ROMANTIC MAHARAJAS

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Romantic Maharajas
Rajasthan - A Royal Experience
Tour Ref.# HT010/RV   BOOK NOW

Special Feature: Maharaja's Forts & Palaces Stay, Painted Havelis, Miniature paintings and Theme Dinners.
Starting Price: 16 nights from US$ 1845 (per person)
Destination: Rajasthan
Transportation : Air-conditioned Car with an expert driver

ITINERARY

Day 01 - Arrive Delhi
Arriving Delhi, 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 at the exit. Arrival transfer to your hotel and assistance for check-in will be provided. After check-in overnight at hotel.

Day 02 - 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.

Covering India gate (war memorial), Rajghat  (the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi ) and Red Fort - Delhi's most magnificent monument. After that visit The National Museum is one of India's most prestigious institutions. The galleries of the museum follow a historical and chronological sequence. The Indus Valley Gallery displays many antiquities excavated from Mohenjodaro and Harappa, like terracotta toys, images and pots, jewellery, seals, bronze and copper implements and sculpture. Later on drive past President's House, Parliament House & Secretariat Building. Later on visit Qutab Minar which is 72.5 m in height and has a mosque at the base. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 03 - Delhi - Neemrana - Jaipur
After breakfast drive to Jaipur. We have arranged your lunch at Neemrana fort which is India's oldest heritage resort. Sited on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion year-old Aravalli ranges, the property covers 25 acres/10 hectares. The stepped palaces of this architectural jewel is cut into the hillside to sprawl over 3 acres/1.2 hectares.

Later on continue drive to Jaipur. On arrival check-in into hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for souvinir shopping the Jaipur is famous for- Jewellery, precious stones, paintings, hand printed textiles etc. 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)

Day 04 - Jaipur
After breakfast full day sightseeing of Jaipur which is an exuberance of color, dance, and song with the traditional arts and crafts. It's one of India's most well planned cities, with wide, straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes in a grid system. The great warrior/astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II carefully planned Jaipur's foundation. Laid out in the 18th century, its design followed specifications from an epochal Hindu treatise on architecture. This "Pink City," so called because its buildings are painted in the tones of an autumnal sunset, intersperses the play of red and pink with white borders and motifs.

Morning we take you to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the state until 1728. Ascend on elephant back to the hill, on which the fort is situated. In the afternoon visiting 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 which is blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and the royal family still lives in a part of the palace. The palace is now a fine museum. It houses a remarkable collection of textiles, paintings, manuscripts, and extraordinary weapons. On display there are two huge urns of silver, said to be the largest silver vessels in the world. Nakkarkhana-ka-Darwaza, the imposing gateway of the City Palace guarded by stone elephants, is monumental. 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. Overnight at hotel.(Breakfast)

Day 05 - Jaipur - Kuchaman
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Kuchaman. On arrival check-in into hotel Kuchaman Fort which is one of the most spectacular and luxurious Fort hotels of Rajasthan. The Kuchaman Fort was established as a "chowki" [garrison] by the Gurjar Pratiharas sometime between 450 to 750 A.D. Like a gigantic beast astride a triangular cliff, crouching, waiting to pounce on enemies, real or imagined.  Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel.

You can explore Kuchaman Fort which was built to control the ancient trade route from Central Asia. In 950 A.D. the Chuhans of Ajmer drove out the Gurjar Pratiharas, to open a new chapter in the history of Kuchaman Fort. In the following centuries, the Gaurs won and controlled the fort, until they surrendered it to the might of the Rathores. Being Suryavanshi Kshatriyas who trace their lineage back to Lord Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana, the Rathores brought to the fort their long and glorious traditions. A new life came to the Fort, enriching its colorful history. At the Kuchaman Fort you discover tales of courage and valor woven into the very fabric of its formidable ramparts; with their 32 bastions that house cannon points, their thousands of muzzle loader ports from which pellets were once showered upon attacking armies, and their strategic 10 gates, each with its own soulful story. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 06 - Kuchaman - Dundlod - Mandawa
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Dundlod. We have arranged your lunch at Dundlod Fort which is an embodiment of cultural amalgamation of Rajputana and Mughal School of Art and Architecture. Its motif of flowers and foliage, minarets, mythological paintings, archaic furniture, wall hangings of arrows and shields have remained unchanged since hoary past. Here commercialism of artificial world could not slip in.

