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Classical & Cultural India
Duration: 11 Nights / 12 Days
Destinations: Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Orchha - Jhansi - Gwalior
- Agra - Jaipur - Delhi
 Day
01 : Delhi: Arrival at Delhi
You will be met on arrival at the International airport. Transfer
to your hotel. Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis
with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. Delhi is a
perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land
and a window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight will be at Delhi.
Day 02 : Delhi:
After breakfast proceed for a day sightseeing tour of the city.
Start with the sightseeing of Old Delhi. The tour will begin with
a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; drive
past the Red Fort continuing to the Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaws,
one of Asia's largest mosques. The magnificent Red Fort, overlooking
the river Jamuna was built during the years 1638 - 48 when the Moghul
Empire was at its peak. The tour continues to Jama Masjid, one of
Asia's largest mosques and which is viewed from the outside.
People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence
of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.
Enjoy the rickshaw ride at Old Delhi.
 After
visiting Old Delhi, you will be driven to New Delhi, which reflects
the legacy the British left behind. The division between New and Old
Delhi is the division between the capitals of the British and the
Mughals respectively. The division in the walled city and New Delhi
also marks the division in the life-styles. The walled city is all
tradition where one will be able to glean a past life-style in all
its facets, colours and spells. New Delhi in contrast, is a city trying
to live up to the best of 21st century standards.
Imperial Delhi will include the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone
tower in India. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing
India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan,
the President's residence.
Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day 03 : Delhi - Varanasi:
By Air Flight : 9W 723
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1040 hr
Arrival : 1150 hr
Transfer in time to airport for flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival
at Varanasi, you will be met and transferred to hotel.
Picturesquely situated on the crescent shaped left bank of the holy
River Ganges, Varanasi, one of the ancient seats of learning in India,
is said to be a compound of the names of two streams, the Varuna and
the Assi, which still flow in the north and south of the city respectively.
This name seems to have been corrupted, in medieval times to Varanasi,
which was in use till May 1956, when it was changed to Varanasi, by
an order of the Government of India. Varanasi is probably one of the
most ancient living cities in India. From time immemorial it has been
a great religious center for Hindus and one of their  most
sacred places of pilgrimage, being visited by millions of people every
year. To every visitor Varanasi offers a breathtaking experience.
The rays of the dawn shimmering across the Ganges; the high-banks;
the temples and shrines along the banks bathed in a golden hue …soul
stirring hymns and mantras along with the fragrance of incense filling
the air…and the refreshing dip in the holy waters gently splashing
at the Ghats. Varanasi - The land where experience and discovery reach
the ultimate bliss. Varanasi is also renowned for its rich tapestry
of music, arts, crafts and education. Some of the world - renowned
exponents India has produced in these fields were schooled in Varanasi's
cultural ethos. Luminaries apart, Varanasi abounds in the art of silk
weaving, an exotic work of art which manifests itself in precious
Banarasi silk sarees and silk brocades which are cherished as collector's
items across the world today.
Visit Sarnath 5 miles out of Varanasi: The great Buddha enhanced
the sanctity of Varanasi by choosing the environs of the city to
preach his first sermon at Sarnath, (only 10 Kms away) after attaining
enlightenment. Later, Ashoka, the great Mauryan Emperor erected
magnificent stupas and other buildings along with his mighty stone
pillar, Dharmarajika Stupa. The 110 ft. tall Damekh Stupa marks
the place where Buddha preached first sermon.Sarnath has been a
premier centre for Buddhism. It is a rich collection of ancient
Buddhist relics and antiques comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisatva
images on display at the Archaeological Museum (1000 hrs to 1700
hrs. Open all days except Friday)
Enjoy the evening AARTI at the GHATS. The guide will be giving
a commentary to you on the proceedings and meanings of the chants
during the AARTI of the river.
Overnight will be spent at Varanasi.
Day 04 : Varanasi:
 In
the early morning drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on
the sacred river Ganges to see the cremation Ghats and witness the
living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important
religions. (To start at 0500 hrs. for the best lifetime experience)
For you to appreciate this remarkable city, we'll transfer you to
the banks of the River Ganges before the sun rises. Board a boat with
your guide and proceed to the middle of the river, where at sunrise
the sight unfolds before you. Thousands of faithful come daily to
the banks to bathe and pray while in the background, temples and palaces
rise in tiers from the water's edge. Then return for a walk through
the cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As shops
are opening, the place now becomes a beehive of activity as the faithful
are coming and going. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple while returning
to the hotel.
