|
Rajasthan Tour Packages
Intensive Rajasthan Journey |
Duration
31 Days / 30 Nights |
Places Covered
Delhi - Alwar - Bharatpur - Agra - Ranthambore - Bundi
- Jhalawar - Kota - Chittorgarh - Dungarpur - Udaipur - Kumbhalgarh - Ranakpur
- Mount Abu - Jodhpur - Osian - Jaisalmer - Mandawa - Jaipur - Delhi. |
 |
Day 01: Arrival in New Delhi
Around midnight arrive
in New Delhi. The cosmopolitan City and capital New Delhi is the main gateway
for travelers. Upon arrival, you will be met by an Indo Vacations representative
and transferred to the Hotel.
Day 02: New Delhi
In the morning
we have sightseeing in Old Delhi. We take a Rickshaw Ride parallel to the Red
Fort through the old city and famous Silk Road and Silver Bazaar. Sightseeing
of Old Delhi includes "Rajghat", the site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated
and Jama Masjid, the great mosque of old Delhi. Today we also visit the famous
"Humayun Tomb" which is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture
in India and "Qutub Minar". "Qutub Minar" is 71 meter high
and consists of five stories. In 1199 work began on this tower which was intended
to be the most glorious tower of victory in the world. This tower was damaged
twice and repaired in 1326 and 1368. Before we proceed to the Hotel we drive through
the embassy area in New Delhi where we visit the India Gate and see some impressive
Government Buildings.
Day 03: New Delhi - Alwar (about 170 km)
In the morning we drive to Alwar. Alwar is referred as the gateway to the historic
and colorful state of Rajasthan. Alwar has had a chequered history and has been
a witness to many rules and rulers. It offers the traveler various sites of historical
importance. The main tourist attraction of Alwar is City Palace or Vinay Vilas
Mahal. In the afternoon we visit the Vinay Vilas Mahal or City Palace. This palace
has a fine museum with more than 7000 manuscripts, miniature paintings in both
Mughal and Rajasthani style, armour, textiles and musical instruments. In the
evening we will visit the Siliserh Lake.
Day 04: Alwar - Deeg - Bharatpur
(about 110 km)
Today we leave Alwar and proceed to Bharatpur via Deeg.
Deeg, capital of the Jat rulers, came into existence in the 18th century. The
credit for constructing the early palaces at Deeg goes to king Badan Singh. Deeg
is known for its magnificent palaces constructed around the mid 18th century by
Raja Suraj Mal, namely Suraj Bhawan, Gopal Bhawan and Kishan Bhawan. Gopal Bhawan,
overlooking the Gopal Sagar is the most impressive of all the palaces. Gopal Bhawan
with all its windows of stone lattice work, is flanked by two pavilions, Sawan
and Bhadon with curved roofs and ornamental spires. To the north and south of
the garden are Nand Bhawan and Krishna Bhawan respectively. Suraj Bhawan built
in white marble, is an exquisite palace, with balconies overhanging the water.
After visiting these palaces at Deeg we drive to Bharatpur. In the evening arrive
in Bharatpur.
Day 05: Bharatpur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (about 55
km)
In the morning we will visit the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary or Keoladeo
Ghana National Park. Bharatpur has its fame due to Keoladeo Birds National Park.
Bharatpur was earlier a duck shooting resort of the Maharaja. The Bharatpur Bird
Sanctuary with its 375 species is one of the best water bird sanctuary in the
world. In winter there are many migratory birds from the northern hemisphere including
the rare Siberian crane. After visiting the Bird Sanctuary we drive to Agra. Enroute
we make a stop and visit Fatehpur Sikri, which was once an imperial capital frozen
in time, constructed by Akbar the Great in the 16th century. This wonderful city
constructed by red sand stones was abandoned as abruptly as it had been built.
It has been generally stated that it was due to failing in the water supply. In
the evening arrive in Agra. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 06: Agra
- Dholpur (about 56 km)
We start today our sightseeing by a visit to the
Agra Fort, built by three of the greatest Mughal emperors. The construction of
this massive structure began in 1565 under Akbar's reign and continued till the
time of his grandson's reign, Shah Jahan who built the impressive imperial quarters
and mosque. After the visit of Agra Fort we proceed to visit the most beautiful
monument of India, the Taj Mahal, an enduring monument to love, with a continually
fulfilling beauty. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631-52,
as a tomb and memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace),
who died at the age of 39 giving birth to her 14th child. After the visit of Taj
Mahal we drive to Dholpur. Dholpur was founded in 1805. Dholpur is known for its
locally-quarried sandstone.
