Splendors Of North

You will arrive at Delhi International Airport late in the evening. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, a MecH representative will meet you as you EXIT the ARRIVALS TERMINAL building after which you would be transferred to your hotel. A holiday at Delhi, the capital city of India will expose you to innumerable facets of Indian heritage, culture and tourism. It will be a vacation much beyond just monuments, museums or gardens of the Mughal and British period. For it also offers you a wealth of new age tourist attractions to choose from. With shopping malls, multiplexes and amusement parks springing up around Delhi, the city has left behind its image of being a sedate city of politicians and has acquired a younger and more dynamic feel, which you will discover on your Indian holiday in Delhi. Overnight in Delhi

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Full day proceed on a combined sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. You will head for a guided city tour of the Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad’, founded by one of the greatest Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Your introduction to the city will be with a visit to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in Asia built by Shahjahan, drive past the Red Fort (Remain closed on Monday’s) - the magical monument in red sandstone, built at the pinnacle of the Mogul empire, Raj Ghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon proceed for a guided tour of New Delhi. You will drive past the India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhawan – the President’s Residence, the Parliament House – the Government headquarters and other Government buildings. Visit Gandhi Museum (Closed on Monday’s & 2nd Saturday’s) and Humayun’s Tomb - the first great example of a new distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty. Also visit Qutab Minar (Tower of Victory) - built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India. Following sightseeing, return back to your hotel Overnight in Delhi

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning you will be met at your hotel by a MECH Representative and assisted transferred to airport for your flight to Varanasi. Departure: Delhi At: 1030 Hours By: 9W 723 Arrive: Varanasi At: 1145 Hours Upon arrival, you will be met airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Located along the west bank of the holy River Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the city of Varanasi is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of the oldest. It is a city, which enshrines the very essence of Hinduism - temples, shrines and devotees, sunrise boat rides, flower ceremonies with traditional music and walks on the ghats. A city of colourful bazaars, exquisite and bright silks, festivals - all centring around the teeming ghats of the Holy Ganges. This afternoon proceed on half day tour to Sarnath (Museum Closed on Fridays). Located about 10km from Varanasi, it is one of the important Buddhist centres. It is the site where Lord Buddha had preached his first sermon or in religious language, set in motion the Wheel of Law (Maha-Dharmachakra-Pravartan) enshrining the principles of his teaching into laws. 200 years later, in 3rd century BC, the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka who spread the Buddha's message of love and compassion throughout his vast empire, built massive stupas, viharas and monasteries making it the centre of the Buddhist world. Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath between 3rd century BC and 11th century AD and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. Return back to the hotel. Overnight in Varanasi

Early morning enjoy a boat cruise on the river Ganges. Varanasi's principle attraction is the string of bathing ghats, which line the western ghats of River Ganges. The spectacular 4 Km sweep of the Ghats is a unique sight, best viewed at dawn. An early morning boat ride presents an incredible scene as the multitudes of devotees come to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. Pass the bathing ghats where thousands of pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy water of the Ganges River and the burning ghats where cremations are conducted. Return back to your hotel for buffet breakfast. Later you will be met at your hotel by a MECH Representative and assisted transferred to airport for your flight to Khajuraho. Departure: Varanasi At: 1215 Hours By: 9W 723 Arrive: Khajuraho At: 1255 Hours Upon arrival, a MECH representative will meet and transfer you to you hotel for check-in. Situated in the heart of India in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho lies in the forested plains of the region of Bundelkhand and world renowned for its temple architecture and exquisite sculptures. Built under later Chandela kings between 950 and 1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity, the temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. The engravings on these temples are highly sensual and erotic that depicts in graceful forms intimate scenes of the whole range of human emotions and relationships. These sculptures congeal in stone a lyrical paean to love and passion and reflect the Chandela dynasty's immense appreciation for art. Overnight in Khajuraho

