour, richly adorned in splendid colours and traditional jewellery.

Special Feature: Elephanta Caves, Holy Ganges, Taj Mahal, Erotic Temples, Lake Palace, Elephanta Caves etc.
Price: 12 nights from US$ 6085 (per person)
Destination: Rajasthan
Departure Date: As per the client's choice
Transportation : Air-conditioned Large Size Luxury Car with an expert driver

ITINERARY

Day 01 - Arrive Mumbai (Bombay)
Arriving Mumbai, you will clear customs and immigration. Leaving the airport, you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel The Taj Mahal Palace & Towers which has created its own unique history. From Maharajas and Princes to various Kings, Presidents, CEOs and entertainers, the Taj has played the perfect host, supportive of their every need. Built in 1903, the hotel is an architectural marvel and brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the hotel is a gracious landmark of the city of Mumbai, showcasing contemporary Indian influences along with beautiful vaulted alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, graceful archways, hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers, a magnificent art collection, an eclectic collection of furniture, and a dramatic cantilever stairway.   Assistance for check-in will be provided. Overnight at hotel.
Hotel : The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower ( 5 Star Deluxe )

Day 02 - Mumbai
After breakfast you will be taken for half day tour of Elephanta Caves - 9kms by sea by Motor Boat. These 7th  century rock - cut temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Take a Boat Ride to Elephanta Caves.

In the afternoon half day sightseeing tour of Mumbai including The Gateway of India is the main attraction of Mumbai city. The Mani Bhawan or the Gandhi memorial was once used to be the residence of Mahatma Gandhi in Mumbai. Also known as Queen’s Neckless, Marine Drive, Juhu is a 5-km-long beach that attracts a large number of visitors on any day of the week. Also visit gardens like the Hanging Garden and the Chowpatty gives you the view of one of the most happening beaches of Mumbai. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower (5 Star Deluxe)

Day 03 - Mumbai - Varanasi
S2 6227   Mumbai   1320 Hrs    Varanasi     1540 Hrs
After breakfast rest of the morning free to relax at your hotel. In the afternoon check-out from the hotel and transfer to airport to catch flight to Varanasi. On arrival you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel for check-in.

Later on half day city tour of Varanasi. One of the holiest cities in India, Varanasi is one of the most important pilgrimage sites and also a major tourist attraction. It has been the religious capital of Hinduism since time immemorial. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has been a center of learning and civilization for more than 2,000 years. Written records of the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata mention its existence as long as 3,000 years ago. It is probably the oldest living city in India, and one of the world's most ancient. As a place of devotion and worship, Varanasi attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Many Hindus in the latter part of their lives wish to spend their retirement here. The mythological name of the city was Kashi, meaning light or luminescence, and the city indeed illuminates with a spiritual light. Two rivers, the Varuna and the Assi, meet the holy Ganges River at the northern and southern tips of the city. In medieval times and until as recently as the mid-20th century, the city was known as Banares. Varanasi seems to have been the result of putting together the names of the rivers Varuna and Assi. This religious city is crowded with temples, and its labyrinth of streets swells with throngs of people. Varanasi is a city that cannot be described--only experienced. Overnight at hotel.
Hotel : Taj Ganges (5 Star Deluxe)

Day 04 - Varanasi - Khajuraho
9W723      Varanasi   1220 Hrs      Khajuraho     1300 Hrs
Early in the morning, enjoy a boat ride on the holy river Ganges, which presents an incredible scene as multitudes of devotees come to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. The riverfront, as seen from a boat at sunrise, is a spiritually uplifting sight. Hinduism, deep and mystical, is everywhere: in a decorated doorway; in a glimpse of a glittering temple; in the sound of a sacred bell; in the chant of the priests; and in the fragrance of flower oblations. Pass the bathing ghats where thousands of pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy water of the Ganges and the burning ghats where cremations are conducted.

Later transfer to airport for your flight to Khajuraho. Arrive in Khajuraho and check into your hotel. Later half day city sightseeing. Visit the Western group of erotic temples containing the largest and loveliest temples, including Kandariya Mahadev, representing Chandela art at its best. The less ornate Eastern Group reflect the austerity of the Jains. Overnight at hotel.
Hotel : Taj Chandela  (4 Star)

Day 05 - Khajuraho - Jhansi - Agra
2001 Shatabdi Exp.     Jhansi     1755 Hrs     Agra   2020 Hrs
After an early breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive Jhansi - which is a place closely associated with Rani Laxmibai who fought against the British during the Revolt of 1857. Her fort in Jhansi is the reminder of her courage and fighting spirit. Visit Jhansi fort which is an absolute delight to the eyes of visitors. The fort was under rule of Rani Laxmibai, where she collected her forces to fight the British army. The fort stands as a evidence to the heroics of the queen. 