Day 07: Dholpur - Ranthambore
Today after the breakfast we visit the Jhor, a village 16 km from Dholpur. In
Jhor, the oldest Mughal garden is situated. Started in 1527 by Babar, it was discovered
in the late 1970s and there are still signs of the intricate planning that went
into these gardens. The Mughal influence is very strong here in Dholpur. There
are various other places like Bari, Damoh waterfall, Talab-e Shahi lake, Kanpur
Mahal, Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary and Ram Sagar Sanctuary in Dholpur which offer
interesting excursions. Afterwards we drive to Ranthambore. Ranthambore lies on
the easternmost spur of the Aravalis. Ranthambore was the private tiger reserve
of the Maharajas of Jaipur. It is studded with pavilions, watch towers. The town
of Ranthambore is watched over by the massive Ranthambore fort. The main attractions
of Ranthambore are the Ranthambore National Park and Ranthambore Fort.
Day 08: Ranthambore
In the early morning we will explore the Ranthambore
National Park and have a jungle safari. Ranthambore National Park is a well known
tiger reserve under Project Tiger. Ranthambore National park is surrounded by
the Vindhyas and the Aravali mountains and covers an area of 392 square km. The
Tiger remains the biggest attraction of the Ranthambore National Park. This national
park is the home of a vast variety of animals. Here we might have an audience
with the tiger. In this park besides tiger various other animals like Sambhar,
Cheetal, Wild Boar, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jackal and Hyena can also be seen. In
the afternoon we will visit Ranthambore Fort. This fort was built in 994 AD atop
a steep high creek 200 metres above sea level. Ruined pavilions, walls, chhatris
and splendid monuments are interspersed within the majestic fort. The Ranthambore
fort also houses the temple of Lord Ganesha, where annual fair is held in the
month of September on account of Ganesh Chaturthi.
Day 09: Ranthambore
- Tonk - Bundi (about 125 km)
In the morning after having breakfast we
drive to Bundi. Enroute we stop at Tonk. Earlier Tonk was the stronghold of the
Pathan tribesmen of Afghanistan who came to India. Tonk was founded by Nawab Ameer
Khan as a result of a treaty with the British in 1818. Tonk is known for its famous
Sunehri Kothi, the golden mansion and the Arabic and Persian Research Institute.
In Tonk we visit the Sunehri Kothi and Research Institute. The Arabic and Persian
Research Institute houses a superb collection of Arabic and Persian manuscripts.
Some of these manuscripts are lavishly ornamented with gold, rubies, emeralds
and pearls. In the evening arrive in Bundi. Set in a narrow encircling gorge,
the palaces and fortress of Bundi have a fairy tale like quality about them. Isolated
and independent, the entire township appears like a miniature painting, frozen
in time for the traveler. Bundi is also known for its baolis or step-wells.
Day 10: Bundi - Jhalawar - Kota (about 38 km)
In the morning
we visit the Bundi palace. This palace built of locally quarried stone, presents
one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Intricately carved brackets,
pillars and balconies and sculpted elephants are used liberally. The Diwan-I-Aam,
Hathi Pol and the Naubat Khana are the main places located inside the palace.
The famous Chitra Shala which provides a colourful glimpse of history is also
located inside the palace. The walls and ceilings of this palace are completely
covered with paintings of the Bundi School. After visiting the Bundi palace we
drive to Kota. Enroute we visit the town of Jhalawar. On the way to Jhalawar we
come across the red poppy fields and the orange laden orchards. Jhalawar or the
land of the 'Jhalas' was created in 1838 and has a charm of its own. Jhalawar
district is known for the Chandrabhaga fair, celebrated every year in the month
of Kartik (Oct-Nov) on the banks of the Chandrabhaga river. The main area of interest
in Jhalawar is the fort which is located in the centre of the town. This fort
now houses various district offices. The Zanana Khas portion of the fort houses
some exquisite paintings on walls and mirrors. After visiting the fort we move
towards the town of Kota. Earlier Kota was the part of the erstwhile Rajput kingdom
of Bundi.
