First Time Visit in India

Duration of Tour : 12 Nights / 13 Days
Destinations covered: Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra - Jaipur - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Delhi

Day 01: Arrival Delhi
On arrival at International airport meet our representative and transfer to hotel. Relax.
Overnight at Delhi.
Delhi, capital city of the Federal Republic of India is one of India's fastest growing cities. The city has two distinct parts, Old Delhi & New Delhi. Old Delhi reflects the shades of Mughal Empire where as New Delhi shows the legacy of what British left behind.

The streets of Old Delhi are narrow & bustling. The beauty & serenity lies inside the courts of the main buildings. Delhi has some of the finest museums in the country. Its boutiques and shopping arcades offer access to a wealth of traditional and contemporary crafts, from all over the country. New Delhi was proclaimed the capital of India by the British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), & is tree-lined & spacious.

Day 02: Delhi
After breakfast proceed for day sightseeing of Delhi covering old Delhi as well as New Delhi. Today we will cover following spots:
Rajghat - A memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, also know as Bapu (Father of nation).

Red Fort (Lal Quila) - Old Delhi is centered on the Red Fort built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1636 & 1658, when the Mughal Empire was on its peak.

Jama Masjid (Mosque) - Work on the Jama Masjid mosque was begun in 1650 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to complement his palace at the Red Fort. More than 5,000 workers toiled for six years to complete the largest mosque in India.

Qutub Minar - Is the tallest stone tower in India. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzin's to call the faithful to prayer.

Indian Gate - Built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 India soldiers killed in World War I, India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and completed in 1931. Built from sandstone, the arch also houses the Eternal Flame, a gesture in memory of the Indian soldiers who laid their lives in the 1971 war with Pakistan.

Rashtrapati Bhawan - Formerly the Viceregal Lodge, the building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has 340 roomsBack to hotel and overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Delhi - Varanasi (By Air)
After breakfast start for Airport to catch flight for Varanasi

Varanasi - 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 Stream , 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. The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages.

Often referred to as Banaras, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Banaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvathi, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown.

Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. 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 for a day excursion: One of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where Buddha preached his first Sermon in 590 BC. Here he revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace, Enlightenment and Ultimate Nirvana. Witness the ruins of a once flourishing Buddhist monastery and then visit a fine Museum which houses an excellent collection of Buddhist art and sculptures found at the site.
In the evening visit the GHATS for the evening ceremony and the cremations.
Overnight stay will be at Varanasi.

Day 04: Varanasi - Khajuraho (By Air)
Morning drive to Dasaswamedh 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.

Breakfast will be at the hotel. After breakfast start for airport to catch flight to Khajuraho.
Khajuraho - Used to be the capital of the Chandela kings and the temples found here were built between 950 and 1050 AD under the later Chandela kings. The temples of Khajuraho are brilliant examples of medieval Indian architecture. It is believed that Khajuraho originally had 85 temples. But only about 22 have survived the ravages of time and they are strewn amidst lakes and fields in the area.

The existing Khajuraho temples are divided into three groups - western, eastern, and southern. The western group is most famous, and it is designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The sculptors of Khajuraho have decorated the walls of the temples with carved figures of men and women of the day doing their daily routines, such as musicians playing music, women putting on make-up, etc. That includes depiction of Mithuna or human couples engaged in sexual acts. Though only about 10% of the carvings on the temple walls show erotica, this is what make the temples of Khajuraho so talked about thing.
Arrive at Khajuraho and check in at hotel.
After lunch visit the EASTERN SET OF TEMPLES in the afternoon.
In the evening enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the temple complex.
Overnight will be at Khajuraho.

Day 05: Khajuraho - Jhansi - Agra (By deluxe train, 3 hours)
Early morning Breakfast, then visit western set of temples and start for Jhansi via Orcha Temple by road.
Lunch at Orcha and Proceed for sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex.
Take the deluxe train (Shatabdi) for Agra and reach by evening.

Agra - Heritage of Agra city is linked with the Mughal dynasty, numerous other rulers also contributed to the rich past of this city. Modern Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodhi (Lodhi dynasty; Delhi Sultanate) in the 16th century. Babar (founder of the Mughal dynasty) also stayed for sometime in Agra and introduced the concept of square Persian-styled gardens here. Emperor Akbar built the Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri near Agra. Fatehpur Sikri remained his capital for around fifteen years after which the city was left isolated in mysterious circumstances. Jahangir beautified Agra with palaces and gardens despite spending most of his time in Kashmir with which he was passionately attached
Overnight will be at Agra.

