Classic India

DAY 01: ARRIVE DELHI BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT (B) 

Arrive Delhi International Airport. Note:  If you are travelling on an evisa please ensure you are carrying a hardcopy of the approval with you and you should go to the counters at the end of the Immigration hall. You will meet our travel executive after collecting your luggage & passing customs at arrival hall who will assist you with your transfer to hotel. (Check in time would be 1400hrs) Briefing of the tour by the executive   On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.   

DAY 02: IN DELHI (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart for full day tour of Old & New Delhi  DELHI The capital of India, Delhi is home to 16 million people, making it the third largest city in India.  The strategic location of the city made it an attractive location for invading armies, and it served as the capital for many great empires that ruled India.  Many of these Empires built significant monuments, and whilst the Mughal and the British are the most visible, while driving through the city you will see ruins from previous capitals, the earliest dating back to the 12th century.   Today at 9: 00 AM meet your guide in the lobby for your full day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi   Drive past at Red Fort (Monday closed) (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE)   RED FORT is a historic fort in the city of Delhi in India. It was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years, until 1856. It is located in the center of Delhi and houses a number of museums. In addition to accommodating the emperors and their households, it was the ceremonial and political Centre of the Mughal state and the setting for events critically impacting the region.  Today you will visit the Jama Masjid - the Great Mughal Mosque Jama Masjid of Delhi, is one of the largest mosques in India. Located in Old Delhi, it was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656 at a cost of 1 million rupees and was inaugurated by an Imam from Bukhara, present-day Uzbekistan. The mosque was completed in 1656 AD. Close to some 5000 craftsmen were occupied in the construction of the mosque. The courtyard can accommodate more than 25,000 persons.There are three domes on the terrace which are surrounded by the two minarets. On the floor, a total of 899 black borders are marked for worshippers.   For your next escapade, special mode of transportation has been arranged – brightly colored cycle rickshaws, the best way to navigate the narrow, bustling alleyways. Your ride takes you through the fabled Chandni Chowk, literally translated as ‘Silver Square’, which was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jehan's favorite daughter. It was commercial hub of the Mughal era and at that time inhabited by the well-to-do families of the city. Then visit Raj Ghat (The memorial of the father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi).   Continue your tour with Qutab Minar (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE) Qutub Minar is a 73-metre tall tapering tower of five storeys, with a 14.3 metres base diameter, reducing to 2.7 metres at the peak. It contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps.  The walls consist of intricately carved quotations from Koran. The tower is one of the most perfect towers of the Persian world.   The tour would also include a drive through the Lutyens Delhi and a photo stop at India Gate (The war memorial) as well drive past President's Palace & Parliament House (You can also have a photo stop here).   This evening visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib- is one of the most prominent Sikh gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, in Delhi, India and known for its association with the eighth Sikh Guru, Guru HarKrishan, as well as the pool inside its complex, known as the "Sarovar." It was first built as a small temple by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh in 1783, who supervised the construction of nine Sikh shrines in Delhi in the same year, during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Shah Alam II   After this visit Khan Market, One of the more expensive shopping hoods in Delhi, this place has some of the best shopping and eating options in the city.  After the tour return to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 03: DELHI – JAIPUR BY ROAD (265 KMS/5-6 HRS) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel   After breakfast drive to Jaipur, upon arrival check in at hotel. JAIPUR was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is the first well planned city of India, located in the desert lands of India, Rajasthan. The city which once had been the capital of the royalty now is the capital city of Rajasthan. The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal families. In the present date, Jaipur is the major business centre for the natives of Rajasthan with all requisites of a metropolitan city   Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 04: JAIPUR  (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Amber fort - Situated at top of the Aravali hills, it is the ancient capital of Jaipur and a magnificent example of Rajput architecture. Also enjoy the Elephant ride at amber fort and then came back by Jeep or own vehicle. Stop at Water Palace (Jai Mahal Palace) for Photo stop. Later sightseeing of Jaipur city visiting and enjoy Rickshaw ride in city Hawa Mahal- Palace of Winds(This five storied building which looks out over the main street of the old city is one of Jaipur's major landmarks. This is a stunning example of the Rajput artistry with it's pink, semi-octagonal and delicately honey combed and stone windows. Originally HawaMahal was built to enable the ladies of the royal families to watch the daily life and processions of the city), Jantar Mantar(The Observatory, built by Raja Jai Singh in1728. It is an excellent example of the marvelous precision where in each construction has a specific purpose to measure the position of stars, altitudes and azimuths or calculating eclipses. The most  striking instruments the Sun Dial which is 90 feet high) and City Palace Museum(City Palace is delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture. A part of the palace is still the house of the former Maharaja of Jaipur). Visit the various galleries displaying the armory, clothes and paintings of the Rajput clan.   In the evening aarti at the Govind Deo Ji Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and the evening aarti is a beautiful ceremony filled with devotional music and chanting. Overnight stay at hotel.   

