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!!
Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.(The check in time at the hotels in India is 2 PM)
Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.
Morning is at leisure to recover from your long flight.
Afternoon, we will proceed for a rickshaw tour in Old Delhi - one of the best examples in the world where you can witness the cultural mixtures of “old and new”. Uncover the sights, scents, and the flavors of “Purani Dilli” (Old Delhi) while you are sitting comfortably and safely in your cycle rickshaw. Our major highlights would include a visit to the Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid, Chandni Chowk market (literally meaning the moonlit square), Darba Kalan (a 17th century jewel street), Kinari bazaar (a market, especially for wedding & traditional outfits), Kari Baoli (Asia’s largest spice market), as well as the narrow alleys of Ballimaran (well-known for the renowned poet Mirza Galib’s house). Moreover, the people and the streets here have many stories to tell you about the yesteryears of Delhi!! Yes, Please, this magical ride will give you a perfect opportunity to discover a different Delhi; all Natural and all earthy from the safety of your rickshaw.
Overnight at Hyatt Regency, Delhi (King Room) (B)
Morning, we will visit Gurdwara Shri Bangla Sahib, one of the most important historical and sacred pilgrimage destinations of the Sikh community in India and the most sacred among the destinations in Delhi. It was actually a Haveli or Bangla where Guru Hari Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru of the Sikhs, stayed during his tour to Delhi in 1664. The Guru was entertained as a royal guest by Mirza Raja Jai Singh in this bangla. Later this bangla became the memoir of the Guru and was later converted to gurudwara. It is estimated that more than 10,000 visitors visit this Gurudwara every day.
Next, 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, 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 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.
Later, we will visit Bahai Temple. The Bahá'í House of Worship at New Delhi is one of the marvels of modern architecture. The temple gives the impression of a half – open lotus flower afloat, surrounded by its leaves. The shining pure white marble, the majestic dome, the petals clearly standing out create a sense of grandeur and awe. All around the lotus are walkways with beautiful curved balustrades, bridges and stairs that surround the nine pools representing the floating leaves of the lotus. It is a remarkable tabernacle of peace and beauty and an engineering feat that will set standards for centuries. Capturing the imagination with its simplicity and elegance this monument in marble is dedicated to the purpose of prayer, meditation and spiritual upliftment. From within its hallowed precincts rise in praise and glorification of the Almighty voices in unison, of Hindus and Muslims, Jews, Christians, Buddhists and Zoroastrians people of all castes, colours and cultures. There is no clergy in the temple, no idols, no pictures, no sermons, and no rituals. It is a place for communication between man and his Creator, God. The daily public services include selections from the holy books of all religions.
Overnight at Hyatt Regency, Delhi (King Room) (B)
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Delhi airport for your flight to Amritsar.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at Amritsar airport and transfer you to hotel, Hyatt Regency.
Early evening, we will journey 40 Kms to Wagha border, the border between India & Pakistan. Each evening a very impressive lowering of guards ceremony is performed along with a march past by soldiers of both countries in synchronization to the accompaniment of bugles. The soldiers of both countries wear ceremonial dresses. It is quite a spectacular sight to see the same thing happening on both sides of the border.
Overnight at Hyatt Regency, Amritsar (Guest Room) (B)
After breakfast, we will proceed for the city tour of Amritsar, we will visit the Golden Temple which is the Mecca of Sikh religion .The temple with a shiny pure gold dome, is beautifully situated in the center of a lake (The Holy Tank) and is approached by a causeway. All around the lake are marble walkways and various other temple buildings. The community kitchen, which feeds over a thousand people continuously, is spectacular. The huge utensils to prepare the food and the chapattis (breads) - 20 to 25 at a time - are a mind-boggling sight. However, besides the physical beauty of the place, the strong and tranquil spiritual atmosphere of the place is soul stirring without being overwhelming. The constant recitation of the holy book brings a certain sense of peace to the individual. We walk through the temple complex and try soak in the atmosphere. We would also have an opportunity to meet some Sikh religious leaders who would talk to us about the basic tenets of Sikhism.
Just outside the Golden Temple are various shops that sell Sikh religious artifacts like swords (decorative), bracelets, combs, small daggers etc.