Return for breakfast to the hotel.
Proceed for day guided tour of Varanasi including the Bharat Mata
Temple, which features a big relief map of Mother India engraved
in marble. Also visit the 18th century Durga Temple, commonly known
as the Monkey Temple due to the huge population of the monkeys.
Proceed to the Tulsi Manas Temple, crafted from white marble which
features the entire Ramayana inscribed on its walls. Also visit
the BHU considered as the biggest residential university in Asia.
The University Campus houses an Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal
Emperor Aurangzeb.
Overnight will be in Varanasi.
 Day
05 : Varanasi - Khajuraho:
By Air Flight : 9W 733
Airlines : Jet Airways
Aircraft : Boeing 737
Departure : 1220 hr
Arrival : 1300 hr
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Transfer in time for flight to Khajuraho.
Situated in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho
is famous for its enchanting temples and its legendary Khajuraho
dance festival. The name Khajuraho is derived from the Khajur tree
(the date palm tree) which is grown abundantly in the region. The
Khajuraho Temples are dedicated to a celebration of womanhood, her
myriad moods and facets. Famous for its erotic architecture, the
carvings include, women writing a letter, applying eye makeup, combing
her tresses, dancing & playing with her child. Her innocent,
blushed, charming, seductive, ardent beauty, all depicted in exquisitely
sculptured details. These temples have been designed and carved
to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to be looking
at heaven.
Reach Khajuraho.
Proceed for a tour of the EASTERN & WESTERN TEMPLS. It is best
to do the Eastern set of temples first as the Western set is very
interesting and takes a lot of time. A lot of our guests want some
free time at the Western set as it is really beautiful and quite
exhaustive.
Enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the Western Temple Complex.
Overnight will be at Khajuraho.
Day 06 : Khajuraho - Orchha - Jhansi - Gwalior:
By Road 170 km in 4 hr By Train
Number : 2001
Departure : 1755 hr
Arrival : 1855 hr
Proceed by surface to ORCHHA after breakfast.
 ORCHHA
- A medieval city founded by Bundela rulers with Palaces and temples
of the 16th and 17th century which have remarkable withstood the onslaught
of time. The city is picturesquely flanked by the River Betwa.
Proceed for sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex.
Lunch will be at Orchha and then proceed to the station (12 km away)
for train to Gwalior. (This is a superfast train with airline type
seats and snacks / mineral water is served on board)
Reach Gwalior and check in at the palace.
A little southward of Agra is the ancient city of Gwalior. Centuries
of history can be witnessed even today in its monuments, temples,
museums and cultural traditions. The magnificent Gwalior Fort, with
its reflections of art, religion and military might, is an enduring
symbol of this glorious past. The colorful history of this city
dates back to the eight century and is a mosaic of Rajput clans
of the Pratihasas, Kachwahas and Tomars, each leaving their marks
on the city's magnificent monuments. Gwalior's history is traced
back to a legend in 8th century AD when a chief tain known as Suraj
Sen was struck by a deadly disease and cured by a hermit-saint Gwalipa.
As a gratitude for that incidence, he founded this city by his name.
The new city of Gwalior became existence over the centuries. The
cradle of great dynasties ruled the city Gwalior. With different
Dynasty, the city gained a new dimension from the warrior kings,
poets, musicians, and saints who contributed to making it renowned
throughout the country. The city is also the setting for the memorials
of freedom fighters such as Tatya Tope and the indomitable Rani
of Jhansi. Today the old settings stand side by side with the trappings
of modernity.
Overnight will be at the palace.
Day 07 : Gwalior:
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city visiting the following
interesting monuments.
 Gwalior
Fort: Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, Gwalior Fort dominates
the city and is its most significant monument. It has been the scene
of momentous events, imprisonment, battles and jauhars. A steep road
winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues of the Jain tirthankaras,
carved into the rock face. The magnificent outer walls of the fort
still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearing witness
to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of India.
