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01 Day: Arrival Delhi
Meeting and assistance on arrival at the airport, our representative welcome and escort you by a private car and transfer to the hotel, whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would hand over the documents and brief the tour programme to you. Overnight at the hotel.
Delhi, capital
city of the Federal Republic of India. It is one of
India's fastest growing cities. It has sprawled over
the West Bank of the river Yamuna, straddling the river.
Delhi blends an historic past and a vibrant present.
Delhi has some of the finest museums in the country.
New Delhi was proclaimed the capital of India by the
British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944) &
is tree-lined & spacious. Legend has it that the
Pandavas, the august heroes of the epic Mahabharata,
originally founded Delhi, then called Indraprastha,
around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the
ruins of seven ancient cities.
02 Day: Delhi
After breakfast take sightseeing tour of historic city
visiting Old Delhi visiting the majestic Red Fort, a
marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque
in India, both built by emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal
fame, Rajghat - memorial of Mahatma Gandhi & a Rickshaw
ride past through the silver street in Chandni Chowk,
the city tour continues covering New Delhi, visiting
Rashtrapati Bhawan, one-time imperial residence of the
British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial raised
in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the
Afghan war; the Laxmi Narayan Temple, built by the Birlas,
one of India’s leading industrial families; Humayun’s
Tomb, lotus shaped Bhai’s Temple , Qutub Minar
, built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty;
in the evening you can visit see speculative Light and
Sound Show at Red Fort. Return to the hotel for overnight
stay.
Light and Sound Show:
A spectacular sound and light show at the Red
Fort. Which makes the 5,000 years old history of the
city come alive. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly
panoramic and historic environs of the Red Fort, select
episodes from the annals of Delhi's historic and legendary
past are vividly brought to life. Special effects combine
with the unique ambience to make this show a hauntingly
unforgettable experience.
03 Day: Delhi -Agra (200
kms: 4 hrs)
After an early breakfast check out the hotel and drive
to Agra en route visit Sikandra to see the Tomb of Mughal
Emperor Akbar. After visit continue to precede Agra,
on arrival transfer to hotel. Later take a sightseeing
tour of Agra Fort from where one can get the most moving
view of the Taj from the little octagonal tower in the
Agra Fort, which lies, across the river Jamuna, followed
by visit to Pearl Mosque and the Tomb of Itamad-ud-Daula
built by Empress Noorjehan in memory of her father.
In the evening you may visit to the souvenirs market
of Agra, one should visit Oswal Emporium where they
have built a Mini Taj Mahal inside their showroom and
it took 10 years for the artists to complete the mini
replica of the Taj. Overnight at the hotel.
Agra is famous
as being home to one of the seven wonders of the world-the
Taj Mahal. A pleasant town with comparatively slow pace,
craftsmen who are descendant of those who worked under
the Mughals know Agra for its superb inlay work on marble
and soapstone. The city is also famous for its carpets,
gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Agra, and
the nearby city of Fatehpur Sikri, is conveniently close
to Delhi. Besides the Taj Mahal are Agra Fort, Sikandra,
Ram Bagh and Itmad-Ud-Daulah-35 kms away are the imperial
ruins of the Mughal city, Fatehpur Sikri. Agra is an
old city and it is said that its name was derived from
Agrabanad, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.
Note: Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday.
04 Day: Agra - Jaipur
(240 kms: 5 hrs)
Early morning, visit to witness the incomparable Taj
Mahal with its’ speculative view at the time of
Sunrise. Taj Mahal, the architectural modern day wonder
of the world; this monument is a fine example of the
fusion of many architectural styles is one of the wonders
of the modern world. Taj, endowed it with some of the
loveliest buildings in the world. After visit drive
to Jaipur en route visit Old deserted town of Mughal
Dynasty - Fatehpur Sikri built in red sandstone in honour
of Saint Salim Chisti who foretold the birth of 3 sons
to Emperor Akbar, is an example of robust stability
combined with originality. Each important edifice here
represents a type by itself. Notable among them is the
Diwane Khas; Punch Mahal, the Tomb of Salim Chisti,
and the Buland Darwaza. Later continue to proceed to
Jaipur. On arrival transfer to hotel. After relaxation
in the evening visit to Birla Temple, speculator white
marble temple, glitters in the in the night, at the
time of dinner visit to Chokhi Dhani - an ethnic 5 star
resort serving Rajasthani & Continental cuisine
with live music, astrology, games, folk dances and music,
puppet shows in an ambiance of an ethnic village. Return
to the hotel for overnight stay.
