The Unexplored Rajasthan

Upon arrival in Delhi, India's bustling Capital City, you are met and transferred to your hotel. 

On arrival in Mumbai (formerly Bombay), India’s most cosmopolitan city, you are greeted with a traditional Indian welcome and escorted to hotel.

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of Maharashtra, and the commercial hub of India. It is the country’s most cosmopolitan city, an ancient port and trading center. This palm-fringed shore of the Arabian Sea was the British Empire’s entrance to its proudest “Crown Jewel.” A city of paradoxes, Mumbai is renowned as the country’s financial nerve center, and also an important center of theater, art, music, and classical dance. Although steeped in tradition is the premier city in India.

Overnight is at the hotel. (B)

After an early breakfast, take a cruise across the harbor to the island of Elephanta.

 The island rises near its center into two conical hills. Rock temples were hewn out of the hill sometimes toward the end of the Buddhist period in India, probably in the eighth century. Explore the caves consist of several interesting sculptures including some depicting the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, Ravana the demon king, and lesser male and female divinities.

Cruise back to the main land, followed by an afternoon tour of Mumbai includes the City of Bombay, a blend of East and West.

Your tour of the city will include the British built arch "Gateway of India", Bombay's landmark, built in commemoration of the visit of King George the Vth and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. See the Hanging Gardens, located on the crest of Malabar Hill, a welcome oasis of green and almost entirely concrete and cement. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum built between 1904 and 1914, which was used during World War I as a hospital. Also visit the affluent community of Malabar Hills, Dhobi Ghat, Marine Drive, the Gandhi Memorial Museum and Jain Temple.

Drive back to your hotel for overnight. (B)

Early morning you are transferred to the airport for our flight to Udaipur.

Udaipur is possibly the most romantic city in all of Rajasthan; Udaipur is also called the Venice of the East because of the profusion of lakes that dot the city.
 Upon arrival you are met and escorted to hotel for breakfast followed by a city sight seeing tour.

Visit the City Palace, followed by the visit to the Sahelion-Ki-Bari “The Gardens of the Maids” which displays the unique lifestyle of the ladies of the Royal courts.  Your final stop is Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandala, a museum of folk art, displaying a rich collection of folk dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and paintings.  Watch a presentation of the world-renowned puppeteers of Udaipur, custodians of an ancient tradition.

Afternoon drive to Ranakpur. Upon arrival check into your hotel.

You will get a look at the Rajasthani countryside as you drive, traveling through scenic mountains. Set in a remote and peaceful valley, this is the site of the largest and most beautifully preserved Jain Temples in India.

Overnight at hotel. (B)
Today early morning our representative will accompany you on an excursion to Amber Fort. 

The main temple, dating back from 1439 is called the “Four-faced temple”. It has 29 halls supported by 1,444 carved pillars, none of which is similarly carved.  The play of light and shade on the minutely carved figures leaves a tantalizing effect. 

Later drive to Kumbhalgarh. Upon arrival check into your hotel.

Cradled amidst a cluster of thirteen mountain peaks of the Aravali range, the formidable medieval citadel of Kumbhalgarh stands a wary sentinel to the past glory of its kings and princes. Rising from a prominent ridge, 1,914 meters above the sea level, the fort was built in 15th century AD by Maharana Kumbha and is the principal fort after Chittorgarh. A unique fact about Kumbhalgarh fort is that it was taken by the Mughals only once in its entire history. And even at that time, it took the combined armies of Delhi, Amber, and Marwar to breach its defense. This was the place where the rulers of Mewar retreated during times of danger.

Overnight at hotel. (B, D)

After breakfast at the hotel visit Kumbhalgarh Fort.

This most remarkable of forts stretches across 36 Kms of the Aravali Mountains and is 1100 m high from the sea level. It was never conquered, for reasons which become apparent the instant you set eyes on it. The massive perimeter wall is an astounding 36 Kms. Surrounded by thirteen mountain peaks, guarded by seven great gates and seven ramparts, strengthened by rounded bastions and immense watchtowers, this mountain fortress has witnessed many battles. The winding road leads through deep ravines and thick forests.

On top of the fort is the Badal Mahal Palace, It encloses beautiful rooms with pleasant color schemes of green, turquoise and white, which provides a fascinating contrast to the raw, earthy and grim fortress. Rana Fateh Singh rebuilt the palace in the late 19th century. The legendary Maharana Pratap was born here.

Later, on horse back visit Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Sited in the flourishing green zone of Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh is the only sanctuary of Rajasthan, where activities of the rarely found wolf can be seen. This is one of the few parks that allow people on horseback.

Late afternoon drive to Bhadrajun.

The village Bhadrajun was inhabited more than 5,000 years ago. According to Hindu mythology it is believed that the greatest warrior of that age "Arjun" an archer fell in love with "Subhadra" the sister of Lord and eloped. The couple got married here in this valley with the help of a priest. Since Subhadra and Arjun got married in the valley, people started settling in this valley and then this village was named as "Subhadrajun" and later abbreviated to "Bhadrajun".

