Total Days : 18 Days
Tour Destination : Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Bandhavgarh, Agra, Ranthambhore, Jaipur
Namaste! - We welcome you with folded hands
The Tour brings to the visitor the best of India’s natural and cultural splendors. Some of the most popular cultural sites are beautifully blended with a wilderness experience in the country’s most reputed game parks. The also embeds free and leisure time for you to plan things at your own pace. Of course, your car and driver would be available at hand at all times, and, our local guides would make apt suggestions for your free time.
Special Inclusions:
Traditional welcome with garlands on your arrival; daily breakfast; Airport transfers and in-depth sightseeing tours in each city; cycle rickshaw and elephant rides; Cultural Dance Drama show in Agra; cuisine Walk & A Traditional Rajasthani Meal With An Indian Family; boat at sunrise and sunset in the sacred city of Varanasi; Sound & light show in Khajuraho; All meals and jungle excursions in Bandhavgarh & Ranthambhore; Shopping For local crafts and wares, a welcome gift, air-conditioned private car and driver available on a 24x7 basis; all entrance fees to the monuments, museums and so much more.
Day 01: Arrival / Delhi
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!!
Late night arrival at the airport, meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representative 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.
Overnight at Jaypee Siddharth, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (No Meals)
Day 02: Delhi
At 8:30 am, we will proceed for the guided tour of Old Delhi. We cross the city and into the walled gates of the Old city with visits to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through the fabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates to Moonlight Square) where the throngs of shoppers and vendors meet in the oldest area of Delhi. (Please expect some shops to be closed on Sundays)
The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle rickshaws. Now these are 3-wheel cycles with a sofa seat at the back. The Rickshawala (Rickshaw driver) sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers on the sofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way to explore and picture the hustle and bustle as well as the color of the narrow winding streets bursting with people and pavement shops selling wares of all description - including a laughing set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by peals of laughter both from the passengers as well as the onlookers.
We also visit the Raj Ghat and nearby ghats where the founder of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.
Following the tour, we would recommend a lunch stop (lunch not included) at one of the popular restaurants.
After lunch, we will embark on a city tour of New Delhi. Our tour includes a visit to the Qutab Minar - 72 meters high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Then, we will continue our expedition with a drive to the Lutyens Delhi which is considered to be the corridors of power and serenity. Our tour includes a drive pass through the Rashtrapati Bhawan (from outside only) this vast, intricate work of mixed Mughal and Western architecture is one of the largest presidential residences in the world we will also visit the Parliament House (from outside only) as well as witness the majestic India Gate – a powerful tribute to our brave soldiers.
Following our drive pass to the Lutyens Delhi area, we will now visit the Humayun’s Tomb (1586), built by the Emperor’s widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, and commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture.
Overnight at Jaypee Siddharth, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 03: Delhi / Varanasi (6E-2321 - 0935 / 1110 Hrs)
After an early breakfast, we will transfer to the Delhi airport to board the flight to Varanasi.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Varanasi airport, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel, Madin.
(Though check in time is 2pm, every effort would be made to ensure an as early as possible check in – subject to availability)
Evening, we will visit the Ghats of Varanasi to witness the performance of Ganges Aarti. We enjoy a special evening cruise on the Ganges. See the Hindu devotees performing the Puja with lighted lamps. The view is very mesmerizing and the ambience is spectacular in the backdrop of the beating of cymbals and bells as well as the incessant chanting.
Overnight at Hotel Madin, Varanasi (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 04: Varanasi (Sarnath Museum is closed on Fridays)
At dawn we visit the sacred Ganges for a boat ride. Every morning at dawn hundreds of worshippers can be seen bathing in the sacred waters. The great river banks are lined with an endless chain of stone steps—the ghats—that stretch from one end of the city to the other. The Ghats form an impressive part of the religious landscape of the city. Proceeding downstream at a leisurely pace, you would be pointed out the significant temples and buildings as well as the changing architectural style. Life and death go hand in hand in Varanasi. While young people seek prosperity and protection from harmful influences, the older generation comes to Varanasi to cleanse their souls in the forgiving waters in preparation for their ultimate dissolution. It was believes that anyone who dies in the river of life in Varanasi gains freedom from the cycle of birth and death, the City of Light has become a haven for the sick and aged waiting out their final days. The smoke that billows from the crematoriums on the edge of the river gives testimony to their final release from life’s earthly confines. We would dock our boat at Manikarnika (Cremation) Ghat. On any given day, anywhere from a few dozen to a few hundred corpses are cremated here; the ghat is assiduous with activity as the cremated bodies threw up smoke and fire.
Following the boat ride, we set off on foot to explore the inner city. Through a twisted maze of narrow alleys, home to numerous shrines and pilgrim shops, we walk back a few centuries. Life here has stood still for years. The homes, the shops and even the cattle have not changed over the centuries. It is a brilliant nostalgic experience of timelessness! Later we return to hotel for breakfast.
At 11:00 am, we will proceed to explore Varanasi with a visit to several significant temples, including the renowned Banaras Hindu University. Our first stop will be the Bharat Mata Temple, inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. This unique temple features a large marble map of India on the ground floor, symbolizing the unity of the nation.
