Royal Raja Tour

New Delhi, the capital and the third largest city of India is a fusion of the ancient and the modern. Standing along the West End of Gangetic Plain, the capital city, Delhi, unwinds a picture rich with culture, architecture and human diversity, deep in history, monuments, museums, galleries, gardens and exotic shows. Comprising of two contrasting yet harmonious parts, the Old Delhi and New Delhi, the city is a travel hub of Northern India. Narrating the city's Mughal past, Old Delhi, takes you through the labyrinthine streets passing through formidable mosques, monuments and forts. The imperial city of New Delhi displays the finely curved architecture of British Raj.

Day 02: Delhi - Agra (By Road 250 Kms/6 hr)
Start for Agra early in the morning after breakfast. The city of Mughals offers you an opportunity to explore the massive monuments, majestic buildings, and the popular arts and crafts. The architectural splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the capital in the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.

En-route you will visit the Sikandra - Mughal Emperor Akbar's Mausoleum.

Visit Taj Mahal (Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday), a poem in white marble, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. It took twenty-two years and hard toil of more than twenty thousand workers to construct Taj Mahal. The beauty of the Taj Mahal is enchanting and it reflects the marvelous beauty of architecture. Taj Mahal symbolize the richness of art and architecture of the Mughal period.

After Taj Mahal visit Agra Fort; built by Emperor Akbar on the west bank of the river Yamuna and beautified with palaces and gardens by Jehangir, Agra Fort today dominates the centre of the city. The crescent-shaped fort with its 20-metre high, 2.4-km outer walls contains a maze of buildings that form a small city within a city.

Overnight will be at hotel in Agra.

Day 03: Agra - Jaipur (By Road 221 Kms/6 hr)
Breakfast will be at the hotel. Drive to Jaipur - Jaipur was established by Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1743) and painted pink by Maharaja Man Singh II when Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876. The Royal heritage of Jaipur lives in its architecture and culture. The city in pink is symbolic of the hospitality that reigned in the Rajput culture.

On the way visit Fatehpur Sikri. It is a beautiful and deserted medieval city built by Akbar the Great in the 16th century to serve as the capital of his vast empire. The Mughals later abandoned this city for lack of water. Fatehpur Sikri had a short life of splendor. Once Akbar left it in 1585, it never regained its lost importance and has remained the most magnificent and well-preserved ghost city of India.

Overnight will be at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 04: Jaipur
After breakfast, have excursion trip to Amber Fort with Jeep / elephant ride.

En route, make a photo stop at the Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal). Hawa Mahal is a sample of the perfection of the architecture. Hawa Mahal was built with the pink & red sandstone, beautifully carved and outlined with white border and motif

Amber Fort is situated on the crest of a hill seven miles north of Jaipur is Amber, capital of the Kuchwaha Rajputs from 1037 to 1728. Man Singh I built it in a style to rival Mughal grandeur and opulence.

In afternoon visit City Palace, a combination of conventional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. City Palace complex has more than a few palatial structures. City Palace is a huge complex, which houses many courtyards, gardens and buildings.

Also visit Jantar Mantar, built between 1716. It is located within the city palace. Jantar Mantar contains a collection of instruments for observing the movements of sun, moon, planets and stars. It was built to develop the interest of the people in Astronomy.

Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 05: Jaipur - Pushkar (By Road 140 km/3 hr)
In the morning drive to Pushkar. Pushkar is a wonderful tourist destination to explore and enjoy the rustic charm of Rajasthan. This place is also known for its Brahma Temple that is believed to be one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in the country.

Every November, the sleepy little township of Pushkar comes alive with a riot of colors and a frenzied burst of activity. The occasion: Pushkar Fair. Very few, if at all any, fairs in the world can match the liveliness of Pushkar. Most people associate the Pushkar Fair with the world's largest camel fair.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 06: Pushkar - Ranthambhore (By Road 240 km/6 hr)
Visit the Brahma Temple and the Pushkar Lake. This lake is a beautiful spot to be in harmony with your mind and soul.

