Day 1: Arrive at Delhi

Welcome to India! On your arrival, after you collect your luggage, you will be greeted by our travel facilitator at the airport. You will then be taken in a chauffeur-driven vehicle to your hotel and assisted with your check-in. After making you comfortable, our travel facilitator will hand over your travel documents and briefly go over the next day’s program.

Day 2: Delhi

Your exploration of India will commence at Old Delhi, which was the citadel of the Mughal Empire between the 17th and 19th century. You will visit the impressive Red Fort built in 1648 which was the seat of the Mughal Empire. You will be amazed at the imposing 1.24 mile long red sandstone walls of the fort. Next will be a thrilling experience of a cycle rickshaw ride through the vibrant alleys of Chandni Chowk, past sacred temples, and old houses with fascinating architecture. This will provide you with an insight into the real India. You will also visit India's largest mosque built by Shah Jahan in 1658, the Jama Masjid, an architectural delight as much as a holy place. Later visit Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi which is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna. A humble black marble amid lush green lawns marks the cremation spot.

Afternoon: After the Old Delhi tour, you will be driven to New Delhi, which was built by the British as a regal capital. The difference between the Old & New Delhi is the division actually between the two capitals – Mughal & British. You will visit the Qutab Minar – the 234 feet high sandstone Victory Tower built in 1193. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, the 138 feet high stone arch of triumph which bears the names of 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who laid down their lives in various wars across the world. It has an eternal flame in honor of the Unknown Soldier. Visit Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful Mughal red sandstone structure. After this, you will drive through Lutyen’s New Delhi which includes the Diplomatic enclave, various spectacular Government buildings that originated in the Victorian era, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara (a magnificent temple for people of the Sikh religion), and the impressive and ornate Hindu Birla Temple. Finish your tour of New Delhi at Connaught Place, which is New Delhi’s main shopping, business, and tourist center.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

Checkout from your hotel after breakfast and then you are driven to Agra (about 4 hours) on North India’s newest highway. Arrive at Agra check-in to your hotel.

Afternoon: You will visit the massive red sandstone Agra Fort which was built by the famous Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, primarily as a military structure. During Shah Jahan’s reign, it was converted into a palace. It finally became a prison for Shah Jahan after his son came to power in 1658. The fort has numerous courtyards, private chambers, and a marble mosque. On the opposite side of the Yamuna River is the exquisite Itmad-ud-daulah built in 1628 by Mughal Emperor’s queen, Nur Jahan in memory of her father. The tomb is the first monument that was constructed entirely of marble inlaid in Pietra Dura.

Late afternoon: Sunset visit at the spectacular white marble mausoleum and one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. Tourists come from all over the world throughout the year to gaze at the extravagant monument dedicated to love. This wonder was built by Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal in 1653 AD. It took 22 years and 22,000 craftsmen to build the Taj. The white marble is inlaid with semi-precious stones in beautiful patterns in a process called pietra dura. A minaret at each corner of the Taj gives it a perfectly symmetrical look. The Taj houses in its basement the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Day 4: Agra – Jaipur

Check out of your hotel by noon and drive to Jaipur. Enroute stop to visit the Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri. The Chand Baori is one of the oldest, deepest, and largest baoris (stepwells) in Rajasthan. The oldest parts of the structure date back to the 8th century. This colossal stepwell has a depth of 20 meters, with 13 levels. Despite being so huge, the well still has delicate and intricate carvings which are a visual treat. Arrive at Jaipur and check in to your hotel. Jaipur is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan also known as the ‘Pink city’.

Day 5: Jaipur

After breakfast drive 7 miles north of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort and Palace. This was the ancient capital of Jaipur state. Mount your caparisoned elephant to ascend up (an option to use a jeep is available) to the main gate of the splendid Amber fort situated on a hillock overlooking a lake. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Rajput rulers, a clan which was famous for its military heroism. In sharp contrast to the rugged exteriors of the soaring fort is the opulent ambiance of the interiors, especially the Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors which is a result of the intricate and delicate use of mirrors.

Afternoon: Continue your tour of Jaipur city; visit the City Palace Complex, a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture consisting of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The royal family of Jaipur still resides in a part of the Palace. You will then visit the Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory. Enjoy your visit to the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. Located in the heart of the old city’s bustling marketplace, the Hawa Mahal is a pink sandstone five-storey building that has a fascinating façade of numerous intricately designed and embellished windows. It was originally built to enable the royal ladies to look at the bustling city without being seen.

Day 6: Jaipur – Mandawa

Check out of your hotel and drive to Mandawa. Arrive at Mandawa and check in to your hotel.

Afternoon: Enjoy the tour of Mandawa which is a beautiful town famous for its havelis. Havelis are traditional Rajasthani residences which are famous for their ornate décor. The town was fortified by dominant merchant families, in the 18th century. Mandawa is referred to as the “open art gallery” of Rajasthan because of the numerous paintings which adorn the walls of the havelis. Chowkhani Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Laxminarayan Ladia Haveli, Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli, and Bhagchandika Haveli are of special interest in this town.

