India: Rajasthan

DAY 1

Your first full day in India is dedicated to exploring the metropolis of New Delhi, fascinating in its wealth of ancient architectural treasures, sheer size and ceaseless activity. This city is India’s capital and situated within the metropolis of Delhi. The day’s itinerary provides an overview by including national monuments and bustling alleyways accessible only on foot. Following a comprehensive orientation, the morning begins at Rajghat, the memorial and cremation site of three of India’s most revered modern figures: Mahatma, Indira, and Rajiv Gandhi. A “ghat” is a wide stone stairway leading to the river, where people bathe, wash their clothes, and worship. Rajghat is a park-like ghat where pilgrims and visitors come to honor the three leaders.

Lunchtime offers an oasis from the heat and noise of the street. This afternoon the tour continues and your local guide regales you with stories of Indian history that span the centuries. Visit Humayun Tomb, which serves as the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. It was built in 1570 and inspired the building of the Taj Mahal. It is set in the center of a garden in the classical Mughal char bagh pattern. A high wall surrounds the garden on three sides, the fourth side being bound by what was once the bank of the river Jamna, which has since been diverted. The garden is divided by water channels and paved walkways. You will be amazed at the unprecedented scale and grandeur of this monument as your guide explains its history and architectural significance. To round off your wonderful tour you will see the Qutab Minara tower, the world’s tallest brick minaret that stands at 237 feet.

Later return to your leafy urban retreat, you can refresh, or swim in the pool before a welcome dinner of traditional northern Indian cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. Comprising a diverse range of traditions and influences, New Delhi’s cuisine is an excellent introduction to a journey full of culinary delights.
Claridges Hotel, New Delhi

DAY 2

After breakfast you board your private coach for the drive to Agra, one of the three "points" of India's Golden Triangle. Lal Qila or the Red Fort of Agra was the home of great Mughals, the lineage that descended from the Mongolian invaders of the 14th century. In the 16th century it was the center of this empire and contained the state treasury and mint. The fort’s semi-circular layout next to the river is surrounded by 70-foot-high walls and double ramparts. A draw-bridge and staggered portals made the fort imprenetable. Upon arrival you have a guided walking tour of this amazing UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the late afternoon you proceed to the hotel, a luxurious property situated within 35 acres of lush gardens, where you can relax before dinner. Here, in the heart of the Mughal Empire, you may sample northwest frontier cuisine, including barbecued specialties and freshly baked Indian breads.
ITC Mughal Hotel, Agra

DAY 3

One of the greatest architectural treasures in India, if not the world, is the magnificent Taj Mahal. Visiting the complex at sunrise is the ideal time of day to immerse yourself in its grandeur. The early morning light, muted and pastel, is absorbed and reflected in the delicate white marble, and as the sun rises, shifting hues seem to seep out of the stone. The monument described as an “anthem to romantic love” is a mausoleum constructed by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1648, it is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Turkish, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. The familiar white dome and tile of the mausoleum are surrounded by an elaborate integrated and symmetric complex of structures, gardens, and squares. A local guide provides insight regarding its history and construction. After this magical visit, you return to the hotel to refresh and enjoy a late breakfast before boarding the coach for the transfer to Bharatpur.

Your destination for a late afternoon walk is Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a famous avifauna sanctuary that sees thousands of rare and highly endangered birds. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the winter migration destination for over 230 species of birds, and therefore home to thousands of birds in the hibernal season. In addition to a small wintering population of the rare Siberian crane, the park is also a habitat for northern shovelers, northern pintails, and coots. Created 250 years ago, the park is named after a Shiva temple within its boundaries. From the 19th century into the 1930s, it was the site of duck shoots where British viceroy’s shot and killed an astonishing numbers of birds. Today, hunting with binoculars and camera you may spot many of the hundreds of species and perhaps even a glimpse of a red-faced monkey.

Late in the afternoon, you arrive at your historic hotel with its tiled inner courtyard and spacious rooms. This heritage property is set amidst 50 acres in a secluded and peaceful setting. Prior to dinner at the hotel, the evening’s entertainment may include a puppet show presented by local children.
Laxmi Vilas Palace, Bharatpur

DAY 4

This morning you awake to coffee and tea in the open-air courtyard of your palace hotel. Following a leisurely breakfast, you return to Keoladeo National Park for a peaceful morning walk—an excellent time of day for spotting and watching rare birds and other wildlife. This afternoon you board a comfortable air-conditioned train bound for Ranthambore National Park. Travel by train in India is not only a cultural experience, but a relaxing way to view the rural landscapes of Rajasthan outside your window.