DAY 05: JAIPUR – RAMATHRA BY ROAD (165 KMS/3-4 HRS) (B,L,D) 

Breakfast at the hotel After breakfast drive to Ramathra, upon arrival check in at hotel. RAMATHRA Ramathra was granted as a jagir (fiefdom)in 1645 AD to Thakur Bhoj Pal by his father the Maharaja of Karauli. The name Ramathra honours Lord Rama, who, it is believed, camped here while on his epic journey to Lanka. Today, Ramathra Fort belongs to Thakur Brijendra Raj Pal and his family who are descendents of the founder. Lunch at hotel Wilderness Drive – Tour the countryside, visit ‘Gujar’ hamlets, and explore a cavernous gorge and an old cave temple, look out for possible wildlife sightings enroute. Bird Watching: There are a variety of species of birds seen around the Fort & Lake .Bird watching can be done at the lake, at the marshes below the fort or during your walk to the village.   Dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.    

DAY 06: IN RAMATHRA (B,L,D) 

Breakfast at the hotel Today full day enjoy Ramathra and other activities. Ramathra Village Trail: A complete walking tour of Ramathra village, a small hamlet of farmers and cattle herders, takes about 3 hours. You see all kinds of work associated with tending crops and animals. Later enjoy Camel Cart Ride – A ride through the village or to the Lake. Lunch at hotel Boating @ Sunset – in a row boat in the kalisil dam. It is peaceful & picturesque with breathtaking views of the sunset & rich with birdlife. We provide life jackets, a bird book & also a pair of binoculars. Dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 07: RAMATHRA – AGRA, VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI BY ROAD (205 KMS/4-5 HOURS) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Later depart for Agra en route visiting Fatehpur sikri The Mughal Emperor Akbar built Fatehpūr Sikrī about 35 km from Agra, and moved his capital there. Later abandoned, the site displays a number of buildings of significant historical importance. A World Heritage Site, it is visited by most tourists. The name of the place came about after the Mughal Emperor Barbar defeated Rana Sanga in a battle at a place called Sikrī . Then the Mughal Emperor Akbar wanted to make Fatehpūr Sikrī his head quarters, so he built a majestic fort; due to shortage of water, however, he had to ultimately move his headquarters to Agra Fort. Later continue your drive to Agra and check in at your hotel.   AGRA - This was the seat of the mighty Mughal Empire before it shifted its capital to Delhi, and it is home to some of their most inspired architectural creations including the Taj Mahal. In the 16th and 17th century, the Mughal Courts were at their most powerful, and were great patron of the arts, and Agra attracted artisans, poets and musicians from across India as well as Persia and Central Asia, transforming Agra into a cultural and architectural paradise. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.  

DAY 08: IN AGRA (B) 

This morning wake up early and visit Taj Mahal by the sunrise to avoid the crowds. Described as a most extravagant monument ever build for love, this sublime Mughal mausoleum is India’s most ogled icon. The Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his second wife, MumtazMahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. The death of Mumtaz left the emperor so heartbroken that his hair is said to have turned grey virtually overnight. Construction of the Taj began in the same year and was not completed until 1653.  Not long after it was finished, Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb and imprisoned in Agra Fort where, for the rest of his days, he could only gaze out at his creation through a window. Following his death in 1666, Shah Jahan was buried here alongside Mumtaz. Return to hotel for Breakfast. Then visit AGRA FORT(sometimes called the Red Fort), was commissioned by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565, and is another of Agra's World Heritage Sites. A stone tablet at the gate of the Fort states that it had been built before 1000 but was later renovated by Akbar. The red sandstone fort was converted into a palace during Shah Jahan’s time, and reworked extensively with marble &Pietra durainlay. Notable buildings in the fort include the Pearl Mosque, the Diwan-e'Ām and Dīwān-e-Khās (halls of public and private audience), Jahagir Palace, KhāsMahal, Sheesh Mahal (mirrored palace), Also visit local market and a marble factory where you can actually see the inlay work being done on marble like it was done for Taj in the past. In the evening, enjoy a walking cultural tour of Agra. Get to know Agra the local way, by exploring the city’s hidden lane-ways, bustling spice market, and religious mosques and temples, all with your feet to guide you. Sample treats at a 200-year-old sweets shop, hop on a cycle rickshaw, and learn why Hindu families dress their idols. Hear the legends that have been passed down through generations and learn how modern-day India is reshaping itself. Finish it all up with the spectacular sight of the Taj Mahal from a secret spot. Overnight stay at hotel.    

