Colorful Rajasthan Tour

Tour Duration : 14 Nights & 15 Days
Places Covered : Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Bundi - Pushkar - Ajmer - Delhi

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Detailed Itenarary :

Day 1 : New Delhi

Met upon arrival & transfer you to the hotel. Remain day at leisure to kick of the jet lag – Dinner & overnight stay in the Hotel.

Day 2 : Delhi - Agra

Early in the morning you proceed for the city tour of Delhi and visit to:: - Laxmi Narayan Temple :: is the biggest temple in North India, it was built by richest family of India in 1938. It is dedicated to Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity) and Narayan (god of preserver). Jantar Mantar (Observatory) :: is built by Jai Singh in 1725, its passion for astronomy was more notable. Its main main feature is th measure the position of stars, altitudes and azimuths and calculating eclipses. President House :: is official residence of the President of the Country designed by Luytens. It was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. Parliament House :: is a circular building where the Indian Parliament meets and the Worlds largest Democracy works. India Gate - is a 42m high stone arch of trimph. Their bear the name of the 85,000 Indian Army Soldiers who died in the campaigns of World War I. Below the arch is the memorial to the Unknown Soldier; India Gate is surrounded by green grass lawns and trees. Lotus Temple (Bahai Temple) :: was designed like a lotus flower. It is made of marble, cement, dolomite, and sand. It is open to all faiths and is an ideal place for meditation and obtaining peace and tranquility. Humayuns Tomb :: is a mausoleum of the Mughal emperor Humayun. Bega Begum also known as Haji Begum, wife of Humayun constructed the mausoleum for her husband. It was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyuth and built between 1562 and 1572 A.D. Qutab Minar :: is 72.5m tall and takes 379 steps to reach to the top. The construction was started by Qutub-ud-din Aibek and completed by his successor. Red Fort :: is one of the most magnificent palaces in the World. The Mughal Emperor, Sha Jahan, after ruling from Agra for eleven years, decided to shift to Delhi and laid the foundation stone of the Red Fort in 1618. Jama Masjid :: is constructed by 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. A fine example of Mughal architecture, the Jama Masjid has three gateways. The main courtyard of the mosque is 408sq feet and paved with red stone. Raj Ghat :: a simple sq platform of black marble marks the spots where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated after his assassination in 1948. To North of Raj Ghat is the cremation ground of Jawaharlal Nehru named as Shanti Van. The cremation ground of Indira Gandhi, Sanjay Gandhi, and Rajeev Gandhi are also in the vicinity. By late in the afternoon leave the hotel and drive towards Agra - the city of the Taj - Located at a distance of 204 km south of Delhi, Agra is the single most famous tourist destination of India. Situated on the west bank of River Yamuna, Agra is a part of the great Northern Indian plains. The architectural splendor of the city is reflected in the glorious monuments of medieval India built by great Mughals who ruled India for more than 300 years. In the mid 16th century and earlier 17th century Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity and it was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built. The buildings made during this era were purely in the contemporary Mughal style and of very high quality which is still reflected in what ever monuments remain in Agra. Upon arrival transfer you to the hotel - Dinner and over night stays in the Hotel.