During the day, we would also visit the Jallianwala Bagh, the martyr’s memorial where thousands of innocent Indians were cordoned off by the British and fired. The well where several Indians jumped to escape the bullets as well as bullet marks and a museum of pictures can be still seen here.
Later, we will also visit the Partition Museum.
Following dinner (Not Included) we would visit the Golden temple to be a part of the Diwali festivities. A large number of devotees visit the Golden Temple to celebrate Bandi Chor Divas and Diwali. Groups of devotees from various parts of Punjab had been camping in the galliara and the parikarma of the Golden Temple over a few days. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) decorates the Golden Temple with illuminating lights. It is quite a spectacular setting of serenity and festivity. Following dinner we would visit the Golden temple to be a part of the Diwali festivities. A large number of devotees visit the Golden Temple to celebrate Bandi Chor Divas and Diwali. Groups of devotees from various parts of Punjab had been camping in the galliara and the parikarma of the Golden Temple over a few days. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) decorates the Golden Temple with illuminating lights. It is quite a spectacular setting of serenity and festivity.
We would be visiting the Golden Temple at night. There happens a spectacular ceremony, where the Sikhs put their holy book (Guru Granth Sahib Ji) to sleep. The priests carry the books over their head to place them in a golden palanquin. The book is then carried to an inner chamber in the Palanquin to the accompaniment of bugles and drums and the chanting of the name of the Lord. The palanquin itself is carried by devotees in turns. It is quite a special sight. The book is again placed in the main sanctum similarly in the morning.
Overnight at Hyatt Regency, Amritsar (Guest Room) (B)
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Amritsar airport for your flight to Jaipur via Delhi.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at Jaipur airport and transfer you to hotel, Khas Bagh.
Evening, we will celebrate Diwali with an Indian family, where we will also learn why our nation is called the land of lights as well as colours. Diwali commemorates the homecoming of Lord Rama and wife Sita, with their younger brother Lakshman, after 14 years of vanwas (exile). Although, Diwali symbolizes different things to different communities and regions in India, what is common to all is the theme of victory, of good over evil. A perfect opportunity to immerse yourselves in the local culture, and get a unique taste of India
Overnight at Khas Bagh, Jaipur (Deluxe Room) (B)
After breakfast, 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.
Next, we will visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. 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.
We would also stop at Jal Mahal palace for photos. (From Outside Only)
Then, we would visit Dera Amer. It offers a unique blend of luxury and wilderness, making it an ideal destination for a memorable outing. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with warm hospitality and welcomed into the serene surroundings of the property. The highlight of the experience is the sumptuous lunch served amidst the rustic beauty of the Aravalli Hills. You can indulge in a lavish spread of traditional Rajasthani cuisine, featuring delicacies bursting with flavours and spices. After lunch, a variety of activities await you, including thrilling elephant interactions, where you can feed, bathe, and even paint these majestic creatures under the guidance of expert mahouts. With its perfect blend of gastronomic delights and immersive experiences, Dera Amer promises a day filled with unforgettable moments amidst the natural beauty of Jaipur's countryside.
Afternoon, 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.
Early evening, we will visit the Nahargarh Fort to achieve sunset views. Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the pink city of Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The view of the city from the fort is breath taking. Along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort it formed a strong defense ring for the city. During the Sepoy revolt of 1857 Nahargarh served as a refuge for Europeans fleeing from the havoc created by mutineers in neighboring states.
Overnight at Khas Bagh, Jaipur (Deluxe Room) (B & L)
Early this morning, we will proceed on a cycle ride that celebrates the spirit of the land and its people. This is a journey that envelopes you gently with the sights, historical monuments, amazing pink city, fragrances and flavors of rich cultural traditions. The Cycle tour to old city of Jaipur, which is a kind of culture connection, combined with traditional cuisine which will tingle your taste buds, interaction with locals while visiting the beautiful streets of Pink City. Also, there would be an opportunity to join the locals in an impromptu yoga class.
Your ride would take you through the streets famous for their inherent culture and cuisine, the old Havelis (Mansion) and sacred Temples within the streets of walled city of Jaipur better known as pink city.
We will highlight as below aspects of our Bicycle Ride:
After a leisurely breakfast, we will transfer you to the Jaipur airport for your flight to Jaisalmer.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at Jaisalmer airport and transfer you to hotel, Rawalkot.