DAY 09: AGRA – JHANSI BY TRAIN (GATIMAN EXPRESS AT 0955/1235) (B)   

JHANSI – ORCHHA, BY ROAD (20 KMS/ ½ HALF HOUR DRIVE)  

Breakfast at the hotel Later in time transfer to Agra Railway station to board the train for Jhansi. Meeting with assistance on arrival and drive to Orchha by road. On arrival check in at hotel. ORCHHA, a historic town in Madhya Pradesh, India, is renowned for its well-preserved palaces, temples, and cenotaphs from the Bundela dynasty. Situated on the banks of the Betwa River, Orchha's highlights include the grand Jehangir Mahal, the unique Ram Raja Temple where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king, and the picturesque cenotaphs dedicated to the Bundela rulers. Known for its stunning architecture and serene environment, Orchha offers a captivating glimpse into India's rich cultural and historical heritage. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 10: ORCHHA – KHAJURAHO BY ROAD (180 KMS/4-5 HOURS) (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Morning sightseeing of Orchha, visiting Ram Raja Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple and Cenotaphs (Chhatris) Ram Raja Temple: This unique temple, where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king, is the only one of its kind in India. It attracts many devotees and has a vibrant, spiritual atmosphere. Chaturbhuj Temple: This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, stands out with its imposing structure and grand architecture. Climb to the upper levels for a great view of Orchha town. Cenotaphs (Chhatris): Visit the group of 14 cenotaphs (memorials) built in honor of the Bundela rulers. Located on the banks of the Betwa River, these structures offer a picturesque and tranquil setting. Later drive to Khajuraho by road. On arrival check in at hotel. KHAJURAHO, located in Madhya Pradesh, India, is renowned for its stunning group of Hindu and Jain temples built between 950 and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty. These temples are famous for their intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting various aspects of life, spirituality, and eroticism, showcasing exceptional artistry and architectural brilliance. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is divided into the Western, Eastern, and Southern groups, with the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple being the most prominent. Khajuraho offers a unique glimpse into India's rich cultural and historical heritage, attracting visitors from around the world. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 11: IN KHAJURAHO (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel Today full day sightseeing to the Western Group of Temples & Eastern Group of Temples. Begin your day with the Western Group of Temples, the largest and most visited cluster in Khajuraho. These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are renowned for their architectural grandeur and intricate carvings. Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Chitragupta Temple, Vishwanath Temple and Matangeshvara Temple. Move on to the Eastern Group of Temples, which includes both Hindu and Jain temples. This group is known for its serene and less crowded environment. Parsvanath Temple, Adinath Temple and Ghantai Temple Khajuraho Archaeological Museum - The museum houses a collection of sculptures and artifacts from the temples, providing deeper insights into the art and history of Khajuraho. It features stone sculptures, inscriptions, and various objects that offer a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 12: KHAJURAHO – VARANASI BY FLIGHT (B) 

Breakfast at the hotel. Later in time transfer to Khajuraho airport to board the flight for Varanasi. VARANASI is one of India's oldest and holiest cities, located along the Ganges River. It's known for its religious significance, ghats, temples, and cultural heritage. Visitors come for spiritual experiences, ceremonies, and to explore the city's rich history. Meeting with assistance on arrival and later transfer to airport.  This evening at 5:00 PM you will take a boat ride to see the evening activities. In contrast to the early mornings when the Ghats are a mass of people performing a wide variety of rituals, at sunset the main sounds are the temple bells as the priests start their preparations for the evening “aarti” ceremony. In the distance you will see the fires of the crematorium as the last of the cremations are performed before the sun goes down, and there are a few pilgrims taking a final dip in the river. Whilst the city is still busy, crowded and noisy, sunset slows and quietness life along the river. You will arrive at main Ghat in time to watch the evening “aarti” ceremony, when priests perform a ritual to put the river gods to sleep and to ward off any evils. After the tour return to the hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.   

DAY 13: IN VARANASI (B) 

Arise early morning for boat ride on river Ganges. The sunrise is worth watching. The visit would include the burning ghats among other ghats where people do their early morning chores like bathing, yoga etc. You would also be able to walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi or Kashi. Return to hotel for breakfast.   After breakfast depart for half day sightseeing tour of Varanasi visiting   Bharat Mata Temple or Bharat Mata Temple is one of its kinds in Varanasi. Contrary to what most of the tourists believe, this temple is not dedicated to any God, Goddess or certain deity for that matter. It is dedicated to the human manifestation of India popularly called Mother India or Bharat Mata in Hindi. And this temple even not houses the statue or bust of Bharat Mata; instead it has a very big relief map of India carved out of marble. The temple was inaugurated by non other than Mahatma Gandhi, The father of the Indian Nation In the afternoon you will be taken to visit Sarnath – It is the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Excavations by the Archaeological Survey of India at Sarnath   have   revealed   many structures which represent facets of the Buddhist history visit the Archaeological Museum, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, Tibetan Temple, Thai Temple and the Deer Park. The Archaeological Museum in Sarnath is one of the most famous museums of its kind in Southeast Asia. The museum is situated very near the historical ruins. It contains a huge collection of sculptures. Overnight stay at hotel. 

DAY 14: VARANASI – DELHI BY FLIGHT (B) DELHI DEPARTURE 

Breakfast at the hotel Morning at leisure Later in time transfer to airport to board the flight for Delhi. Meeting with assistance on arrival and later transfer to Terminal 03 International airport to board the flight for onward destination.   

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