Day 3 : Agra - Jaipur

Early morning get your packed Break fast and sun rise visit to Taj Mahal & and then proceed for Sikandra Tomb :: the tomb of Third Mughal Ruler "Akbar " during the early 16th centaury , the five storied building is quite Impressive and is an interesting to place to study the gradual evolution in design that culminated in the Taj Mahal. Then proceed for Jaipur and visit enrooted Fatehpur Sikri :: the Deserted city - which got built by the Third Mughal ruler " Akbar " and remained as capital from 1570 until 1585 and due to the water shortage the mughal ruler Akbar was compelled to shift his capital from Fathepur sikri to Agra . The Important Features of the fort are Shahi Darwaza ( Kings Gate ) , Tomb Of Sheikh Salim Chisti , Palace of Jodha Bai , Birbal Bhawan , Panch Mahal , Hide and seek Palace , Hall for the Common - Private Audience and now is the time to proceed for Jaipur - the Pink city of India which is - Settled in the rugged hills of the Aravalis, Jaipur is the pristine jewel in the desert sands of Rajasthan. Jaipur is as remarkable for its marvelous architecture and town planning as it is for the lively spirit of the people who inhabit it. The city presents a unique synthesis of culture that has to be experienced in order to be appreciated. With its origin buried deep into the pages of history, the city still exudes a magical old world charm; an aroma of chivalry and romance is evident, despite having evolved into a city that is the hub of modern commercial activity in the region. Tell-tale signs of the glorious past and regal splendor of the city lie strewn across with gay abandon. Widely known as the Pink City, Jaipur 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. The lively spirit of fanfare, festivity, and celebration of the people adequately match the colorful and intricately carved monuments. Even today, one can find weather beaten faces with huge colorful turbans, fierce moustaches, and lips that spontaneously crease into a heart-warming smile. A city like Jaipur, where modernity and tradition live hand-in-hand, is truly rare. Perhaps this is what makes it an attractive destination for tourists who flock to Jaipur, year after year. Upon arrival check in the Hotel later proceed for a drive around the city to have the feel of the city and over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 4 : Jaipur

Have breakfast and proceed for full day city tour of Jaipur and visit to: - Hawa Mahal :: The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Their five-storey structures 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 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 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 Jal Mahal :: Also known as Water Palace, Built in the mid 18th century by Madho Singh I The Palace was developed as a pleasure spot and was used for the royal duck shooting parties. A causeway leads to Jal Mahal Palace situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, opposite the cenotaphs. Evening is free for shopping and over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 5 : Jaipur - Bikaner

Have Breakfast & drive towards Mandawa - the open air art gallery of Rajasthan, This region came into prominence in the 14th century when a number of Muslim clans moved into the area and the towns of this region developed into important trading posts on the caravan routes emanating from the ports of Gujarat. This region is famous for painted havelis most of which date back from the 18th century. It is famous for frescoes on the walls of havelis and forts depicting the life and valor of rajputs. Upon arrival transfer you to the hotel. After couple of an hour, take a tour of the painted ‘havelis’. The famous and must visit among all are Chowkhani Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Lakshmi Narayan Ladia Haveli, Mohahanlal Saraf Haveli and Bhagchandika Haveli. Watch the splendor of almost 100 year old frescoes. Upon arrival proceed for the city tour & later Drive towards Bikaner. On arrival transfer you to the hotel. Get fresh and then proceed to visit: - Junagarh :: is built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Emperor Akber. The structure is encircled by a moat and has beautiful palaces in between made of Redstone and marbles. Devi Kund :: is a royal crematorium with several ornamented cenotaphs built in the memory of Bika Dynasty rulers. Maharaja Suraj Singhs cenotaph is the most impressive one created entirely with white marble with secular rajputs paintings on the ceilings. Bhandasar Jain Temple :: is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Parasavnathji. The temples have colorful wall painting and some beautiful carving. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum :: has one of the richest collections of terracotta ware, weapons miniature paintings of Bikaner schools and coins. It also has separate section displaying exclusive arts and crafts of the region. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 6 : Bikaner - Jaisalmer

Leave after breakfast for the Golden city of India - Jaisalmer - you enjoy the ride as the roads are absolutely empty and you only watch the camels and at certain places sometime the Deers and other wildlife - upon arr. have lunch and proceed for a walking tour to: - HAVELIS - Nathmalji ki Haveli :: This late 19th century haveli displays intricate architecture and sheer craftsmanship. One very interesting fact about this haveli is that two brothers carved its two sides. Though not identical they are very similar and in perfect harmony. The interior walls are ornate with splendid miniature paintings. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building. Patwon ki Haveli :: This is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis in Jaisalmer. Located in a narrow alley, it is five storeys high. It has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers. One of the rooms is painted with beautiful murals. Salim Singh ki Haveli :: 300 years old, this haveli was the residence of the powerful Mohta clan - ministers of the Jaisalmer rulers. The blue cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the form of peacocks is distinctive, and an exquisite projecting balcony adorns the top storey. Evening watch the local dances in a restaurant while having the dinner - over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 7 : Jaisalmer

