North & West of India

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.

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 (200 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.

Morning drive to Udaipur (292 kms) enroute visit Ranakpur Temple. 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 Udaipur and check-in at hotel. 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'. 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 drive to Jodhpur (280 Kms) enroute visit Ranakpur Jain temples. 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. Thereafter continue drive to Jodhpur and upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning city tour of Jodhpur the largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur, Jodhpur stands at the edge of the Thar Desert. It was founded by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore Rajput clan. The tour includes Meherangarh Fort one of the most impressive & formidable fort in the whole of fort studded Rajasthan. It is situated on a high natural rock bluff from where you can look down on the wonderful panorama of the bustling city below. Also visit Jaswant Thada the Royal Cenotaphs. Later drive to Jaipur (290 km). Upon arrival in Jaipur – check into the hotel. 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 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 – visit 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. Continue drive to Agra and check into the hotel. Thereafter visit the famous Taj Mahal -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, for the emperor was heartbroken when Mumtaz died after 17 years of marriage, during the birth of her 14th child. (Taj Mahal is closed on Friday). Stay at the pristine Taj Mahal till sunset, to see this Wonder of the World is the gentle late afternoon light. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning transfer to the railway station for your train to Gwalior. Depart: Agra at: 0800 hrs by: Shatabdi Express Arrive: Gwalior at: 0915 hrs Meeting and assistance upon arrival and proceed for sightseeing tour of Gwalior. Tour includes the enormous 19th century Jai Vilas Palace - this Palace is famous for its ornate chandeliers & crystal. A few of the rooms have been converted into a museum filled with the Scindia dynasty memorabilia. Visit the huge Gwalior Fort - where a sun temple is believed to have been constructed within the area of the fort. Visit Man Mandir, which is a six-towered palace and forms the eastern wall of the fort. The fort has monuments dating back to 8th century AD onwards and is one of the largest forts in India. Also visit Gujri Mahal, a turreted palace of stone now houses the archaeological museum. Gwalior also offers the Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus, a saint worshipped by the Mughals & the Tomb of the famous musician Tansen. Thereafter, continue drive to Orchha (124 kms) and check-in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning sightseeing tour of Orchha, overlooked by the modern era, this beautiful medieval town, was once the capital of Bundela Kings. Built along the banks of the river Betwa, flowing through a rugged country century side, it still retains the captivating air of a bygone era. Amongst the various imposing edifices, of particular interest are the Jehangiri Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Deo to commemorate the visit of Moghul Emperor Jehangir, the Raj Mahal and the Laxmi narayan temple, both noted for their fine Frescoes and Mural paintings. Continue drive to Khajuraho (150 kms) and upon arrival check-in at hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Morning visit the most important and fascinating temples of Khajuraho. The temples of Khajuraho have been declared a 'world heritage' site by UNESCO in order to preserve the rich legacy of architecture, bequeathed to future generations by the Kings of the Chandela dynasty. These temples are famous for their intricate sculptures and erotic carvings that are one of the outstanding achievements of Indian art. Afternoon transfer to airport for flight to Varanasi. Depart: Khajuraho at: 1330 hrs by: 9W 334 Arrive: Varanasi at: 1410 hrs On arrival in Varanasi, the guest will be met by our representative and proceed to Sarnath. Sarnath 5 miles out of Varanasi one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where Buddha preached his first Sermon in 590 B.C. Here you will witness the ruins of a once flourishing Buddhist monastery and then visit a fine Archaeological Museum which houses an excellent collection of Buddhist art and sculptures found at the site. The main attraction at this excellent Archaeological Museum is the superb capital from the Ashokan pillar. It has the Ashokan symbol of four back-to-back lions which has been adopted as the state symbol of modern India. (The museum is closed on Fridays). Thereafter check into the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Early morning take a short trip by country boat on the sacred river Ganges to see the Ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. Pilgrims flock the Ghats to have a ritual bath and perform puja to the rising sun, following centuries old tradition. Afternoon transfer to airport for flight to Delhi. Leave: Varanasi at: 1445 hrs by: 9W 724 Arrive: Delhi at: 1605 hrs Upon arrival in Delhi, the guests will be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

This morning you will be taken to visit Old Delhi Former centre of Moghul Power, Old Delhi offers ancient monuments, narrow streets and bustling bazaars. Drive past the Red Fort, built in 1648 and board the ‘cycle rickshaw’ for a unique experience from the Red Fort, through “Chandni Chowk” or Silver Street, experiencing the sights and sounds of this very busy avenue-heading west from the Fort. Later visit the Jama Masjid, the greatest mosque in India and completed in 1658 by Shah Jahan who also built the Taj Mahal, and the Raj Ghat, the simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. This afternoon you will be taken to visit New Delhi drive past the stately government buildings of the British Era designed by Lutyens, including the India Gate & the Presidential Palace. Continue onto the towering minaret of Qutab Minar. Later in the evening you will be transferred to the International airport for flight to onward Destination.

Depart Delhi.