Unexplored Rajasthan
Duration:
14 Nights & 15 Days
Destinations:
DELHI - AGRA - RAMATHRA - JAIPUR - DEOGARH - ROHET - NARLAI - UDAIPUR
Tour Highlights:
Begin your journey in Delhi, exploring iconic landmarks like India Gate and Red Fort. In Agra, visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Escape to the tranquil Ramathra Fort and enjoy village walks. Discover Jaipur's royal charm, including Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal. Unwind in Deogarh, exploring its heritage and countryside. Experience Rajasthani culture in Rohet, with jeep safaris and village life. In Narlai, enjoy a leopard safari and a unique stepwell dinner. End in Udaipur, visiting its lakes, City Palace, and scenic boat rides on Lake Pichola.
Itinerary:
DAY 01: ARRIVE DELHI BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT (-)
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 – AGRA BY ROAD (205KMS/4-5HRS) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast drive to Agra by road, on arrival check in at 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. 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 04: AGRA – RAMATHRA, VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI BY ROAD (205 KMS/4-5HOURS) (B,D)
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. Depart for Ramathra 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 Ramathra Fort and check in at your 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. Dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 05: IN RAMATHRA (B,L,D)
Breakfast at the hotel Today full day enjoy Ramathra and other activites. 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. 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. Lunch at hotel Later enjoy Camel Cart Ride – A ride through the village or to the Lake. Dinner at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 06: RAMATHRA – JAIPUR BY ROAD (165 KMS/3-4 HRS) (B,L)
Breakfast at the 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. After Lunch 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 07: 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. Enjoy evening aarti at Govind Deo Ji temple. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 08: JAIPUR – DEOGARH BY ROAD (285 KMS / 6-7HRS) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Later driver to Deogarh by road, on arrival check in at hotel. DEOGARH Deogarh Mahal, also known as Deogarh Palace, is a historical palace located in the town of Deogarh in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is a magnificent heritage structure that showcases the architectural grandeur and cultural richness of the region. Deogarh Mahal is renowned for its impressive architecture, which blends Rajputana and Mughal styles. The palace features ornate carvings, intricate frescoes, majestic domes, and beautiful courtyards. The interiors are adorned with exquisite mirror work, stained glass windows, and detailed murals, depicting scenes from mythology, history, and everyday life. Evening enjoy the Bird watching along with hotel guide, we do have some beautiful lakes around Deogarh, full of many beautiful migratory birds i.e., Saras crane, White throated kingfisher, pied kingfisher, black headed ibis, geese etc. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 09: DEOGARH – ROHET BY ROAD (115 KMS / 2-3 HRS) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning Village Walk - A village walk in Deogarh can be a delightful and immersive experience, allowing you to explore the rural life, traditions, and culture of Rajasthan. Later continue drive towards Rohet, on arrival check in at hotel. ROHET GARH, a charming, family-run fort with a homely atmosphere and traditional Rajasthani style. This 375 year old fortified desert home, of the descendants of the Rathore’s, lies on the banks of a small lake teeming with birdlife just south of Jodhpur city. The Singh family still reside here and run the hotel, restored in traditional Rajput style, filled with historic trophies and delightful details. You enter through painted gates into a rambling, low rise building which has various wings surrounding grassy courtyards and a landscaped garden, as well as plenty of breezy verandas and private retreats. The welcoming central courtyard, with its garden and bougainvillea, has been completely restored with marble floors, a traditional arched veranda, and a small marble fountain in the lawn. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 10: ROHET – JODHPUR – ROHET (EXCURSION) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel After breakfast, a full day excursion tour of Jodhpur. JODHPUR Also known as the Blue City, has one of the most beautiful fort called Mehrangarh Fort(my favourite one). I would also recommend to visit a near by Village called "Bishnoi Village". The Bishnoi’s are a eco Friendly sect of Hindu religion, it is one of the different community of Rajasthan who are famous for there rich cultural Rajasthani Life and there true love for nature and animals. The city of Jodhpur, with its gentle atmosphere belies a stormy yet glorious past. Its walls, seven gates and numerous bastions and towers were built in the 16th century by Rao Maldeo. 393 feet above the flat surrounding plains soars a bold bluff on which was built the massive Meherangarh (Majestic) Fort. In the old city’s maze of old lanes lie several palaces, havelis and some temples. The famous puppetmakers of Jodhpur are found here. Visit the Sardar Bazar with its Clock Tower of 1912. Visit the fort and palaces, some of which contain a fine collection of Rajput miniature paintings, a museum, Maan Vilas which houses Rathore armoury and on the ramparts stand cannons, the spoils of Gaj Singh. On the road down from the Fort see Jaswant Thada, the blinding white marble cenotaph (chhatri) of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Evening return to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 11: ROHET- NARLAI BY ROAD (170 KMS / 04-05 HRS DRIVE) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. This morning you will be taken on a village safari, cultural experience, showcasing the best of the land and all that this region has to offer. From the warm and hospitable people to their various customs and ceremonies, the local crafts and the