Jaipur Widely
known as the ‘Pink City. This city is color washed
pink to welcome Prince Albert, the consort of Queen
Victoria of England who visited India in 1883 A.D. The
city was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest
ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on
three sides, crowned by formidable forts and majestic
palaces, mansions and gardens. Jaipur is the only city
in the world, which is sub-divided in to nine rectangular
sectors symbolizing nine divisions of universe. Jaipur
is the first planned city designed in accordance with
‘Shilpa Shastra’- epochal treatise of Hindu
architecture.
05 Day:
Jaipur
Today after breakfast explore the Pink City with an excursion to Amber Fort, situated just outside the city, enjoy the experience of ride on elephant back to and from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. Afternoon sightseeing tour of City Palace in the heart of Jaipur is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum. Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was constructed for the royal ladies to watch the royal processions without being seen, all monuments are located in the vicinity of City Palace Complex of Jaipur. Rest of the evening free for relaxation, you may opt to explore the colourful bazaar of Jaipur by cycle Rickshaw ride. Overnight at the hotel.
06 Day: Jaipur - Pushkar
(135 kms: 3 hrs)
After breakfast checkout and drive to Pushkar, On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Pushkar, known for
worlds biggest cattle fair every year in month of November,
with glorious celebration. A city of Pilgrimage from
time immemorial with over 500 temples and ghats Pushkar
begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage.
Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality
that casts a lure to visit again and again. After relaxation
take sightseeing tour of the city visiting temple of
Lord Brahma surrounded by Pushkar Lake. On the banks
of the lake you will see devotees taking dip into the
holy waters of Pushkar & offering prayers. Also
visit the Pushkar Fair site, which is right opposite
the Pushkar Lake. Explore the colourful market of Pushkar,
Overnight at the hotel.
Pushkar:
Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique
gem - Pushkar. Lord Brahma - The creator of the world
in a search for his abode on earth, performed the supremely
spiritual Vedic yagna at Pushkar. It is thus the site
of the only Brahma Temple in the world. A city of Pilgrimage
from time immemorial with over 500 temples and ghats
Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage.
Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality
that casts a lure to visit again and again.
07 Day: Pushkar - Udaipur
(275 kms: 6 hrs)
After breakfast checkout the hotel and drive to Udaipur.
En route stop at Ajmer ( 11 kms from Pushkar) visiting
Shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, Mughal Emperor Humayun
built the shrine and the Buland Darwaza, carved in silver,
was built by the Nizam of Hyderabad. Later continue
to drive to Udaipur en route visit to the magnificent
Chittaurgarh, the fort is spread over 13 square kms,
unlike other forts you can explore this fort by the
vehicle you are traveling, Chittaurgarh fort is the
mightiest Fort in Indian History, The pride and glory
of Rajasthan. A ruined citadel, where the royal past
lives in its imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular
'chhatris'in the fort vicinity visit Kirti Stambha,
Rana-Kumbha Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera Temple and
Kumbha Shyam Temple and Kalika Mata Temple, State Archaeological
Museum. After visit continue to drive to Udaipur. On
arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the evening if time
permits you can enjoy boat ride at Lake Pichola and
also opt for dinner at Lake Palace Hotel, located amidst
the Lake. Overnight at the hotel.
Udaipur: On
the banks of the shimmering lake Pichola, is one of
the most romantic cities of Rajasthan. Nestled among
the lush hills of the Aravali, it has inevitably been
dubbed the 'Venice of the East'. It is a kaleidoscope
of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow
lanes strewn with stalls, carries the flavor of the
heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. Founded
in 1568 A.D by Maharana Udai Singh, the city is a harmonious
Indian blend of whitewashed buildings, marble palaces,
lakeside gardens, temples and Havelis. According to
the legend, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder was hunting
one day, when he met a holy man meditating on a hill
overlooking the Lake Pichola. Maharana followed the
advice of the hermit and founded the city. The marvelous
architecture of the palaces is spelled bounding.