Overnight at hotel. (B, L, D)

Explore Bhadrajun Fort and the surrounding villages.

The village is situated very strategically from the point of view of safety. The village is enclosed in a horseshoe shape valley and bearing only one opening in the east from where one can enter the village. Its strategic location was even admired by the Generals of Emperor Akbar, whose army was passing through this area during Rao Chandra Sen's time (Maharaja of Jodhpur 1541-1583). The wall constructed at the vulnerable points is 20' to 30' high depending on the strategic position and are 10' wide all over. This wall has Bastions for placing cannons & shooting of arrows, guns etc. from the top. There are very old remnants of an old fort right on the top of the hill & a concrete water tank to store water battle. (B, L, D)

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Phalodi, en-route sight seeing tour of Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is one of the most distinctive princely settlements in Rajasthan.  This five hundred year old settlement was the headquarters of the Rathore Rajputs who were famous for their tales of daring.  Located in the Thar desert, Jodhpur is known for its impressive fortified bastions and the many battles associated with the tumultuous history of the region. 

Visit the invincible Mehrangarh Fort.

An impregnable fortress towering above a 10km wall with soaring archways leading into the center. Musician often serenade visitors, enhancing the atmosphere of this historical site. Rudyard Kipling describe as a mythical world of angels, fairies and giants. Inside the walls are several palaces including the Jaswant Thada, so constructed from thin marble that sunlight filters into its rooms. The museum displays collection of miniature paintings, glided palanquins and solid silver “howdah” presented by a Mughal emperor to the Maharaja. From the ramparts, one can see the city beyond; below is a sheer drop.   

Continue drive to Phalodi and upon arrival check into your hotel for overnight. . (B, L, D)

After breakfast visit Keechan.
Keechan is a village located in the remote and barren terrain of Rajasthan, which hosts 7000 strong flock of Demoiselle cranes. Demoiselle cranes are locally known as Kurja which migrate here each winter from their breeding grounds on the Central Asian steppes. Around 500 kg of grain is scattered every day for the cranes and all of it is paid for by monetary donations from local people and visitors.
Keechan is protected by sheaths of soft yellow dunes that paint a beautiful desert picture. This village also has some very old havelis.

Return to hotel for overnight. (B, D)

After breakfast drive to Bikaner.

 This desert town in the north of Rajasthan is a largely unspoilt and less visited place on the tourist circuit. The tour of Bikaner starts with a visit to Junagarh Fort with its superb stone carving. The fort has the usual collection of Rajput miniatures and an extensive collection of weapons including two World War biplanes. You will also visit the famous Lalgarh Fort, where you can visit the private quarters of the King of Bikaner.

Overnight at hotel. (B)

After breakfast drive to Mandawa.

Mandawa is a “desert village” and often called - the open-air art gallery of Rajasthan.

On arrival, check into your hotel Castle Mandawa.
Castle Mandawa is an ideal base to discover the legacy of 18th Century frescoes that adorn the Havelis of this storybook town. With canopied balconies and turreted battlements, it offers modern comforts with an old world charm of Rajasthan. The highlight of your stay is a royal repast where guests dine under the stars entertained by Rajasthani fire dancers.
Overnight is at the hotel. (B)

After breakfast full day excursion to Mukandgarh.

The village of Mukandgarh takes pride in the finest collection of the framed frescoes of the Shekhawati region of the royal and rustic Rajasthan. It derives its name from its founder Raja Mukund Singh who had built the Mukandgarh Fort in the middle of the 18th century.

The Mukandgarh fort is spread across 2 acres of land. The construction of the fort has been extremely traditional.  Its aesthetical beauty is amazing. The rich heritage of the Shekhawati is revealed in the captivating courtyards, beautiful balconies, whooping windows with arches and cool corridors.

The folk music and dance are sure ways to know and appreciate the culture better along with the puppet show. But then there's nothing that can beat the star lit dinner at the smooth and soothing sand dunes. The world renowned painted havelis are the other attractions for the travelers to the land. The view of these painted havelis from the Heritage Hotel will leave you spell bound.

Return to hotel for overnight. (B, L, D)

After breakfast drive to Dundlod.

Upon arrival check into Fort Dundlod.

Dundlod the 17th century Rajputana Fort studded with monumental nostalgia of Shekawats, the warrior Rajputs who with stood the onslaught of Mughal hordes. Since then the cultural heritage of splendid Rajasthan is preserved as its ethos are imbibed in architectural grandeur of the Dundlod Fort.  
 
Badalgarh Fort originally known us FAZALGARH was built in early 16th century by Nawab Fazal Khan a Kayamkhani Muslim ruler of Jhunjhunu. In 1730 this fort was taken over by Shardul Singhji when Shekawats took over Jhunjhunu. The present ambiance in the fort is set around the historical battles that took place in this Fort.

Overnight is at the hotel. (B, L, D)

After breakfast full day excursion to Nawalgarh.