abundant wildlife, guests have the rare privilege of being welcomed into people’s homes and interacting with them. Meet the ‘Premier ecologists of the world’, the Bishnoi people, who have protected nature for more than 500 years and are responsible for the very survival of species like the Black Buck antelope (India’s most beautiful antelope and a rare and protected species today). They share a beautiful relationship with this special animal, wherein the antelope stays close to Bishnoi habitation, never leaving it, and displays complete trust in the Bishnoi people. Guests also meet the Raikas (shepherds), with their glorious costumes, and the Paliwal and Meghwal (the Brahmin farmers and weavers). Later drive to Narlai, on arrival checks in at hotel. NARLAI is a scenic village in Rajasthan, India, situated between Udaipur and Jodhpur. It offers a glimpse into Rajasthan's heritage with historic havelis and temples. You can stay at the luxurious Narlai Rawla, go on leopard safaris in Jawai Wildlife Sanctuary, and experience rural life. It's a peaceful destination with stunning natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 12: IN NARLAI (B)
Breakfast at the hotel Enjoy an early morning Jeep Safari in search of the elusive leopard and other wildlife of the region. Enjoy the Escorted village walk to visit the Narlai, its main temples, meet the friendly people of the village, their homes and get to learn a little about their way of life. Drive to the lake in our jeep to enjoy the serene atmosphere and bird watching. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 13: NARLAI – UDAIPUR BY ROAD (130 KMS / 03-04 HRS DRIVE) (B)
Breakfast at the hotel Later in time drive to Udaipur, en route visiting Ranakpur – famous for its beautiful Jain’s temple. RANAKPUR-100 kms from Udaipur, in a deep, secluded valley at Ranekpur are the most magnificent Jain temples in India. It is an extensive complex covering 3,600 sq. metres and has 29 halls with 1,444 pillars, each unlike the other, intricately covered with delicate carvings, geometrically so designed that if one stands near any pillar, one can see the deity. The central temple is dedicated to Adinath, the Revealer of Truth. The temple was constructed in the early 14th century. Later continue drive towards Udaipur, on arrival check in at hotel. UDAIPUR- Located amidst mighty Aravalli Hills and renowned as the ‘City of Lakes’, Udaipur is dotted with royal palaces, tranquil lakes, towering temples, and majestic forts. You can explore this idyllic place and get glimpses of rich Rajasthani culture. Furthermore, they can embark on a Udaipur tour to explore its attractions and delight in the breathtaking scenery. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 14: IN UDAIPUR (B)
Breakfast at the hotel. Today full day city tour of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace, once the home of Mewar’s rulers, is today a museum. It consists of several flawlessly integrated palaces which overlook the clear blue of Lake Pichola. Visit Sahelion-ki-bari (Garden of the Maids of Honour) the scene of royal parties for centuries. Drive around Fateh Sagar Lake excavated in the late 17th century by Maharana Feteh Singh and past the Puppet Museum (Lok Kala Mandal) and the statue of Maharana Pratap (Moti Magri). Boatride on Lake Pichola - This lake takes its name from the small village of Picholi on its west bank. In the lake are several islands. On two of them the maharanas of Udaipur constructed pleasure palaces, the Jag Mandir and the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace Hotel). Jag Mandir - It is said that Maharana Karan Singh built this island retreat for the family of his friend Prince Khurram, who later became Emperor Shahjehan. Huge, seamless stone slabs of translucent thinness were used. Spacious courtyards and beautiful rooms embellished with onyx, jade, carnelian, jasper, agate - and paintings - are a few of the splendours of the palace. Legend has it that as a youth, Prince Jagat Singh once asked his father permission to take his friends with him to Jag Mandir for a bit of fun. The old maharana refused and told his son to go build his own palace for fun and frolic. Stung, the prince did just that and built a magnificent pleasure palace in a fairy-tale setting on a rocky island nearby - the Jag Niwas, today the Lake Palace Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
DAY 15: UDAIPUR – DELHI BY FLIGHT (B) DELHI DEPARTURE BY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
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.
END OF OUR SERVICES
Hotel Costs:
Inclusions:
A. HOTEL
· 13 Nights hotel accommodation on Twin/Double sharing basis including all existing taxes.
B. MEALS
· Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis, accept in Ramathra Fort (where it would on breakfast, lunch and dinner basis)
C. TRANSPORT
· Meeting and assistance on arrival / departure by our airport representative
· Cost based on air-conditioned transport –AC Crysta Innova (02 pax)
· Transfer from airport to hotel and vice-versa.
· Sightseeing, excursion and Surface travel as per programme.
D GUIDE
· English Speaking local guide during the sightseeing as per program.
E: ENTRANCE FEES & VISITS
· Included only for 01 visits
F: MISCELLANEOUS
· Rickshaw Ride in Delhi
· Heritage Walk in Agra
· Camel Cart + Wilderness drive in Ramathra
· Jeep / Elephant ride at Amber fort in Jaipur
· Rickshaw ride in Jaipur
· Village walk in Deogarh
· Jeep Safari tour in Bishnoi Village
· Leopard Jeep safari tour in Narlai
· Ranakpur Audio guide
· Boat ride on lake Pichola in Udaipur (Common Boat)
Current applicable taxes
Exclusions:
1. ITEMS OF PERSONAL NATURE - such as laundry, table drinks, telephone bills, tips to room boys, drivers, guides, personal clothing including sleeping bags etc.
2. Any Air fare.
3. Visa fee for India to be arranged and paid for directly by the clients. Check VISA rules carefully from your nearest Indian Embassy/ Mission before applying for Indian VISA.
4. Travel & Health Insurance to be arranged and paid for directly by the clients.
5. Airport taxes and fuel surcharges, which are subject to change without notice. Any meals (other than breakfast), drinks, tips, expenses of personal nature.
6. Anything not mentioned in the “Cost Includes” column.