Gujarat Rajasthan Tour

Arrive Mumbai. Upon arrival, the guest will be met by our representative and transferred to hotel. Overnight at hotel

Morming city tour of Mumbai - the great port city with its Victorian Gothic buildings from the British Raj Era mingling with the modern. The tour includes Gateway of India overlooking the Harbour, the Towers of Silence, Marine Drive and the Dhobi Ghat, the unique and colourful outdoor 'laundry'. Also visit Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi. Later transfer to the airport for flight to Bhavnagar. Depart: Mumbai at: 1510 hrs by: DN 323 Arrive: Bhavnagar at: 1615 hrs Upon arrival in Bhavnagar, the guests will be met and transferred to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Early morning drive to Ahmedabad (250 kms) via Palitana. Palitana, lies at the foot of the Shatrunjaya Hill, with the Shatrunjaya river flowing to its South. The sacred hill rises in a crescendo of magnificent temple, 863 in all, that soar in marble splendor of its top. Only the Gods live on this holy hilltop city for, after sundown, none may stay here, not even the priests who wend their way down the hill and leave the resplendent pinnacle to the gods. The temples were built over an impressive span of 900 years, with each generation of pilgrims making its contribution to the shrines of Shatrunjaya. Continue drive to Ahmedabad and upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning visit the Jama Masjid, famous for its picturesque porticoes resting on 250 columns. Visit Sidi Sayyad’s Mosque, which is world-renowned for its intricate latticework of rich and elaborate design. Afternoon visit Shreyas Folk Museum - situated in the sloping green woodland, the museum has a fine collection of folk art and objects that illustrate the culture of Gujarat. On display are exquisite embroideries, unusual pots, pans, and other utensils, handicrafts, weapons, and bullock and camel carts. The museum also has a children’s section that displays costumes, folk art, puppets, coins, and legends of various Indian states. Later visit the local textile bazaars and see the most artistic tie & dye techniques which result in fascinating patterns of stripes & dots. The English word ‘bandanna’ comes from this part of the world and means a large handkerchief with dots “bandhana” (to tie) from the technique “bandhani” or tie & dye! Overnight at the hotel.

Early morning drive to Mount Abu (230 kms) enroute visiting Modhera, Patan and the havelis of Sidhpur. Modhera: The sun Temple of Modhera is one of the finest examples of Indian temple architecture of its period. Built in 1026 A.D the temple is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya and stands high on a plinth overlooking a deep stone tank. Every inch of the edifice, both inside and outside is magnificently carved with Gods and Goddesses, birds, beasts and flowers. Patan: Home of the famous patola silk saris, Patan is a beautiful old town with Jain temples and carved wooden houses. Rana ki vav (step well) is another interesting place to visit in Patan. Sidhpur: Situated on the banks of river Saraswati, is famous for two things - havelis of the Vohra community of Muslims and as a Hindu pilgrim center. A guided walk to see the havelis along the narrow streets is rather interesting; wherein marvelous carvings and glass paintings could be seen. Some friendly families might take you inside a Haveli. Thereafter continue drive to Mt. Abu and check-in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Mount Abu, being the only hill station in Rajasthan is situated on the southern tip of the Aravali range. This pleasant hill retreat in Rajasthan owes its cool climate to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. Mt. Abu offers a stunning array of exquisite Dilwara Jain temples, beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th century A.D. are sheer elegance in marble, dedicated to the jain Tirthankaras. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D. (by Vimal Shah-a merchant and representative of then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb example of temple architecture. Another is Lun Vasahi temple and Adhar Devi temple with its many stairs is a tourist attraction. Later in the morning drive to Dungarpur; Upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Founded in the early 13th century by Rana Dungar Singh, Dungarpur lies very close to the Gujrat border and is a little off the regular tourist circuit. The Juna Palace, Udai Bilas Palace, and Udai Sagar are the main attractions here. The region of Dungarpur and Banswara is home to the Bhils, tribal aborigines who have inhabited this region since 2000 B.C. Its location has helped to its natural beauty intact. Most of the palaces and other monuments are well preserved and make a visit worthwhile. The afternoon will be free to explore the exquisite beautify of the palace Overnight at the hotel.

Morning visit the surrounding villages which will captivate you and become a part of your most treasured memories. You can see herds of cattle and sheep roaming around purposelessly. Watch the children trotting off to school, while their mothers prepare their afternoon meal on a dung-fire. Stop over for a taste of the authentic Rajasthani food. The hospitable men and women will be at your service, eager to fulfill your every request. Later drive to Udaipur (115 kms); upon arrival check-in at the hotel Late afternoon enjoy a boat cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the lake you have a wonderful view of the City Palace stretching along the east bank, while the south bank has pleasant gardens running down to the waterside. (Boat ride depending upon the water level of the lake) Overnight at the hotel.

Morning tour of Udaipur, one of India's most romantic cities and famed for its lovely palaces and lakes. Begin by visiting the City Palace and wandering through its beautiful rooms and apartments, then continue on to the Garden of Maidens "Sahelion-ki-bari'. The afternoon will be free to explore the city of lakes and palaces. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning drive from Udaipur to Narlai. Enroute visit beautifully carved Jain temples at Ranakpur. Ranakpur Temples the most magnificent 15th century Jain temples situated in the deep secluded valley of the Aravalli Hills. Though over 500 years old, the temples here are superbly preserved in a near-perfect condition. In the centre is the main “Chaumukha temple” dedicated to Adinath. The most distinctive features are the 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, of which no two are exactly alike. Every conceivable surface is carved and every corner and angle is engraved with Jain images. Continue your drive to Narlai. Upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Narlai - a royal hunting retreat, between Jodhpur and Udaipur is an enchanting new destination. Situated amidst dramatic boulders and ancient temples, the Rawla lies at a foothill of a stupendous 350 – foot single rock granite hill. Maharaj and Rani Swaroop Singh and their sons oversaw the careful restoration of this 15th century home of Marwar nobility. The ambience is a special blend of aesthetics and comfort that envelope the senses. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning drive to Jaipur (320 kms). Upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning tour of the impressive Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant (subject to availability) 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. Afternoon city tour of Jaipur - "The Pink City" is spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills, dotted with ancient ruined fortresses. Your tour will include the imposing City Palace, still home to the Maharaja although several of the rooms are now open to the public. Many antiques and artefacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. You will also visit the Hawa Mahal "Palace of the Winds", and the open-air Jantar Mantar Observatory to see the vast astronomical instruments. Enjoy a stroll through the colourful bazaar before returning to your hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning drive to Agra (221 km), en route visit Fatehpur Sikri Fatehpur Sikri the deserted, red sandstone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the 16th century. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza the largest gateway in the world. Thereafter continue drive to Agra. Upon arrival in Agra – check into the hotel Afternoon visit Red Fort. Red Fort - lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. It was built by Akbar 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. Overnight at the hotel.

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise - This most famous Moghul monument was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal "the lady of the Taj". It has been described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays). Thereafter visit the Red Fort - lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. It was built by Akbar 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. Drive to Delhi (203 kms). Upon arrival in Delhi – transfer to the International airport for flight for your onward journey.

Depart Delhi