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-: Classical & Cultural India :-
Duration of Trip -::-12 Days
Key Places covered -::- Delhi , Varanasi ,Khajuraho,
Orchha, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra , Jaipur
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 01 : Delhi
Arrival at Delhi
You will be met on arrival at the International airport. Transfer to your
hotel. Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling
metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. Delhi
is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land
and a window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight will be at Delhi.
Day 02: Delhi
After breakfast proceed for a day sightseeing tour of the city.
Start with the sightseeing of Old Delhi. The tour will
begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to
Mahatma Gandhi; drive past the Red Fort continuing to
the Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaws,
one of Asia’s largest mosques. The magnificent Red Fort, overlooking
the river Jamuna was built during the years 1638 - 48 when the Moghul
Empire was at its peak. The tour continues to Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s
largest mosques and which is viewed from the outside.
People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence of
a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.
Enjoy the rickshaw ride at Old Delhi.
After visiting Old Delhi, you will be driven to New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division
between New and Old Delhi is the division between the capitals of the
British and the Mughals respectively. The division in the walled city
and New Delhi also marks the division in the life-styles. The walled city
is all tradition where one will be able to glean a past life-style in
all its facets, colours and spells. New Delhi in contrast, is a city trying
to live up to the best of 21st century standards.
Imperial Delhi will include the Qutub Minar, the tallest
stone tower in India. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and
the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President’s residence.
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 03 : Delhi - Varanasi
By Air
Flight
: 9W 723
Airlines
: Jet Airways
Aircraft
: Boeing 737
Departure
: 1040 hr
Arrival
: 1150 hr
Transfer in time to airport for flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi,
you will be met and transferred to hotel.
Picturesquely situated on the crescent shaped left bank of the holy River
Ganges, Varanasi, one of the ancient seats of learning in India, is said
to be a compound of the names of two streams, the Varuna and the Assi,
which still flow in the north and south of the city respectively. This
name seems to have been corrupted, in medieval times to Varanasi, which
was in use till May 1956, when it was changed to Varanasi, by an order
of the Government of India. Varanasi is probably one of the most ancient
living cities in India. From time immemorial it has been a great religious
center for Hindus and one of their most sacred places of pilgrimage, being
visited by millions of people every year. To every visitor Varanasi offers
a breathtaking experience.
The rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganges; the high-banks; the
temples and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue …soul
stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense filling
the air…and the refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing
at the Ghats. Varanasi - The land where experience and discovery
reach the ultimate bliss. Varanasi is also renowned for its rich tapestry
of music, arts, crafts and education. Some of the world - renowned
exponents India has produced in these fields were schooled in Varanasi’s
cultural ethos. Luminaries apart, Varanasi abounds in the art of silk
weaving, an exotic work of art which manifests itself in precious Banarasi
silk sarees and silk brocades which are cherished as collector’s
items across the world today.
Visit Sarnath ‑ 5 miles out of Varanasi: The great
Buddha enhanced the sanctity of Varanasi by choosing the environs of the
city to preach his first sermon at Sarnath, (only 10 Kms away) after attaining
enlightenment. Later, Ashoka, the great Mauryan Emperor erected magnificent
stupas and other buildings along with his mighty stone pillar, Dharmarajika
Stupa. The 110 ft. tall Damekh Stupa marks the place where Buddha preached
first sermon.Sarnath has been a premier centre for Buddhism. It is a rich
collection of ancient Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous
Buddha and Bodhisatva images on display at the Archaeological Museum (1000
hrs to 1700 hrs. Open all days except Friday)
Enjoy the evening AARTI at the GHATS. The guide will be giving a commentary
to you on the proceedings and meanings of the chants during the AARTI
of the river.
Overnight will be spent at Varanasi.
Day 04 : Varanasi
In the early morning drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the
sacred river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the living
traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions.