Start early after breakfast for Ranthambhore.

Ranthambore National Park is one of the best preserved National Parks of India and one of the highest densities of the Tigers. The sightings are pretty often and one can do the safaris either in Jeeps or in open trucks called Canters.

Evening free at the resort and you can relax or watch some slides on the tiger.

Overnight will be at resort.

Day 07: Ranthambhore
A full day game viewing inside the jungle. (Two safaris)

Overnight at the resort.

Day 08: Ranthambhore - Kota (By Road 140 km/3 hr)
Proceed for the morning Safari. After breakfast drive to Kota - Rajasthan's largest industrial town situated on the banks of the river Chambal is well known for its Kota sarees and also for a miniature school of art which specialized in hunting scenes.

Visit the City Palace and Fort - On the banks of the Chambal river close to the Kota Barrage is the fort and the city palace complex, which houses the Rao Madho Singh Museum containing the relics of the former rulers of Kota.

JAGMANDIR - in the island in Kishore Sagar Lake was built by one of the queens of Kota. You will take a paddleboat and roam around the same for a spiritual experience.

Also visit the Govt. Museum and the famous gardens of Chambal and Chatter Bilas.

Overnight at Kota.

Day 09: Kota - Bundi - Chittaurgarh (By Road 180 km/5 hr)
After breakfast drive to Chittaurgarh - The epitome of romance and valour - The pride and glory of Rajasthan, Chittaur echoes with the tales of romance and valor unique to the Rajput tradition. This is a ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular Chattris. This fortified settlement has been ravaged thrice and each time the outcome was 'Jauhar' -when women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre while men donned in saffron robes of martyrdom rode out of the fort towards a certain death.

En route visit Bundi - One of the unexplored cities with a rich historical wealth. Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Had Chauhans - an offshoot of the famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on the three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. In 1193 AD when Prithvi Raj Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles sleeked shelter in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors moved towards the Chambal valley and overpowered the Meena and Bhil tribal thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches of Hadas formed two separate states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the River Chambal. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways.

Visit the Taragarh or star fort. Perched on a thickly wooded hill is a marvelous white fort with a huge reservoir that once supplied water to the palace. Built in 1354 AD the fort is one of the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. This magnificent edifice is a fine example of the Rajput architecture, housing some of the superb Bundi murals.

Chatrasagar is a fascinating pavilion of a gallery of miniature murals. Elaborate colorful paintings on the walls depict scenes from the 'Ragamala' 'Raaslila' -- the Radha-Krishna story.

Sukh Mahal is a magnificent summer palace on the Sukh Sagar Lake amid the lush surroundings of a beautiful garden. An underground tunnel is believed to run from the Sukh Mahal to the old palace.

Overnight at the Castle.

Day 10: Bijaipur - Udaipur (By Road 180 km/5 hr)
After breakfast drive to Udaipur - the lake city is an enthralling tourist destination in Rajasthan. It is an important city in Rajasthan today, attracting a large number of tourists. The medieval attractions of the city are its chief draw, but the scenic beauty of Udaipur and its surroundings is also a major attraction for the tourists. There are some beautiful lakes, man made as well as natural that give the city the sobriquet of 'the lake city'.

On arrival, check in at hotel. Rest the day is free at leisure.

Day 11: Udaipur
After breakfast visit the City Palace towering over the Pichola Lake. Maharana Uday Singh initiated in the construction of the palace but succeeding Maharanas added several palaces and structures to the complex retained a surprising uniformity to the design.

The entry to the Palace is from the Hati Pol, the Elephant gate. It was once a custom that the Maharana would weigh under this gate in gold and silver, which was distributed to the populace. It is also now the main ticket office. Balconies, cupolas and towers surmount the palace to give a wonderful view of the lake.

