Holy India Travels

Places of visit :   Delhi – Mandawa – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Pushkar – Jaipur –    Abhaneri – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra – Jhansi – Orchha – Khajuraho – Varanasi – Delhi.                    

Duration of Tour :   19 Nights/ 20 Days   

Day 01| Arrival at Delhi |

Afternoon/evening arrive at Delhi International airport. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

Day 02 | Delhi |–Cycle Rickshaw Ride at Old Delhi Markets

Breakfast at hotel. Morning start sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi City. Start from old Delhi monuments.

Raj Ghat–is the place where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated and a memorial was placed here. People come here to pay homage to Father of Nation. Foreign ministers, dignitaries, Indian ministers, guests, tourists and local all come here to pay respect to the man who believed in non-violence and helped India gain its independence.

Red Fort– Red Fort which is also known as Lal Qila was built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. This monument represents the grandeur of the Mughal Court, constructed during the 17th century. Lal Qila was once the residential area of the Imperial Family of India. It was the capital of the Mughal rulers until 1857. (Visit from outside)

Jama Masjid– The stunning Jama Masjid mosque is the largest in India and the final architectural magnum opus of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Construction of the mosque began in 1644, but it wasn't completed until 1658. 

Here you will enjoy a Cycle Rickshaw Ride at Chandni Chowk market. This is one of famous Old Delhi’s market. The pleasure associated with the rickshaw ride here is ultimate. The rickshaw pullers here take you on a ride through various routes, offering you a different experience all together.

Qutub Minar– Qutub Minar is one of the tallest individual towers in the world, measuring about 234 ft in height. The construction work of Qutub Minar was commissioned by the ruler of Slave Dynasty, Qutubuddin-Aibak in 1199, which was later completed by his descendant Shams-ud-din-Iltutmish.

Lotus Temple– Lotus Temple is one of the most incredible architectures of the Bahai faith. The temple has been constructed to resemble a lotus flower and made of marble.

Gandhi Smriti- This poignant memorial to Mahatma Gandhi is in Birla House, where he was shot dead on the grounds by a Hindu zealot on 30 January 1948, after campaigning against intercommunal violence. The house itself is where Gandhi spent his last 144 days. The exhibits include rooms preserved just as Gandhi left them, a detailed account of his life and last 24 hours, and vivid miniature dioramas depicting scenes from his life (Close on Monday).

India Gate– India Gate is situated on the Raj Path and was commissioned by Sir Edwin Lutyens for paying reverence to the Indian Soldiers, who died during the First World War. The huge walls of India Gate reveal more than 90,000 names of the soldiers who lost their lives during the war.

President’s House– Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of India, which is situated towards the west end of the Rajpath. It is a blend of both Mughal and European architectural styles with a copper dome and around 340 bedecked rooms.

Evening free to visit local markets/bazaar for shopping. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

Day 03 | Delhi - Mandawa (257 Kms/ 5-6 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Mandawa.   “Mandawa”– The small little beautiful town of Mandawa is in the heart of the Shekhavati region. It’s known for its fort and havelis.

On arrival check-in at hotel. After wash & change at hotel visit Open Art Galleries & Painted Havelis. Overnight stay at hotel in Mandawa.

Day 04 | Mandawa - Bikaner ( 190 Kms/ 4-5 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Bikaner. “Bikaner”– The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal. The city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. After wash & change at hotel start sightseeing of Bikaner city.

On arrival check-in at hotel. After wash & change at hotel start sightseeing tour of Bikaner city. 

Junagarh Fort– Fort is one of the famous testaments of Bikaner. That draws attention of tourists. The fort was constructed during the period of 1588 to 1593 by Raja Raj Singh.

Lalgarh Palace– Lalgarh Palace is one of the chief testaments of the city that was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in 1902. The palace is an architectural marvel and is beautifully constructed using red sandstone.

Jain Temple– Jain Temple is one of the beautiful shrines in Bikaner, which is dedicated to the 5th tirthankar of the Jains. Evening free at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Bikaner. 

Day 05 | Bikaner - Jaisalmer (340 Kms/ 7-8 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Jaisalmer. “Jaisalmer”– Known as “The Golden City”. It is in the heart of the Great Indian Desert.