This imposing structure inspired Emperor Babur to describe it as "the
pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind ".
Man Mandir Palace: Built between 1486 and 1517 by Raja Mansingh.The
tiles that once adorned its exterior have not survived, but at the
entrance, traces of these still remain. Vast chambers with fine stone
screens were once the music halls, and behind these screens, the royal
ladies would learn music from the great masters of the day. Below,
circular dungeons housed the state prisoners of the Mughals. Emperor
Aurangzeb had his brother, Murad imprisoned, and later executed here.
Close by is Jauhar Pond, where in the Rajput tradition, the Ranis
committed mass sati after their consorts had been defeated in battle.
At Man Mandir Palace, a poignant ambience of those days of chivalry
and heroism still lingers in the silent chambers.
Gujari Mahal: Within the fort are some marvels of medieval
architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love
of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The
outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state
of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological
Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st
century A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic
Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time.
Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur,
the tree goddess, the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue
is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, and can be seen on
request.
Sas Bahu ka Mandir: Two architecturally beautiful 11th century
temples.
 Jai
Vilas Palace: A splendor of a different kind exists in the Jai
Vilas Palace, current residence of the Scindia family. Some 25 rooms
have been turned into the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum, and in these
rooms, so evocative of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. Jai
Vilas is an Italianate structure which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian
architectural modes. The imposing Darbar Hall has two central chandeliers
weighing a couple of tonnes, and hung only after ten elephants had
tested the strength of the roof. Ceilings picked out in gilt, heavy
draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets and antique furniture
from France and Italy are the features of these spacious rooms. Eye
catching treasures include: a silver train with cut glass wagons which
served guests as it chugged around the table on miniature rails; a
glass cradle from Italy used for the baby Krishna each Janmashtami,
silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Aurangzeb
and Shah Jahan. These are, besides, personal mementoes of past members
of the Scindia family: the jeweled slippers that belonged to Chinkoo
Rani, four-poster beds and gifts from practically every country in
the world, hunting trophies and portraits. The Scindia Museum offers
an unparalled glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely
India.
Enjoy the spa and overnight will be at the palace.
Day 08 : Gwalior - Agra:
By Road 120 km in 2 hr
Enjoy breakfast at the palace and drive to Agra.
Reach Agra and transfer to hotel.
 AGRA:
Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little
village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire
- giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today
a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices,
of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies,
and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals
still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects
its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.
Relax at the beautiful hotel with a view of the TAJ.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 09 : Agra:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Proceed for day sightseeing of Agra.
TAJ MAHAL: Little needs to be said about this architectural
wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's
visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial
to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to
be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad
Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry,
the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately
carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.
 AGRA
FORT - Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the
fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Ensconced within is the picture
perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies
on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town.
Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest
architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone
and a moat.
After Agra Fort we will visit BABY TAJ - The interiors of which
are considered better than the Taj.
Overnight will be at Agra.
Day 10 : Agra - Jaipur:
By Road 221 km in 5 hr
Drive to Jaipur after breakfast visiting Fatehpur Sikri en-route.
Fatehpur Sikri is 37 km west of Agra. Jajal-ud-din-Muhammad Akbar,
Humanyun's son, accessed the throne at the tender age of 14. While
hunting around Sikri his curiosity was aroused by the songs of some
minstrels about the celebrated Khwaja -Mu'inu'd-din Chisti, the
founder of the Chisti order of SUFIS. Akbar, who was without a male
heir heard about Saint Salim Chisti and visited him in the year
1568. The saint blessed him with 3 sons and in gratitude Akbar ordered
the great mosque of Fatehpur Sikri built under his supervision.
As a mark of respect to the saint, Akbar shifted his capital to
Fatehpur Sikri and built various secular buildings like the Diwan
-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodhabai palace, Birbal's house, Marian's house
and the Panchmahal.
Continue your drive to Jaipur and on arrival check-in at Hotel.
Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm
of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that
lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India.
Proudly belonging to the KSHATRIYA warrior caste and fiercely independent,
the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized
that to maintain their wealth and authority locally, it was expedient
to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed
a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British
Raj that followed.