Late afternoon, we will now make our way to the beautiful Bada Bagh, literally meaning big garden, features a series of royal cenotaphs or chhatris of Jaisalmer. The first cenotaph in the region was built for Jai Singh II by his son, Lunkaran, in the 16th century. Jai Singh II was known for his contribution to making the city green. And to honor him, his son set up a memorial in the form of cenotaph near the dam and created a big park around it. All the cenotaphs here have a beautifully carved ceiling and elegant equestrian statues of rulers. The location of the garden is such that it offers incredible sunset vistas to travellers.
Evening, we would visit Vyas Chhatri. This is a collection of tufts of golden sandstone that stand as an incredible example of Rajasthani architecture. It was built to honor the sage Vyasa, who wrote the 300,000 verses of the sacred Hindu book of Mahabharata. Its cenotaph (built for the dead) is located in the north of the structure. It is popularly known as the sunset point of the city, as it offers a panoramic view of Jaisalmer.
Overnight at Rawalkot, Jaisalmer (Deluxe Room) (B)
After breakfast, we visit the residential portions of the Jaisalmer Fort, where one third of the population of the old City still lives. The designs of the houses here remain as they used to a couple of centuries behind time, and so do the lifestyles of the people inhabit them. This is so as most of the families continue to work for generations for the ruler (though only titular now). Hence, there is a sense of continuity. The houses are arranged in narrow lanes and have small windows from where the shy child or the girl peeps through. This city is believed to be the home of the most handsome men and the most gorgeous women in Rajasthan. We would also walk through the narrow cobbled lanes of the golden sandstone city to witness the magnificent medieval Indian Havelis (mansions) of medieval Indian merchants. These elegant buildings, which are very well preserved, tell an apt story of how medieval Indian society existed.
Next, we will visit Gadisar Lake, Just a kilometre away from the Jaisalmer fort. This majestic palace was constructed by the first ruler of Jaisalmer, Raja Rawal Jaisal and later reconstructed by Maharawal Garsi in the year 1367 AD. There is something imaginative about this place - the carved entrance made of yellow sandstone will help you to discover a world which is of a different calibre and creativity.
Later, we will visit, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Patwonki Haveli, and Nathmalki Haveli
Salim Singh ki Haveli: Constructed on the remains of an older haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli in Jaiselmer is yet another unique work of architecture, built in the late 17th century.
Patwon ki Haveli: The grandeur and the architecture of Patwon Ki Haveli add immense value to the cultural heritage of the city.
Nathmal ki Haveli: The architects of this haveli were two brothers Hathi and Lulu who started building different facets of haveli simultaneously with their immense talent and skill. However, in those days there was no modern equipment, which could keep a track on continuity and thus when this building finally built it had an irregular shape.
At about 4:00 PM, we will drive to Sam en route visiting the Kuldhara village. This is among the 84 villages inhabited by the rich, hard-working Paliwals. The Paliwals deserted their houses overnight with the curse that anyone who removed even a stone from the houses would come to grief and perish. Howling winds rush through empty streets and skeletons of houses now exposed to the elements remains of the village.
From here, we will continue our drive to Sam, a dessert outpost. En route we visit a few typical dessert villages, which have a sprinkling of huts. The rough terrain here does not support cultivation; hence the entire village works as casual labourers in road works or community projects. In spite of their poverty and hard life the people are very friendly and seem to be aware that they are proud owners of very expressive and beautiful faces. We move on to Sam where we explore the dessert on camel back.
Following the visit, we will return back to our hotel.
Overnight at Rawalkot, Jaisalmer (Deluxe Room) (B)
After breakfast, we will drive to Jodhpur en route we will visit Osian, it is desert oasis with 16 Brahamanical and Jain temples, beautifully sculpted and designed, most of which have stood ravages of time. You will have the liberty to watch the architectural forms during your camel ride. From here we continue our drive to Jodhpur.
Upon arrival in Jodhpur, we will check into the hotel, Ratan Vilas.
Overnight at Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur (Superior Courtyard Room – Upgraded) (B)
Morning proceed on a tour of Jodhpur. Often referred to as the "Blue City" due to its many blue-painted houses, Jodhpur is a beautiful city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It's known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Here's a full-day tour itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Jodhpur:
Mehrangarh Fort: Start your day early by visiting Mehrangarh Fort, one of the most iconic landmarks in Jodhpur. Explore the majestic palaces, museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the fort's ramparts.