(To start at 0500 hrs. for the best lifetime experience) For you to appreciate
this remarkable city, we'll transfer you to the banks of the River Ganges
before the sun rises. Board a boat with your guide and proceed to the
middle of the river, where at sunrise the sight unfolds before you. Thousands
of faithful come daily to the banks to bathe and pray while in the background,
temples and palaces rise in tiers from the water's edge. Then return for
a walk through the cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As
shops are opening, the place now becomes a beehive of activity as the
faithful are coming and going. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple while
returning to the hotel.
Return for breakfast to the hotel.
Proceed for day guided tour of Varanasi including the Bharat Mata Temple,
which features a big relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. Also
visit the 18th century Durga Temple, commonly known as the Monkey Temple
due to the huge population of the monkeys. Proceed to the Tulsi Manas
Temple, crafted from white marble which features the entire Ramayana inscribed
on its walls. Also visit the BHU considered as the biggest residential
university in Asia. The University Campus houses an Art Gallery and the
Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Overnight will be in Varanasi.
Day 05 : Varanasi - Khajuraho
By Air
Flight
: 9W 733
Airlines
: Jet Airways
Aircraft
: Boeing 737
Departure
: 1220 hr
Arrival
: 1300 hr
Breakfast
will be at hotel.
Transfer in time for flight to Khajuraho.
Situated in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is famous
for its enchanting temples and its legendary Khajuraho dance festival.
The name Khajuraho is derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree)
which is grown abundantly in the region. The Khajuraho Temples are dedicated
to a celebration of womanhood, her myriad moods and facets. Famous for
its erotic architecture, the carvings include, women writing a letter,
applying eye makeup, combing her tresses, dancing & playing with her
child. Her innocent, blushed, charming, seductive, ardent beauty, all
depicted in exquisitely sculptured details. These temples have been designed
and carved to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to
be looking at heaven.
Reach Khajuraho.
Proceed for a tour of the EASTERN & WESTERN TEMPLS. It is best to
do the Eastern set of temples first as the Western set is very interesting
and takes a lot of time. A lot of our guests want some free time at the
Western set as it is really beautiful and quite exhaustive.
Enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the Western Temple Complex. Overnight
will be at Khajuraho.
Day 06: Khajuraho - Orchha - Jhansi- Gwalior
By Road 170 km in 4 hr
By Train
Number
: 2001
Departure
: 1755 hr
Arrival
: 1855 hr
Proceed by surface to ORCHHA after breakfast.
ORCHHA - A medieval city founded by Bundela rulers with Palaces
and temples of the 16th and 17th century which have remarkable withstood
the onslaught of time. The city is picturesquely flanked by the River
Betwa.
Proceed for sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex. Lunch
will be at Orchha and then proceed to the station (12 km away) for train
to Gwalior. (This is a superfast train with airline type seats and snacks
/ mineral water is served on board)
Reach Gwalior and check in at the palace.
A little southward of Agra is the ancient city of Gwalior. Centuries of
history can be witnessed even today in its monuments, temples, museums
and cultural traditions. The magnificent Gwalior Fort, with its reflections
of art, religion and military might, is an enduring symbol of this glorious
past. The colorful history of this city dates back to the eight century
and is a mosaic of Rajput clans of the Pratihasas, Kachwahas and Tomars,
each leaving their marks on the city’s magnificent monuments. Gwalior's
history is traced back to a legend in 8th century AD when a chief tain
known as Suraj Sen was struck by a deadly disease and cured by a hermit-saint
Gwalipa. As a gratitude for that incidence, he founded this city by his
name. The new city of Gwalior became existence over the centuries.
The cradle of great dynasties ruled the city Gwalior. With different
Dynasty, the city gained a new dimension from the warrior kings, poets,
musicians, and saints who contributed to making it renowned throughout
the country. The city is also the setting for the memorials of freedom
fighters such as Tatya Tope and the indomitable Rani of Jhansi. Today
the old settings stand side by side with the trappings of modernity.
Overnight will be at the palace.
Day 07 : Gwalior
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the following interesting
monuments.
Gwalior Fort: Standing on a steep mass
of sandstone, Gwalior Fort dominates the city and is its most significant
monument. It has been the scene of momentous events, imprisonment, battles
and jauhars. A steep road winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues
of the Jain tirthankaras, carved into the rock face. The magnificent outer
walls of the fort still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearing
witness to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of
India. This imposing structure inspired Emperor Babur to describe it as
“the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind ".
