Duration: 15 Days Tour
Places Covered: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambore - Jaipur - Udaipur - Mumbai - Goa - Mumbai
Day 01: fly into Delhi
Welcome to Delhi, the capital of India. You will be received and transferred
to your hotel. Rooms will be kept ready for express check in at late night/early
morning check in.
Overnight at hotel.
Day-2: Delhi
Meet our representative in the hotel lobby in the morning. Proceed for full
day tour of Delhi, the capital of India. Visit bustling Chandni Chowk - the
royal shopping mall created by great Mughals. Nearby Jama Masjid is the largest
mosque in India. Red Fort has remained in the center of many great events that
took place in India down the centuries. Rajghat is the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.
In the new city, visit Qutub Minar - the tallest stone
tower in India, Humayun's Tomb - the predecessor to Taj Mahal, India Gate
- the war memorial built by British, Rashtrapati Bhawan - one of the grandest
presidential palaces in the world, parliament house, and Laxmi Narain Temple.
You can also enjoy sound and light show held at Red Fort every evening. Overnight
at Hotel.
Day-3: Delhi - Agra
By road 200 kms / 4 hrs
Leave Delhi for Agra by superfast train. Upon arrival you will be received by
our representative. Start sightseeing tour the enthralling city of the Taj Mahal
and savour the myriad attractions that Agra offers.
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing of the city.
Enjoy battery van ride to the Taj Mahal.
TAJ MAHAL: Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which
is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by
Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz
Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned
by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from it's stunning design balance
and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes,
intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.
Proceed for sightseeing to the AGRA FORT - Built by the famed Mughal emperor
Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Ensconced within
is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction.
Visit Itmadullah's Tomb built by Empress NOOR JEHAN in memory of her father
(The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj).
Relax in the evening. Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 04: Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Rantahmbore
By surface 300 kms / 6 Hrs.
Morning after breakfast start for Ranthambore enroute visit to Fatehpur Sikri.
Drive to Fatehpur Sikri. The deserted, red Sandstone City, Emperor Akbar built
that as his capital and palace in the late 16th century is an exhilarating experience.
It a veritable fairytale city and its "ruins" are in pristine condition
... it's not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the
days of it's grandeur. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza, the largest gateway
in the world.
Reach and check in Hotel. Afternoon proceed for wildlife Game viewing in Ranthambore
Wildlife Park.
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas,
is a unique example of natural and historical richness, standing out conspicuously
in the vast, arid and denuded tract of eastern Rajasthan, barely 14 kilometers
from Sawai Madhopur. Get in tune with nature for a luxury holiday in the heart
of the jungle. Ranthambhore - perhaps the best place in the world to sight
a tiger in the wild. The Ranthambhore National Park has had more Tiger sightings
than any other National Park in the country. It has come to be known as "The
land of the Tiger", where most of the documented footage of this majestic
beast has been recorded.
It spreads over a highly undulating topography varying from gentle to steep
slopes; from flat topped hills of the Vindhyas to the conical hillocks and sharp
ridges of the Aravalis, from wide and flat valleys to narrow rocky gorges. An
important geological feature the 'Great Boundary Fault' where the
Vindhya plateaus meet the Aravali hill ranges, meanders through the Reserve.
The National Park is bound by the rivers Chambal in the south and Banas in the
north.
Ranthambhore forest is of tropical dry deciduous type, further classified
as Dhok climax forest because of the predominance of Dhok (Anogeissus pendulla)
found nearly everywhere. Dhok is an extremely hardy tree, capable of withstanding
prolonged droughts. The leaves of this tree are good fodder and they are browsed
by herbivores, and form a significant part of their diet. Even the dry, fallen
leaves, eaten by them, are rich source of nutrition.
Palas or Cheela or the Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperms) blooms magnificently
around mid-April. During the period, Kachida and Anatpura provide an amazing
view, like a forest on fire. Around Kamaldhar massive Gum trees (Sterculia
urens) with smooth white trunk stand out conspicuously. Similarly, Gurjan
(Lannea coromandelica) with greyish trunks at the banks of the lakes and soft
wood Salar (Boswellia serrata) dotted atop hills are noticeable.
Fruits of Ber (Zizyphus spp.) and 'crocodile bark' Tendu (Diospuyros
melanoxylon) are highly relished by Sloth Bears.
Overnight at resort.
Day 5: Ranthambore
A full day game viewing inside the jungle. (Two safaris).
The lake abound with aquatic vegetation including duck weeds, lilies and lotus.
A haven for a multitude of wild animals, the Park boasts of playing host to
tigers, leopards, the elusive caracals, hyenas, sloth bears, wild boars, crocodiles
and so on. Besides, there are over 300 species of birds, from the majestic
Crested Serpent Eagle to the exotic Golden Oriole.
