Namaste! - We welcome you with folded hands

Day 01: Arrival / Delhi

Late night arrival. Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.

Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.

Welcome to India, or as we say ‘atithi devo bhava’ (the guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!

Overnight at Palace Heights (Deluxe Room)

Day 02: Delhi

Your morning activity begins with the historical part of the city also known as Old Delhi starting with `Shah Jehanabad’ which has some dramatic remnants of the Mughal Empire in the imposing Red Fort and Jama Masjid India’s largest mosque, built by Emperor Shah Jehan, creator of the Taj Mahal. You ride rickshaws through its principal street,

Chandni Chowk, originally renowned throughout the Asia with its tree-lined canal flowing down its center. These days it’s a bustling jumble of shops, temples, mosques and craftsmen’s workshops of goldsmiths, silversmiths, silk traders and embroiderers.

Explore the hustling and bustling of Old Delhi and streets of Chandni Chowk sitting in a cycle rickshaw.

Culminate the Old Delhi tour with a photo stop at Raj Ghat the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation. Built on the banks of the Yamuna River, is a simple memorial that marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. A pretty park has been created around the memorial.

Continue on to Explore New Delhi drive through the boulevards of New Delhi and pass India Gate which is a memorial built to the 85000 soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan battles of 1919.

At the other end of Rajpath stands the official residence of India's president, the Rashtrapati Bhavan, a complex of buildings that mix Mughal and Western architectural styles. Prior to independence, this was the home of India's last viceroy, Lord Mountbatten. Close by is Sansad Bhavan, the large though less imposing parliament building.

Lunch will be arranged at ‘The Lodi’ located next to Lodi Garden.

After lunch proceed to visit Qutab Minar, a tower of victory begun by the Slave Dynasty’s founder, Qutb-ud-din-Aybak, in A.D. 1193 and completed by Feroz Shah Tughlaq in 1368. At its base is India’s first mosque, the Might of Islam Mosque, built on the foundation of a Hindu temple. It was completed in A.D. 1300.

Like the nearly contemporary slave, or Marmeluke, rulers of Egypt, slave kings of Delhi were anything but servile. The term simply indicates that they had once been held captives. In a court awash with intrigue and opportunity, India’s Turkish conquistadors regarded a slave’s loyalty as more dependable than that of their own kin. Purchased, rapidly promoted, eventually freed, and forever trusted, the erstwhile slave of a royal patron was ideally placed to act as either power broker or pretender. His elevated status was equally proclaimed with monuments. The Qutb Mosque boasts a tower of victory that doubles as India’s, and perhaps Islam’s, most massive minaret.

As the afternoon sun recedes, visit the Tomb of the second Mughal Emperor Humayun, which was commissioned by his senior wife Haji Begum, in the 16th century. This is an early example of Mughal architecture. The design elements of this tomb – a squat building lighted by high arched entrances topped by a protuberant dome and surrounded by formal gardens, were to be refined over the years to the magnificence of the Taj Mahal.

Overnight at Palace Heights (Deluxe Room)

Day 03: Delhi / Udaipur (9W 2603 – 0545 / 0725 Hrs)

Early morning, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Udaipur

Welcome to Udaipur, the famed “City of sunrise”. Founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, from the lineage of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar - the decedents of the sun God. A city where the sun truly never set, where tradition and a strict code of heroism were happily united with a love of fine living. A city that has come to be an oasis of romance in the warrior state of Rajasthan

Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Udaipur & transfer to the Jagat Niwas Palace, a modern heritage hotel replete with character and charm, besides all comforts discerning tourists would seek.

Following rest and relaxation, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art.

Evening we enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola. The island palace on the Lake called Jagmandir Palace is quite fascinating. The Palace provided inspirations and ideas to the builder of the Taj Mahal. The banks of the lake provide interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and the laundry that takes place here. Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty.

Overnight at Jagat Niwas Palace (Raj Rooms)

Day 04: Udaipur / Shahpura (220 Kms)

Morning we drive off the beaten track to reach Shahpura Bagh an aristocratic Estate. Set amidst the golden sands of Rajasthan at Shahpura one finds an oasis - A dazzling shimmer of sunshine on water that hovers on the edge of a mirage. Shahpura Bagh has just opened its doors to visitors for the first time. A stay here with the family and the Ruler himself, offers a rare opportunity to experience a royal way of life, preserved in a timeless corner of Rajasthan. Simple in decoration, but grand in proportion, Shahpura

Upon arrival check into hotel Shahpura Bagh situated on the edge of the lakes where man and nature exist in harmony with each other. This was the summer residence of the rulers of Shahpura. The 30-acre estate was granted by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to Rajadhiraj Suraj Mal, Rana Pratap's grandson in 1630 AD for successful military campaigns against the Marathas and Afghans.