Later on transfer to Jhansi Railway station to catch SHATABDI EXPRESS train to Agra. On arrival you will be met by our local representative, holding a play card with your name on it at the exit. Arrival transfer to hotel The Oberoi Amarvilas. After check-in overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Amarvilas (5 Star Deluxe)

Day 06 - Agra
After breakfast visit the Taj Mahal which is India’s most fascinating and beautiful masterpiece. Set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Yamuna river, this edifice was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. After her untimely death, Shah Jahan had her mortal remains buried in this mausoleum. And after his own demise he was placed to rest next to his beloved queen in the same mausoleum. The Taj is most enthralling in the quietness of early morning.

In the afternoon visit Agra Red Fort which is surrounded by a 70 feet high wall. It is home to the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am and Moti Masjid. Later it was used by his son Jehangir as the seat of power. With four gates the Fort is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sand stone. The Jahangir Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, exquisitely carved heavy brackets, piers and cross beams.

Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for shopping. Agra is also known for its fabulous handicrafts such as Marble and soft stone inlay work, gold thread embroidery (zari and zardozi), metalware, exquisite hand -knotted silk and woollen carpets and leather goods including bags, shoes and clothing The Mughals were great patrons of arts and crafts. Empress Nur Jahan took personal interest and was an accomplished artist herself in zari embroidery work. Semi-precious and precious jewelry in Mughal style is also available. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Amarvilas (5 Star Deluxe)

Day 07 - Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Bharatpur - Jaipur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur. En-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri. Built by Akbar the Great in the 16th century to serve as the capital of his vast empire, Fatehpur Sikri was mysteriously abandoned 13 years later. The mosque at Fatehpur Sikri is considered a copy of the mosque at Mecca and is extremely elegant, containing elements of Hindu and Persian design. The main entrance to the complex Buland Darwaza or "Great Gateway" is reached by an impressive flight of stairs. Inscribed on the inside of the archway is the quote: "The World is a bridge. Pass over it, but build no house upon it. He who hopes for an hour, may hope for eternity."

Also visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world. You will enjoy a Rickshaw ride inside the Sanctuary for Bird Watching. Bharatpur is world renowned for its World Heritage listed Bird Sanctuary, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. It is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world inundated with over 400 species of water birds.

Arrive Jaipur and check-in into hotel Taj Jai Mahal Palace which is a magnificent palace hotel that was once the home of the Prime Minister of Jaipur and one can understand the amount of planning and design must have gone in building the palace. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping centre and other tourist places makes it a favorite haunt of both the business and leisure travelers. Set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul Gardens, the original building dates back to 1745 A.D. and used to be the residence of the former Prime Minister of the Jaipur state. The Jai Mahal Palace belongs to one of the leading hotel groups in India-Taj Group of Hotels. In the evening we have arranged your dinner at Indiana Restaurant. Enjoy your hot & delicious dinner with the Rajasthani Folk Dance & Music. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Hotel : Taj Jai Mahal Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )

Day 08 - Jaipur
After breakfast visit Amer Fort - The royal family's residence at Amber is only 11 km away. The palaces and forts of yesteryear, once witness to royal processions, now shine amid the splendor of modern monuments, a juxtaposition accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of an amazing people. Ascend on elephant back, the hill, on which the fort is situated.

Afternoon half day city tour covering Hawa Mahal or "Palace of Winds," one of the major landmarks of Jaipur, although it is actually little more than a facade. The five-storey building overlooks the main street of the old city and is a stunning example of Rajput artistry with its pink, semi-octagonal, honeycombed, sandstone windows. It was originally built to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city. The City Palace, located in the heart of the old city, is a large complex of courtyards, buildings, and gardens, and also houses an interesting museum. Adjacent to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory built by Raja Jai Singh, whose passion for astronomy was even more notable than his prowess as a warrior. Explore the local markets for souvinir shopping the Jaipur is famous for- Jewellery, precious stones, paintings, hand printed textiles etc.  Overnight at hotel.(Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Jai Mahal Palace (5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )

Day 09 - Jaipur - Udaipur (by Flight)
IT 2331      Jaipur  0730 Hrs     Udaipur 0835 Hrs
Early morning check-out from the hotel and transfer to airport to catch flight to Udaipur, the lovely lakeside capital of Mewar - The City of Dreams which is perhaps the most romantic city in Rajasthan. Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of three lakes - it is bewitching in all its details.