Have breakfast and proceed for full day city tour of Jaisalmer and visit: - The Fort :: This 12th century fort that withstood the ravages of time rises out of the sea of sand. Its rounded battlements of golden sandstone, echoes the colors of the desert. The fort has four approach gateways. Several entrances guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal, which bear the imperial symbols of the Bhatti clans lunar lineage. Outside the fort, is the main market place called Manek Chowk. From Manek Chowk, one can walk into the lanes, where the famous carved havelis, beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th -15th century and five interconnected palaces can be found. Tazia Tower :: The pagoda - like five storeyTazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each storey of the tower has a beautifully carved balcony. Muslim craftsmen built the tower, in the shape of a Tazia and gifted it to their royal patron. Gadsisar Lake :: It is a scenic rainwater lake surrounded with numerous beautiful shrines. The lake is a tranquil spot for outings. Lodurva (15 Kms) :: Lodurva is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer and an important pilgrim centre of the Jains Some of the magnificent Jain temples are located here. The temples have intricate carvings on the arches at the main entrance. A Kalptaru or a divine tree is the main attraction of the temple. Manak Square :: A Main marketplace outside the fort leads to the narrow lanes dotted with famous havelis Sam Sand Dunes (42 Kms) :: No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without trip to Most picturesque dunes of Sam . The ripples on the wind - caressed dunes, that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight for trigger- happy photographer. Various cultural programmed are organized against the back drop of these fascinating sand dunes, Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real experience of the desert on the camel back - dinner and over night stays in the Hotel.

Day 8 : Jaisalmer - Jodhpur

Have breakfast and leave for the Blue city of Rajasthan ie. Jodhpur, which is located on the eastern fringe of the Thar Desert, has the distinction of neither being a part of the Thar Desert nor out of it. At best, it is a doorway to the wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrain and thorny trees. It is the home of the Rathors - the awesome princely state of Rajasthan, who conquered Marwar or Maroodesh, land of the sand after the fall of Delhi and Kannauj. In 1459 AD, Rao Jodha, chief of Rathore clan of Rajputs, who claimed descent from Rama, the epic here of the Ramayana, laid the foundation of Jodhpur. A high stonewall protects the well-fortified city. The wall is nearly 10 km in length and has eight gates facing various directions. Within, stands an imposing fort on a low range of sandstone hills, about 125m above the surrounding plains. Invincible! Moreover, dauntless in its league with time! The city lies at the foot of the hills. The clear distinction between the old and the new city is visible from the ramparts of the fort. On the other side of the city, facing the fort is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the most spacious, sprawling and well-planned palaces in India. Moreover, from here, as you look at the fort, a tantalizing view rises before your eyes at sunset. The peculiar slant of the sunset lends the desert landscape an awe-inspiring glow and the people, a chivalry undaunted. After reach Jodhpur, transfer you to the hotel. After lunch start visit the following: - Mehrangarh Fort :: Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this Majestic Fort is sprawled across a 125m high hill. This is one of the most impressive and formidable fort in fort-studded Rajasthan. A winding road from the city 5km below approaches the fort. Seven gates lead into the fort. The Second gate is still scarring by cannon ball hits; Maharaja Man Singh built the Jayapol in 1806 following his victory over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner; the Fatehpol or Victory Gate was erecting by Maharaja Ajit Singh to commemorate his defeat of the Mughals. The Lohapol (Iron Gate) is the final gate beside which are 15 hand prints, the sati (self-immolation) marks of Maharaja Man Singhs widows who threw themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843. They still attract devotional attention. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace apartments with marvelously carved panels, latticed windows have evocative names such as Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant howdahs (used when the Maharajas rode their elephants in processions), miniature paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. There is even a display of rocking cradles. The Chamunda Devi Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga, stands on the southern end of the fort. There are also old cannons on the ramparts at this end and the views from here are superb. Umaid Bhawan Palace :: Maharaja Umaid Singhji who built this palace was fascinated with western lifestyles so he marshalled the services of a well-known Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, a creditable equal of Edward Lutyens (architect of New Delhi) to construct a three hundred and forty seven roomed Umaid Palace. This was to become India last of the great palaces and the biggest private residence in the world. Jaswant Thada :: On the way down from the fort, on left is Jaswant Thada, the graceful marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. His son Maharaja Sardar Singhji built the Taj Mahal of Marwar in the memory of Maharaj Jaswant Singhji II of Jodhpur. Maha Mandir :: The Mahamandir Temple is supported by 100 pillars and has carvings depicting yoga postures. Mandore Gardens :: Mandore was the former capital of Maharajas of Marwar and is located about 5 miles north of Jodhpur, but was later abandoned for the security of Mehrangarh fort. Here you will find the dewals, or cenotaphs of Jodhpurs former rulers. Unlike the usual chhatri-shaped cenotaphs typical of Rajasthan, they were built along the lines of a Hindu temple, four stories high, with fine columns and an elegant spire, all in red sandstone. Evening you have the walking tour of Clock Tower market also called as the Spice Market and is quite interesting to see the villagers shopping. Later return to the Hotel for over night stay.