Tiger, at the apex of the food chain, lord over the kingdom in a subtle way.
Solitary by nature, it operates in stealth. Therefore tiger sightings, frequent
as they are, are always a matter of chance. However, even evidences of tiger's
activities are very exciting.
The other kinds of cats found in Ranthambhore are Leopard (Panthera pardus),
Caracal (Felis caracal), Leopard Cat (Felis bengalensis), Fishing Cat (Felis
viverrina) and the Jungle Cat (Felis chaus). Besides the big cats, the other
large predators found in Ranthambhore include Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Wolf,
Wild dog (or Dhole), Jackal, Indian Fox, Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Common
Indian Mongoose, Small Indian Mongoose, Ratel (or Honey Badger), Marsh Crocodile
and the Indian Python. There are two species of Antlers, namely the Spotted
Deer (or Chital) and the Sambhar Deer, and, two kinds of Antelopes, namely the
Indian Gazelle (or Chinkara) and the Bluebull (or Neelgai). Black Buck (another
kind of antelope), which is rarely found in the National Park is common in Devpura
area, in the outskirts of the park.
Overnight at the resort.
Day 6: Ranthambore - Jaipur
After breakfast drive to beautiful Pink City - Jaipur.
Reach and check in at hotel.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced back
to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the
Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite
of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character and history
- A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly known as the
Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered
stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria.
Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite
temples and lush gardens.
Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day-7: Jaipur
After breakfast drive to Amber Palace. Enjoy Elephant Back ascent to the Fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its
construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent
Jai Singh I. It's forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a
beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds it's ultimate expression.
Continue city sightseeing.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture,
the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It
houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories
built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting
of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds"
is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Its five-storey structure of sandstone plastered
pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has
953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal
grandstand for the palace women.
Shopping in the evening or relax. Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day-8: Jaipur - Udaipur
By flight : 9w - 3401
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : AT7 (ATR)
Stopovers : Nil
Departure : 0715 Hrs from Jaipur
Arrival : 0840 hrs at Udaipur
Leave Jaipur for Udaipur by air. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Udaipur - the
city of lakes in the royal state of Rajasthan.
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in
by the lush hills of the Aravallis. A vision in white drenched in romance and
beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and
inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes
strewn with stalls, carry the flavor of a heroic past, epitomizing valor and
chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the Lake Pichhola is an enticing
sight.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola.
From he boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically
above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. (This is one of the highlight
of the tour).
Also visit the Jag Mandir Palace - the other island palace in the middle of
the lake. Spend some time at the Jag Mandir Palace.
Stay overnight at hotel.
Day- 9: Udaipur
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Morning after breakfast proceed for an excursion to Ranakpur.
Proceed to Ranakpur.
A visit to the famous Jain Temple, dating back to the 15th century is part
of the itinerary. 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls.
The Temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits
to two more Jain temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
Lunch at Ranakpur. Return back to Udaipur by evening. Overnight at Hotel.
Overnight will be at Udaipur.
Day-10:
Udaipur - Mumbai:
By Flight
Flight Number : 9W 3401
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : AT7 (ATR)
Stopovers : Nil
Departure : 0850 hr from Udaipur
Arrival : 1035 hr at Mumbai
Morning after breakfast transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival
in Mumbai, you will be received by our representative and transferred to Hotel.
Afternoon proceed for sightseeing tour of Mumbai city.
MUMBAI'S SKYLINE IS RECOGNISABLE IN ADVERTISEMENTS AND PICTORIAL DEPICTIONS
STATING THE COUNTRY'S TECHNOLOGICAL AND FINANCIAL HUB. IT'S AN IMPOSING
SKYLINE. THE CONTOURS ARE HAZY BUT THE RESIDENTS DON'T SEEM TO MIND. THEY
LOVE THIS PLACE AND THIS ALL-ENCOMPASSING LOVE IS INFECTIOUS.
WHAT ARE THE FEW NAIL-ON-THE-HEAD CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CITY? A WALK ON MARINE
DRIVE, THE GATEWAY OF INDIA, WARDEN ROAD, UNIVERSITY BUILDINGS, FORT, TOWNHALL,
MUMBAI HIGH COURT TO NAME A FEW. THE WAVES SPLASHING AGAINST THE EMBANKMENT
ESTABLISH AN ESSENCE OF MUMBAI TOO, MUCH IN THE SAME GENRE AS THE SKYLINE. THE
PUB AND BAR SCENARIO HERE IS QUITE STATE OF THE ART AND RANGES FROM THE SOPHISTICATED
ONES IN THE FIVE STARS TO THE HIP AND TRENDY ONES IN COLABA AND THE SUBURBS.