Next, we will head to the Durga Temple, also known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the many monkeys in the area. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is an architectural gem, featuring a striking red exterior and intricate carvings.
Our journey continues with a visit to Tulsi Manas Temple, a modern temple dedicated to Lord Rama. The walls of this temple are beautifully decorated with verses and scenes from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem narrating the life of Lord Rama.
Then, we will visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple is a focal point of religious devotion, particularly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and is known for fulfilling the wishes of its devotees.
Finally, we will conclude our half-day tour at the Banaras Hindu University, located at the southern edge of the city. This expansive campus is home to the New Vishwanatha Temple, a modern and welcoming structure open to people of all faiths. Surrounded by palm trees; the temple's white marble exterior gleams beautifully in the afternoon sun against the pale blue sky. Inside, the temple is spacious and filled with light, with walls adorned with Vedic art and inscriptions from sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads. At the center of the first floor, you will find a Shiva linga.
Throughout the tour, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich spiritual heritage of Varanasi, offering prayers, witnessing rituals, and experiencing the timeless traditions that define this sacred city.
At 3:00 pm, we will visit the Buddhist city of Sarnath. It is here that the Buddha preached his first sermons after attaining enlightenment.
Overnight at Hotel Madin, Varanasi (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 05: Varanasi / Khajuraho (6E 2083 - 1225 / 1320 Hrs)
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Varanasi airport for your flight to Khajuraho.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Khajuraho airport, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel, Chandela.
After rest and relaxation, we will proceed to visit the Southern Group of Temples, home to notable structures such as the Duladeo Temple and the Chaturbhuj Temple. The Duladeo Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, displays intricate carvings and is famous for its exquisite depiction of celestial maidens. Unique in its absence of erotic sculptures, the Chaturbhuj temple houses a grandiose four-armed statue of Vishnu and stands out for its architectural elegance and serene ambiance. These temples offer a serene yet captivating glimpse of the artistic prowess of the Chandela dynasty.
Evening, we visit temple complex to enjoy Sound & Light Show, where the history of the temples is narrated through the medium of Sound & Light. This fascinating Son-et-Lumiere spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th century to the present day. Amitabh Bachhan, the Indian Super Star, narrates the story of Khajuraho in his mesmerizing voice
Overnight at Hotel Chandela, Khajuraho (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 06: Khajuraho
After breakfast, we proceed on a tour of the world-famous western group of temples depicting erotic sculptures of love making images of Gods and Goddesses and celestial Nymphs. The sexual fantasies displayed in the sculptures are mind-boggling. It speaks very highly of the artistic creativity and imagination of the sculptors. The frank depiction of uninhibited sex does hint towards a liberated society and times where people believed in dealing openly with all aspects of life. The graphic and realistic illustrated scenes of lovemaking elaborated on the Tantric texts.
Next, we proceed on a tour of Eastern group of Temples. If pictures speak a thousand words, then the temples of Khajuraho form a magnum opus... an expression of Indian sculptors of yore. These temples of Khajuraho were built by the Chandela kings following the tradition of Tantric art. Although famed for their erotic sculptures, the philosophy behind the temples is much more vast and encompassing. They are in fact a celebration of life!
We will also visit Raneh Falls. It is where the Ken River plunges through a striking canyon of vibrant granite. A visit to this natural wonder unveils breathtaking views, complemented by the surrounding lush greenery, providing a serene escape and a memorable experience.
Overnight at Chandela Hotel, Khajuraho (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 07: Khajuraho / Bandhavgarh (231 Kms) (05 ½ Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Bandhavgarh.
Upon arrival in Bandhavgarh, we will check in to hotel, Infinity Resorts Bandhavgarh.
Overnight at Aranyak Resort, Bandhavgarh (Superior Cottage) (B & D)
Day 08: Bandhavgarh (Afternoon Safaris does not operate on Wednesdays)
Morning & afternoon, we will proceed on jungle excursions in an Exclusive / Private Jeep. The pattern of early morning and afternoon excursions will be interspersed with periods of relaxation back at our accommodation during the heat of midday. Although Tigers are the star attraction at Bandhavgarh the supporting cast of mammals and birds is very impressive, the latter including such species as Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Plum-headed Parakeet, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo and Asian Paradise Flycatcher among a total of over 250 species recorded in the district. Tour members with an interest in ornithology will value the time between game drives as an opportunity to explore some of the habitats close to our base.
Tigers as well as the more rarely seen, Leopards have no shortage of prey in the reserve. The Spotted Deer or Chital is a favorite item on the Tiger menu and several thousand of these delightful deer inhabit the park.