Visit the Jagdish Temple; built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651, the temple enshrines a black stone image of Lard Vishnu. There is a brass image of Garuda the Lord Bird carrier. The exterior and the plinth are covered with base relief of alligators; elephants, horsemen and celestial musicians rise in tiers. Chanting, bells and music can be heard throughout the day. It is the largest and most splendid temple of Udaipur.

In the evening enjoy boat ride on the Lake Pichola. This picturesque lake encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir. And, the City Palace extends along its eastern banks.

Return back to hotel for overnight.

Day 12: Udaipur - Kumbalgarh (By Road 100 km/2 hr)
After breakfast drive to Kumbalgarh - Cradled in the cluster of thirteen mountain peaks of the Aravalli ranges, the formidable medieval citadel- Kumbalgarh stands a wary sentinel to the past glory. Rising from a prominent ridge, 1914 metres high from the sea level, the fort was built in 15th century AD by Maharana Kumbha (1419-63 AD) and is the principal fortification after Chittaurgarh, lying 90 km north-west of Udaipur.

En-route, visit the Ranakpur Temples, dating back to the 15th century. 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.

The massive fort, encompassed by a 36-km long wall, has seven majestic gates and seven ramparts, one within the other. Rounded bastions and high watchtowers strengthen the crenellated walls of the fort making it an impregnable structure.

Stay overnight at the Aodhi hotel of Kumbalgarh.

Day 13: Kumbalgarh - Jodhpur (By Road 150 km/4 hr)
Proceed in the morning after a leisurely breakfast and reach Jodhpur - the second largest city of the state of Rajasthan, Jodhpur. The Rajput chief Rao Jodha founded the city of Jodhpur in 1459. Earlier, it was the capital of the Marwar state of Rajasthan. A 10-km-long wall made of stone surrounds the city.

Relax in the hotel and visit the museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace. Overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 14: Jodhpur
Morning go for a village safari in the jeep and have a rare glimpse into the rich culture and true essence of India. Abundant wildlife (game) and memorable moments of the great desert landscape fascinates one while driving along the countryside.

Visit Mehrangarh Fort situated on a 125m-sandstone hill built by Rao Jodha in 1459. Situated at an altitude of about 125 meters, the Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is spread over an area of 5 sq. km in the heart of the city of Jodhpur. Have a walk in the Fort Complex and in old city.

The Jaswant Thada is a white marble memorial built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant II in 1899.

Overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 15: Jodhpur - Jaisalmer (By Road 300 km/5 hr)
Proceed for Jaisalmer - induces a dramatic picture of utter magic and brilliance of the desert. The hostile terrain not with standing the warmth and color of people is simply over whelming. One of the main draws is the daunting 12th century Jaisalmer Fort and beautiful havelis which were built by wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer are yet another interesting aspect of the you can let your eyes caress the sloppy sand dunes while you ramble your way in a camel safari. Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, after whom the city finds its name, founded Jaisalmer in 1156.

The drive passes by dry vegetation, with villages of colorfully dressed people. Plenty of camels and camel carts, sheep and goats pass you by.

Overnight in at the hotel.

Day 16: Jaisalmer
In the morning have half-day sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer.

Visit Jaisalmer Fort, over the Trikuta hill, this fort is the biggest and the most beautiful landmark of the city. The fort is occupied by shops, stalls, and a number of other business concerns. It is also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden fort, rising from the sand, the mega structure merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience.

The Jain temple, situated inside the fort, made between 12th and 15th century, bears testimony to Rajasthan unique artistry

Visit the havelis; the mansions built by the wealthy merchants, which are still in very good condition. The intricate craftsmanship is beyond parallel. The havelis like the Patwon-ki-Haveli and Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli are remarkable for their exclusive cutwork, yellow and red stone treatment and the bracket-shaped decoration of peacocks.

PM - an excursion to Sam sand dunes. No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a sunset trip to the picturesque sand dunes of Sam and a camel safari. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes; the numerous musicians and dancers are a photographer's delight.