On arrival check-in at hotel. Rest of day free at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer. 

Day 06 | Jaisalmer |–Camel Safari at Khuri Sand Dunes “Desert”

Breakfast at hotel. Morning start sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer City.

Jaisalmer Fort– The oldest living Fort in the world. The Jaisalmer Fort is located in the heart of the city and is known for its miniatures, architecture and bazaars. About a quarter of the population of Jaisalmer live inside this fort.

Jain Temple– The Jain Temples are one of the oldest temples in Jaisalmer, which are situated inside the Jaisalmer Fort complex. These temples have archaeological and religious significance attached to them. The group of temples in the fort were built between 12th and 15th centuries.

Patwon-ki-Haveli is situated in a narrow lane near the Patwa Complex. It is the first haveli to have been erected in Jaisalmer. This haveli is essentially a cluster of five havelis, which was constructed in 1805.

Gadi Sagar Tank– Gadsisar Lake was built during the 14th century by Maharwal Gadsi. This artificial rainwater lake was the chief water source during that time. There are numerous shrines and small temples on the embankment of this lake.

In the afternoon proceed to the KHURI SAND DUNES are located in the hamlet of Khuri in the Thar Desert, in the outskirts of Jaisalmer. Located 42 km south of Jaisalmer. The main attraction here is the camel safari and the artistically decorated houses of mud and straw. In the evening bonfires can be arranged for with folk songs being sung by the Kalbeliyas. Enjoy Camel Safari and view the sunset from the dunes. Later return to Jaisalmer city. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer.

Day 07 | Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (271 Kms/ 5-6 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning  drive to Jodhpur. “Jodhpur”– Is the second biggest city in Rajasthan. It is also popularly called ‘Blue City’ because the houses around the Mehrangarh Fort are all painted blue.

On arrival check-in at hotel. After wash and change at hotel visit famous places of Jodhpur.

Mehrangarh Fort– Mehrangarh Fort, situated 125 m above the city, is enclosed by thick walls. One of the largest forts in India, it contains several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards inside its boundaries.

Jaswant Thada– The traditional cremation grounds of the Jodhpur royal families. The main Jaswant Thada memorial is a 19th century royal cenotaph was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh.

Ummaid Bhawan Palace– Ummaid Bhawan Palace has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family. One of the world's largest private residences, the palace has been named after Maharajah Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present owners of the palace.

Clock Tower & Sardar Market– Clock Tower and Sardar market a prime attraction of the city is clock tower and colorful Sardar market near it with a wide range of handicraft giving immense pleasure.

Evening free to visit local markets/bazaar for shopping. Overnight stay at hotel in Jodhpur.

Day 08 | Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur (270 Kms/ 5-6 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Udaipur. On the way visit to Ranakpur.

“Ranakpur Temple”– Is a beautiful structure carved in stone. This magnum opus of architecture possesses around 1400 intricately carved pillars. On arrival visit Ranakpur Jain Temples. Further drive to Udaipur. 

“Udaipur”– Udaipur also known as the “City of Lakes” & Romantic city in Rajasthan.

On arrival check-in at hotel. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

Day 09 | Udaipur |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning start sightseeing tour of Udaipur city. 

City Palace– it has several palaces within its complex. Considered the largest of its kind in Rajasthan, the palatial building displays a fusion of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. Built on a hilltop, the palace provides an aerial view of the city and its surrounding.

Lake Palace– The Lake Palace in Udaipur was built in 1743 -1746 by Jagat Singh II. It was built in the middle of Lake Pichola over the backdrop of beautiful Aravalli Mountain. The palace had been the summer palace for several rulers in Udaipur and was the hiding place for British families during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Currently, the Lake Palace is a property of Taj group and is used as a hotel.

Lake Pichola– Pichola Lake is an artificial fresh water lake that has been named after the nearby Picholi Village. Created in the year 1362 AD, it is one of the several contiguous lakes, developed over the last few centuries in and around Udaipur city.