Day 9 : Jodhpur - Udaipur

Leave after breakfast for Ranakpur & upon arrival visit the temples, which are beautiful sculptured Jain temples mark the glory of this renowned place. Marked as one of the five holy places for the Jain community, these were created in the 15 the century. During the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a wall. The central Chaumukha [four-faced temple] is dedicated to Adinathji the temple is an astounding creation with 29 halls and 1,444 pillars all distinctly carved and no two being alike is an amazing evidence of the genius sense of architecture that enhances the charm of the place - and then proceed for Udaipur. Upon arrival relax and enjoy the surroundings and if you wish to - you can have the sun set cruise at Lake Pichola - which gives the beautiful picture. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 10 : Udaipur

Have breakfast and proceed for full day City Tour & visiting: - City Palace :: One of the largest royal complexes in Rajasthan, situated on a promontory on the picturesque Lake Pichola. The complex has 11 beautiful palaces with balconies and towers. Offering the breathtaking view of the lake the City Lake Palace :: also known as Jag Niwas is a beautiful Island Palace built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. Situated on picturesque Lake Pichola, the white marble structure appears like emerging out of the shimmering blue waters on the lake, creating a spellbound effect. Jag Mandir :: is another beautiful island palace on Lake pichola, by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1615 A.D. The palace once sheltered the Mudhal prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the world famous Taj Mahal) who rebelled against his father Jehangir in the 1620s. The Palace has a giant stone sculpture of elephants and a impressive cenotaphs that add its beauty. Saheliyon ki Bari :: garden was built in early 18th centuary A.D. as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to the visitors. Maharana Pratap Memorial (Moti Magari) :: in an impressive bronze statue of Maharana Pratap and his favorite and loyal horse, who was protective about his master and stood by his last breathe, stand at the top of Moti Magri ( Pearl Mount) overlooking Fateh Sagar. Lake Pichola :: derives its name from Pichola village that was submerged and Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city. He built the masonry dam known as Badipol and lake is now 4 Kms long and 3 Kms wide. This picturesque lake encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag mandir. Eklingji (21 Kms ) :: is A Religious Complex Northern region of Mewar. It houses 108 temples chiseled out of sandstone and marble. Temple of Eklingji was built in 734 A.D. Enclosed by high walls, it is devoted to Eklingji (A form of Shiv Deity adored under the epithet of Eklinga). Built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651 the temple enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu. There is a brass image of Garuda the Lord Bird carrier. The exterior and the plinth are cover with base relief of alligators, elephants, equestrian and celestial musicians rise in tiers. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 11 : Udaipur - Bundi