Stay overnight at the Swiss Tent Camp.

Day 17: Jaisalmer to Bikaner (By Road 330 km/5 hr)
In the morning drive to desert city of Rajasthan, Bikaner. Lying in the north of the desert state, the city is dotted with scores of sand dunes. Bikaner retains the medieval grandeur that permeates the city's lifestyle. More readily called the camel country; the city is distinguished for the best riding camels in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel Research and breeding farm in the world.

The history of Bikaner dates back to 1488 when a Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji (a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur, Rao Jodhaji), established his kingdom here. It has faced many foreign intrusions and fought a number of wars with the Mughals and the British.

Overnight in at the hotel.

Day 18: Bikaner - Mandawa (By Road 140 km/3 hr)
Breakfast at hotel. Proceed for sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Visit Junagarh fort was built by a Mughal army general, Raja Rai Singh, in 1593. The courtyard of the fort along with the balcony, kiosks and windows are perfect examples of the artisanship of that time. The beautiful cutworks and dots on the red stones and the marbles are fascinating. The various part of the palace-the Dewan-i-khas, the Phool Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Anup Mahal-reflect the glorious architecture of Bikaner

Visit the Karni Mata Temple.

Proceed for Mandawa. The medieval Fort of Mandawa gradually rises on the horizon like a mirage. A breathtaking view of the town can be seen from the terrace of Castle Mandawa. Precious collection of arms with jade handles, traditional ceremonial costumes can be seen at the Museum at the Castle. The havelies worth a visit are Chokhani, Saraf, Goenka and Ladia in this town. Built in 1775 by Thakur Nawal Singh, descendant of Rao Shekhaji, who also founded the city of Nawalgarh. The Castle, now a 51 rooms hotel has no two rooms alike. It also houses an interesting collection of paintings, jade, costumes and antiques. The courtyard and the terrace come to live during evenings with candle-lit dinners and fire-dances during the season.

Overnight at Mandawa.

Day 19: Mandawa - Delhi (By Road 260 km/5 hr)
Breakfast at hotel.

Take a walking tour of the painted 'havelis' of some of the leading business families of the country. Though they no longer live here, the local caretakers are happy to show the visitors around. Chowkhani Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli, Mohahanlal Saraf Haveli and Bhagchandika Haveli are of special interest. Spend the major part of the day looking into frescoes.

Drive back to Delhi. Overnight at hotel.

Day 20: Delhi
Breakfast at Delhi. Proceed for a full day tour of Old & New Delhi.

In Old Delhi drive past Red fort, built in Red Sand stone this imposing fort is 3 Kms in perimeter with the height of the wall varying from 18 to 30 meters at places.

Visit Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques not only in Delhi but also in India. Completed in 1658 this Mosque has three gateways, four angle towers and two 40 m high minarets. Also visit Raj Ghat -Mahatma Gandhi's Memorial.

In New Delhi, drive past Janpath, Rashtrapati Bhawan (Hindi for presidential palace) and India Gate is perhaps one of the most impressive structures built in the capital of India. This historic monument was built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 Indian soldiers killed in the First World War.

Visit Humayun's Tomb: built in mid 16th century this is an early example of Mughal architecture.

Also visit Qutab Minar. It is a one of the finest monuments in India and is 238 feet in height. Qutab Minar is 47 feet at the base and tapers to nine feet at the apex. The city tour ends with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir).

Later in the evening representative will assist you to transfer you to the International Airport, Delhi to catch flight for your home destination. Return to your home destination with sweet memories of India.

Relax in the evening. Overnight at Delhi.

Day 21: Delhi - Home
Breakfast at hotel. Day free to explore the city and finish last minute shopping.

Proceed for the Dances of India Show in the evening at 1800 hr after checking out of the hotel. After the show you will have Farewell Dinner before reaching the airport for flight home with sweet memories of India.