Day 06: Agra
After breakfast visit Taj Mahal, symbol of love, Agra fort and Baby Taj.
Taj Mahal For centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colors and song. It is one of the most flawless architectural creations of the world. Since the 17th century, travelers have crossed continents to come and see this ultimate memorial to love, and few have been unmoved by its incomparable beauty. The Taj Mahal in Agra India is considered one of the best examples of Mughal architecture in India. The history of the Taj Mahal is one of the great love stories of the world. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan ruled from 1628 to 1658 and was married to Arjumand Bano Begum in 1612 A.D. He called his wife Mumtaz Mahal or Crown of the Palace. Her dying wish to Shah Jahan was that he should "build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before." The history of the Taj Mahal begins with Mumtaz Mahal's tragic end.

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.
After Agra Fort we will visit Baby Taj - The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj.
Overnight at Agra.

Day 07: Agra - Jaipur (225 Kms / 6 Hours drive by Road)
After breakfast start for Agra by road. On the way, stop at Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri in Agra is a city in Uttar Pradesh, built during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Akbar during the 16th Century BC. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a combination of various regional schools of architecture. Influence of Hindu and Jain architectural features are found in this monument with traces of Islamic elements in it. Fatehpur Sikri is made of red sandstone and the beautiful marvel tomb of Seikh Salim Chisti is located here.From Fatehpur Sikri start for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check in at Hotel. Overnight at Jaipur.

Jaipur - The pink city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, a Kachhwaha Rajput, who ruled from 1699-1744. However, Jaipur has joined the parade of metropolitan cities; still there are some traditions and customs in the city, which you will find quite surprising.

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.

Have dinner at Choki Dhani where you get to know about the culture and customs of Rajasthan. Rajasthani are known to be very good hosts so enjoy their hospitality.
Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 08: Jaipur
After breakfast proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort. 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 Mughal 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.

Evening leisure for shopping or one can visit Birla temple to explore the religious side of Jaipur.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 09: Jaipur - Jodhpur (250 kms, 6 hours drive by road)
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur at leisure and on your way stop at CHATRASAGAR for lunch.
Reach later in the afternoon and in the evening relax at the palace.
Jodhpur is set at the edge of the Thar Desert. This imperial city echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. In the past, it was the capital of the Marwar state, founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha - the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs. A high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions encompasses the city. It was once a major trade center. Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan.
Visit the museum in the palace complex.
Overnight will be at Jodhpur.

Day 10: Jodhpur
After breakfast, Start for Jodhpur tourist spots which stand as a living proof of the splendor, traditions and culture of the Jodhpur. The glorious past of Jodhpur is personified through the various forts, palaces and other monuments of Jodhpur. The main places to see in Jodhpur Rajasthan are:
Mehrangarh Fort - The most magnificent fort in Jodhpur is the Mehrangarh Fort. It is situated on a 150m high hill. Rao Jodha, the then chief of Rathore clan, constructed it in 1459. There are a number of attractions within the fort like several palaces, galleries, a museum, and temples.

Umaid Bhawan Palace - One of the fascinating palaces of Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed it in 20th century. A part of the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a museum.

Jaswant Thada - Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the former rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.
Overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 11: Jodhpur - Udaipur (250 kms, 6 hours drive by road)
After breakfast drive to Udaipur. On the way, visit beautiful temples of RANAKPUR.
Ranakpur (The Jain Temples in Aravali) - Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges and a must visit for the tourists coming to this region. The Ranakpur Temples, dating back to the 15th century have 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls.
Lunch in a nice village restaurant or at the Fateh Bagh Palace and continue drive to Udaipur.
Arrive Udaipur and check in hotel.

Udaipur - The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers. Overlooking the aquamarine expanses of the Lake Pichola stands the splendid City Palace a marvel n granite and marble. Exquisite lake palaces of Udaipur, shimmering like jewels on the Lake Pichhola are overwhelming in splendour. Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 Years.
Overnight stay will be at Udaipur.

Day 12: Udaipur
After breakfast proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur
Kumbhalgrah Fort - The second principal fortress in Rajasthan after Chittaurgarh, it is perched atop the Aravalis. Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, it extends over 12 km and encloses many temples, palaces and gardens. The fort was renovated in the 19th century. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace offers a spectacular bird's-eye- view of the surrounding country side. Close by is the Kumbhalgrah Wildlife Sanctuary with a rich variety of wildlife. The fort is accessible only by jeep form Kelwara through the seven gates.

City Palace - As the hub of Udaipur the City Palace stands majestically on the hill guarded by crenellated fort walls. A riot of arches, domes, turrets, crenellations and chattris crown the steep fortress.
Also visit the lovely Sahelion-Ki-Bari Gardens, the Jagdish Temple and the city Museum.

Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. Also visit the Jag Mandir Palace - the other island palace in the middle of the lake and spend some time. (Currently water level is very low and is subject to increase water level)
Enjoy dinner and dance shows. Overnight will be at Udaipur.

Day 13: Udaipur - Delhi (By Air)
After breakfast relax and enjoy at hotel.
After lunch start for Airport to catch flight to DelhiArrive Delhi and check in hotel close to the airport.
In the evening proceed for International airport to catch flight for onward destination. Proceed with the sweet memories of the tour.