Embark on an unforgettable journey through India’s most iconic destinations, exploring the majestic Taj Mahal and the treasures of Rajasthan. This 12-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and architectural splendor as you visit Delhi, Jaisalmer, Ranakpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Kalakho, Agra, and return to Delhi.
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India’s most iconic destinations, exploring the majestic Taj Mahal and the treasures of Rajasthan. This 12-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and architectural splendor as you visit Delhi, Jaisalmer, Ranakpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Kalakho, Agra, and return to Delhi.
Itinerary
Arrive at Delhi. On arrival, you will be greeted and assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. (Standard Check in time is 1400 hrs)
DELHI - It is a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators.
On arrival in Delhi, transfer to hotel.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, proceed for a walking tour of Old Delhi including following:
Photo stop at the Red Fort (from outside) - Red Fort is the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's elegant citadel in red sandstone, built on the western bank of the River Yamuna. Shah Jahan started the construction of this massive fort in 1638, when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. The Red sandstone walls of the massive Red Fort rise 33 metre above the clamour of Old Delhi, as a reminder of the magnificent power and pomp of the Mughals. Inside the fort lies a veritable treasure trove, of buildings which includes the Drum House, the Hall of Public and Private Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths and Palace of Colour. IMP: It remains closed on Mondays.
Jama Masjid - This great mosque of Old Delhi is the largest in India, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. It was begun in 1644 and ended up being the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers and two 40 m-high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble. The interior of the prayer hall is divided into aisles by arches. The walls and floors are of marble inlay panels.
Raj Ghat - Raj Ghat is a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. It is a black marble platform that marks the spot of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation, on 31 January 1948, a day after his assassination. It is left open to the sky while an eternal flame burns perpetually at one end. It is located on the banks of the river Yamuna in Delhi on Ring Road officially known as Mahatma Gandhi Road. A stone footpath flanked by lawns leads to the walled enclosure that houses the memorial.
Drive past at Govt. Buildings - New Delhi houses several government buildings and official residences reminiscent of the British colonial architecture. Today we will drive past few of them, like The Parliament House, designed by Baker is 173m in diameter, the Rashtrapati Bhawan once the Viceroy’s residence is now the official residence of the President of India. Designed by Lutyens, it combines western and eastern styles.
Photo Stop at India Gate - At the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an “Arc-de-Triumph” like archway in the middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the North-western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. Under the arch, the Amar Jawan Jyoti commemorating Indian armed forces’ losses in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971.
Humayun Tomb - Humayun's Tomb is probably one of the most innovative and experimental monuments of its time, incorporating within it Indo-Islamic architectural styles. This magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. It was built in 1565 A.D. nine years after the death of Humayun, by his senior widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure the most notable features are the garden squares (Charbagh) with pathways water channels, centrally located well proportional mausoleum topped by double dome.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board the flight to Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer - Located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer was named after it founder, Maharawal Jaisal Singh. Due to the liberal use of yellow sandstone in the architecture of this region, it is also referred to as the “Golden City of India”. Dominating the cityscape is the amber-hued Jaisalmer Fort situated on the Meru Hill. Built in 1156 CE, the fort continues serve its intended purpose of being a living fort with quarter of the city’s population residing within its walls. Opulent havelis, ornate palaces, bustling bazaars, and colorful houses lining narrow lanes sustain the medieval charm of this city.
On arrival in Jaisalmer, transfer to the hotel.
Rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast enjoy visit of Jaisalmer including following:
Jaisalmer Fort - Popularly known as the "Golden Fort", it is one of the largest forts in the world, built in 1156 AD, by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, from where it derived its name. It is also known as the 'Sonar Quila' by the locals.The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and witnessed many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls, resembles a tawny lion in color during the day and slowly fades to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. .
Jain Temple - The beautiful Jain temples lying in the vicinity of the Jaisalmer Fort are a display of beautiful structural designs. From Tombs to the gateways, every part of the temple is filled with mirrors, frescoes, carvings, etc. Most of these temples were built in between the 12th and 15th century, and are dedicated to Jain Tirthankars. Every wall of these temples have beautifully carved figures reflecting the marvellous Dilwara Temple style.