MUMBAI IS ALSO KNOWN AS THE HOLLYWOOD OF INDIA OR BOLLYWOOD (FROM THE NAMES
BOMBAY AND HOLYWOOD) AND IS THE BIGGEST FILM INDUSTRY OF THE WORLD.
Enjoy sightseeing tour of Mumbai city.
Flora Fountain (Hutatma Chowk): This marvellous fountain was built in 1869,
in honor of Sir Henry Bartle and Edward Frere. It is situated in the heart of
the Mumbai city at a junction of five streets. The fountain has a figure of
"Flora", the Roman Goddess of Flowers at the top.
The Prince of Wales Museum: This museum stands not too far from the Gateway
of India. It has a priceless collection of art, sculpture, china and other antics.
Carefully presereved, this mid-Victorian Gothic style building built in 1904
with beautiful gardens surrounding it, is worth visiting in Mumbai.
Victoria Gardens (Veermata Jeejabai Bhonsle Udyan): These botanical and zoological
gardens have an interesting collection of flora and fauna. Apart from these,
it also has a beautiful gateway, an arched architctural screen and a museum
building in the Greco-Roman Style. A large stone elephant at the entrance is
also worth seeing. These gardens are situated in Byculla.
Chowpatty Beach & Juhu Beach: Chowpatty beach is situated on Marine Drive.
This beach is well-known for it's stalls selling "Bhel-Puri and Pani -Puri
chat" a favourite fast food among the Mumbaites and visitors to the city.
Juhu Beach is the most popular beach in Mumbai which is 30 kms away from the
heart of Mumbai. It is a long stretch of sandy beach from Santacruz to Vile-Parle.
This is a very popular beach for picnic.
Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day -11: Mumbai
Mumbai - Elephanta Island excursion
By Ferry Ship from Appollo Bunder
Morning after breakfast proceed for an excursion to Elephanta Island.
The Elephanta island was so named by the Portuguese, after the statue of an
elephant near the landing area of the island. These rock cut temples dedicated
to Shiva Mahadeva are rich in sculptural content. Motorboats take passengers
from Appollo Bunder near the Gateway of India.
This rock cut temples were created by carving out rock, and creating the columns,
the internal spaces and the images. The entire temple is akin to a huge sculpture,
through whose corridors and chambers one can walk. The entire complex was created
through a process of rock removal. Some of the rock surfaces are highly finished
while some are untreated bare rock.
The entire cave temple complex covers an area of about 60000 squrare feet and
it consists a main chamber and two lateral ones , courtyards and several subsidIary
shrines. Above the temple is the mass of natural rock.
There are three entrances to this temple. The ones on the east and the west
marking the axis of the temple. A 20 pillared hall lines the axis, and on its
western end is the cella in which is enshrined a Shivalingam. The pillars consist
of fluted columns standing on square bases, and are crowned with fluted cushion
capitals.
The enigmatic image of Trimurthi Sadasiva: The Sadasiva manifestation of Shiva
is carved in relief at the end of the north south axis. This collossal 20 feet
high image of the three headed Shiva, Trimurthy is a magnificient one, considered
to be a masterpiece of Indian art. This colossal image represents Panchamukha
Shiva, only three faces of whom are carved into the wall and it demands immediate
attention upon entering the temple through the northern entrance.
Also on the southern wall are grand sculptured images of Kalyanasundara, Gangadhara,
Ardhanariswara and Uma Maheswara. To the west of the northern entrance are sculptured
images of Nataraja and Andhakaasuravadamoorthy, and to its east are images of
Yogiswara and Ravanaanugrahamurthy.
Thus in the Elephanta caves, Shiva is portrayed in the non anthropomorphic Shivalingam
form, as well as in his quintessential being emanating from the Shivalingam
in the colossal image, and in 8 manifest forms.
To the east of the main temple is a courtyard, flanked by the secondary shrine.
This temple contains six pillars at its entrance, four of which are free standing
and two engaged. The entrance leads to a hall decorated with sculptured panels
depicting legends from the Shiva Purana.
Return to Hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day - 12:
Mumbai - Goa:
By Flight:
Flight Number : 9W 475
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Stopovers : Nil
Departure : 1200 hr from Mumbai
Arrival : 1300 hr at Goa
Breakfast will be at hotel. Transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai. Reach
and take connecting flight to Goa. Overnight will be at Goa.
Day - 13: Goa
Relax at the beaches of Goa.
Day - 14:
Goa - Mumbai:
By Flight:
Flight Number : 9W 474
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Stopovers : Nil
Departure : 1615 hr from Goa
Arrival : 1715 hr at Mumbai
Mumbai / Onward destination.
Morning after breakfast transfer to airport for flight to Mumbai.
Upon arrival in Mumbai you will be received by our representative. Later
transfer to international airport for flight to onward destination. Carry
along memories of your trip with souvenirs for your friends and relatives.