Later on continue to Mandawa. Arrive Mandawa and check-in into hotel Castle Mandawa. Mandawa castle, one of the finest castles of Rajasthan is now a beautiful hotel. Caparisoned camels and horses saunter in, carrying the guests as musicians blow horns and drums roll the Royal Welcome. In the Castle, step into an arched open-fronted verandah and relax over exotic refreshements.

In the afternoon a walking tour of the painted 'havelis' of some of the leading business families of the country. Though they no longer live here, the local caretakers are happy to show the visitors around. Enroute you can shop for the colorful art and crafts of Rajasthan: tied and dyed textiles, metal handicrafts, carved wooden artefacts and more. You also get a unique insight to life in the desert by visiting nearby villages on a camel safari. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Lunch)

Day 07 - Mandawa - Bikaner
After breakfast visit painted havelis & mansions. Also visit Mandawa Town for capturing the rural life in your camera. Later on drive to Bikaner - the camel city. On arrival check-in into hotel. In the afternoon visit Junagadh Fort - constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, fort has a 986 meter long wall with 37 bastions & two entrances, Bhandeshwar Jain Temple - The 16century Jain temple, is the most important of this temple complex. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 08 - Bikaner - Gajner - Jaisalmer
After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Jaisalmer. En-route visiting Gajner Palace which is today a grand heritage palace of the HRH Group. The Gajner Palace, often described as an incomparable jewel in the Thar desert 'built by maharajah Ganga Singh of Bikaner stands on the banks of a lake. The palace was used by the maharajah for his extravaganza sporting the architecture is truly out standing as manifested in red sandstone with intricately carved pillars, jharokas and screens, demonstrating a marvel of craftsmanship. Over the years, royalty, both Indian and international, viceroys and other dignitaries have been entertained at this grand palace. The palace is surrounded by beautiful wooded area, now a preserved sanctuary, providing shelter to chinkara, blackbuck, neelgai and wildboar.

On arrival check-in into hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for shopping. Shop for exquisitely carved wooden boxes in tiny curios shop, traditional rugs, hand-woven blankets and shawls in typical Rajasthani colours and weave are also available. Mirror work, embroidered articles, silver jewellery, trinkets and curious are other buys of Jaisalmer. The main shopping areas are Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazar etc. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 09 - Jaisalmer
After breakfast proceed for a half day sightseeing. Visit the Jaisalmer Fort - The golden - yellow sandstone of Jaisalmer Fort, over 800 years old, crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets, lies the old city, nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer. The fort stands almost 30 meters over the city and houses an entire living area within huge ramparts. It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also, within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. Later on visit Manak Chowk and Havelis - Outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk, which is the center of local activity. From Manak Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelis of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality. Havelis - Some of the most exotic mansions or 'havelis', all intricately latticed, are stretched all over Jaisalmer, each with a different facade. The beautiful mansions built by Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis' and several of these fine sandstone buildings are still in beautiful condition. Also visit Patwon ki Haveli - is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis. It stands in a narrow lane and one of its apartments is painted with beautiful murals - unfortunately, at present, the building is closed up and not lived in.

In the late afternoon we have arranged Sunset camel ride to the Sam Sand Dunes. A trip to Jaisalmer is in incomplete without this visit to most panoramic Dunes of Sam, where the wind is unceasingly carving out scenic patterns on this desert sand. truly the essence of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a enchanting mirage. By visiting the Sam Sand Dunes, it is possible to get an insight into desert life from Jaisalmer itself! Camel rides on the Sand Dunes are a thrilling experience, as is the brilliant sunset. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 10 - Jaislamer - Jodhpur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check-in into hotel. After check-in half day city sightseeing of Jodhpur city which is the second largest city of Rajasthan and a major tourist attraction in the country. Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha in 1459. The city was the erstwhile capital of the Marwar state. A 10-km-long wall made of stone and built about a century after the city was founded, surrounds the old city. There are about 100 towers in the city, most of which are surrounded by defensive battlements.