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. This morning, you will proceed on a half day visit to the temples of Khajuraho. Your tour begins with a visit to the Eastern Group of temples. This group comprises of two historic Jain temples – the Adinath Temple lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, and the Parsvanath Temple, the largest Jain temple, sculpted with charming detail. There are other shrines such as the Vamana Temple with apsaras in sensuous poses, and the Javari Temple that has a richly-carved doorway. Continue to the Western Group of temples which are entirely Hindu, and constitute some of the finest examples of Chandela art at its peak. The largest being the Kandhariya Mahadev dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by a granite temple - Chaunsath Yogini. The Chitragupta Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, while the Vishwanath Temple sports a three-headed image of Brahma – the Creator of the Universe. The Lakshmana Temple is superbly decorated, while the Devi Jagdambi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Other temples in the Western Group include the Varaha Temple with a nine-foot high boar-incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the Matangeshwara Temple with an eight-foot high lingam, and the Brahma Temple. Post sightseeing tour, return back to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure for independent activities Overnight in Khajuraho

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning you will be driven to Jhansi (178 Kms / approx 04 Hours) enroute visiting Orchha village. Orchha's fort complex, the entrance of which is a multi-arched bridge, has three impressive palaces placed in an open quadrangle. The first of these is the Jehangir Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century, to mark the occasion of Emperor Jehangir's visit to the city. Fragile chhatries and ornate trellis work heighten the effect of artistic richness. The Raj Mahal was built by Madhukar Shah, the religious predecessor of Bir Singh Ju Deo. The interiors boast of intricate murals, depicting various religious themes. The Rai Praveen Mahal was built for the famous musician-poetess paramour of King Indramani, Rai Praveen, as a mark of admiration by Emperor Akbar. There are 14 cenotaphs or chhatries to the rulers of Orchha, across the Kanchana Ghat of the Betwa River. Following visit, continue your drive to Jhansi. Upon arrival, transfer to railway station to board your train to Agra. Departure: Jhansi At: 1756 Hours By: Shatabdi Express Arrive:Agra At: 2025 Hours Upon arrival in Agra, you will be met at the railway station and assisted transferred to your hotel. Welcome to Agra – globally renowned as the home to one of the Seven Won ders of the World - the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces in Agra is a vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. Agra was their capital for nearly a hundred years from 1564. A pleasant town, with a comparatively easy pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by artisans who are hereditary craft persons. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Overnight in Agra

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. This morning, visit the perfectly proportioned marble mausoleum Itmad-ud-Daulah. Built by Empress Noor Jahan, the wife of Shahjahan in memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg during 1622-28 AD. The first building to be constructed of pure marble in Moghul India, this two-storey mausoleum is small but perfectly executed, embellished with coloured stone inlay and filigree marble screens. Continue to visit Great Fort of Agra, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Originally planned as an impregnable military structure by Akbar, the Agra Fort, over a period of time, acquired all the elegance, lavishness and majesty of an imperial palace. Situated 1 km upstream of the Taj Mahal, on the right bank of the Yamuna, the Agra fort was built under the direction of Akbar, by Mohammed Quasim Khan, his commander-in-Chief and Governor of Kabul and added to by his son Jehangir and grandson Shahjahan. An imposing structure with walls of red sandstone, almost 3 kilometres (two miles) long Later visit the world renowned Taj Mahal (Closed on Friday). Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. There are tombs of Mumtaz and Shahjahan within the mausoleum. Done in white marble, it took 22 years and over 20,000 workers and craftsmen to complete this rhapsody in stone (1630-52 AD). The main structure is set amidst landscaped gardens. While on three sides it is surrounded by high walls, the rear is bound by the river Yamuna. Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding. You will have ample time to view and be mesmerized by this outstanding piece of architecture. Return back to your hotel. Rest of the day is free for relaxation. Overnight in Agra