Toorji Ka Jhalra: This is a historic stepwell located in the heart of Jodhpur, and, known for its stunning architectural design and intricate carvings. This beautifully restored water reservoir provides a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax and appreciate the city's heritage.
Jaswant Thada: After touring the fort, head to Jaswant Thada, a beautiful marble cenotaph located nearby. It's a serene place with intricate architecture and a lovely garden to stroll through.
Umaid Bhawan Palace: We visit Umaid Bhawan Palace, which is now partially a luxury hotel and a museum. Explore the palace's architecture and history.
Late afternoon, join us as we step into the Blue city of Jodhpur - known for its opulent palaces and regal aura. Scratch the surface and you will be delighted with the eclectic people, living traditions and colorful culture of the city. This heritage walk not only gives you great sights, but also a true insight into the makings and beliefs of this great city of wonder. Take an enchanting walk through the narrow hidden alleys dotted with indigo colored houses, bustling bazaars and quaint boulevards. Mingle with the locals who further reveal the secrets of the blue city. Interact with the ingenious artisans to understand their craft, visit the historic Krishna temple, and meet the priest as well as his family. Also, discover the ancient step-wells (that plays a vital role in the religious and social life of the residents), sample out some mouth-watering sweets of Jodhpur (like Gulab Jamun, Mave Ki Kachori etc), and, visit the free community Kitchen, to feel the buzz of the city. The tour will be engagingly guided by specially trained “City Explorers” whose excellent local knowledge and passion is infectious. In addition to that, be prepared to be regaled with local tidbits over tea, by the residents of a more than a century-old house embellished with mirror work and fresco paintings.
Overnight at Ratan Vilas, Jodhpur (Superior Courtyard Room – Upgraded) (B)
After breakfast, we will drive to Udaipur via Ranakpur.
Upon arrival in Ranakpur, we will enjoy the exquisite Jain Temple. It was built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. The basement is of 48, 000 sq. feet area that covers the whole complex. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and eligibly domes supported by over four hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an engrossing sight. In the assembly hall, there are two big bells weighing 108 kg whose sound echoes in the entire complex. The main temple is of Chaumukh or four-face temple dedicated to Adinath.
Following the tour, we will continue our drive to Udaipur.
Upon arrival in Udaipur, we will check into hotel, Fateh Niwas.
Overnight at Fateh Niwas, Udaipur (Deluxe Room with Balcony) (B)
After breakfast, we will proceed for a special session of Jal Sanjhi Painting Workshop which is one of its kinds. An art that was originally discovered in Jaipur and later kept fading away in the layers of history is not kept alive by just one family in Udaipur. Jal Sanjhi painting is an art of making painting on water which makes it very unique and offbeat things to do in Udaipur. During our Jal Sanjhi painting demo, you will learn about this 'over' 200 years old art of painting which is a tribute to lord Krishna; one of the Indian gods. The family that practices this art of painting has been practicing Jal sanjhi art for generations.
Next, we will proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art.
Then, move out to visit Saheliyon –ki –bari (the garden of maids of honour with numerous fountains which shows the unique life style of the royal ladies who once strolled here.
Afternoon is at leisure for your independent activities.
Evening, we will embark on the Heritage Walk, indeed the most romantic town of Rajasthan. We will enjoy the exclusive guided Walking Tour of ‘The Real Udaipur’ — know about the people of Udaipur, their living traditions, appealing localities and vibrant bazaars. We will walk through Udaipur's most beautiful streets and sites, navigate hidden lanes, meet interesting residents and artisans, also witness pottery and bamboo craft. The tour is led by our expert “City Explorers” whose excellent local knowledge and passion will help us discover Udaipur.
Main Features –
Then, we will enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola. The island palace on the Lake called Jagmandir Palace is quite fascinating. The Palace provided inspirations and ideas to the builder of the Taj Mahal. The banks of the lake provide interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and the laundry that takes place here. Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty.
Overnight at Fateh Niwas, Udaipur (Deluxe Room with Balcony) (B)
At 08:00 AM, we will drive to Ahmedabad.
Upon arrival in Ahmedabad, we will check into the hotel, Fortune Landmark.