Covering Mehrangarh fort which is one of the largest forts in India. The fort has been a witness to the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpursplendour of a bygone era. Also visit Jaswanthada - The 19th century royal cenotaph and the museum located in the Umaid public gardens. In the late afternoon visit Umaid Bhawan Palace which has remained one of the top heritage hotels in India and the very best in Jodhpur. A part of Umaid Bhawan Palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family - weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 11 - Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur
After breakfast drive to Ranakpur. Visit Ranakpur Jain Temples complex, one of the biggest and the most important cluster of Jain temples in India. Nestled in the Aravalli range. The Chaumukha Temple, or Four Faced Temple, is the main temple in the complex and dates back to the 15th century. Built in marble, the temple has 29 halls supported by more than 1400 pillars, no two of which are alike. The two other Jain temples in the complex are Neminath and Parasnath temple. We have arranged your lunch at Fateh Bagh. Fateh Bagh Palace is recreated in Ranakpur by 65000 pieces of lovingly rebuilt stone by stone out of 200 years old Rawla Koshilav Palace. This is probably India's first attempt at transporting a palace, faithfully preserving the richness of Rajput architecture for 21st century visitors.

Later on continue drive to Udaipur. On arrival check-in into hotel. The rest of the evening is free to explore this city of lakes on your own. Or you may enjoy our optional boat ride on the picturesque Lake Pichola, cruising past the spectacular City Palace, Jag Mandir Island and the famous Jag Niwas Island, which used to be the summer palace of the Royals of Mewar and is now the renowned Lake Palace Hotel. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Lunch)

Day 12 - Udaipur
After breakfast half day city tour visiting City Palace, Jagdish Temple, drive around Fatehsagar Lake, Sahelion Ki Bari (Queen's resort for her friends) and visit Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir (folk art museum). In the afternoon an excursion to Eklingji & Nagda temples. Eklingji, It is famous for the beautifully sculpted temple complex with 108 temples within its high walls built in 734 A.D.The temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of Mewar ruler. The walled complex encloses an elaborately pillared hall or mandap under a large pyramidal roof and has four-faced image of Lord Shiva in black marble. Nagda, This ancient place in Mewar was the capital of Bappa Rawal and has a magnificient torana exquisitely carvedwith graceful apsaras. This ancient site dating back to the 6th century A.D. is renowned for the Sas-Bahu temples (9th- 1Oth century A.D.) with interesting architecture and carvings. Overnight at hotel.(Breakfast)

Day 13 - Udaipur - Chittorgarh
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Chittorgarh. We make short halts at Bijoliyan and Menal for ancient temples. Reach Chittoregarh by noon and check in at hotel.

In the afternoon visit the famous Chittorgarh fort - The indomitable pride of Chittorgarh, the fort is a massive structure with many gateways built by the later Maurya rulers in 7th century A.D. Perched on a height of 180 m. high hill, it sprawls over 700 acres. The tablets and chattris within are impressive reminders of the Rajput heroism. The fort has many magnificent monuments, all fine examples of the Rajput architecture. Also visit the other palaces and visit that very spot where Rani Padmini committed Johar. Overnight at Hotel. (Breakfast)

Day 14 - Chittorgarh - Ranthambhore
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Ranthambhore. Arrive Ranthambhore and and check-in into hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Dinner)

Day 15 - Ranthambore
Breakfast at resort. We have included morning & evening game drives to explore Ranthambhore National Park. Embark on a Canter Ride into the Park for Game Viewing. Canter - a 20-seater vehicle which has been specially re-fitted and furbished for comfort and good viewing. Ranthambhore is the ideal place to spot the tiger. The majestic predator assured of protection, roams freely during the daytime and can be seen at close quarters. Other wildlife to be seen include sambar, chital, nilgai (blue bull), chinkara, langur, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, pythons and leopards. Crocodiles abound in the lakes. The lakes also attract a large number of migratory and local birds. Dinner & overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 16 - Ranthambhore - Bharatpur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and drive to Agra. Enroute visiting Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world. The marshes here are home to over 360 species of birds including the Siberian cranes that come to spend the winter here.

Later on continue drive to Agra via 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." On arrival check in into hotel. Overnight at hotel.(Breakfast)

Day 17 - Agra - Delhi (Departure)
Early morning visit 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. With the rising Sun the white marble changes its colour and hues and it is excellent for photography. Come back to hotel for breakfast.

Later on check-out from the hotel and visit Red Fort - a visit to the fort in ‘Agra’ is a must since so many of the events which lead to the construction of the Taj took place here.

In the late afternoon continue drive to Delhi. Arrive Delhi and car and driver will be at your disposal until transfer to International Airport to catch flight for onward destination. (Breakfast)