Nathmalji Ki Haveli - It was built by two architect brothers in the 19th century. Interestingly, one concentrated on the right, while the other concentrated on the left and the result was the symphony epitomizing the side-by-side symmetry during construction. It is a private property and paintings in miniature style monopolize the walls in the interior. Mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone guard this haveli.
Patwon Ki Haveli - The Patwon ki Haveli is the most important and the largest haveli in Jaisalmer. An interesting piece of architecture precisely because of two things, firstly, it was the first haveli erected in Jaisalmer and secondly, it is not a single haveli but a cluster of five small havelis. The first among these havelis, the biggest and most ostentatious, was commissioned and constructed in the year 1805, by Guman Chand Patwa. It is believed that Patwa was a rich man and was a renowned trader of his time. Due to his affordability, he ordered the construction of separate stories for his 5 sons.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli - Situated beside the hills near the Jaisalmer Fort, it was built on the remains of an older haveli built in the late 17th century. The new building was built in the year 1815 and was occupied by the Mehta family of Jaisalmer, the most influential family of their time. This haveli was commissioned by Salim Singh who was the Prime Minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital. The haveli has a distinct architecture and the roof has been constructed in the form of a Peacock
In evening, enjoy Sam Sand Dunes with Camel Ride - 40 kms from Jaisalmer are the Silver Gold Sand Dunes of Sam. Explore the exotic sand dunes on a camel back to witness the spectacular Sunset behind the Golden desert. Some 45 kms towards the west of the Jaisalmer city are located the barren yet beautiful shifting sand dunes adjoining the village Sam. There is no point coming to the Thar Desert if you don't go for the Desert Safari. That is why Sam sand dunes are becoming the major attraction in Jaisalmer. This is the closest place from where you can lose yourself in 'the Great Thar Desert'. Sam has a truly magnificent stretch of sweeping dunes, with sparse or no vegetation. The best way to get here, of course, is on camelback.
Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Jodhpur.
JODHPUR - The 'Blue City', as it is known, was founded on the edges of Thar Desert in 1459 A.D by Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan of the Rajputs. Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur, and is encircled by a high 10 km long wall. The historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend an aura of romance to the city. Flanked on its western side by the Meharangarh Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan; the monuments, temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur. The beauty and the imagination that have gone into the making of this monumental city proclaim the life-springs of creative genius that appear incongruent with harshness of this land and its climate.
On arrival in Jodhpur, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, enjoy visit of Jodhpur including following:
Jaswant Thada - Located adjacent to Mehrangarh Fort is Jaswant Thada, the graceful marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. His son Maharaja Sardar Singh built this monument known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar in the memory of Maharaj Jaswant Singh II of Jodhpur. The main memorial has been built like a temple with intricately carved marble stone. A visit to this structure is through the rocky hills giving it a secluded and a mystic aura.
Mehrangarh Fort - It is about 5km from Jodhpur Town. Guarding the city below, the fort was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD when he shifted his capital from Mandore. It overlooks the rugged and rocky terrain and houses a palace intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed windows exquisitely wrought from red sandstone. The apartments within, have their own magic -the Moti mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Daulat Khana with a rich varied collection of palanquins, howdas, royal cradles, miniature paintings of various schools etc.
Later enjoy an interesting heritage walk through the old city to explore the hidden heritage of the Medieval Jodhpur. This beautiful 02-hour walk takes you in to heart of Jodhpur to discover the lesser known treasures of this enchanting city. Learn about the interesting legends from the past, peep into the life of the locals, wonder through narrow alleyways.
The walk will start from “Fateh Pol” the original entrance to Mehrangarh Fort built by Maharaja Ajit Singhji in 1718-19 A.D. Continue walk to Rani Sari – water tank built by Hadi Rani Jasmode, wife of Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur. After some walk you will reach at Chand Baori — Step-well. This was built to exploit seepage of water from Rani Sar and Padam Sar. Then you will visit a beautiful haveli known as Mohnoton Ki Poi. Continue walk to a beautiful local temple. After some walk you will reach Navchokia Mohalla, which is a typical street of the old city Temple, Shops, residential houses and public buildings. Later you will come across another beautiful haveli, and Singh Pol which was one of five original gates of Jodhpur city. Continue your walk and visit Talhati ka Mahal, which is an old Palace and after some walk you are at Old grain market of Jodhpur surrounded by beautiful old buildings and Temples and later you reach at Clock tower which is the finishing point of this interesting walk.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, drive to Udaipur.
