A Journey From Ganges to Taj

BOOK YOUR VACATION NOW !
Our staff of highly qualified travel consultants are ready to assist you!
Call +91 982 828 9199
24 hours a day through Monday to Sunday.
You can also send us an electronic request by email reservations@royalvacationsindia.com

ROOM CATEGORY INCLUDED

Luxury Accommodation
Tour Price: US$ 4175 (per person)

Ultimate Luxury Accommodation
Tour Price: US$ 7445 (per person)

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

A Journey From Ganges to Taj
including a visit of beautiful Taj Mahal, Agra
Tour Ref.# HTI 0059/RV
( Itinerary Route ) ( Book Now ! )

	Tour Price: 09 nights US$ 7445 (per person) Destination: Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, M.P. & Rajasthan Transportation : Air-conditioned Luxury Large Size Car with an expert driver Special Feature: Historical Monuments, Holy River Ganges, Morning Boat Ride, Erotic Temples of Khajuraho, Taj Mahal, Elephant 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 at the exit. Arrival transfer to hotel Taj Palace which is a perfect embodiment of all qualities synonymous with the quality of Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces. Standing apart in service, its facilities and of course, in its distinguished patronage, this hotel has played host to Heads of State, corporate moguls and high profile businessmen from across the world. Nestled in six acres of lush greens in the exclusive Diplomatic Enclave of the city, Taj Palace Hotel is the only one in the top-of-the-line category near Gurgaon, and a mere 10 minutes drive from the airport. Assistance for check-in will be provided. After check-in overnight at hotel.
Hotel : Taj Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.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 Qutab Minar which is 72.5 m in height and has a mosque at the base. It is a magnificent structure whose construction started in 1199 by a Muslim King Qutab-ud-din Aibak (after whom it was named) and was finished by his heir IItutmish. There is an iron pillar standing proudly in front of it since 5th century and has not rusted till yet! It is said that if one hugs this Iron Pillar of Mehrauli and wish for something, it is granted. Later on drive past President's House, Parliament House & Secretariat Building. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Palace ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 03 - Delhi - Varanasi
IT 602     Delhi (DEL)     1300 Hrs    Varanasi (VNS)    1415 Hrs
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and transfer to airport to catch flight to Varanasi. On arrival you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel Taj Ganges - A veritable haven of peace and tranquility in the bustling temple city. Taj Ganges offers the perfect combination of five-star elegance and timeless hospitality.

Later on half day city tour of Varanasi. One of the holiest cities in India, Varanasi is one of the most important pilgrimage sites and also a major tourist attraction. It has been the religious capital of Hinduism since time immemorial. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has been a center of learning and civilization for more than 2,000 years. Written records of the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata mention its existence as long as 3,000 years ago. It is probably the oldest living city in India, and one of the world's most ancient. As a place of devotion and worship, Varanasi attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Many Hindus in the latter part of their lives wish to spend their retirement here. The mythological name of the city was Kashi, meaning light or luminescence, and the city indeed illuminates with a spiritual light. Two rivers, the Varuna and the Assi, meet the holy Ganges River at the northern and southern tips of the city. In medieval times and until as recently as the mid-20th century, the city was known as Banares. Varanasi seems to have been the result of putting together the names of the rivers Varuna and Assi. This religious city is crowded with temples, and its labyrinth of streets swells with throngs of people. Varanasi is a city that cannot be described--only experienced. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Ganges ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 04 - Varanasi
Early in the morning, enjoy a boat ride on the holy river Ganges, which presents an incredible scene as multitudes of devotees come to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. The riverfront, as seen from a boat at sunrise, is a spiritually uplifting sight. Hinduism, deep and mystical, is everywhere: in a decorated doorway; in a glimpse of a glittering temple; in the sound of a sacred bell; in the chant of the priests; and in the fragrance of flower oblations. Pass the bathing ghats where thousands of pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy water of the Ganges and the burning ghats where cremations are conducted. Later on come back to the hotel for breakfast.

In the late afternoon an excursion to Sarnath - where Bhuddhism first made its appearance nearly 2500 years ago and where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to his 5 disciples. It's an important centre of Buddhism. It's remarkable that nowadays "only" 6.6 million Buddhists (on a population of 670 million with 80% Hindu). At that time Buddha came to that small village to preach the "middle" way to the Nirvana  after he gained the state of enlightenment in Bodhgaya. Due to the support of the great Buddhist emperor Ashoka Sarnath developed to a big en mighty Buddhist centre, among other things as the erection of magnificent stupas and Buddhist monasteries. In the year 640 AD Sarnath was visited by a Chinese traveller who noticed that 1,500 priests accommodated here and that there was a 100m high stupa. Due to Moslem invasions (as usual with great vandalism) and afterwards ruled by the Hindus Sarnath  declined and diapered out of the history. Excavations started in 1836 by British archaeologists. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Ganges ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 05 - Varanasi - Khajuraho
9W723      Varanasi (VNS)      1220 Hrs      Khajuraho (HJR)       1300 Hrs
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and in time transfer to airport to catch flight to Khajuraho. The temples of Khajuraho are India’s unique gift to the world, built by the Chandela kings some 1000 years ago- which probably forms one of the best examples of Indian Erotic art. The Temples are divided into 3 parts according to location- Western, Eastern & Southern occupying 13 sq kms out of which the Western Group is the most acclaimed. Kajuraho is a World Heritage Site. Arrive Khajuraho and you will be met by our representative, holding a play card with your name on it in the arrival lounge. Arrival transfer to hotel Taj Chandela.

