Detailed Itinerary

 

Day 1:            Arrive Delhi

 

India’s capital, New Delhi, lies on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, within the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful buildings, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the grand, sandstone Red Fort, striking Qutab Minar, and fascinating Humayun’s Tomb. Architecture enthusiasts will delight in the iconic Lotus Temple. Hear ‘qawwalis’ (devotional music) at the dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Nizam-ud-din Auliya; or wander through the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace – still one of the city’s most popular retail centres today, famous for its traditional jewellery and saris. The gorgeous Sunder Nursery and Lodi Garden provide calm, flower-filled oases for picnicking.

 

Day Itinerary

Flight                                   TBA

Arrives Delhi                     TBA Hrs

On arrival in Delhi: Having cleared immigration, collected your luggage and passed through customs, please make your way towards the exit of the terminal building where you will see a bank of people waiting for you.  Amongst them will be Travel Counsellors Representative who will be waiting to greet you with a paging board with your name on.

You will then be transferred to your hotel. Standard check in tiem – 1400 Hrs.

Overnight: Le Meridien New Delhi

Le Meridien New Delhi is ideally located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of the shopping hubs Connaught Place and Janpath Market. The accommodation features comfortably designed guest rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities such as TVs, air conditioning, tea/coffee makers, complimentary bottled water, hairdryers and Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink at the various on-site restaurants and bars. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, health club and spa.

Day 2:            In Delhi

Day Itinerary

After breakfast enjoy a walking tour of Old Delhi conducted by the Salaam Baalak Trust.

Old Delhi Heritage Walk by Salaam Baalak Trust

Established in 1988, the Salaam Baalak Trust is a Delhi-based NGO committed to supporting ‘street children’ across the city.  The name roughly translates as ‘salute a child’ and its mission is to secure the futures of children who for a variety of social and family reasons have ended up living precariously if not dangerously on the margins of society, either in slums or on the streets.

The Trust’s programmes encompass various outreach projects, health & nutrition, education & skill building and rehabilitation. One facet of this are guided walks led by former street children who have shrugged off adversity, gone on to study and forged independent lives within mainstream society. On foot and by rickshaw, this guided tour takes an immersive look at the atmospheric lanes, markets and bazaars of Old Delhi. Between the great Jami Masjid mosque and the famous thoroughfare of Chandni Chowk, you’ll see everyday life in one of Delhi’s most characterful neighbourhoods – spice markets, wedding paraphernalia, street food and hidden havelis, or merchants’ mansions.

Afternoon, enjoy the city tour of New Delhi visiting monuments.

Humayun’s Tomb

The mausoleum complex of Humayun, India’s second Mughal Emperor, was commissioned by his widow in 1565 and was the first garden tomb to be built in India, taking seven years to complete. Humayun had travelled widely in Persia and Central Asia during his lifetime, and many of the architectural principles he brought back from these journeys were incorporated into the building at his wife’s instructions. With its double domes, decorative inlaid marble and vast garden with pools connected by channels, this 16th Century building set the stage for the style that culminated in the Taj Mahal almost 100 years later.

 

 

 

Qutub Minar

The majestic Qutub Minar is a heritage building located in downtown Mehrauli in India. Standing tall at 73-metres, the tower consists of 5 storeys with a flight of spiral stairs leading to its top. The walls are adorned with decorative motifs and Quranic inscriptions. At the foot of the tower lie other monuments of historical significance, such as the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar of Delhi. The Amazing race Australia used this site as a pitstop in the second series. Visitors can take advantage of stunning photo opportunities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

India Gate

Also known as the Delhi Memorial or the All India War Memorial, the India Gate was built in commemoration of the roughly 80 000 Indian soliders who died representing their country in World War One and on various other battlefields, and whose names are inscribed on the structure. Unveiled in 1931, its distinctive arch is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and the Gateway of India in Bombay, and is one of the trademark sights of New Delhi.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overnight: Le Meridien New Delhi

 

 

Day 3:            Delhi – Agra

 

Set on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a beautiful city famous for its incredible Taj Mahal building, one of the seven wonders of the world. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions. The city boasts numerous other superb attractions, including the red-hued sandstone Agra Fort, built in the 16th century; the Shahi Jama Masjid mosque, a 17th-century congregational mosque located in the historic core of Agra, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs, also called the’ Baby Taj’.

 

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, Travel Counsellor Representative will assist & transfer you to railway station to board the train for Agra.

 

Train                                    Gatimaan Express (runs daily except Friday)

Departs Delhi                    08:10 Hrs.

Arrives Agra                      09:50 Hrs.