On arrival you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel Taj Lake Palace which is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, arising out of the Turquoise Waters of the Pichola like an elegant fantasy in white marble. The Lake palace was built in the 17th century on a natural foundation of 4 acers of rock. It was initially called Jaginwas after its founder Maharana Jagjit Singh . The Maharana, ruler of Jaipur from 1628 to 1654, was very friendly with Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and encouraged his craftsmen to copy some of the glories of his incomparable buildings at Agra. Overnight at hotel.
Hotel : Taj Lake Palace  ( 5 Star Heritage Deluxe )

Day 10 - Udaipur
After breakfast visit City Palace - the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped arches, fretted balconies, and cupolas. Jagdish Temple is an Indo-Aryan temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It has a black stone image of Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the Universe. Folk Art Museum has an interesting exhibition of folk arts including dresses, dolls, masks, musical instruments, paintings, and puppets. Pratap Smarak, located atop the Moti Magri or Pearl Hill overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake, is a memorial of the Rajput hero Maharana Pratap.

Later an excursion to Nathdwara and learn about the art of Pichwai Paintings traditionally done in a variety of media : - brocaded, block printed, embroidered or worked in gold. There are 24 iconographic renderings of the Krishna Legend traditionally portrayed in the Nathdwara Pichwais. Overnight at hotel.(Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Lake Palace  ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )

Day 11 - Udaipur - Delhi
9W708    Udaipur    1530 Hrs   Delhi     1640 Hrs
After breakfast rest of the morning free to relax at your hotel. In the afternoon check-out from the hotel and in time transfer to Airport to catch flight to Delhi. Arrive Delhi and you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge.

Arrival transfer to hotel Taj Palace which is a perfect embodiment of all qualities synonymous with the quality of Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces. Standing apart in service, its facilities and of course, in its distinguished patronage, this hotel has played host to Heads of State, corporate moguls and high profile businessmen from across the world. Nestled in six acres of lush greens in the exclusive Diplomatic Enclave of the city, Taj Palace Hotel is the only one in the top-of-the-line category near Gurgaon, and a mere 10 minutes drive from the airport. Assistance for check-in will be provided. After check-in overnight at hotel.
Hotel : Taj Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe )

Day 12 - Delhi
After breakfast full day city tour of Delhi which is India's bustling capital city. It was from here that Hindu, Muslim and Mughal dynasties as well as the British ruled. Old & New Delhi present a stunning juxtaposition of sights and sounds with the ancient city built by Emperor Shah Jahan the builder of the famous Taj Mahal, and the new garden city built in 1911 by the British.

First of all visit India Gate which is a famous war memorial at the east end of Rajpath. Edward Lutyens designed this 42 m high gate structure in memory of the thousands of Indians who sacrificed their lives in World War I. Today, an eternal flame is lit under the gate known as Amar Jawan Jyoti, to honor the unknown soldiers and the martyrs who lost their lives in the Pakistan war of 1971. Also visit Rajghat (the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi ). Later on visit Lotus Temple(Bahai Temple) which is the newest most extravagant architectural wonder of the Bahai faith, located in Kalkaji, south of Delhi. The temple in white is shaped like a half opened lotus flower. Made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand, the Lotus Temple is a marvel of 20th century architecture. The lotus shaped temple in a modern and contemporary form captivates into its sanctum sanctorum people from all races, religious backgrounds and culture from around the globe. It represents the Bahai faith, - an independent world religion; divine in origin, all embracing in scope, broad in its outlook, scientific in its method, humanitarian in its principles, and dynamic in the influence. 

In the late afternoon visit Qutab Minar which is 72.5 m in height and has a mosque at the base. It is a magnificent structure whose construction started in 1199 by a Muslim King Qutab-ud-din Aibak (after whom it was named) and was finished by his heir IItutmish. There is an iron pillar standing proudly in front of it since 5th century and has not rusted till yet! It is said that if one hugs this Iron Pillar of Mehrauli and wish for something, it is granted. Later on drive past President's House, Parliament House & Secretariat Building.  Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe )

Day 13 - Delhi (Departure)
After breakfast rest of the morning free to relax at your hotel. In the afternoon check-out from the hotel and car with driver will be at your disposal until transfer to International Airport to catch to onward destination.