Afternoon, we will proceed on a city tour of Ahmedabad, the city of Ahmed Shah (the medieval ruler of Gujarat), is known for its rich past and its association with Mahatma Gandhi. Ahmedabad city of Gujarat offers the traveler a unique style of architecture, which is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles (Indo-Saracenic style of architecture). Amongst the must visit places of Ahmedabad that our tour would include would be the monuments that date back to the 15th century.
Our highlights of the tour would be as below:
Gandhi Ashram: A visit to Gandhi Ashram (or Sabarmati Ashram) presents a captivating glimpse into the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi. Learn about his non-violent, spiritual and revolutionary leadership, which supported India’s battle for independence from British rule. Peek inside humble houses and visit a superb museum, home to hundreds of Gandhi-related artifacts. Gandhi Ashram sits serenely on the banks of the Sabarmati River, hidden away from Ahmedabad’s bustling city life. It was Gandhi’s headquarters from 1915 to 1930.
Camp Hanuman Temple: Located in Ahmedabad's Cantonment area, this is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage site established over a century ago by Pandit Gajanan Prasad. According to legend, Shree Hanuman was a military leader of the monkey army from Kishkinda, who aided Lord Rama in his quest to retrieve his kidnapped wife Sita from the demon king Ravana in the Hindu epic tale Ramayana, written by the Hindu sage Valmiki. It is renowned for its colossal Hanuman idol in the gold-plated sanctum, and temple walls are adorned with writings of the name of Lord Rama. Devotees flock here seeking blessings and solutions to their problems.
Then we will also have a special visit during our tour, especially for the textile lover. Gujarat is known for its exquisite embroidery as well as for its kalamkari art form. One such appealing yet obscure art form practiced in the Ahmedabad, Gujarat is the “Mata ni pachedi”. Its historical evidence goes back almost 300 years. Mata ni pachedi which basically means “behind the idol of the Goddess” is a cloth enshrined with painting narratives of Goddess Durga in her various incarnations. Traditionally, red, maroon, black and white colours were used to paint the pachedis. Each colour has its own significance. Black wards off the evil, red is used to depict the Goddess, marron for mother earth and blood and white is associated with purity. In modern times, artists also incorporate indigo, green and yellow to make it look more attractive and to meet the consumer’s demands. Every picture painted on the cloth is a beautiful composed painting and the outlines, curves, and bright colors make it all more attractive. It has a marvelous grace, aggressiveness, and dialect which make it quite distinct from the other art forms. In recent times, this spectacular art form has seen some evolutions. To quicken the process the painters now use wooden blocks facilitating the use of finer motifs for printing. While craftsmen are refining this folk craft to be in pace with the changing world, yet the sanctity of this religious artifact remains untouched. They may have transformed the illustrations to more artistic and detailed specifications, but the practice of spreading the glory of the Mother Goddess and the depiction style of the mythical characters remains the same.
As a part of our tour, we will also visit the Adalaj Step well – The step well was built by Mahmud Begada in 1411, to commemorate Queen Rudabai, wife of Veersinh, the Vaghela chieftain. The intricate carvings on the pillars that support the five storeys are mostly intact. The step-well represents the Indo-Islamic fusion architecture that percolated through the many step wells of the period. The opening in the ceilings above the landing allows light and air to enter the octagonal well, but direct sunlight never touches the steps except at noon. It is said that the temperature inside the well is six degrees cooler than outside. The step well has three entrances. The stairs lead to an underground storey, which has an octagonal opening on top. The walls are covered in ornamental carvings with mythological and village scenes. Some of them include Ami khumbor (a pot that contains the water of life) and the Kalp vriksha (a tree of life) carved out of a single slab of stone. There is a belief that the small frieze of Navagraha (nine-planets) towards the edge of the well protects the monument from bad omens.
Overnight at Fortune Landmark, Ahmedabad (Deluxe Room) (B)
Today, we will proceed on an excursion of Patan, Rani Ki Vav and Modern Sun Temple.
We would visit the Patan Patola Museum. The art of double ikat goes back centuries and is also seen in some of the cave paintings in Ajanta. Legends say that it was in 12 century AD that King Kumarpal of the Solanki dynasty, invited 700 families of patola weavers from Jalna (South Maharashtra) to settle down in Patan in North Gujarat. The Salvi family is one of them. They have continued to preserve this art for the last 35 generations.