 

Upon arrival in Agra, proceed to visit Agra Fort. Thereafter check in at Hotel (Standard check in at 1400 Hrs)

 

Evening visit Taj Mahal at sunset (Closed on Fridays)

Activities

Agra Fort

Taj Mahal

Agra Fort

Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605) and is a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. Its  palaces, grand mosques and elaborate public hall are crafted from pink-red sandstone and are testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly marked by influences from Persia, was at its height. Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal for his deceased wife, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort. He is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself built, with one of the most alluring views of the Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal

The iconic Taj Mahal is not only an architectural masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – it’s also the enduring legacy of a royal love story. It was commissioned in the 15th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his third and favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, to serve as her final resting place and a symbol of his eternal affection for her. Combining  Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian design elements, it’s an awe-inspiring structure of elegant domes and white marble, which changes colour along with the light – pink at sunrise, pearly white in the afternoon and silver-gold in the full moon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Agra Hotel

Choose a room overlooking the Taj Mahal when staying at Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Agra. Located in the heart of Agra city center, this Double Tree hotel is one of the few hotels in Agra offering views of this legendary monument located only 2 km from the hotel.

 

Whether in a garden view or city view room, the hotel offers breath taking views of the Taj Mahal from the pool area, and convenient access to Agra attractions such as the Agra Fort, Akbar’s Tomb and Sadar Bazaar. Upgrade to a suite for an additional living room with a dining area.

 

Enjoy fine dining at this hotel in Agra with 4 stylish food and beverage outlets offering cuisines from around the globe. Savor selections in the Indian specialty restaurant, or refresh with a cool drink in the poolside lounge. In the evening, enjoy live music and cultural performances in the inviting courtyard. Energize in the 24-hour fitness center or swim in the sparkling outdoor pool. After a busy day, indulge in a treatment in the luxurious spa.

 

 

 

Day 4:            Agra – Ranthambore National Park

 

Located in the Sawai Madhopur district, the Ranthambore National Park, in the western state of Rajasthan, is one of the most visited wildlife parks in India. Spanning over an impressive 1300-square-kilometer stretch of wilderness, the park’s outstanding natural beauty is characterized by its dense jungle, golden savanna, dramatic cliffs and lotus-filled lakes. Considered the best spot to catch a glimpse of tigers in the wild, the park offers visitors a spellbounding combination of mystical temples, wild beauty and crumbling ruins. While the main attraction is undoubtedly the elusive Bengal tiger, the park provides a sanctuary for other wildlife including, among others: sambar, gazelle, caracal, black buck, crocodile, chital, wild boars and a wide array of birds. Don’t miss the ancient Ranthambore Fort, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the vast expanse of this spectacular park.

 

Day Itinerary

After leisurely breakfast checkout from hotel and transfer to Bharatpur railway station [approx. 60 kms /1 ½ Hrs) for your train to Sawai Madhopur.

 

Train                                    Kota Jan Shatabdi

Departs Delhi                    14:50 Hrs.

Arrives Agra                      17:13 Hrs.

 

On arrival you will be met and transferred to the the hotel for check in.

Overnight: Ranthambhore Kothi

Ranthambhore Kothi is set by a natural water lake surrounded by green forests in Rajasthan, India. The rooms at the hotel come equipped with a mini-bar, safe, tea-kettle, and a private balcony. The hotel features an on-site dining facility, bar, outdoor swimming pool, gardens, spa, and a tiger sanctuary. Popular activities include a safari in the Ranthambhore National Park, the National Chambal Sanctuary Boat Rides, and exploring the Ranthambhore Fort.

 

 

Day 5:            Ranthambore National Park

 

Day Itinerary

Enjoy morning and afternoon safari by an exclusive jeeps with an English speaking naturalist at Ranthambore National Park.

 

Note:

• On Tuesdays the core zones from 1 to 5 are open for safaris and buffer zones 6 to 10 are closed for safaris.
• On Wednesdays the core zones from 1 to 5 remain closed for safaris and buffer zones 6 to 10 are open for safaris.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overnight: Ranthambhore Kothi

 

 

 

Day 6:            Ranthambore – Jaipur

 

Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur, nicknamed the ‘Pink City’ for its salmon-hued terracotta buildings, is the capital and largest city in the Rajasthan State. This metropolis combines tradition and modernity with its vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces, and ancient temples. Don’t miss the fairy-tale splendour of the Amber Fort, set against the backdrop of the arid landscape and hosting enthralling sound and light shows; the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar, a collection of 300-year-old astronomical tools which look like contemporary art; and the opulent City Palace, with its palatial structures, sprawling gardens, and atmospheric courtyards. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which includes Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, and it also serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

 

Day Itinerary

Breakfast at hotel.