Man Mandir Palace: Built between 1486 and 1517 by Raja
Mansingh.The tiles that once adorned its exterior have not survived, but
at the entrance, traces of these still remain. Vast chambers with fine
stone screens were once the music halls, and behind these screens, the
royal ladies would learn music from the great masters of the day. Below,
circular dungeons housed the state prisoners of the Mughals. Emperor Aurangzeb
had his brother, Murad imprisoned, and later executed here. Close by is
Jauhar Pond, where in the Rajput tradition, the Ranis committed mass sati
after their consorts had been defeated in battle. At Man Mandir Palace,
a poignant ambience of those days of chivalry and heroism still lingers
in the silent chambers.
Gujari Mahal: Within the fort are some
marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument
to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani.
The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state
of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological Museum
housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st century
A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals,
their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly
worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess,
the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody
of the museum's curator, and can be seen on request.
Sas Bahu ka Mandir: Two architecturally beautiful 11th
century temples.
Jai Vilas Palace:
A splendor of a different kind exists in the Jai Vilas Palace, current
residence of the Scindia family. Some 25 luxury rooms have been turned
into the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum, and in these rooms, so evocative of
a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. Jai Vilas is an Italianate structure
which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes. The imposing
Darbar Hall has two central chandeliers weighing a couple of tonnes, and
hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength of the roof. Ceilings
picked out in gilt, heavy draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets
and antique furniture from France and Italy are the features of these
spacious rooms. Eye catching treasures include: a silver train with cut
glass wagons which served guests as it chugged around the table on miniature
rails; a glass cradle from Italy used for the baby Krishna each Janmashtami,
silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Aurangzeb and
Shah Jahan. These are, besides, personal mementoes of past members of
the Scindia family: the jeweled slippers that belonged to Chinkoo Rani,
four-poster beds and gifts from practically every country in the world,
hunting trophies and portraits. The Scindia Museum offers an unparalled
glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely India. Explore
the luxury and classical India
Enjoy the spa and overnight will be at the palace.
Day 08 : Gwalior- Agra
By Road 120 km in 2 hr
Enjoy breakfast at the palace and drive to Agra.
Reach Agra and transfer to hotel.
AGRA: Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar
and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting
second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat
{seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world
of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys
and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city
of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still
reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.
Relax at the beautiful hotel with a view of the TAJ.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 09 : Agra
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Proceed for day sightseeing of Agra.
TAJ MAHAL: Little needs to be said about this architectural
wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit
to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his
beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed
and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from
its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted
particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some
of the best inlay work ever seen.
AGRA FORT - Built by the famed Mughal
emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone.
Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major
tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in
the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73
in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of
red sandstone and a moat.
After Agra Fort we will visit
BABY TAJ - The interiors of which are considered
better than the Taj.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 10 : Agra - Jaipur
By Road 221 km in 5 hr
Drive to Jaipur after breakfast visiting Fatehpur Sikri en-route.
Fatehpur Sikri is 37 km west of Agra. Jajal-ud-din-Muhammad Akbar, Humanyun's
son, accessed the throne at the tender age of 14. While hunting around
Sikri his curiosity was aroused by the songs of some minstrels about the
celebrated Khwaja -Mu'inu'd-din Chisti, the founder of the Chisti order
of SUFIS. Akbar, who was without a male heir heard about Saint Salim Chisti
and visited him in the year 1568. The saint blessed him with 3 sons and
in gratitude Akbar ordered the great mosque of Fatehpur Sikri built under
his supervision. As a mark of respect to the saint, Akbar shifted his
capital to Fatehpur Sikri and built various secular buildings like the
Diwan -I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodhabai palace, Birbal's house, Marian's house
and the Panchmahal.
Continue your drive to Jaipur and on arrival check-in at Hotel.
Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent
palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western
deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the
KSHATRIYA warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made
fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth
and authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the
central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal
emperors and also the British Raj that followed.
