Colourful Rajasthan

tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.

After breakfast gather at hotel’s lobby & proceed for guided city tour of Delhi including Jama Masjid followed by Rikshaw ride, Raj Ghat, Humayun’s Tomb – the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drive past through India Gate & Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s House), Akshardham Temple (closed on Mondays) – A Hindu temple which exemplifies traditional Hindu culture and architecture. 7000 artisans were involved in the construction of the temple aided by 3000 volunteers.

At last visit Qutab Minar to experience night view (visit permitted till 9 pm). The Qutub Minar is a towering 73-meter-high tower built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in 1193. The tower was built to celebrate Muslim dominance in Delhi after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu ruler. This tower is the highest tower in India, complete with five storeys and projecting balconies. The first three storeys of the Qutub Minar are made of red sandstone and the last two are made of marble and sandstone.

Apart from the tower, the Qutub Minar complex comprises of the Quwwat-us-Islam Mosque (the first mosque to be built in India), a 7-metre-high iron pillar, the tomb of Iltutmish, Ala’i-Darwaza and the Ala’I Minar. After sightseeing return to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

and fortified in 18th century by the dominant merchant families of the region. The wealthy businessmen of the village constructed many havelis and baolis with colored painting adorning their walls. Later on, with the migration of these merchant families, their old settlements remained in total obscurity with no one to look after them. Despite the time lapse and ignorance about these visual and architectural extravaganzas, their attraction did not fade and today they are some of the major attractions for the tourists visiting Rajasthan. Arrive Mandawa hotel & fulfil check-in formalities.

After relaxing for some time proceed for Mandawa City tour exploring some of the famous havelis of Mandawa that are known for their fresco paintings. A few of these famous havelis are Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Murmuia Haveli and Goenka Double Haveli.

After that visit Mandawa Fort. It is located in the midst of Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan. Thakur Nawal Singh founded the fort in 1812. The fort is a symbol of the town’s royal heritage. It is one of the best specimens of Rajasthan art and architecture. The Mandawa fort is such a great attraction for tourists as it helps in revealing a lot about the rich history of the place along with revealing the unique features of Rajasthani architecture. Adorned with beautiful frescos, Mandawa Fort presents a sight to behold.

Later, explore your surroundings and stroll through the markets, a haven for lovers of art and paintings. Tonight, for dinner be sure to savour Shekhawati dishes of Rajasthani cuisine, especially kair – sangri ki subzi for main course and ghevar for dessert. Return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.

After relaxing for some time proceed to visit Junagarh Fort, that provides an insight into the lavish lifestyle of the erstwhile Maharanas of Rajasthan. The fort complex houses temples, palaces and a museum. Then, visit Laxmi Niwas Palace, the former royal abode of the king of Bikaner Maharaja Ganga Singh. Designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, the palatial building is a magnificent structure of red sandstone that blends with its beautiful surroundings.

In evening, explore the markets of Bikaner, a shopper’s paradise for leather products, embroidered mojri (slip on shoes), cotton and wool products. Overnight stay at hotel.

In evening, you can explore the famous Jodhpur markets – Tripola Bazaar, Sardar Market and Clock Market. They are the best places to buy famous tie-dye textiles (bandhani), mojri (footwear), and traditional Indian handicrafts. Like the other cities, Jodhpur is also very well known for its snacks and sweets. Taste some of its popular Indian snacks such as pyaaz ki kachori, badaa, gathiya and sev, relish the traditional Indian ice-cream called malai kulfi, and don’t forget the world famous Motichur laddu.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Palanquins Gallery, Turban Gallery, Loha Pol (Gate) and Dedh Kemgra Pol (Gate) are the major attractions of the fort. Nestling on a rocky hill, the fort offers a breathtaking panorama of Jodhpur from its ramparts. Also, stop at the elegant Jaswant Thada, the cenotaphs of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and other maharajas. After sightseeing continue your journey towards Udaipur.