Enroute visit Ranakpur Jain Temples - Beautifully sculptured Jain temples mark the glory of this renowned place. Considered as one of the five holy places for the Jain community, these were created in the 15th century during the reign of Rana Kumbha. These are enclosed within a wall. The central Chaumukha [four faced temple] is dedicated to Adinathji. The temple is an astounding creation of architectural splendor with 29 halls and 1,444 pillars all distinctly carved, no two pillars being alike.
Later drive to Udaipur
UDAIPUR - The “City of Lakes” was founded in 1559 AD as capital town of the former Mewar state by Maharana Udai Singh on the eastern banks of the Lake Pichola. The rich cultural, social and natural heritage, aesthetic beauty and ecological richness, so far preserved through the surrounding lakes, serene and opulent hilly range of the Aravalis and lush green vegetation and pleasant gardens and harmonious built forms present a unique condition of scenic beauty. The magical beauty of Lake Pichola allures the visitors again and again. Its historical monuments in the forms of Palaces, Havelis & Temples surrounded by the hills and a pleasant bracing climate have favored its growth from a small princely town to an important tourist destination.
On arrival in Udaipur, transfer to hotel.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast enjoy visit of Udaipur including following:
City Palace - City Palace towers over the Pichola Lake. Maharana Udai Singh initiated the construction of the palace but successive Maharanas added several palaces and structures to the complex but retained remarkable uniformity in the design. The entry to the Palace is from the Hathi Pol, the Elephant Gate. The Bari Pol or the Big Gate brings you to the Tripolia, the Triple gate. It was a custom to weigh the Maharaja under this gate in gold and silver, which was distributed to the populace. Balconies, cupolas and towers of the palace give a wonderful view of the lake.
Crystal Gallery - Crystals are something which fascinates everyone, and Crystal Gallery is the most exclusive place to see attractive collection of crystals. Located inside the Fateh Prakash Palace, it is the largest private collection of crystals in the world. This gallery was established by Maharana Sajjan Singh. He ordered the crystals collection from the Birmingham-based F&C Osler Company in 1877. But due to his untimely death, all crystals remain packed in the boxes for 110 years. It was opened for public in 1994 and the exquisite crystal items in the gallery include tables, sofa set, dining tables, washing bowl, goblet, decanter, perfume bottles, candle stands, crockery, and even beds. The highlight of the gallery is a jewel-studded carpet.
In evening, enjoy Boat ride in Lake Pichola - Evening boat ride on Lake Pichola. Lake Pichola: Fringed with hills, gardens, havelis, ghats and temples, Lake Pichola is the scenic focus of Udaipur. The picturesque boat ride on Lake Pichola not only provides the best scenic view of the lake and the mountains in the city, but also presents some of the most important historical monuments dotted along the lakeside or submerged within the lake.
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast, half a day free for your own exploration. (Rooms will be available till 12:00 hrs.)
Later in the afternoon transfer to the airport to board the flight to Jaipur.
JAIPUR - The fascinating capital of the marvelous state of Rajasthan.
Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City, thanks to the color of its buildings. It was built in 1727 A.D by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, followed a grid system, which made it the only planned city of its time. A young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya designed the city in accordance with Shilp Shastra - an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. There are innumerable sagas and stories of culture, traditions, practices and valour. This diverse land of rich cultural heritage is a royal treat for tourists all over the world.
On arrival in Jaipur, transfer to the hotel
Overnight at the hotel
After breakfast enjoy the visit of Jaipur including following:
Photo stop at the Hawa Mahal Palace - Enjoy Photo stop at Hawa Mahal. It is the most well-known landmark of Jaipur city, built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. This five-storied building overlooking the busy street is a fascinating example of Rajput architecture and artistry with its delicately honeycombed 953 pink sandstone windows known as 'jharokhas'. It was originally built for the ladies of the royal household to watch everyday life and processions in the city from their veiled comfort as they had to obey the rules of "purdah.