The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated
founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal.
Literally translated this would mean ’one and a quarter’,
suggesting that the Mughal thought this emperor to be more valuable than
just ‘one’. Jaipur is known as the ’Pink City’
on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however,
form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city
was given a wash of pink in honor of a State Visit from Prince Albert.
This evening, visit the Birla Temple to learn more about the fascinating
religious life of Jaipur. The marble structure, built as recently as 1985,
houses ornate statues including one of Lakshmi (goddess of Wealth and
Beauty) and Narayan dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision
of heavenly luxury. Carvings in the temple and on pillars supporting the
covered walkways include images of the Hindu pantheon, as well as Jesus,
the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Francis of Assisi. Your visit will coincide
with the AARTI Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit and waved,
in order to awake and invoke the deity. Enjoy the experience and spend
night at Jaipur.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 11 : Jaipur
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant
ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic
Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh
I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding
exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and
Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression. At the foot of the hill you
will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb up
to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honoured fashion. The
Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years to build
and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle
of the Moghul ruling families.
Continue sightseeing.
CITY PALACE -
A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture,
the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city.
It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace
Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best
preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different
parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical
instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace
of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey
structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork
and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built
in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace
women.
This afternoon is free for you to relax, shop or explore independently.
Shopping is superb in Jaipur, particularly for gold and silver jewellery,
pottery, tie-dye materials, silk, saris, wooden handicrafts and carpets.
Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day 12 : Jaipur - Delhi
By Road 260 km in 5 hr
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars.
Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving,
semi-precious stones and local crafts which still thrive from the day
of Maharaja Jai Singh's patronage when he designed special areas in the
city for the 'bandhanas', the 'cheepas' and the 'meenakari' workers.
Proceed for Delhi after lunch and reach the airport and board the flight
for home with sweet memories of classical and cultural India.
THE TOUR INCLUDES:
- DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ACCOMMODATION AT MENTIONED HOTELS,
- SIGHTSEEING TOURS AS MENTIONED IN THE ITINERARY,
- PRIVATE AC SUV WITH DRIVER,
- ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDES FOR ALL MENTIONED TOURS,
- ASSISTANCE AT THE AIRPORTS ON ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE,
- ASSISTANCE AT STATIONS ON DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL,
- FIRST CLASS TRAIN TRAVEL FOR MENTIONED SECTOR,
- ALL APPLICABLE TAXES AND SERVICE CHARGES,
- ALL ROAD TAXES, GOVERNMENT TAXES AND DRIVER ALLOWANCES,
- ELEPHANT RIDE AT AMER FORT - JAIPUR,
- LUNCH AT ORCHHA,
- SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW AT KHAJURAHO,
- EVENING AARTI CEREMONY AT VARANASI,
- ALL EXCURSIONS AS MENTIONED,
- RICKSHAW RIDE AT JAIPUR,
- SARNATH EXCURSION IN VARANASI AND
- BOAT-RIDE AT RIVER GANGES IN VARANASI.
- TONGA RIDE IN AGRA
HOTELS:
| City |
Luxury Hotels |
Deluxe Hotels |
Nights |
| Delhi |
Imperial |
Taj Palace |
02 |
| Varanasi |
Taj Ganges |
Radisson |
02 |
| Khajuraho |
Taj Chandela |
Radisson |
02 |
| Gwalior |
Taj Usha Kiran Palace |
Taj Usha Kiran Palace |
02 |
| Agra |
Oberoi Amarvilas |
Trident Hilton |
02 |
| Jaipur |
Oberoi Raj Vilas |
Taj Jai Mahal Palace |
02 |
PLEASE ASK US FOR QUOTATION ( PLEASE FILL THE FORM BELOW )
Please note that lunches and dinners are not included along with camera,
etc. fees at the monuments and personal expenses. The tour price is valid
for minimum two persons traveling together. All hotels mentioned are subject
to availability at the time of quotation and the local airfare will be
separate and on actual. The airfare considered is in coach class and if
you want we could also quote the business class fare. The car included
in the tour cost is a SUV which will be very comfortable.
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