08 Day: Udaipur
After breakfast take a sightseeing tour of Udaipur,
visiting City Palace built in 1559, a small palace over
looking at the Lake Pichola, the additions were made
to it by successive Kings of Udaipur gradually evolved
become the larges place in Rajasthan, Main attraction
of Place are Durbar Hall, Crystal Gallery, Palace Museum
and Jagdish Temple. Later visit Saheli Ki Bari that
is a small ornamental garden built in the honour of
Royal Ladies for recreational purpose and visit Lok
Kala Mandal collection of folk art items like folk dresses,
ornaments, puppets ,masks, dolls folk musical instruments,
folk deities and paintings. Opened seven days a week,
puppet shows and folk dancing are conducted every evening
from 1800 to 1900 in an adjacent open air theatre. &
Shilpgram to see the village arts & crafts. Followed
by visit to Eklingji & Nagda Temples - built in
white marble with a double storied porch on the bank
of Lake Bageela - 22 kms from Udaipur. Overnight at the hotel.
09 Day: Udaipur - Mumbai
(By Air)
Morning after breakfast check out the hotel and transfer
to the airport to board the flight for Mumbai.
Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Rest
of the day is free for rest & relaxation and for shopping in the local markets. Overnight at the hotel.
10 Day: Mumbai
After breakfast, take a sightseeing tour of Mumbai drive to Gateway of India and from here cruise by motorboats to Elephanta Caves. A flight of 100 steps takes you to the top of the hill where it is set. The caves houses large pillars that seem to hold the ceiling, which is made, have crossbeams. The picturesque presentations of the 9 marvelous sculptured panels, set on the walls are awe-inspiring. The most famous of the panels is the Trimurthi, or triple-headed Shiva, where the God is depicted as the destroyer, the preserver and the creator. Later in the afternoon cruise back to Gateway of India, one can have lunch at the hotel or other several good Restaurants like Leopold & Mondegar serving continental cuisines. Later visit Prince of Wales Museum, Taraporewala Aquarium, Parliament House, Marine Drive, Jain Temple, and Hanging Garden. Return back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Mumbai is a
cluster of Seven Islands and derives its name from Mumbadevi,
the patron goddess of the koli fisher folk, its oldest
inhabitants. Mumbai pulsates with activity. It is a
city that is disciplined by no time frame neither day
nor night. It is also the country's financial powerhouse,
the nation's industrial heartland, and its economic
nerve center. Dazzling shopping arcades, exciting sport
activity, nightclubs & discotheques, theatre &
music, gourmet restaurants and interesting sightseeing.
It offers visitors a heady mix of all this and more.
Note: Elephanta and Prince of Wales Museum
are closed on every Monday.
11 Day: Mumbai –
Cochin (By Air)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Cochin. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later take a sightseeing tour of Cochin: Oasis state of Kerala & on to the Malabar Coasts & Kochi (formerly Cochin), one of the India's most colourful cities. This inter, connected series of Islands & shoreline presents a vivacious blend of Cultures & Religions; Visit to Fort Cochin & St. Frances Church to see the town of Vasco da Gama. We also see the Jewish Synagogue & the Mattancherry "Dutch" Palace. This evening a memorable experience in any journey in Kerala is a Boat Trip along the Palm Fringed Lakes & Backwaters of the Area; we enjoy this extraordinary excursion today. As we sail along the shady canals we see cantilevered Chinese fishing nets. From our launch, we enjoy use of narrow produced - Laden dugouts & the everyday life of families living on narrow spits of land between the waters. In the evening enjoy the Kathakali, one of India's most famous Classical dances. Lavish Costumes & Exotic makeup & Masks intensify the beauty of the dancers, intricate moments. Overnight at the hotel.
Kochi (colonial
name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west
coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly
scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as 'God's
Own Country'. Its strategic importance over the centuries
is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian
Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway
to Kerala. From time immemorial, the Arabs, British,
Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese have left indelible marks
on the history and development of Cochin. Over the years,
Cochin has emerged as the commercial and industrial
capital of Kerala and is perhaps the second most important
city on the west coast of India (after Mumbai/Bombay).
Cochin is proud of its world class port and international
airport that link it to many major cities worldwide.
