Footsteps of Maharajas

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ROOM CATEGORY INCLUDED

Luxury Accommodation
Tour Price: US$ 6555 (per person)

Ultimate Luxury Accommodation
Tour Price: US$ 11590 (per person)

Note : Above Tour Cost is not valid from 15th December 2008 to 10th January 2009.

Footsteps of Maharajas
stay at beautiful Luxury Grand Palace
Tour Ref.# HTI 0063/RV
( Itinerary Route ) ( Book Now ! )

	Tour Price: 14 nights US$ 11590 (per person) Destination: North India & Rajasthan Transportation : Air-conditioned Luxury Large Size Car with an expert driver Special Feature: Historical Monuments/Forts, Grand Luxury Accommodation, Taj Mahal, Elephant Ride, Camel Ride, Boat Ride etc.

ITINERARY

Day 01 - Arrive Delhi
Arriving Delhi, you will clear customs and immigration. Leaving the airport, you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel The Imperial which is not only a distinguished hotel but one which is primus interpares within the community of Asia's fine hotels. The 24 king palms that lead on to the porch, are an integral part of and witness to the very creation of New Delhi. Designed by Bromfield, one of Sir Edwin Lutyen's associates, it was placed on the prestigious Queensway, now Janpath, and bequeathed with a somewhat unconventional style and design. A mixture of Victorian, old colonial and a playful dosage of informal art-deco. Assistance for check-in will be provided. After check-in overnight at hotel.
Hotel : The Imperial ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.theimperialindia.com

Day 02 - Delhi
After breakfast full day city tour of Delhi which is India's bustling capital city. It was from here that Hindu, Muslim and Mughal dynasties as well as the British ruled. Old & New Delhi present a stunning juxtaposition of sights and sounds with the ancient city built by Emperor Shah Jahan the builder of the famous Taj Mahal, and the new garden city built in 1911 by the British.

First of all visit India Gate which is a famous war memorial at the east end of Rajpath. Edward Lutyens designed this 42 m high gate structure in memory of the thousands of Indians who sacrificed their lives in World War I. Today, an eternal flame is lit under the gate known as Amar Jawan Jyoti, to honor the unknown soldiers and the martyrs who lost their lives in the Pakistan war of 1971. Also visit Rajghat (the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi ). Later on visit Lotus Temple(Bahai Temple) which is the newest most extravagant architectural wonder of the Bahai faith, located in Kalkaji, south of Delhi. The temple in white is shaped like a half opened lotus flower. Made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand, the Lotus Temple is a marvel of 20th century architecture. The lotus shaped temple in a modern and contemporary form captivates into its sanctum sanctorum people from all races, religious backgrounds and culture from around the globe. It represents the Bahai faith, - an independent world religion; divine in origin, all embracing in scope, broad in its outlook, scientific in its method, humanitarian in its principles, and dynamic in the influence. 

In the late afternoon visit Humayun's tomb which was built in 1565 A.D by Hamida Banu Begum (Humayun's widow). Visiting Humayun's tomb is a wonderful experience where you get to see the Mughal architecture and the history of Mughal India. Humayun's tomb is preceded by a tomb with blue dome. The dome has been made with Persian tiles which became very popular since Mughals came to India. Later on drive past President's House, Parliament House & Secretariat Building. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Imperial ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.theimperialindia.com

Day 03 - Delhi - Agra
After breakfast check-out and you depart on a four hours drive to Agra. Arrive Agra and check-in into hotel The Oberoi Amarvilas which is the only hotel with direct, uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. The hotel lies just 600 metres from what is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The Oberoi Armavilas opened in January 2001 and is breathtakingly luxurious hotel. There is only one way to truly experience the Taj Mahal.

After check-in visit Agra Red Fort which is surrounded by a 70 feet high wall. It is home to the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am and Moti Masjid. Later it was used by his son Jehangir as the seat of power. With four gates the Fort is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sand stone. The Jahangir Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, exquisitely carved heavy brackets, piers and cross beams.