Have breakfast and drive towards Bundi - is picturesque little town in Rajasthan, fills a narrow valley in the oldest hills in India: the Aravallis. This walled town, 37 km north of Kota, lies in the north of the former Hadaoti state, shielded on the north, east and west by jagged outcrops of the Vindhya Range. Bundi, renowned for its intricate paintings and murals, made a perfect capital of a major princely state during the heydays of the Rajputs. According to legend, back in the 12th century, restless young nobles of the warrior Chauhan clan conquered the Bhil and Meena tribals of these lands. Kota was a part of Bundi until its separation in 1624 at the instigation of the Mughal emperor, Jehangir. Taragarh Fort :: it was built in 1345 and is great ramble around at leisure. This is rather a ramshackle fort, with its overgrown vegetation. The view over the town and surrounding countryside from the top are magical, especially at sunset. Inside the ramparts, there are huge reservoirs carved out of solid rock, and the Bhim Burj, the largest of the battle- fields, on which there is, mounted a famous cannon. Taragarh reached by steep road leading up the hillside to its enormous gateway. Take a path up behind the chitra Shala, go east along the inside of the ramparts then left up the steep stone ramp just before the Dudha Mahal, a small disused building 200m from the palace. Chitra Mahal :: The Chitra SHALA has a colourful glimpse of history painted on ceilings and walls, making it an open art gallery. The paintings of Bundi School are famous for its festivals, animals and birds scenes portrayed beautifully. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 12 : Bundi - Pushkar

Leave after breakfast for Pushkar - the Holiest city of the Hindus - the quiet little town of eastern Rajasthan, is located 11 km from Ajmer, on the edge of a small and beautiful lake. Pushkar is a city of 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats. Pushkar prides itself on being the site of the only temple of the Hindu God of Creation, Brahma. Every November, Pushkar comes alive with the vibrancy and colors of the famous Pushkar Fair and the full moon festivities at the Ghats. No pilgrimage is considered complete without a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake. Pushkar has as many as 400 temples and 52 Ghats and the only temple in the country that is dedicated to Brahma is to be found here. While Pushkar is a heaven for the religiously inclined, it is also the venue of one of the countrys most colorful cattle fairs - the Pushkar Fair of Hindus. Pushkar became a favorite residence of the great Mughals. One of the first contacts between the Mughals and the British occurred in Pushkar when Sir Thomas Roe met with Jehangir here in 1616. The city was subsequently taken by the Scindias and, in 1818, it was handed over to the British, becoming one of the few places in Rajasthan controlled directly by British rather than being part of a princely state. Upon arrival transfer you to the hotel. Evening is free for leisure & over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 13 : Pushkar

Have breakfast & proceed for the city tour of Pushkar. Pushkar Lake :: The pious Pushkar Lake is believed to having been created by the falling of lotus from the hand of Lord Brahma. It is considered to be as old as the creation. The lake is considered as one of the most sacred spots, and believed that one dip in the waters of lake on Kartika Poornima occasion is equivalent to performing yagnas for several hundred years. Brahma Temple :: This is the only existing temple dedicated to lord Brahma and was constructed in the 14th century, standing on a high plinth with marble steps leading up to it. A beautiful carved silver turtle sits on the floor facing the sanctorum or Garbha Griha. The marble floor around the silver turtle is embedded with hundreds of silver coins, with donors name engraved on them. Saraswati Temple :: Saraswati is the wife of Brahma. Literally her name means the flowing one .In the Rig Veda she represents a river deity and is connected with fertility and purification. She is considered the personification of all knowledge - arts, sciences, crafts and skills. She is the goddess of the creative impulse, the source of music, beauty and eloquence. Evening is free and over night stays in the Hotel.

Day 14 : Pushkar - Ajmer - Delhi

Have breakfast & morning free for leisure. Later in the afternoon drive towards Ajmer Railway station to catch the train for Delhi. Upon arrival, check in the hotel. Evening is free for leisure. Over night stays in the hotel.

Day 15 : New Delhi

As per your international flight timings, leave the hotel and drive towards International Airport to board flight for back home.