The drive takes you across the Aravali Hills, the older mountain range in the world. The scenery along the way is superb and you will see many vignettes of Rajasthani rural life. Your next stop is at the white marble temples of Ranakpur. Considered one of the architectural gems of this area, these profusely and intricately carved temples belong to the Jain religion. The stunning carvings are in contrast to the dictates of simplicity and austerity promoted by this religion. Arrive Udaipur hotel & fulfil check-in formalities. This evening at leisure & free for your own activities. Overnight stay at hotel.

It is located in the fertile, circular Girwa Valley to the southwest of Nagda, which was the first capital of Mewar. Until Udaipur was built, the capital of Mewar was Ahar, a flourishing trade town.

The gleaming Lake Pichola, the fabulous palaces, havelis, temples and bustling markets with the majestic Aravalli Hillls in the backdrop, make Udaipur a royal romantic destination. Udaipur city tour starts with a visit to the City Palace. The royal abode of Maharanas of erstwhile, the palace displays an elaborate and flamboyant style which combines both the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural design. Strategically placed on a hill top, the palace gives an impressive view of Udaipur and its beautiful sites such as the Lake Pichola, The Jag Mandir, the Monsoon Palace and Neemach Mata Temple. In the evening visit Jagmandir Island, Ahar (Udaipur’s royal cremation ground), Shilpgram (a crafts village) and Sajjan Garh (Monsoon Palace). In evening, unwind with a boat ride on the waters of Lake Pichola.

After sightseeing return to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

This fair is generally held in the month of October- November. On this occasion, all the camels have to be decorated with new clothes and ornaments. This place is full of religious temples, mesmerizing lakes, beautiful hills. There are more than 50 Ghats where thousands of people daily take the bathe in the pious water. Arrive Pushkar & check-in at hotel.

After relaxing for some time, proceed for local city tour including Pushkar Lake & Lord Brahma Temple. After sightseeing return to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Many of its avenues remained painted in pink till long, giving the city a distinctive appearance. Arrive Jaipur & check-in at hotel.

In evening visit Chokhi Dhani – An Ethnic Village Resort. The place is divided into 2 sections – Chokhi Dhani Resort & Chokhi Dhani Village where the former provides accommodation facilities to the tourists whereas the latter is adorned with the replica of Indian village life and has opened its doors to non-residential tourists to experience the same.

The Chaupad and Sangri traditional sit-down style restaurant have become a ‘must have experience’ among locals and visitors across the globe. Have dinner at this unique dining place in unique style.

Return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.

the fort is notable for its grand architecture showcasing Hindu style of art. Then visit Jantar Mantar – largest of the five astronomical observatories in India and features world’s largest sundial.  Later, explore the City Palace complex that is comprised of two palaces, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, a museum, a vast array of courtyards, gardens and buildings. The palace is a blend of the Shilpa Shastra of Indian architecture with Rajput, Mughal and European styles.

Drive past through Jal Mahal where you can take a halt for selfie session as well as here you will get a chance to get photographed in Rajasthani attire & Hawa Mahal – the palace of winds offered complete view of the outside world to the royal ladies without exposing them. In evening, explore the local market and shop for some amazing stuff such as traditional clothes, jewellery, handicraft etc.

Return to hotel & Overnight stay at hotel.

40 Kms west of Agra, was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. When the prophecy of the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir to the Mughal throne, came true, Akbar built his new capital here, including a stunning mosque – in honour of the saint. Arrive Agra & check-in at hotel.

Have rest for some time & then visit Agra Fort, large 16th-century fortress of red sandstone located on the Yamuna River in the historic city of Agra. The fort complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. After sightseeing return to your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.” After visiting Taj Mahal, return to hotel for refreshment & breakfast.

This is the last day of the tour & it’s time to say Goodbye to India. After breakfast check out from Agra Hotel & proceed for Delhi Airport for your homebound journey.