Shahpura Bagh has exquisitely furnished spacious bedroom over 600ft with walls that are coated with limestone. The traditional charm and décor blends delightfully to facilities and services discerning tourists would see - all rooms have world space radios, coffee and tea makers, hair dryers, phone system as well as eco friendly herbal toiletries. The place is still the residence of the descendants erstwhile Royal family and they are your present hosts. They meet you, share stories and put your holiday in perspective. It is their personal touch and their local knowledge that make the stay a memorable fairy tale.

Shahpura Bagh is also a food-lover's heaven. You can take your pick from authentic home cooked Rajasthani food prepared over fire or home-cooked continental and tradition meals, tempered to suit your palate.

Shahpura Bagh is also a food-lover's heaven. You can take your pick from authentic home cooked Rajasthani food prepared over fire or home-cooked continental and tradition meals, tempered to suit your palate.

Overnight at Shahpura Bagh (Royal Suite)

Day 05: Shahpura

Today make short trips into farms & villages and forts; these farms are great for bird watching. You will have a great time with simple activities like boating, air gun, target shooting, farm visits as well as having fun with someone like Sat and Jai. They are the host brothers who will escort you around.

You will enjoy your visit to Ram Dwara, the revered ancient temple. Also, the old city palace reveals the integration of Rajput and Mughal traditions in architecture while the geometrical symmetry of the baoli (step wells) inspires a serenity that lingers. The Dhikola Fort stands majestically on a hill, surveying a vast expanse of verdant green and lakes.

In evening we explore the unending shopping options of Shahpura. There are many goods on sale in the marketplace. Suggest get a leather mojari or local footwear, made to your size.

Overnight at Shahpura Bagh (Royal Suite)

Day 06: Shahpura / Jaipur (220 kms)

After breakfast we will drive to Jaipur

Upon arrival check into Naila Bagh Palace. The Palace stands tall within a 21000 sq feet area; you will be welcomed within its folds by a serene and tranquil environment. The palace is surrounded by various courtyards and gardens on all sides where you may find beautiful peacock's walking about aimlessly or dancing. Walk through the beautiful Mahal (main hall) and get transported back to a time of beauty, history and opulence. Ornate frescos and majestic portraits of Maharajas and Princesses from the bygone era adorn the walls; colonial furniture surrounds you in majestic charm.

After rest & relaxation, we explore the unending shopping options of Jaipur. An essential starting point for Rajasthan craftwork is block making and block printing and we will be exploring the process from start to finish in some of the popular stores here. The opportunity also exists here to tailor make outfits to your design and size.

We also explore one of the chief attractions of Jaipur - its jewelry, which offers a variety that ranges from chunky tribal jewelry to enameled gold to modern diamond jewelry. Kundan (art of stone setting) and enamel jewelry has been a specialty of Rajasthan, particularly that of Jaipur. The stones are embossed into decorative shapes & patterns and embellished with delicate enamel ornamentation in the champeve (raised field) technique. Jaipur is well known for its gold and silver enameling. Colorful bangles made of lac and set with semiprecious stones make an inexpensive buy. The craftsmen take great pains to embed the hundreds of stones into the lac. The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur carve enchanting little animals and birds from rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz and amethyst. Intaglio beads & buttons and crystal scent bottles are also available

Overnight at Naila Bagh Palace (Royal Room)

Day 07: Jaipur

This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding hills.

We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their former royal residents.

We shall visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.

Later, we proceed on a tour Of the City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The centre of the palace is a seven-storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine vies over the gardens and the city. The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles, which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory - an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that give accurate predictions till date.

Overnight at Naila Bagh Palace (Royal Room)

Day 08: Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra (245 Kms)

Following a leisurely breakfast we drive to Agra stopping at deserted Capital City of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings. From here we will continue our drive to Agra

Upon arrival check into hotel Orient Taj

Rest of the day is at leisure for your independent activities. Car & driver will be at disposal for your local visits.

Overnight at Hotel Orient Taj (Superior Room)

Day 09: Agra / Delhi (205 Kms) (04 Hrs Drive) Delhi / Departure

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one’s lifetime - Taj Mahal. Before departure for the monument we shall be served tea/coffee and cookies so that our eyes open real wide to behold this breathtaking sight. A dawn visit to the fabled Taj Mahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colours of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Later we return back to our hotel for breakfast.

After a leisurely breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid & other magnificent buildings reflect the skill of the ancient Indian architects.

Later we will drive to Delhi along one of the India’s finest freeways

Home Visit & A Farewell Dinner with an Indian Family : Upon arrival, we would visit an Indian family for an Indian home experience. The evening is designed to give you a ‘feel’ and insight into Indian family life as well as experience typical Indian hospitality and home made Indian food

After dinner, transfer to the International airport to board your flight back home.

END OF SERVICES

We do hope the flavor of India will remain on your taste buds for all times to come and hopefully would kindle an indelible fondness for the country and her people; Thank you for being our guest, and as we say in India ‘Please come back soon”
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!!