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning you will be driven to the pink city of Jaipur (approx 237 Kms / approx 07 Hours) enroute visiting Akbar’s abandoned capital, Fatehpur Sikri. Located 40 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 in honour of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti. It was the Mughal capital for 14 years after which it was abandoned due to paucity of water. It is made of red sandstone and combines influences from both Hindu and Mughal architecture. Even to this day, the entrance to the fort is through the road that Akbar built which leads to the Buland Darwaza, a huge 54 metres gateway. Other inspiring monuments in Fatehpur Sikri are the Hiran Minar that Akbar built in memory of his favourite elephant, Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Birbal's House and the Diwan-i-Khas. Continue your drive towards Jaipur. Following visit, continue your drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel. The vibrant capital of Rajasthan renowned for its forts and palaces is popularly known as the ‘Pink City’ because of the pink-colored buildings in its old city. An ideal base for touring the royal state, the city has the distinction of being the third jewel of India's "Golden Triangle". Its main claim to fame is that it is India's first 'planned' city built by the famous 18th century astronomer King Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is not only the gateway to the state; it is also the most natural place to begin a discovery of Rajasthan's multifaceted attractions. Its beautiful buildings including the City Palace, Amer Fort and the landmark Hawa Mahal are truly worth seeing. Browsing through the markets in Jaipur, where skilled craftsmen display jewellery, paintings, carvings and colourful textiles, is an enjoyable experience for tourists. Overnight in Jaipur

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning Proceed for your visit to the ancient capital of Amer to see the fabulous Amber Fort enroute you will have a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Amber fort is situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city, surrounded by fortified battlements. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding area. Tour the chambers and hallways of the palace, famous for the excellence of its design and decoration. Within the complex is Ganesh Pol, an imposing gateway painted with the images of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh. The merging of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles is captured in the Sukh Niwas and Jas Mandir apartments, and the Charbagh garden with its perfectly proportioned landscaping. Pierced screen windows offer views from different vantage points and shimmering mirrors encrust the walls of Sheesh Mahal. Following your visit to Amber, enjoy a tour of the Pink City, an “abode of rajahs”. The highlights of the tour include a visit to the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes, and armory of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiseled handles. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit. Proceed to the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century. End the tour with a visit to the colorful bazaar of the old city. Overnight in Jaipur

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning at leisure for independent activities. Check-out from your hotel at 1200 hours. Later, a MECH Representative will meet you at your hotel and assisted transfer you to airport for your flight to Udaipur. Departure: Jaipur At: 1045 Hours By: 9W:7174 Arrive: Delhi At: 1130 Hours Departure: Delhi At: 1505 Hours By: 9W:707 Arrive: Udaipur At: 1615 Hours NOTE: There is not direct flight from Jaipur to Udaipur therefore guests have to take the flight via Delhi Upon arrival, you will be met at airport & transferred to your hotel. Udaipur – the ‘City of Lakes’. It is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The chequered history of Mewar is showcased in the city of Udaipur, which is akin to an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan. It is a rich and beguiling tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, temples, havelis and gardens, reflecting the varied influences of the centuries. Also called ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is located in the Aravalli ranges of the royal state of Rajasthan. Surrounded by ancient mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, it is a beautiful old city with narrow lanes meandering through it. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Udaipur

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning proceed for your visit to the Ranakpur Jain Temples (90 Kms /approx 02 hours one way). Ranakpur boasts some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. It is one of the holiest Jain sites of India. Nestled on the banks of the river Maghai and sequestered by mountains, Ranakpur's beauty is accentuated by its seclusion. The main Chaumukha (four faced) temple was built in 1439 and is dedicated to the first Enlightened One, Adinatha Rishabdeva. An inscription in it traces its origin to the reign of Rana Kumbha. Erected on a raised platform, it is surrounded by 66 subsidiary shrines. It has 1444 beautifully carved pillars, of which no two are alike. Two Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little distance away are also noteworthy. Return back to your hotel following visit to Ranakpur temples. Rest of the day at leisure Overnight in Udaipur

Buffet breakfast at the hotel. Morning proceed on a half day sightseeing tour of Udaipur city. Commence your tour with a visit to the City Palace which stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Built in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725. The gate leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens. Continue on to Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour), a small ornamental garden which was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the name. The garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiselled kiosks and marble elephants. Check-out from your hotel at 1200 hours. Later, a MECH representative will meet you at your hotel and assisted transfer you to airport for your flight to Delhi. Departure: Udaipur At: 1650 Hours By: 9W 708 Arrive: Delhi At: 1800 Hours Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met at airport and assisted transfer to International airport for your flight for onward journey