Ranthambore National Park is also a tiger reserve lying at the edge of a plateau. It is bound to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River. Covering an area of 150 square miles, the park comprises several lakes as well as the historic Ranthambore Fortress for which it is named. Best known for its tiger population, it is one of over 40 reserves involved in India’s Project Tiger, a wildlife conservation endeavor that was initiated in 1972 to protect the Bengal tiger. Widely considered one of the world’s most successful wildlife preservation ventures, it pursues its goal of tiger protection by designating reserves throughout India in varying habitats, therefore striving to maintain a viable tiger population in their natural environment.

Early this evening you arrive at your aristocratic home for the next two nights, a palace-like, historic property, whose name literally translates as "abode of the tigers," located on the edge of Ranthambore National Park. Dinner is enjoyed al fresco in the hotel’s courtyard.
Nahargarh Hotel, Ranthambore National Park

DAY 5

An early morning tiger safari by small jeep or canter (large four-wheel drive vehicle) in Ranthambore National Park starts the day. While a tiger sighting isn't guaranteed, several of these animals make their home in the park, so sightings are frequent, and early morning is the ideal time. Other wildlife in the park includes the leopard, dhole (Indian wild dog), wild pig, sambar and chital (both types of deer), and the gaur (an endangered large wild bovine). It is also home to a wide variety of trees, plants, birds, and reptiles.

This afternoon a walking tour of Ranthambore Fort is included, a 1,000 year old structure in the heart of the park. Starting at the base of the fort, 122 steps lead to a panoramic view of the park's rolling hills and lakes spread out below. Passing through the open courtyards and structures, you learn of its historical significance in the region. Later you can return to the park for an additional jeep or canter safari, in the hopes of catching a glimpse of a Bengal tiger (at your own expense). Dinner is served in the elegant dining room where a wide range of Indian and European cuisine is served. The evening unfolds with a local sari and turban tying presentation.
Nahargarh, Ranthambore National Park

DAY 6

Following breakfast you board an open-air jeep for a visit to Bodal, a nearby tribal village. Here you have an opportunity to interact with locals by visiting Gramin Shiksha Kendra Elementary School, a non profit project. In the future it is hoped that this school will be run and owned by the local community. The school children will welcome you into their school. Later this morning, you depart the varied terrain, forests, and wildlife of the Ranthambore National Park for the 5½ hour drive northwest to the city of Jaipur. This capital of the state of Rajasthan is popularly known as the "Pink City," as buildings and houses were historically painted this color, representing hospitality in the region. One of Rajasthan's youngest cities, Jaipur was founded in 1727 and is remarkable for its urban planning and architecture. Designed to imitate sandstone, most structures were built of pink stucco, and its wide level streets are laid out grid-style, and surround the central palace quarter known as Hawa Mahal or "Palace of Winds." The sprawling palace complex encompasses formal gardens and a small lake. In the distance, Nahargarh Fort crowns the hill in the northwest corner of the old city.

An exploration of Jaipur's sites is planned for tomorrow, so this afternoon you proceed directly to your hotel located in the downtown area. Here you can unpack, stretch your legs and relax before a cocktail in the hotel's bar. After dinner an extra activity is planned. Your guide will take you to the incredible Johari Bazaar, a local market, where you can experience true urban life iand take in all of the colors, sights and sounds. This market is best known for its gems and jewelry and maybe you would like to choose some local gifts for your friends and family at home.
Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur

DAY 7

This morning you drive to the outskirts of Jaipur to walk through the grounds and structures of the Amber Fort. It was originally constructed by a tribe called the Meenas and dedicated to "Amba" or the "Mother Goddess." Built over the remains of an earlier structure, the present palace complex was commenced in 1592 under the reign of Raja Man Singh, commander of Akbar's army and a member of the emperor's inner circle of nine courtiers. The Amber Fort was modified by successive rulers over the next 150 years, until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Maharaja (a great or high king) Jai Singh II. You have the choice of reaching the fort either on foot or atop an elephant! The short steep ascent provides views of Jaipur, Maotha Lake, and the original city walls. One of the fort's most striking features is the Hall of Mirrors. When the palace was occupied by royalty, the hall could be lit at night by a single candle reflected in thousands of tiny, intricate mirrors.