Run by the multiple-award-winning Salvi family, this purpose-built museum is an excellent place to see Patola silk weaving in action. The family has specialised in double-ikat weaving (a process that their ancestors brought from Southeast Asia) since the 11th century. You can observe a demonstration on the loom and compare the family’s craft with beautifully displayed single-ikat textiles from around the world, from Uzbekistan and northern Thailand to Holland.
Rani Ki Vav Stepwell – The stepwell was built in 1063 by Rani Udayamati of the Chaulukya Dynasty. The stepwell has been listed as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites since 2014
Located on the banks of the Saraswati River, this is one of the oldest and finest stepwells in Gujarat and is remarkably preserved. Steps lead down through multiple levels with lines of carved pillars and more than 800 sculptures, mostly on Vishnu-avatar themes, as well as striking geometric patterns. The stepwell is made in the form of an inverted temple. It showcases superior craftsmanship of the era, and the unique Maru-Gurjara architectural style and houses sculptures similar to the Vimalavasahi temple in Mount Abu and Sun temple at Modhera.
We would also visit Modhera - As per Archeological Survey of India Modhera Sun Temple was built in 1026-27 CE during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty. As you enter the historical complex, you first come across the magnificent kund known as the Ramakund, built in rectangular shape containing 108 shrines to various gods and demi-gods. Check out the three main shrines positioned on the three sides of the kund, dedicated to Ganesh and Vishnu and an image of Lord Shiva dancing the ‘tandav’.
Walk up the steps to the ‘Sabha Mandap’ or the assembly and convene with sculpted renderings of twelve ‘Adityas’ (another name for the sun god). The twelve representations carved on the pillars represent the sun according to the twelve months.
After witnessing the 'Sabha Mandap' a visit to the Garbhagruha will definitely feel as a spiritual experience. The remains of the Sun Temples at Modhera dedicated to sun god are relics of times gone by when reverence of the natural elements fire, air, earth, water and sky were at their peak sharing space with myriad manifestations of Vedic gods. The ancient philosophy venerating natural elements and its association with humans was considered the prime force and energy of the life cycle. A walk around the serene temple campus makes you aware of the positively strong aura of energy which the place radiates and through it brings one closer to the environs.
Following the excursion, we will drive back to Ahmedabad.
Overnight at Fortune Landmark, Ahmedabad (Deluxe Room) (B)
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Ahmedabad airport for your flight to Agra.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival at Agra airport and transfer you to hotel, Grand Mercure.
Late afternoon, we visit the itmad – ud – daula tomb which was built by the empress Noor Jehan (The queen of Mughal Emperor Jehangir) as a memorial to her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg, is beautifully ornamented with pietra dura inlay and lattice work marble screens. The tomb is at times referred to as the baby Taj which rests in a walled garden with a view of the river Yamuna. In fact it is approximately one and a half kilometers upstream of the Taj Mahal. The structure is renowned for its extensive use of the semi-precious stones on the mosaics. The ornamentation that displays the Indian version of the pietra dura is believed to have been different from the symbolic decoration followed in Europe.
Evening, we will visit Mehtab Bagh. The Moonlight Garden was an extension of the Taj Mahal Garden - on the other side of the river. In 1652 Aurangzeb wrote to his father telling of a visit to 'the blessed tomb and commenting that the Mehtab Garden was completely inundated and has los t its charm, but soon it will regain its verdancy. The octagonal pool and the pavilion around it are in splendid condition. The Mehtab Bagh was lost under the mud but re-excavated in the 1990s. Originally, the garden was planted with fragrant flowers and used in the cool of the night as a place from which to view the Taj Mahal reflected in the octagonal pool and in the river.
Overnight at Grand Mercure, Agra (Deluxe Taj View Room – Upgraded) (B)
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. At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one’s lifetime – Taj Mahal. A dawn visit to the fabled Taj Mahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colors of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Following, we return to our hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, 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.
Afternoon, we will drive to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, we would visit an Indian family for farewell dinner. The evening is designed to give a feel and insight into Indian family life, as well as experience typical Indian hospitality and homemade Indian food.
Following the dinner, we will transfer you to the international airport for your onward flight.
NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B & D)
Payment secure by
Copyright © 2016 - 2023, Trinetra Tours Pvt Ltd. Powered By DigiLantern