 

Check-out and drive to Jaipur (approx. 4 hours’ drive), check-in on arrival.

 

Later in the afternoon, enjoy the Pink city rickshaw ride.

 

Launched by ACCESS Development Services (a national livelihoods support network), Pink City Rickshaws has around 200 women from low-income households driving customised eco-friendly two-passenger auto-rickshaws around Jaipur on a range of tours. With tour themes ranging from food to shopping, local crafts to key cultural sights, this is probably the quirkiest and most off-beat way of exploring the city

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overnight: Shahpura House

The Shahpura House derives it’s name from the ruler of Shekhawat Maha Rao Shekhaji and the Manoharpur Shahpura family. The establishment is 200 years old and is set amidst green surroundings. All of the 38 guest rooms at Shahpura House are equipped with modern facilities to make a guest feel at home. Each room is embellished with marble and semi-precious stones accompanying the marble bathrooms, private porches and lobbies.  Facilities available for use in each room includes LCD TV, satellite television, wired and wireless broadband internet access, electronic safe, direct dial telephone with voice mail, personal minibar and a tea or coffee maker. Activities of leisure at the hotel are open to all guests. There is a cocktail bar, rooftop restaurant serving Rajasthani dishes, the Shahpura Spa, cooking classes with the chef, outdoor pool and pool area. Additionally, guests can go on horse buggy rides or on camel safaris.

 

 

 

Day 7:            Jaipur

 

Day Itinerary

Breakfast is at the hotel.

 

A morning visit to Govind Dev Ji Temple in Jaipur is a spiritually enriching experience. Located within the City Palace complex, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The devotees gather to wake the deity with hymns and chants. The atmosphere is serene and spiritually charged. As it’s a popular temple, especially for locals, you’ll find a large gathering of devotees offering their prayers.  The morning visit offers a calming and introspective start to the day in the vibrant city of Jaipur.

 

Later enjoy the walk in the flower and vegetable market and you get an opportunity to interact with the locals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Later visit to City palace.

Jaipur City Palace

Up until India’s Independence in 1947, Jaipur’s City Palace was the ceremonial and bureaucratic seat of power of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Standing in the heart of the Old City founded by his ancestor, the 18th-century palace remains one of the city’s key sights.  It’s a huge complex of courtyards, opulent audience halls, royal apartments, temples and pretty pavilions, some of which are still occupied by the royal family. It’s also home to a large museum with galleries devoted to textiles and armaments.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)

One of Jaipur’s most recognised buildings, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is known for its iconic façade. Small windows, decorated with intricate latticework create a honeycomb-like appearance. The original intention of the lattice was to allow the royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen. The cooling effect, provided by the breeze passing through the small windows, gave the palace its name. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the unique construction was originally designed to look like the crown of Krishna. A panoramic view of Jaipur can be had from the top of the building.

 

 

Evening enjoy the visit at Amer Fort by jeep ride

Cresting a stark rocky ridge on the hilly northern fringes of Jaipur, 16th-century Amber (or Amer) Fort is one of the finest examples of a Rajput fort-palace. Overlooking a lake and enclosed by kilometres of wide crenellated walls that  wriggle across the enclosing hills, this huge complex of audience halls, pavilions and royal apartments is a compelling blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Although its once lavish interiors are now diminished, sufficient part-marble interiors, decorative frescoes, coloured glass and mirror-mosaics still reveal some of the grandeur of life in a maharaja’s court in what was one of Rajasthan’s most powerful princely states.

 

 

Return to the hotel after the visits or enjoy shopping at the Old Jaipur market.

Overnight: Shahpura House

 

Day 8:            Jaipur – Delhi

 

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, you will be driven to Delhi [approx. 5 hours’ drive].

 

Arrive Delhi and you will be transferred to an airport hotel.

Overnight: Lemon Tree Premier Delhi Airport

Lemon Tree Premier Delhi Airport is 4-kilometres away from Indira Gandhi International Airport and 5-kilometres away from the domestic airport. The hotel features 280 smartly furnished rooms and suites that are equipped with a range of world-class facilities including Wi-Fi, satellite television, minibars and well-appointed bathrooms including one for differently-abled guests. The rooms also have a workstation and an ergonomically designed chair, to make business on the move productive. Guests can explore delicacies in the award-winning pan-Asian restaurant or enjoy lip-smacking delights in the multi-cuisine café.

 

 

Day 9:            Depart New Delhi

 

Day Itinerary

At appropriate time, you will be assisted & transferred to airport to board the flight for onward destination.

 

Flight                                   TBA

Departs Delhi                    TBA Hrs.

 

 

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NOTE:

• The distances and time taken for the travel is approximation only this will differ based on the traffic conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.