Day 11: Kota - Bijolia - Chittorgarh (about 180 km)
In the morning in Kota we will visit the Kota palace. This type of fort-palace
complex is one of the largest to be found in the state of Rajasthan. Then we drive
to Bijolia. In ancient times Bijolia was known as Vindhyavali. During the Chauhan
period, it became a famous centre for art and architecture. Several beautiful
Shiva temples were constructed by the Chauhan rulers in Bijolia. On the eastern
side of the town near the city wall, there are three beautiful temples. The most
famous temple is the Hajaresvara Mahadeva temple. It has a high linga surrounded
by hundreds of small lingas and hence called Hajaresvara or Sahastralinga. After
visiting this temple and having lunch at Bijolia we drive to Chittorgarh. Chittorgarh
was founded by Bappa Rawal in 8th century. Chittorgarh is known for its massive
fort which is 3 miles long and 495 feet high and also for Vijay Stambh (Tower
of Victory) and Kirti Stambh.
Day 12: Chittorgarh - Dungarpur (about
200 km)
In the morning we visit the Chittorgarh Fort, the world famous
fort of Rajasthan. The Chittorgarh Fort is the indomitable pride of Chittor. The
fort is massive structure with many gateways built in 7th century AD and perched
on a height of 180 m hill and sprawls over 700 acres. After visiting the Chittorgarh
fort we visit the Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh. After having sightseeing in Chittorgarh
we drive to Dungarpur. Dungarpur means a “Hill town”. Dungarpur was
founded in 1358 A.D by Rana Dungar Singh. Dungarpur is a picturesque town surrounded
by hills on three sides. In the evening arrive in Dungarpur.
Day
13: Dungarpur - Banswara - Dungarpur (about 220 km)
In the morning we
visit the Udai Vilas Palace and Juna Mahal in Dungarpur. The Juna Mahal and Udai
Vilas Palace are the main attraction in Dungarpur and the interiors have some
of the most well preserved wall paintings. This palace is built by the side of
a lake and is famous for its fine architecture and carvings. Juna Mahal is a treasure
house of miniature paintings, frescoes, glass and mirror work. In the afternoon
we drive to Banswara. Maharawal Jagmal Singh was the founder of Banswara, the
erstwhile princely state. The name Banswara has been derived from 'bans' or bamboo
trees which once grew in abundance. The area is inhabited mainly by the Bhil tribals.
Banswara is also known for the Mahi Bajaj Sagar project and for the dams and canals
situated at beautiful sites. After having a small excursion to Banswara we return
back to Dungarpur.
Day 14: Dungarpur - Udaipur (about 120 km)
After having breakfast we drive to Udaipur. Udaipur is called the romantic city
of Rajasthan. A city built around shimmering, clear, blue water lakes which reflect
the green hills of the Aravali ranges. Arrival in Udaipur in the afternoon. The
rest of the day at leisure.
Day 15: Udaipur
Today we visit
Udaipur, also known as the city of sunrise. We start our sightseeing with the
visit of Sahelion-Ki-Bari. This Garden of the Maids of Honour is well laid out
with extensive lawns and shady walks. After the visit of Garden of Maids we visit
a Folk art museum. This museum has a rich collection of Folk dresses, ornaments,
puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments and paintings. After a break we
proceed to City Palace, the biggest Palace in India, where 4 generations of Maharajas
added their contribution. The museum of the palace includes the beautiful peacock
mosaic and miniature wall paintings of Indian mythology. Today we have an opportunity
to visit a traditional painting school and see the famous miniature paintings
done.
Day 16: Udaipur (Excursion to Rajsamand, Nathdwara)
In the morning we drive to Nathdwara to visit the Shrinathji temple. Nathdwara,
the gateway of the Lord is a popular Hindu pilgrimage shrine in India. This town
is home to one of the wealthiest temples and most important pilgrimage shrines
of Lord Krishna in India. Nathdwara enshrines the temple of Shrinathji, Lord Krishna.
Shrinathji represents the form of Lord Krishna in which he lifted the Govardhana
Hill and saved the people of Mathura. The image of Srinathji is believed to have
been a self manifested one. After visiting the temple we drive to Rajsamand lake.
Rajsamand Lake was built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660 AD. Exquisite arches and
chhatris adorn the embankment. After visiting the lake we drive back to hotel
in Udaipur.