One can enjoy boat ride at lake Pichola (This is an optional activity) and visit Jag Mandir Palace - Jag Mandir was constructed by three Maharanas of the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar Kingdom. Built on an island in the Pichola Lake, it is also known as the 'Lake Garden Palace'

Sahelion Ki Bari– The "Garden of the maids of honour", Sahelion-ki-Bari was designed and laid out early in the eighteenth century as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure.

Jagdish Temple– Jagdish Temple is located in the City Palace complex of Udaipur. Made in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), the preserver of the Universe.

Evening free to visit local markets/bazaar for shopping. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur. 

Day 10 | Udaipur - Pushkar (260 Kms/ 5-6 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Pushkar.  “Pushkar”– is famous for Cattle fair held in month of November. It is time for fun and frolic. On arrival check in at hotel. Further visit Pushkar city.

Pushkar Lake– Hindus from all across India consider Pushkar Lake to be one of the most sacred lakes of India. According to legend, the origin of this lake was the lotus flower petals that fell on earth from Lord Brahma’s hands. The lake is surrounded by 52 palaces, 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats.

Brahma Temple– The Brahma Temple is the lone Hindu temple in India where Lord Brahma, the Creator of the World is worshipped. This major attraction of Pushkar is situated on the banks of the Pushkar Lake. Overnight stay at hotel in Pushkar.

Day 11 | Pushkar - Jaipur (145 Kms/ 3-4 hrs) |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Jaipur.

“Jaipur”– The Capital of Rajasthan. It’s popularly known as ‘The Pink City’ for the colour of the buildings in its wonderful old city. On arrival check-in at hotel.

Afternoon you can take Ayurveda, Spa & massage Treatment at Spa center or hotel. (This is optional tour).

In the evening you can excursion to “Chokhi Dhani”– Chokhi Dhani is 5* ethnic resort and located 30Kms from Jaipur city. It is one its own kind, each of the detailed work in the village tells you about the culture and tradition of Rajasthan. It could be Camel Rides, Elephant Rides, Tonga Rides, Bullock Cart Rides, Bow n Arrows, Turbans or Food. It will make you feel a King. Enjoy Rajasthani dinner with live culture dance show. Later return back to hotel (This is optional activity).  Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 12 | Jaipur |–Elephant Ride at Amber Fort

Breakfast at hotel. Morning start sightseeing tour of Jaipur city.

Amber Fort and Palace– Amber Fort, also known as Amber Palace, is said to have played a key role in the history of Medieval India. This fort depicts true royal lifestyle of the Rajputs, who are known for their decadent, radical and volatile behaviour. The Amber Palace is a perfect fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture.

Here enjoy the unique experience of an ascent on the back of a brightly caparisoned Elephant up to the Fort. This is one of the highlights of a visit to the stunning Amber Fort is the chance to ride an elephant up the hill to the main entrance. These wonderful animals are painted with traditional designs and almost effortlessly transport visitors up the steep slope to the fort.

City’s Palace Complex– City Palace, a beautiful palace in the city of Jaipur, is surrounded by large walls on all sides. It also houses audience halls, pavilions and many other important buildings. The construction work of this palace was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during the early 1730s.

Jantar Mantar– Between 1727 and 1734 Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. The observatories, or "Jantar Mantars" as they are commonly known, incorporate multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement.

Hawa Mahal– (Palace of the Wind)– It is a five-storey structure that has more than 950 windows. The latticework was built for allowing women to watch everyday life of the city. Hawa Mahal is situated near the Johari Bazaar and provides a beautiful view of the entire Pink City.

Jal Mahal– Jal Mahal was built during the 18th century in the middle of Mansarovar Lake. This is one of the biggest artificial lakes in Jaipur, which was constructed using red sandstone. It is a five-storey structure built in Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.

Later free to visit the local markets/bazaar for shopping. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

Day 13 | Jaipur -  Abhaneri - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (235 Kms/ 5-6 hrs) |  

Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Agra. On the way visit to Abhaneri & Fatehpur Sikri.

Abhaneri- The Chand Baori is a stepwell built over a thousand years ago in the Abhaneri village of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest stepwells in the world and also one of the most beautiful ones.