In the late afternoon visit the Taj Mahal which is India’s most fascinating and beautiful masterpiece. Set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of the Yamuna river, this edifice was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. After her untimely death, Shah Jahan had her mortal remains buried in this mausoleum. And after his own demise he was placed to rest next to his beloved queen in the same mausoleum. With the Sunset the white marble changes its colour and hues and it is excellent for photography. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Amarvilas ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.oberoiamarvilas.com

Day 04 - Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Ranthambhore
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Ranthambhore. Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri - Built by Akbar the Great in the 16th century to serve as the capital of his vast empire, Fatehpur Sikri was mysteriously abandoned 13 years later. The mosque at Fatehpur Sikri is considered a copy of the mosque at Mecca and is extremely elegant, containing elements of Hindu and Persian design. The main entrance to the complex Buland Darwaza or "Great Gateway" is reached by an impressive flight of stairs. Inscribed on the inside of the archway is the quote: "The World is a bridge. Pass over it, but build no house upon it. He who hopes for an hour, may hope for eternity." 

On arrival check-in into The Oberoi Vanyavilas - Nestling in the natural beauty of the wilds, The Oberoi Vanyavilas is India’s leading luxury jungle resort on the edge of the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. The perfect base from which to explore the territory of the majestic tiger. Tiger sightings are most frequent during the months of May and June. While it is warm during the day, mornings and evenings are pleasant. The resort setting is picture-perfect with a dramatic watercourse and sun-kissed private decks. The luxury tents with finely embroidered canopies, luxurious bathrooms and private walled gardens are in perfect contrast to the ruggedness of the jungle. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Vanyavilas ( Luxury Jungle Resort )
Hotel Website : http://www.oberoivanyavilas.com

Day 05 - Ranthambore
Breakfast at resort. We have included morning & evening game drive to explore Ranthambhore National Park. Embark on a Jeep Ride into the Park for Game Viewing. Jeep which has been specially re-fitted and furbished for comfort and good viewing. Ranthambhore is the ideal place to spot the tiger.  Ranthambhore is the ideal place to spot the tiger. The majestic predator assured of protection, roams freely during the daytime and can be seen at close quarters. Covering 420 square kilometers, Ranthambore runs along the easternmost spur of the Araveli to the Vindhya ranges. At one time, Ranthambore was the private hunting grounds for the Royal family of Jaipur. before being declared a Sanctuary; and, in 1972, the park was brought under the Project Tiger scheme. The dry deciduous forest, covers open valleys with lush vegetation around the lakes, and open grasslands in the higher slopes. The varied flora supports a large number of animals, including a variety of deer, the sloth bear, the shy caracal, leopards, and, of course, the tiger. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Vanyavilas ( Luxury Jungle Resort )
Hotel Website : http://www.oberoivanyavilas.com

Day 06 - Ranthambore - Jaipur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur. When prince, soldier, and astronomer Sawai Jai Singh II built the pink, harmonious city on Jaipur in 1727, he did it in accordance with a treatise on town planning and architecture, the Shilpa Shastra, that is timely even today. With walls and seven gates, pink and orange buildings, camel-drawn carts, and colorful Rajasthanis, this state capital is on a flat, dry seabed surrounded by barren hills and ruined fortresses. To offset the stark and barren desert surrounding, the Rajasthanis show a distinct preference for color. This is reflected in their clothes, festivals and folk art. Noticeable within minutes of arrival, are the jewel colors of the women’s clothes and the men’s turbans. Rajasthan is an important producer of textiles in India, especially the printed and tie-dye varieties. Textile printing is practiced in many areas of the state, each with its own special color scheme, design and technique.