Following lunch a guided tour of Jaipur is included. As part of this visit you will be given a guided tour of the Jaipur Observatory known as Jantar Mantar. The largest of a total of five observatories constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh II, Jaipur's 18th-century founder, the Jaipur Observatory houses a fascinating collection of astronomical instruments. The devices of local stone and marble were designed on a large scale to measure time, predict eclipses, and track stars in their orbits. One of these instruments, "samrat yantra," is considered to be the largest sundial in the world. Also included is a visit to the Jaipur City Palace, which was also built by Maharaja Jai Singh II during his reign. It is an excellent example of Rajput architecture comprised of a series of courtyards, gardens, and buildings, with extraordinary paintings and mirror work. It also houses a museum, with relics dating back to the 15th century.

Late this afternoon transfer to your historic and distinctive hotel which is 475 years old and located in the hills outside of the city. It is located in a small village called Samode and surrounded by mazes of bougainvillea, covered courtyards, and quaint narrow staircases.
Samode Palace, Samode

DAY 8

This morning you wake to the tranquility of your rural location, removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. After breakfast you depart on foot, walking through the small village of Samode, and continuing on through the countryside of cultivated fields and low forest to Samode Bagh, an oasis of gardens and fountains fed by natural springs. Here lunch is served amidst Victorian and Rajasthani decor, reminiscent of life in a 16th-century luxury camp.

You return on foot to the palace, in time for a leisurely afternoon, or perhaps a guided tour of the hotel's intricately designed rooms and public spaces. Of particular interest is the room named Sheesh Mahal, or the "gallery of mirrors." An elaborate dinner this evening is a fitting farewell to this special place, as you anticipate the next step of your journey.
Samode Palace, Samode

DAY 9

Your day begins with a drive to Jaipur's airport to catch a short early morning flight to the city of Udaipur. The last three nights of your Indian journey are a dramatic finale, with a stay at a renowned palace on the banks of Udaipur's Fateh Sagar Lake.

You proceed directly to the hotel to settle in and enjoy lunch. Later you transfer to the small village of Nagda, the ancient capital of Mewar, and founded in the 6th century AD. Here you explore the Sas-bahu Temple, known for its exquisite stone carvings. From the temple you depart on foot for Eklingji, another small village and home to an elaborate Hindu temple complex devoted to the royal family of Mewar. Its rock walls and 108 intricate temples have been chiseled from sandstone, marble, and granite. The main temple houses a four-faced image of Lord Shiva in black marble. After taking time to explore these elaborate structures, you return to Nagda on foot and board your coach for the return trip to Udaipur. Then relax and freshen up before enjoying a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, Udaipur

DAY 10

Udaipur is the municipal council in Rajasthan's Udaipur District; the historic capital of the former Kingdom of Mewar. Surrounded by some of Rajasthan's most beautiful lakes, it is also called "City of Lakes" and the "Venice of the East." In addition to Lake Pichhola, other lakes in Udaipur are Fateh Sagar, Udai Sagar, and Swaroop Sagar.

Your guided tour of the City Palace starts at the hotel and takes you through the surrounding winding streets, alive with the bustle of vendors and shoppers, as well as the now familiar urban cows. Here, as throughout India, you encounter a vivid display of colors and textures. The original city settlement focused around the palace, which is built from soft yellow stone on the northwest shore of Lake Pichola. From Udaipur's founding in 1559, successive generations of maharanas continued to add on to the palace complex over the centuries, resulting in a profusion of courtyards, terraces, corridors, and gardens.

This afternoon you will venture to the nearby bazaar, a network of streets filled with vendors and small shops. This is a perfect opportunity to browse for souvenirs or gifts. Then join your guide for an in-depth city walking tour, where you can see the amazing temples, gardens and monuments that make this a city beloved by many. Later it will be possible to enjoy the hotel's lakeside setting with a relaxing massage (at your expense), a stroll around the palace complex, or a swim in its inviting pool, before enjoying dinner on the terrace.
The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace, Udaipur

DAY 11

Following an early breakfast, you have the opportunity to partake in one final walk. A short ride brings you to the tribal village of Nora where an easy walk introduces you to the local residents. After a late lunch you board your afternoon flight from Udaipur to New Delhi. The tour draws to a close with dinner at the renowned Great Kabab Factory Restaurant celebrating your amazing adventure of the past eleven days. This evening complimentary transfers are provided to the hotel of your choice, or to the international airport for your late night departure.