“Fatehpur Sikri”– Constructed by Akbar in 1569 to honor Sufi saint Salim Chisti. Akbar’s court occupied this city till it was abandoned due to non-availability of water but still in a state of perfect preservation. Here one can visit Asia biggest door Buland Darwaja, Dargah of Sufi Saint Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal etc. Further drive to Agra.

“Agra”– Agra is famous in worldwide for the Taj Mahal (Monument of Love). On arrival check-in at hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Agra. 

Day 14 | Agra |

Breakfast at hotel. Morning start sightseeing tour of  Agra city.

Taj Mahal (Monument of Love)– one of the most recognisable structures in the world, attracts around four million visitors annually. This beautiful structure of white marble was built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in the memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took 20,000 workers to complete this monument in a period of 22 years from 1632 to 1653. ( Taj Mahal is close on Friday ).

Great Red Fort of Agra– Built by the Mughal dynasty's greatest Emperor Akbar in 1565. A number of the fort’s beautiful palaces, mosques and gardens were built by his successors in later years.

Itmad ud Daulah Tomb - is one of the most beautiful Mughal tombs. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Jahangir, this tomb comprises cenotaphs of Mirza Ghiyas and Asmat Begum, who were parents of Mughal Empress Nur Jahan. The tomb is primarily built in white marble with mosaic and lattice.

Rest of the day free for leisure / shopping. Overnight stay at hotel in Agra.

Day 15 | Agra -  Jhansi (by train ) -  Orchha - Khajuraho (175 Kms/ 3.5 hrs) |  

Breakfast at hotel and take train to Jhansi. After reach Jhansi drive for Khajuraho, enroute visit Orchha– Orchha is known for is resplendent rural attractions. Situated on the banks of River Betwa. On arrival visit Temples & Orchha Fort. Later continue drive to Khajuraho.

“Khajuraho”– Khajuraho is a fascinating village with a quaint rural ambience and a rich cultural heritage. The monuments of Khajuraho, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site are extremely controversial yet showcase exceptions artwork and craftsmanship.   Overnight stay at hotel in Khajuraho.

Day 16| Khajuraho |  

Breakfast at hotel. Morning visit Western & Eastern Group of Temples–Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculpture. The Khajuraho temples do not contain sexual or erotic art inside the temple or near the deities however, some external carvings bear erotic art. The Temple also knows as the “Kamasutra Temple”.

In the evening one can see Light & Sound Show at temple. Light & Sound Show– The Light & Sound show on the Western Group of temples complex the reminds the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and mark out the story of the exclusive temples from the 10th Century to the present day. The 50-minute fascinating show is held in every evening (This is optional Tour).Overnight stay at hotel in Khajuraho.

Day 17 | Khajuraho –Varanasi (By flight or by train) |  

Breakfast at hotel and take flight to Varanasi.  Varanasi, is one of the oldest famous city in the world also famous for Holy river Ganges.  On arrival pick up from Varanasi airport and transfer to hotel.

In the evening enjoy the Aarti at river Ghat– Worship of the river goddess with incense, camphor, flowers and earthen lamps. Thousands of illuminated lamps are immersed in the waters of the holy Ganges and the floating lamps add a divine look to the river at dusk.

Further return back to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 18 | Varanasi |

Today an early morning enjoy boat ride at river Ganges– The boat ride takes you past the various Ghats of

Varanasi, offering a glimpse of the city at its religious best, with the men getting ready for their daily Prayer, the sages lost in prayer and ritual. After boat ride come back to hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Bharat Mata Temple– Dedicated to the mother India, the Bharat Mata temple is open to people of all the faiths.

Banaras Hindu University– Scattered over a vast area of 2,000 acres, the Banaras Hindu University has the privilege of being the largest and the oldest university of north India.

Also excursion to Sarnath– Renowned as a Buddhist shrine, is a city located about 13 kilometers north-east of Varanasi. The place is known for being among the four major Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The name of this place was derived from the name of Saranganatha (God of Deer). It is believed that this deer was born in the Deer Park, which is also a place where Buddha preached the Dharma for the first time. Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi.

Day 19 | Varanasi – Delhi (By flight) |  

Breakfast at hotel and take flight for Delhi. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

Day 20 | Delhi / Departure |  

Breakfast at hotel and drop at New Delhi international airport to board on flight for onward destination.

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