Arrive Jaipur and check-in into hotel Taj Rambagh Palace which is a magnificent building spread over 47 acres of gardens. Rambagh Palace is Jaipur’s foremost Royal Palace residence. Located close to the walled ‘Pink City’, spectacular forts, and all the unique shopping bazaars of Jaipur, the Palace unveils the rich culture and history of the erstwhile rulers of Rajasthan. Built in 1835 as a hunting lodge, converted to a palace in 1925 as the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur and finally converted as India’s first palace hotel in 1957. An architectural masterpiece, Rambagh presents a fine blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Sensitively restored to its former glory with refurbished rooms overlooking courtyards with fountains or verdant gardens, airy verandahs, idyllic front lawns and a warm intimate lobby, guests relive the royal lifestyle at Rambagh. Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Rambagh Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 07 - Jaipur
After breakfast half day sightseeing of Jaipur which is an exuberance of color, dance, and song with the traditional arts and crafts. It's one of India's most well planned cities, with wide, straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes in a grid system. The great warrior/astronomer Maharaja Jai Singh II carefully planned Jaipur's foundation. Laid out in the 18th century, its design followed specifications from an epochal Hindu treatise on architecture. This "Pink City," so called because its buildings are painted in the tones of an autumnal sunset, intersperses the play of red and pink with white borders and motifs.

Morning visit Amer Fort - The royal family's residence at Amber is only 11 km away. The palaces and forts of yesteryear, once witness to royal processions, now shine amid the splendor of modern monuments, a juxtaposition accepted quite naturally into the lifestyles of an amazing people. It is an example of fascinating blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture built in red sandstone and white marble. The highlight of the fort is the Seesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), a palace known for its craftsmanship in mirrors. Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthanfort palace. Amber was the ancient capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs until Sawai Jai Singh II moved down the hill to his newly created capital, Jaipur. This is one of the most magnificent destinations located on the hills just outside Jaipur. It was built by Raja Man Singh in 1600 AD and completed by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. Ascend on elephant back, the hill, on which the fort is situated.

Afternoon coverning Hawa Mahal or "Palace of Winds," one of the major landmarks of Jaipur, although it is actually little more than a facade. The five-storey building overlooks the main street of the old city and is a stunning example of Rajput artistry with its pink, semi-octagonal, honeycombed, sandstone windows. It was originally built to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city. The City Palace which is blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and the royal family still lives in a part of the palace. The palace is now a fine museum. It houses a remarkable collection of textiles, paintings, manuscripts, and extraordinary weapons. On display there are two huge urns of silver, said to be the largest silver vessels in the world. Nakkarkhana-ka-Darwaza, the imposing gateway of the City Palace guarded by stone elephants, is monumental. Adjacent to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the ancient astronomical observatory built by Raja Jai Singh, whose passion for astronomy was even more notable than his prowess as a warrior. In the evening we have arranged your dinner at Indiana Restaurant. Enjoy your hot & delicious dinner with the Rajasthani Folk Dance & Music. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Dinner)
Hotel : Taj Rambagh Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 08 - Jaipur - Khimsar
After breakfast check-out and drive to Khimsar - which is steeped in history. Founded 2500 years ago by the Jain Saint Mahaveer this is the starting point of the great Indian Desert. The founder of the castle which was built in mid 15th century was Prince Karamsi. On arrival check-in into Hotel Khimsar Fort. Perched on the edge on the great Thar Desert in the heart of rural India, the unique fort at Khimsar offers a wide range of experiences. The battle-scarred walls and turrets remind one of the glorious past of this place.

In the afternoon visit Khimsar village where you can see the traditional lifestyle of the local people and their colorful handicrafts and textiles. Enjoy shopping in the market at Khimsar. Rest of the evening free to relax at your hotel. You have an option to relax and pamper yourself with an Kerala aromatherapy massage by expert masseurs. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Khimsar Fort ( Heritage Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.khimsarfort.com

Day 09 - Khimsar - Jaisalmer
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jaisalmer - The Citadel City. On the way we pass camel carts, vibrant and colorful Rajasthani women carrying produce to the market, and men sporting brightly colored turbans usually sitting groups just passing the time of the day. On arrival check in into hotel Gorbandh Palace. The very name of this hotel is inspired by the influence of the desert. Gorbandh is a harness, which the desert women decorate for their husband's camel with any material they can find: cowry shells, beads, sequins, couloured threads and even buttons. The architecture of this Royal Retreat has been inspired by traditional Indian homes.

Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for shopping. Shop for exquisitely carved wooden boxes in tiny curios shop, traditional rugs, hand-woven blankets and shawls in typical Rajasthani colours and weave are also available. Mirror work, embroidered articles, silver jewellery, trinkets and curious are other buys of Jaisalmer. The main shopping areas are Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazar etc.Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Gorbandh Palace ( Heritage - Royal Retreat )
Hotel Website : http://www.hrhhotels.com

Day 10 - Jaisalmer
After breakfast proceed for a half day sightseeing. Visit the Jaisalmer Fort - The golden - yellow sandstone of Jaisalmer Fort, over 800 years old, crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets, lies the old city, nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer. The fort stands almost 30 meters over the city and houses an entire living area within huge ramparts. It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also, within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. Later on visit Manak Chowk and Havelis - Outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk, which is the center of local activity. From Manak Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelis of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality. Havelis - Some of the most exotic mansions or 'havelis', all intricately latticed, are stretched all over Jaisalmer, each with a different facade. The beautiful mansions built by Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis' and several of these fine sandstone buildings are still in beautiful condition. Also visit Patwon ki Haveli - is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis. It stands in a narrow lane and one of its apartments is painted with beautiful murals - unfortunately, at present, the building is closed up and not lived in.

In the late afternoon we have arranged Sunset camel ride to the Sam Sand Dunes. A trip to Jaisalmer is in incomplete without this visit to most panoramic Dunes of Sam, where the wind is unceasingly carving out scenic patterns on this desert sand. truly the essence of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a enchanting mirage. By visiting the Sam Sand Dunes, it is possible to get an insight into desert life from Jaisalmer itself! Camel rides on the Sand Dunes are a thrilling experience, as is the brilliant sunset. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Gorbandh Palace ( Heritage - Royal Retreat )
Hotel Website : http://www.hrhhotels.com

Day 11 - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jodhpur - The Desert enchantment. Arrive and check-in into hotel Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace which has remained one of the top heritage hotels in India and the very best in Jodhpur. A splendid example of Indo-colonial & the art-deco style of the thirties, Umaid Bhawan is one of the largest and grandest private residences in the world. It took three thousand artisans 14 years to create this magnificent edifice. Umaid Bhawan Palace at Jodhpur is one of the largest and grandest private residences in the world. The palace was built by 3000 artisans worked over 14 years. The palace consumed one million square feet of the finest marble.

Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for shopping. Shopping in Jodhpur bazaars is a heady experience with a colorful display of the rich collection of exquisite handicrafts. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’ or slippers in suede, cancel skin, velvet and more color to the city.it was form here that the popularly worn baggy-tight horse riding trousers,-" Jodhpurs" ,took their name. Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe  - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 12 - Jodhpur
After breakfast full day city sightseeing of Jodhpur city which is the second largest city of Rajasthan and a major tourist attraction in the country. Jodhpur was founded by the Rajput chief Rao Jodha in 1459. The city was the erstwhile capital of the Marwar state. A 10-km-long wall made of stone and built about a century after the city was founded, surrounds the old city. There are about 100 towers in the city, most of which are surrounded by defensive battlements.

Covering Mehrangarh fort which is one of the largest forts in India. The fort has been a witness to the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpursplendour of a bygone era. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. To enter the Mehrangarh fort, seven gates have to be crossed. Also visit Jaswanthada - The 19th century royal cenotaph and the museum located in the Umaid public gardens. In the afternoon a visit to Guda Bishnoi Village which is the place for you. It is approximately 25 kms from the main city of Jodhpur. The Guda Bishnoi village of Jodhpur, Rajasthan is scenic beauty marked with Khejri trees and deer. Also in the village is the Guda Bishnoi Lake. It is an artificial lake, perfect as a picnic spot. A person interested in exotic wild life & nature should definitely visit this village. The Bishnoi community inhabits the village. The villagers are staunch worshippers of nature in all its forms, specially the sanctity of plant and animal life. They even pray to the green trees and animals that inhabit their land. In this world of exploitation everywhere, they make every effort to conserve the environment. Another fact about the Bishnoi tribals is that they worship Lord Vishnu and are vegetarians.

Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. You can explore Umaid Bhawan Palace. A part of Umaid Bhawan Palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family - weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies. Overnight at Hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe  - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 13 - Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and driver to Ranakpur. Visit Ranakpur Jain Temples complex, one of the biggest and the most important cluster of Jain temples in India. Nestled in the Aravalli range. The Chaumukha Temple, or Four Faced Temple, is the main temple in the complex and dates back to the 15th century. Built in marble, the temple has 29 halls supported by more than 1400 pillars, no two of which are alike. The two other Jain temples in the complex are Neminath and Parasnath temple. We have arranged your lunch at Fateh Bagh. Fateh Bagh Palace is recreated in Ranakpur by 65000 pieces of lovingly rebuilt stone by stone out of 200 years old Rawla Koshilav Palace. This is probably India's first attempt at transporting a palace, faithfully preserving the richness of Rajput architecture for 21st century visitors.

Later on continue drive to Udaipur, the lovely lakeside capital of Mewar - The City of Dreams which is perhaps the most romantic city in Rajasthan. Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of three lakes - it is bewitching in all its details. Narrow streets lined by vivid colored stalls, gardens, temples and palaces - every feature mirrored in the placid blue waters of lake Pichhola. Udaipur's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past bristling with episodes of heroism and splendour, continue to enthrall the visitor. On arrival take a boat ride to reach hotel Taj Lake Palace which is one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, arising out of the Turquoise Waters of the Pichola like an elegant fantasy in white marble. The Lake palace was built in the 17th century on a natural foundation of 4 acers of rock. It was initially called Jaginwas after its founder Maharana Jagjit Singh . The Maharana, ruler of Jaipur from 1628 to 1654, was very friendly with Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and encouraged his craftsmen to copy some of the glories of his incomparable buildings at Agra. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast/Lunch)
Hotel : Taj Lake Palace  ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 14 - Udaipur
After breakfast visit City Palace - the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped arches, fretted balconies, and cupolas. A part of the palace is converted into a museum. You will be impressed by the monuments as it showcased arms and armor, paintings and photographs, royal insignia, processional trappings and other objects, which reflect the heritage, and tradition of the Mewar and Sisodia Maharanas. Then, visit Jagdish Temple, 16th century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. We’ll drive past Fateh Sagar Lake with a visit to Sahelion-ki- Bari, garden of the maids-of-Honor. Also visit Pratap Memorial, Atop the Moti Magri or prarl hill, overlooking the Fateh Sagar lake is the memorial of the Rajput hero Maharana Pratap with a bronze statue of the Maharana. Later on visit Ahar - The ancient capital of sisodias, 3 Km from udaipur, Ahar boasts of a profusion of royal cenotaphs of the rulers of Mewar. A rare collection of antiquities including earthen pots, iron objects and other art items excavated in the region are displayed in a small Govt. museum.

In the evening we have arrange a boat ride on the Lake Pichola which is one of the prime attractions of Udaipur. The lake is known for the palace build amidst the lake. The lake was built by Maharana Udai Singh II. It was made basically for defence purpose. Cradled amongst hills, gardens, havelis, temples and ghats, Lake Pichola is the picturesque spotlight of Udaipur. The lake sports two islands palaces- Jagniwas (Lake Palace) and Jagmandir. The lake is about 4 km long and 3 km wide, and not much deep- it often dries up in times of severe summers. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings can only be felt by seeing it, which increases many folds during sunrise and sunset. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Lake Palace  ( 5 Star Deluxe - Heritage Palace )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 15 - Udaipur - Delhi (Departure)
9W708   Udaipur (UDR)   1530 Hrs      Delhi (DEL)    1640 Hrs
After breakfast rest of the morning free to relax at your hotel. In the afternoon check-out from the hotel and transfer to airport to catch flight to Delhi. Arrive Delhi and you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Car and driver will be at your disposal until departure transfer to International Airport to catch flight for onward destination. (Breakfast)