Day 17: Udaipur - Kumbhalgarh (about 85 km)
Today
we drive to Kumbhalgarh. Kumbhalgarh is one of the finest examples of defensive
fortification in Rajasthan. The main tourist attraction of Kumbhalgarh is the
Kumbhalgarh Fort. After having a small break we visit the Kumbhalgarh fort. This
fort was the second most important fort of the Mewar kingdom after Chittorgarh.
This fort is rising from a prominent ridge at a height of 1914 meters high from
the sea level. The fort was built in 15th century AD by Rana Kumbha. The fort
has witnessed many heroic deeds of great warriors.
Day 18: Kumbhalgarh
- Ranakpur - Mount Abu (about 240 km)
Today we will drive to Mount Abu.
Enroute we visit Ranakpur. Ranakpur is known for its superbly carved marble Jain
Temples. After a small break we will visit the Ranakpur Jain temples. An enormous
basement of this temple covers 48,000 square feet. There are four subsidiary shrines,
twenty four pillared halls. The total number of columns is 1444, all of which
are intricately carved, no two being alike. The Ranakpur Jain Temples were built
during the 15th century. After having a small break at Ranakpur we drive to Mount
Abu. Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan nestling in picturesque Aravali
mountains. Entire hill side in Mount Abu is covered by the mango, bamboo, eucalyptus,
date-palm, silk, cotton and lime trees. Arrive in Mount Abu in the evening. Rest
of the day at leisure.
Day 19: Mount Abu
After having breakfast
we visit the most famous Dilwara Jain temples. Dilwara Jain Temples were constructed
between 11th and 13th centuries. After visiting the temple we will have a walk
at the focal point of the town, Nakki Lake. This artificial lake is ringed by
hills and overhung by the enormous Toad Rock. In the evening we will walk through
the Bazaar up to Sunset Point from here one can have the best view of the mountain.
We also enjoy the sunset here as the sun gradually drowns itself in the sky between
the two mountain peaks.
Day 20: Mount Abu - Rohetgarh (about 214
km)
In the morning we drive to Rohetgarh. Isolated, undiscovered and unspoilt,
Rohetgarh reflects the true essence of an Indian village. Rohetgarh is famous
for its fort of 17th century which is now a luxury heritage hotel. In the evening
we reach Rohetgarh and stay at the Rohet Garh hotel and experience the warmth
of courteous Rajput hospitality.
Day 21: Rohetgarh - Jodhpur (about
50 km)
After breakfast we drive to Jodhpur. The city was once the capital
of the princely state of Marwar (Land of death). Jodhpur is the second largest
city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is also known as the blue city as most of the houses
of the old city are painted blue. The old city is surrounded by a huge 10 km long
wall which has 101 bastions and seven gates. We will visit the Mehrangarh Fort
(majestic fort). Mehrangarh Fort was built on a steep hill and is among the best
in India with exquisitely latticed windows in residential apartments within. We
also visit the Jaswant Thada, a royal cenotaph built in white marble. In the evening
we have a walk through the Bazaars of Jodhpur.
Day 22: Jodhpur -
Osian - Jaisalmer (about 290 km)
Today we drive through the desert and
proceed for Jaisalmer via Osian. Osian is a great centre of Hindu and Jain religions.
The oldest Temple here was constructed in 1178 AD. After visiting the temple we
proceed further for Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is famous for its carved havellis (grand
mansions). In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main
trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Africa and the West. Jaisalmer is
a marvel of beautiful culture and this city remains one of the most exotic city
not only in Rajasthan but in the whole of India. In the evening arrive in Jaisalmer.
Day 23: Jaisalmer
Today we have sightseeing of the medieval
city of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer's crenellated golden sandstone walls and its narrow
streets lined with exquisitely carved buildings makes this city unique. Some of
the visitors called this city “a living museum”. We have a walk through
the old city and visit the Fort and the Jain temple. In the afternoon we drive
around 40 km away from Jaisalmer to Sam dunes where we enjoy the sunset before
we drive back to Jaisalmer.