 The
bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated
founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the
Mughal. Literally translated this would mean 'one and a quarter',
suggesting that the Mughal thought this emperor to be more valuable
than just 'one'. Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' on account of
the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however, form
part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was
given a wash of pink in honor of a State Visit from Prince Albert.
This evening, visit the Birla Temple to learn more about the fascinating
religious life of Jaipur. The marble structure, built as recently
as 1985, houses ornate statues including one of Lakshmi (goddess
of Wealth and Beauty) and Narayan dressed in gaudy robes, representing
a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Carvings in the temple and on
pillars supporting the covered walkways include images of the Hindu
pantheon, as well as Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Francis
of Assisi. Your visit will coincide with the AARTI Ceremony, which
involves oil lamps being lit and waved, in order to awake and invoke
the deity. Enjoy the experience and spend night at Jaipur.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day 11 : Jaipur:
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast.
Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani
fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592,
and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior
belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu
styles finds its ultimate expression. At the foot of the hill you
will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb
up to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honoured fashion.
The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years
to build and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight
into the lifestyle of the Moghul ruling families.
Continue sightseeing.
 CITY
PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani
architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area
in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple
and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved
of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts
of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical
instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of
Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey
structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork
and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built
in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the
palace women.
This afternoon is free for you to relax, shop or explore independently.
Shopping is superb in Jaipur, particularly for gold and silver jewellery,
pottery, tie-dye materials, silk, saris, wooden handicrafts and
carpets.
Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day 12 : Jaipur - Delhi:
By Road 260 km in 5 hr
 Enjoy
breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling
bazaars. Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery,
carpet weaving, semi-precious stones and local crafts which still
thrive from the day of Maharaja Jai Singh's patronage when he designed
special areas in the city for the 'bandhanas', the 'cheepas' and
the 'meenakari' workers.
Proceed for Delhi after lunch and reach the airport and board the
flight for home with sweet memories of India.
TOUR ENDS
THE TOUR INCLUDES:
a) DOUBLE OCCUPANCY ACCOMMODATION AT MENTIONED HOTELS,
b) SIGHTSEEING TOURS AS MENTIONED IN THE ITINERARY,
c) PRIVATE AC SUV WITH DRIVER,
d) ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDES FOR ALL MENTIONED TOURS,
e) ASSISTANCE AT THE AIRPORTS ON ARRIVAL / DEPARTURE,
f) ASSISTANCE AT STATIONS ON DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL,
g) FIRST CLASS TRAIN TRAVEL FOR MENTIONED SECTOR,
h) ALL APPLICABLE TAXES AND SERVICE CHARGES,
i) ALL ROAD TAXES, GOVERNMENT TAXES AND DRIVER ALLOWANCES,
j) ELEPHANT RIDE AT AMER FORT - JAIPUR,
k) LUNCH AT ORCHHA,
l) SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW AT KHAJURAHO,
m) EVENING AARTI CEREMONY AT VARANASI,
n) ALL EXCURSIONS AS MENTIONED,
o) RICKSHAW RIDE AT JAIPUR,
p) SARNATH EXCURSION IN VARANASI AND
q) BOAT-RIDE AT RIVER GANGES IN VARANASI.
SUGGESTED HOTELS :
| City |
Luxury Hotels |
Nights |
| Delhi |
Imperial / The Oberoi |
02 |
| Varanasi |
Ramada / Taj Ganges |
02 |
| Khajuraho |
Taj Chandela |
02 |
| Gwalior |
Taj Usha Kiran Palace |
02 |
| Agra |
Oberoi Amarvilas |
02 |
| Jaipur |
Taj Rambagh Palace |
02 |
PRICING: (PER PERSON IN US$)
| OCCUPANCY DETAILS |
TOUR PRICE |
LOCAL AIRFARE |
| Sharing a double room |
3333 |
300 |
Please note that lunches and dinners are not included along with camera,
etc. fees at the monuments and personal expenses. The tour price is
valid for minimum two persons traveling together. All hotels mentioned
are subject to availability at the time of quotation and the local
airfare will be separate and on actual. The airfare considered is
in coach class and if you want we could also quote the business class
fare. The car included in the tour cost is a SUV which will be very
comfortable.
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