Other species found here in varying abundance include; Chinkara, Chowsinga, Wild Boar, Sambar, Muntjac and Nilgai. Herds of the Asian Bison, or Gaur, formerly Inhabited the Reserve but impressive beast has not been seen at Bandhavgarh since 1998 although a closely monitored programmed for the reintroduction of the Gaur is planned within couple of years. A hunting pack of wild dogs may also be seen on occasions. Mammal sightings always require a degree of luck, particularly when the species is essentially nocturnal or reclusive but each outing in the reserve will at least provide a chance to meet one of the rarer inhabitants such as Sloth Bear, Indian fox, Jackal, Wolf, Ratel, Striped Hyenas, Jungle Cat or Indian Pangolin. More predictable are the sounders of Wild Boar rooting among the vegetation, Indian Hares, the lively little Palm Squirrels that seem to be constantly in a state of agitation, and several members of the mongoose tribe. Common Langurs and Rhesus Macaques are also plentiful, the former enjoying an elevated view of the forest as they devour their favourite leaves and often the first creature to bark out a warning at the appearance of a Tiger below.
Overnight at Aranyak Resort, Bandhavgarh (Superior Cottage) (B, L & D)
Day 09: Bandhavgarh / Katni (95 Kms) (02 ½ Hrs Drive) Katni / Agra (Mahakaushal Exp – 1920 / 0707 Hrs) (First AC)
Morning, we will proceed on jungle excursions in an Exclusive / Private Jeep.
In time, we will drive and transfer to the Bandhavgarh train station to board the train to Katni.
Overnight in train (B)
Day 10: Agra
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at the Agra train station, as our representative will welcome you and transfer to hotel, Grand Mercure.
(Since check in time at the hotels in India is 2pm your room has been blocked from 2pm of Day 09 to ensure immediate occupancy)
After rest and relaxation, 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.
We will also visit the legendary Taj Mahal 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. We will visit the Taj Mahal to witness this spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in every aspect of its construction, the inlay work of semi-precious stones into marble in pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable.
Overnight at Grand Mercure, Agra (Taj View Room – Upgraded) (B)
Day 11: Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Ranthambore (288 Kms) (05 ½ Hrs Drive)
At 8:30 am, we will drive to Ranthambore en route we will stop at the deserted capital city of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendor. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings.
Following the visit, we will continue our drive to Ranthambore.
Upon arrival in Ranthambore, we will check in to hotel, Ranthambore Regency.
Overnight at Ranthambore Regency, Ranthambore (Deluxe Room) (B & D)
Day 12 – Day 13: Ranthambore
Morning and afternoon, we will go on jungle excursion in a Shared jeep. Ranthambore is known to have India's Friendliest tigers Assured of protection; these nocturnal creatures are seen often in the day. Sprawled on the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges of Rajasthan, Ranthambore National Park encompasses an area of 410 Sq. km. in which lives a healthy population of about 40 tigers. A large number of deer inhabit the area and leopards are occasionally sighted. The Pandam Taloa Lake, located adjacent to the Jogi Mahal hunting lodge, is the park's favorite water source. Smaller pools at Raj Bagh and Milak also attract a variety of wild life the best way to explore. Ranthambore is in canter as the park is well connected by arterial roads and tracks. Some of the popular sighting areas are Nal Ghati, Lahpur, Bakuala, Anantpur and the Kachida valley. Mammals: Tiger, Panther, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Caracal, Sloth Bear, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Indian hare mongoose. Birds: Bonelli's eagle, crested serpent eagle, great Indian horned owl, grey partridge sand grouse, quail, spur fowl, common peafowl, tree pie, paradise flycatcher, pheasant tailed jacana, painted stork, black stork, spoonbill, green pigeon, ducks.
Overnight at Ranthambore Regency, Ranthambore (Deluxe Room) (B, L & D)
Day 14: Ranthambore / Jaipur (168 Kms) (03 ½ Hrs drive)
Morning, we will go on jungle excursion in a Shared jeep
In time, we will drive to Jaipur.
Upon arrival in Jaipur, we will check in to hotel, Jas Vilas.
Overnight at Jas Vilas, Jaipur (Standard Room) (B)
Day 15: Jaipur
At 8:30 am, we will 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.
We would also stop at Jal Mahal palace for photos. (From Outside Only)
Next, we will visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipur’s. 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 Jeep. 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.
Later, we will visit the Panna Meena ka Kund. This beautiful place was constructed during sixteenth century. The place was mainly utilized as a place of social meetings. People from nearby places come here for getting water, swimming or just to hang out with their loved ones. During ancient times, this place was utilized mainly as water protects pool. This beautiful Kund has a unique architecture and styling. This Kund was designed by a Brahmin and constructed by craftsmen and engineers.
Following the tour, we will recommend a lunch stop (lunch not included) at Baradari Restaurant inside the complex of City Palace.
After lunch, we will 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 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 Jas Vilas, Jaipur (Standard Room) (B)
Day 16: Jaipur / Delhi (305 Kms) (05 ½ Hrs Drive)
After breakfast, we will drive to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, we will check in to hotel, Pride Plaza Aerocity.
Overnight at Pride Plaza Aerocity, Delhi (Deluxe Room) (B)
Day 17: Delhi / Departure
(Though the checkout time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges – Subject to availability)
In time, we will transfer you to the International airport to board the onward flight.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B)
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”
Tour Cost for 02 People travelling together on Twin Sharing / Double Occupancy Basis
NOTE: - Hotel Upgrades available upon request
*T & C Apply
COST INCLUDES:
COST DOES NOT INCLUDE:
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