In the afternoon half day visit of the Western & Eastern group of Temple complex of Khajuraho. The Khajuraho temples were built during the reign of the Chandelas. While some show marks of a Shaivite sensibility, others clearly manifest the influence of Vaishnaism, Jainism, and tantrism. These temples have an architectural character distinct from that of any other group of temples elsewhere in the country. Instead of being contained within the customary enclosure wall, each temple stands on a high and solid masonry terrace. Though none of the temples are very large, they are still imposing structures because of their elegant proportions and rich surface sculpture. You will see exquisitely sculptured Temples of Kandariya Mahadeb, Laxman, Vishwanath, Parvati, Chittragupta, Varaha & Jagdamba in the western complex, dedicated to different Gods & Goddess, which presently comprises of 12 temples. The Eastern Group of temples, adjoining the Kajuraho village comprises of 3 temples each of Hindus & Jains. Also visit the newly constructed hanuman Temple before returning to hotel for overnight. (Breakfast)
Hotel : Taj Chandela ( 5 Star )
Hotel Website : http://www.tajhotels.com

Day 06 - Khajuraho - Jhansi - Agra
2001 Shatabdi Exp.     Jhansi (JHS)     1805 Hrs     Agra (AGC)     2035 Hrs
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive Jhansi. En-route visit Orchha which is a small village, but like Mandu, it too has an old world charm and is surrounded by history. Located on an island in the Betwa river, this 16th century capital is famous for its magnificent chattris or tombs and monuments. As you drive up the road, into the city, the buildings around give a sense of what it must have been like to be in Orchha a few centuries ago. We have arranged your lunch at Orchha Resort which is acknowledged as one of India's finest resort, no detail overlooked, no luxury underplayed. With 100% vegetarian cuisine, resort features the beautiful landscape Flora & Fauna on the banks of river Betwa.

In the late afternoon continue drive to Jhansi - which is a place closely associated with Rani Laxmibai who fought against the British during the Revolt of 1857. Her fort in Jhansi is the reminder of her courage and fighting spirit. Car and driver will be at your disposal until transfer to Jhansi Railway station to catch SHATABDI EXPRESS train to Agra. On arrival you will be met by our local representative, holding a play card with your name on it at the exit. Arrival transfer to 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. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Amarvilas ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.oberoiamarvilas.com

Day 07 - Agra
Early morning 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. The Taj is most enthralling in the quietness of early morning. With the rising Sun the white marble changes its colour and hues and it is excellent for photography. 

After breakfast check-out from the hotel and 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.

Rest of the day free to relax at your hotel. OR you can explore the local markets for shopping. Agra is also known for its fabulous handicrafts such as Marble and soft stone inlay work, gold thread embroidery (zari and zardozi), metalware, exquisite hand -knotted silk and woollen carpets and leather goods including bags, shoes and clothing The Mughals were great patrons of arts and crafts. Empress Nur Jahan took personal interest and was an accomplished artist herself in zari embroidery work. Semi-precious and precious jewelry in Mughal style is also available. Overnight at hotel. (Breakfast)
Hotel : The Oberoi Amarvilas ( 5 Star Deluxe )
Hotel Website : http://www.oberoiamarvilas.com

Day 08 - Agra - Bharatpur - Jaipur
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur. En-route visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world. You will enjoy a Rickshaw ride inside the Sanctuary for Bird Watching. Bharatpur is world renowned for its World Heritage listed Bird Sanctuary, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. It is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world inundated with over 400 species of water birds. Exotic migratory birds from Afghanistan, Central Asia, Tibet as well as Siberian cranes, come here to spend the winters. Other common bird life to be seen are cormorants, spoonbills, storks, egrets, herons, pelicans, ibis and herons that can be spotted all over the park.

After continue drive to Jaipur. 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 09 - 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 10 - Jaipur - Neemrana - Delhi (Departure)
After breakfast check-out from the hotel and drive to Delhi. We have arranged your lunch at Neemrana fort which is India's oldest heritage resort. Sited on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion year-old Aravalli ranges, the property covers 25 acres/10 hectares. The stepped palaces of this architectural jewel is cut into the hillside to sprawl over 3 acres/1.2 hectares. Later on continue drive to Delhi. Arrive Delhi and Car at disposal untill transfer to Airport to catch flight for onward destination. (Breakfast/Lunch)