Day 7: Mandawa – Bikaner

Check out of your hotel and drive through Fatehpur and Nawalgarh. Enjoy watching the 19th-century Havelis to find some of the finest frescoes in the region.

Afternoon: Commence your journey to Bikaner, a desert city located in northwest Rajasthan in the middle of the Thar desert or the Great Indian Desert. Enroute visit the largest Camel breeding farm of Asia, located at Jorbeer. The farm breeds some of the fastest riding camels in India. Arrive at Bikaner and check in to your hotel.

Day 8: Bikaner – Jaisalmer

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your sightseeing with a visit to the impressive Junagarh Fort, constructed by one of Akbar's generals, Raja Rai Singh between 1588 and 1593. The fort has a 986m long wall with 37 bastions and an ensemble of courtyards, palaces, balconies, kiosks, towers, and windows. This fort is encircled by a moat and has never been conquered. What makes the fort and its palaces unique are the magnificent stone carvings, paintings, and carved marble panels. Some of the highlights are Diwan-i-khas, Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), and Rang Mahal (Palace of pleasure). Also visit the Ganga Golden Museum which has an amazing collection of works of art and sculptures. Some of the remarkable ones are the silk robe of Mughal Prince Salim, sculptures from Harappan ages, Rajasthani war weaponry, and Litho prints of the British Empire.

Afternoon: Continue your journey further southwest to Jaisalmer. The drive will take you through the vast expanse of the Thar Desert. Arrive at Jaisalmer which is nicknamed the ‘Golden City’ because of the yellow sand which gives a yellowish-golden tinge to the city. Check in to your hotel.

Day 9: Jaisalmer

Begin your day by visiting Jaisalmer Fort which stands on the 262 feet high Trikuta Hill amidst the barren desert. Built in 1156 by Rao Jodha, the fort resembles a sandcastle because of the honey color given to its ramparts by the setting Sun. Two hundred and fifty feet tall, made of sandstone, the fort has 99 bastions, a huge courtyard, and a seven-story palace called the Rajmahal. From the top of the fort enjoy a spectacular look of the Golden City, Jaisalmer. Almost a quarter of the population of the old city resides here. Also visit Ganga Sagar Tank and the museum.

Late afternoon: Enjoy the thrilling experience of a camel safari on the sweeping sand dunes of Sam and watch the sunset. You will find this an unforgettable experience amidst the vast sandy expanse of the desert.

Day 10: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur

Check out of your hotel and drive to Jodhpur. Arrive at Jodhpur and check in to your hotel.

Afternoon: Visit the towering Mehrangarh Fort which is the best-preserved fort in Rajasthan. Built in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort has a series of imposing gateways, and courtyards and is built on a 125-meter high hill. The fort has a magnificent collection of artifacts, old weapons, and fine palanquins. The fort is surrounded by a 10-km long wall and has the beautiful marble Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) and Phool Mahal (Flower Palace).

You will also visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace which is still occupied by the royal family of Jodhpur. Built by Maharaja Umaid Singh between 1928 and 1943, it was constructed to provide employment to people affected by famine. The palace has 347 rooms and is one of the world’s largest private residences. You will also visit the Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph built in 1899 in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Day 11: Jodhpur – Udaipur

Check out of your hotel and drive to Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes.” Arrive at Udaipur and check in to your hotel.

Afternoon: Begin your exploration of Udaipur with a visit to the City Palace which is situated on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola. The City Palace is a magnificent palace complex and was built over a period of 400 years, by various Maharanas (rulers) of Udaipur. It has beautiful courtyards, towers, and balconies, providing a stunning view of the surroundings. You will also visit the Jagdish Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This 17th-century temple is renowned for its beautiful sculptures and carvings.

Late afternoon: Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola which will provide you with breathtaking views of the Lake Palace and the Jag Mandir Island. The ride will offer a glimpse of the stunning architecture of the palaces and temples surrounding the lake.

Day 12: Udaipur – Departure

Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End of your memorable journey in India.

Inclusions

• Accommodation: 11 nights in 4-star hotels
• Meals: Daily breakfast at hotels
• Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle
• Guided Tours: Services of a professional English-speaking guide
• Monuments Visits: All entrance fees to the mentioned monuments
• Camel Safari: Camel ride in Jaisalmer
• Boat Ride: Lake Pichola boat ride in Udaipur
• Airport Transfers: Airport pickup and drop-off
  
  

Exclusions

• International Airfare: International flights
• Domestic Airfare: Any domestic flights
• Meals: Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
• Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as telephone calls, laundry, etc.
• Tips and Gratuities: Tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff
• Travel Insurance: Travel and health insurance
• Camera Fees: Both still and video
• Visa: Any visa-related expenses
• Miscellaneous: Any other services not mentioned in the itinerary
  
  

Not Included

• Any personal expenses such as tips, laundry, and drinks
• Any meals other than those specified above
• Personal Travel Insurance, visa, etc.
• Camera fees (both still and video)
• International flight tickets
• Miscellaneous