Late night arrival. Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour toyou and hand over the documents to you.
Welcome to the India, oras we say 'atithi devo bhava' (the guest is an incarnation of God).Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!
Day 2 Delhi Cultural Tours
This morning, we proceed on a guided tour of New Delhi, Visiting such sights as Bahai Temple, Humayun's Tomb (1586), the Qutab Minar 72 meters highand one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Continuewith a drive through Embassy area, the Government buildings (1921-1930) and Connaught Place, the heart and main shopping district of the capital.
Later we cross the city and into the walled gates of the Old city with visits to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through thefabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates to Moonlight Square)where the throngs of shoppers and vendors meet in the oldest area ofDelhi. Visit the Red Fort (1639-1648 built by Shah Jehan the builder ofthe Taj Mahal in Agra) to view the inlaid and carved Royal Chambers, onto Raj Ghat and nearby ghats where the founder of the nation, MahatmaGandhi and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.
The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle rickshaws. Now these are3-wheel cycles with a sofa seat at the back. The Rickshawalla (Rickshawdriver) sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers on thesofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way to explore and picture thehustle and bustle as well as the colour of the narrow winding streetsbursting with people and pavement shops selling wares of all description- including a laughing set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by peals of laughter both from the passengers as well as the onlookers.
Day 3 Delhi - Jaipur (270 Kms)
Afterbreakfast we will drive to Jaipur along one of the India's finestfreeways Upon arrival, check into the Rambagh Palace, which is one ofthe most beautiful palaces in India. Originally a garden house of afavorite royal maid, it was constructed in the 19th century. The palaceis open to all those who seek to be transported to the royal past, theglorious age of grace and beauty.
After rest and relaxation, weexplore the unending shopping options of Jaipur. An essential startingpoint for Rajasthan craftwork is block making and block printing and wewill be exploring the process from start to finish in some of thepopular stores here. The opportunity also exists here to tailor makeoutfits to your design and size.
We also explore one of the chiefattractions of Jaipur - its jewelry, which offers a variety that rangesfrom chunky tribal jewelry to enameled gold to modern diamond jewelry.Kundan (art of stone setting) and enamel jewelry has been a specialty ofRajasthan, particularly that of Jaipur. The stones are embossed intodecorative shapes & patterns and embellished with delicate enamelornamentation in the champeve (raised field) technique. Jaipur is wellknown for its gold and silver enameling. Colorful bangles made of lacand set with semiprecious stones make an inexpensive buy. The craftsmentake great pains to embed the hundreds of stones into the lac. Theskilled gem-cutters of Jaipur carve enchanting little animals and birdsfrom rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz and amethyst. Intaglio beads &buttons and crystal scent bottles are also available.
Day 4 Jaipur Heritage Tours
Followingbreakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of the Amber Fort. Set on the drywrinkled Aravali Hills, the Fort is a superb example of Rajput (MedievalHindu) style of architecture. A slow elephant taxi takes us to the topof the Fort, which houses several graceful buildings.
We will rideup to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passingthrough the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered forfour hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of thisarchitectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzlingmosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today's visitors as theydid their former royal residents.
We shall visit the Hawa Mahal orPalace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone withsemi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the mainstreet of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal womencould peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.
Later,we proceed for a guided tour of the City Palace & Observatory. TheCity Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani andMughal architecture. The center of the palace is a seven storiedbuilding called Chandra Palace, with fine views over the gardens and thecity. Next stop of the City Palace is the Solar Observatory - anastronomical treasure house, with solar device that gives accuratepredictions till date.
Day 5 Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (245 Kms)
This morning we drive to Agra, stopping at deserted Capital City of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preservedcity at the height of the empire's splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings. From here we continue our ride to Agra.
Upon arrival as you are individually checked in at your rooms at the luxurious hotel,which is one of the best boutique hotels in the world. The hotel of whimsical charm has several attractions. However, being in the city ofthe Taj Mahal, the most relevant charm of the hotels is the unhindered view of the Taj Mahal from your bedroom. It is the most beautiful and an amazingly uplifting sight. Only 600 meters from the Taj Mahal stands this luxury resort. Discerning travelers can now appreciate the fabulous Taj Mahal while enjoying world-class luxury. The elaborate Mughal gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions complement the classical architecture of the hotel.
You will have rest of the day free for your independent activities. The hotel offers incredible and un obstructed view of the Taj Mahal from almost any where. We will have rooms with a private balcony that would afford anopportunity to view the amazing monument that epitomizes love. The changing colours of the monument under different lights of the day, including an opportunity to view it under moonlight will indeed add anair of romanticism to your stay here.
Day 6 Agra Taj Mahal Trip - Delhi (205 Kms)
Agrais the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument inthe world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of abuilding your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matterhow high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one'slifetime - the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Before departure for the monument we shall be served tea/coffee and cookies so that our eyes open real wide to behold this breathtaking sight. A dawn visit to the fabled TajMahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colours of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Later we return back to our hotel for breakfast.
After leisurely breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story ofthe Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid & other magnificent buildingsreflect the skill of the ancient Indian architects.
Later we will drive to Deli along one of the India's finest freeways.
Upon arrival check into your hotel.
HomeVisit & A Fare well Dinner with an Indian Family : - Thisevening, we would visit an Indian family for an Indian home experience. The evening is designed to give you a 'feel' and insight into Indian family life as well as experience typical Indian hospitality and home made Indian food.
Day 7 : Delhi - Departure
Transfer to the International airport to board your flight back home.