Amber Fort (By Jeep) - Set high on a picturesque and rugged hills, it is a principal attraction in Jaipur. A noteworthy fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was declared as UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013. The Fort depicts scintillating aura exquisitely made up of red sandstone and white marbles. The interior walls of the palace portray expressive paintings with carvings, precious stones, and mirror settings. Built mainly for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls defended residents, within the ramparts of the fort. Inside the fort, Sheesh Mahal is a famous hall of mirrors, constructed by Raja Jai Singh in 1623. An integral part of the Jai Mandir, it has been uniquely constructed by decorating the ceilings and walls with mirrors specially imported from Belgium and carved with beautiful designs that reflect even a small ray of light to provide natural light to the entire hall.
Jantar Mantar - The Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between 1727 and 1734. He constructed a total of five such facilities at different locations which includes one at Delhi and another at Jaipur. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and best preserved out of these and inscribed on the World Heritage List as "an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period".
Later enjoy Rickshaw ride through the colorful lanes of Jaipur – Enjoy Rickshaw ride through the hustle & bustle of the Old Bazaar (market). The old city is surprisingly well laid out, with its wide, straight streets running in a grid that forms a series of bazaars. While the new enchanting town of Jaipur exhibits the picture of modern India, the old city still unravels its traditional charm and speaks about India's history, culture and tradition.
Enjoy a cup of Indian masala tea at Famous Gulab Singh Ji Chai Wala in Jaipur.
Tea is a staple food for so many people in India. Apart from the taste, people usually gather in small roadside tea shops for informal meetings or discussions. This can range from general life, sports especially cricket games to more serious issues of politics and the country. You will enjoy this experience in one of the oldest shops in Jaipur which started at the time of pre- Independence of India (1947).
In the evening a cooking demonstration following by dinner with a local family - Today, we will meet Indian family where you will learn about various spices and how they are combined to prepare the perfect Indian curries. After the cooking demonstration enjoy Dinner while you interact with the family and learn about the Indian way of living.
Dinner & Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Agra.
On the way enjoy visit of Abhaneri Step well & Harshat Mata Temple (Without Guide)- Abhaneri is a small village, famous for its stepwell, created for rainwater harvesting, a unique invention by the people of Abhaneri. The major attraction of Abhaneri is "Chand Baori" which is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple and this colossal stepwell has a depth of 20 meters with 13 levels. Despite being so huge in architecture, one can visually notice the delicate and intricate carvings, which is certainly a visual treat. The stepwell is surrounded by various structures.
Later continue drive to Agra.
AGRA - The city of the inimitable “TAJ MAHAL”
The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. While its significance as a political center ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi
in 1634 by Shah Jahan, its architectural wealth has secured its place on the international map. A pleasant town with a comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals.
On arrival in Agra, transfer to hotel.
Overnight at the hotel
Early morning, proceed for the Sunrise visit of Taj Mahal
Sunrise is by far the best time to visit the Taj Mahal. When the early morning light transforms the dome of the mausoleum into a soft, golden color, it’s magical to see the sunrise behind the Taj Mahal, a monument that symbolizes one of the greatest stories of true love ever told. Also, because this is the time when there are the least number of tourists and if you arrive early enough, you might even get perfect portraits without anyone around. IMP: Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday.
Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later check-out from the hotel and proceed to visit Agra Fort. (Rooms will be available till 12:00 hrs. only)
Agra Fort - The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1666, A.D. although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shahjahan. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise. There are a number of exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khaas, Musamman Burj - where Shahjahan died in 1666 A.D. Jahangir's Palace; Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal. The massive Agra fort is 2.5 km long and is considered as the predecessor of the Delhi Red fort.
After sightseeing, drive to Delhi. On arrival in Delhi, transfer to Airport to connect flight for onwards journey.
End of Services
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- * Double / Twin room on sharing basis
- * Daily Breakfast at all places
- * TRANSPORTATION: All ground transportation, as detailed in the itinerary using AC Vehicle as given below:
- AC Toyota Innova up to 03 pax
- AC Tempo from 04 -06 Pax.
- * Services of local English Speaking Guide for Sightseeing only (Different Guide for each destination)
- * Current monument entrance fee.
- * Following activities are included
- • Camel ride on Sand Dune in Jaisalmer
- • Boat ride in Udaipur.
- • Sari & Turban tying session in Jaipur
- • Rickshaw ride in Jaipur
- • Local Tea Tasting in Jaipur.
- • Cooking demo followed by dinner in Jaipur
Cost Excludes
- X Any airfares.
- X Any airport taxes.
- X Any expenditure of personal nature such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone charges etc.
- X Any new tax imposed by the Govt.