Day 24: Jaisalmer - Bikaner (about 330
km)
In the morning after having breakfast we drive to Bikaner. In the
evening we reach Bikaner. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 25: Bikaner
- Nagaur (about 105 km)
In the morning we visit the Junagarh Fort (1571-1611
AD) constructed of red sandstone and marble with kiosks and balconies embellishing
the structure at intervals. This imposing fort and its palaces are an unforgettable
experience for us. After visiting the fort we drive to Nagaur. Nagaur is a desert
town of historical significance. It was known as Ahichhatrapur I and was the capital
of Jangaldesh. Nagaur was granted to the famous warrior Amar Singh Rathore by
emperor Shah Jahan. The main attraction of Nagaur is the Nagaur Fort. In the evening
we visit the Nagaur Fort. The Nagaur Fort was considered to be the best example
of Land fort in Rajasthan. It is defended by strong gates and massive ramparts.
Day 26: Nagaur - Mandawa (about 190 km)
After having our
breakfast we drive to Mandawa in the Shekhawati region. Arrival in Mandawa in
the evening. Shekhawati lies in the North east region of Rajasthan and is the
homeland of marwaris. The marwaris form one of the most important merchant and
business groups in India. Later after having a small break we visit the grand
havellis of the Shekhawati area. The marwaris enjoyed protection by Maharajas
and many of them built grand havellis. The havellis are mansions, elaborately
and attractively decorated with a strong main entrance. The walls are often covered
with murals, local legends and religious scenes from Hindu Mythology.
Day 27: Mandawa (Excursion to Sikar and Jhunjhunu)
In the morning we drive
to Sikar. In Sikar we would visit the Gopinath, Raghunath and Madan Mohan temple.
We also visit the Biyani Havellis. After having lunch at Sikar we drive to Jhunjhunu.
Jhunjhunu, the capital of Shekhawati is one of the largest town of the district.
The town was founded by the Kayamkhani Nawabs in the mid 15th century AD. This
town has some splendidly painted havelis. The most interesting place in Jhunjhunu
is the Khatri Mahal (the Wind Palace) dating back to around 1760 A.D. with elegant
lines. Rani Sati temple is the most famous temple of Jhunjhunu. After visiting
the temple and Khatri Mahal we drive back to Mandawa.
Day 28: Mandawa
- Jaipur (about 168 km)
Today we leave Mandawa and drive to the Pink City
Jaipur. This city owes its name, foundations and careful planning to the great
warrior and astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is the capital of
Rajasthan and famous for its handicrafts and precious and semiprecious stones.
In the afternoon we visit the City Palace which is still the formal residence
of the royal family, built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
In the museum of the city palace we visit the private collection of the Jaipur
Maharajas. We continue to Jantar Mantar, a stone observatory, the largest of Jai
Singh's five remarkable observatories. It's complex instruments reveals us the
secrets of medieval Indian astronomy.
Day 29: Jaipur
After
breakfast we drive to the ancient capital of Amber, laying 11 km away from Jaipur.
Amber was the ancient capital of Kachhawaha dynasty for 6 centuries before it
was moved to newly created Jaipur. We will ascend to the Palace Fortress on the
back of an Elephant. Enroute to Amber we will visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of
the Winds), built in 1799 AD, it contains 953 small casements with each having
its own balcony. The windows enabled cool air to circulate and the ladies to watch
processions below without being seen. In the afternoon we have a walk through
the colourful Bazaar of Jaipur and visit a factory to see the famous block printing
work being done since centuries in Jaipur. In the evening we drive through the
new city of Jaipur and visit "Laxmi Narayan Mandir", a Hindu temple
made out of white marble. We might have an opportunity here to observe a prayer
ceremony. Today we have dinner with a presentation of Indian music and dance.
Day 30: Jaipur - New Delhi (about 260 km)
In the morning
after having breakfast we drive to Delhi. Arrival in Delhi in the afternoon. The
rest of the day at leisure.
Day 31: Flight to home destination
Around midnight flight to home destination.
Click Here to know the Cost of
the tour per person (Delhi to Delhi):
Inclusions:
Accommodation
in double rooms on twin sharing basis with bath and WC
in the chosen category.
American/Continental Breakfast.
Elephant ride in Amber (Jaipur).
Jungle
Safari in Ranthambore.
One Dinner will be with a presentation of Indian music
and dance during your stay in Jaipur.
Services of qualified local English
Speaking or any other language guide at every city of sight seeing.
All Transfers
and departures on arrival and departure by Indo Vacations representative.
All Transfers and Sightseeing throughout the tour by an individual air-conditioned
vehicle (car/Jeep etc.) with driver (reliable, experienced and English speaking
- have
a look at the references on our website from all over the world).
| |