Nawalgarh is rightly referred to as the Open Air Gallery. There is art all around. Nawalgarh is renowned all over the world for its exquisitely painted havelis that are beautifully designed and carved. The havelis are the mansions that boast of the beautifully carved wooden gates and the painted walls. The ornate iron and brass fittings revealed the affluence of the owner of the Haveli. In fact there are a range of topics that get covered on the walls of the havelis at Nawalgarh. The traders and merchants constructed most of the havelis in the 18th century and the early 19th century. The business of silk and opium brought in a lot of wealth to the merchants.

Visit the British Clock Tower at the college. The clock tower is a major landmark in Nawalgarh, which is the heart of the Shekhawati. Then there are two famous forts of Nawalgarh. The dome of the Nawalgarh fort has an aerial view of Jaipur painted on it.

Nawalgarh Fort is the main building in this town founded in 1737 AD but today it stands largely disfigured by the modern accretions. Now it houses two banks and a few government offices.

Roop Niwas Palace is a short distance from the fort. The palace is enchanting with a well-laid garden and fountains. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel.

Return to hotel for overnight. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, time at leisure. Afternoon drive to Jaipur.

Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan. The city was painted in the tones of an autumnal sunset, literally blushed pink when Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria, stepped on its soil in 1863.  Jaipur , also known as the pink City is a well planned city named after one of the greatest of the Rajput rulers, Maharaja Jai Singh II . It takes its name from the pink paint on its buildings.
 Upon arrival at Jaipur check into your hotel.
Later in the evening visit the bazaars and markets of Jaipur, for a fun shopping experience.

Jaipur is the center of many traditional art, crafts, jewelry and handicrafts. The Bazaars in Jaipur are mostly located within the old walled city area and are open on all days. Most of the tourist attractions are situated very close to the market area in Jaipur.

Overnight at hotel. (B)

Today you take an excursion to Amber Fort. 

You will have a unique experience of riding a caparisoned elephant from the foothill to the ramparts of the ancient fort.  Once inside we explore the Palace of Mirrors, inlaid with millions of tiny glistening mirrors, the hall of Public Audience and the beautiful manicured gardens.

Drive back to your hotel for breakfast. Afternoon, a guided tour of the old city of Jaipur.

Visit Hawa Mahal or "Palace of Winds," Jaipur's central landmark, an extraordinary façade of multiple airy windows used by the court ladies to watch the outside activities without being seen. Explore the City Palace, characterized by balconies, tiny windows, cupolas, courtyards and arched entrances.  It now houses an excellent collection of Rajasthani costumes, miniatures and an armory of weapons.

Overnight at hotel. (B)

After breakfast drive for Agra en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri the abandoned and nearly intact Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri, a masterpiece of Muslim architecture. 

It comprises the remains of the new capital that Akbar built in the 16th century. Predominantly red sandstone buildings sprawl over a huge area.  The architectural style is very much in tune with the emperor’s dreams and includes both Hindu and Muslim styles. The sculptured columns bear mute testimony to this gallant experiment to unite the two races.  It houses the beautiful Pearl Mosque and many noteworthy structures.

Continue drive to Agra and upon arrival check into your hotel.

Explore the 16th century Agra Fort, seat of the Mughal dynasty in the 16th century. It lies on the bend of the River Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the year 1565-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls red sandstone and a moat. 

Followed by a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, this incredible lacy white grandeur built by Emperor Shahjehan in memory of his loving wife Mumtaj Mahal, the “lady of the Taj”. It has been described, as the most extravagant monument ever built for love for the emperor was heartbroken when his wife Mumtaj died. The Taj Mahal has recently been immortalized by the inclusion as one of the “Seven Wonders of the World”.

Overnight at hotel. (B)

After breakfast drive for Delhi by road, en-route visiting Sikandra.

Eight kilometers north of Agra at Sikandra is the tomb of Akbar, started within his lifetime and completed by his son Jahangir in 1613. The tomb in elevation is pyramidical and consist of three storeys. On top is an open courtyard surrounded by a marble screen enclosing the tomb itself. The building is unique in its departure from Islamic architectural tradition, for it has no domed roof.

Continue drive to Delhi and upon arrival transfer to your hotel.

Overnight at hotel. (B)

After breakfast at hotel, you take a full day sightseeing tour of New & Old Delhi.

You begin the tour with visit of the Qutab Minar Complex, dominated by the 234-foot Victory Tower, followed by the spectacular Rajpath, passing the triumphant House of Parliament, Diplomatic Enclave, President's House and the India gate & the famous Birla Mandir.

Visit the Red Fort, which was the opulent residence of Shah Jehan, builder of the Taj Mahal and the magnificent Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), which dominates the skyline. You also visit the Raj Ghat-- cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, later walk through Chandi Chowk, the old marketplace of Shahjahanabad, now a picturesque bazaar.

After dinner at a local restaurant you are transferred to the International airport for your onward flight. (B,D)