This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats
on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity
to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a
rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate. Cochin
is situated in Ernakulam district in the state of Kerala.
Kochi is the arguably the ideal starting point for exploring
the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala, rated
in the top three tourist destinations by the World Travel
& Tourism Council and featured in National Geographic
Traveler's '50 greatest places of a lifetime'.
12 Day: Cochin - Alleppey
(64 kms - 1 ½ hrs) Backwaters tours through sailing
boat to Kumarakom
After breakfast checkout and drive for Alleppey, on
arrival embark at the houseboat. The day for the journey
of backwaters in the boat, through the tropical countryside
enchanting backwaters of Alleppey by regattas (snake
boats) for which Kerala is very famous, while sailing
enjoy palm fringed narrow canals winding through the
vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets
lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic
sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets,
the reminiscent of our past trade links, are also found
on the way. Flocks of duck swimming around the banks
and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring
pictures reflecting the charm of this tourist land,
you also enjoy fishing from the houseboats, evening
enjoy sunset from the sun-deck of the houseboats, moving
towards Kumarakom. The Houseboats have generated electricity;
sitting cum dinning area, separate bedroom with attached
English toilets, sun deck and fully loaded kitchen with
a Chef, and Srank (Driver). Overnight at the houseboat.
Alleppey situated
in south of Cochin, is the center for backwater cruises
in Kerala. It has a large network of canals, which passes
through the town, provides its lifeline & has a
long sandy beach. It is also the center of the famous
coir products of Kerala. Nehru Trophy Boat Race - the
most colorful snake-boat race in Kerala - is held here
on the second Saturday of August every year.
Alleppey A glide
in a "Kettuvalam" (Houseboat) through the
enchanting backwaters of Alleppey is sure to rob your
heart. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the
vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets
lined up along either side of the canals are panoramic
sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets,
the reminiscent of our past trade links, are also found
on the way. Flocks of duck swimming around the banks
and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring
pictures reflecting the charm of this tourist land.
13 Day: Kumarakom
After breakfast, disembark from the houseboat and drive
to Kumarakom - for the nature-lover. Here in this backwater
town, you can laze in a canoe amidst sylvan surroundings
where the only presence is yours and the egrets. Later
visit at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the banks
of the Vembanad Lake, to see bird viewing where numerous
species of birds, including Darters, Bitterns, Brahminy
kites, Marsh Harries, Teals and several varieties of
Herons roost are found. For an inquisitive bird watcher,
it is always advisable to carry their binoculars at
all times. Return to thehotel, make sure you do not miss
out on Karimeen and fresh toddy the favourite fresh
water food and the local wine. Overnight at the hotel.
14 Day: Kumarakom –
Kovalam (140 kms: 3 hrs)
After breakfast,check out of the hotel and drive
to Kovalam. On arrival, transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day is free for Ayurveda massage and beach activities. Overnight at the hotel.
15 Day: Kovalam – Trivandrum – Cape Camorin – Kovalam (Excursion 84 kms)
After breakfast take sightseeing tour of Trivandrum city, (16 kms) the capital of the state of Kerala is a beautiful seaside city built on seven hills. The famous Sri Padmanabhaswamy Swami Temple is dedicated to Vishnu and is a landmark in the city. Later drive to Cape Camorin also known as Kanya Kumari, this place is at the tail tip end of India, one can see the 3 seas meet over here (Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean & bay of Bengal) on arrival visit Kumari Amman Devi Temple, Vivekananda Rock & Ashram, enjoy sunset over here & drive back to Kovalam for overnight stay.
Kovalam: On
the Malabar Coast along the Kerala shoreline is a small
village; called Kovalam is 16 kms away from Trivandrum,
a sheltered bay endowed with unusual beauty. This natural
bay is a safe sea-pool free from high waves and surge.
The beach resort here is of international standard.
Today Kovalam has become one of the most popular beach
hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut
trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches
gives it a paradise of nature.
16 Day: Kovalam – Trivandrum (16 kms: ½ hr) – Mumbai (By Air) – Hometown (By Air)
After breakfast, morning is free to enjoy activities at the beach. Later check out of the hotel and drive to the airport to board the flight for Mumbai. On arrival transfer to board the connecting flight for hometown. Tour concludes here with happy memories. |