Boutique Small Group Tour 14 days/13 nights grp tours/royal india.pdf · Boutique Small Group Tour ׀ 14 days/13 nights ... because of the colour of the stone, ... These camels are

Boutique Small Group Tour 14 ׀ days/13 nights Book with confidence : Guaranteed departures with a minimum of 2 clients and maximum of 16 clients passengers

2016 departures: 15 Sep 13 ׀ Oct Nov 03 ׀

2017 departures : 19 Jan 16 ׀ Feb 30 ,10 ׀ Mar 13 ׀ Apr 11 ׀ May ׀ 14 Sep 23 ׀ Oct 25 ׀ Nov ׀ 21 Dec

Day 1: Delhi Arrival Arrive Delhi International Airport. Welcome to India. On arrival you will be met by a representative of our local agent and then transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi - Agra orning tour of Old and New Delhi visiting Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s serene and evocative cremation site, India Gate (the War Memorial) and the Presidents House (from the outside), the Baha’i Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays) - this distinctive lotus shaped marvel in marble is a symbol of peace. Continue with the Qutub Minar a stunning 240-foot minaret, the tallest in the world surrounded by an elaborate complex built in the Indo-Islamic architectural tradition. Afternoon drive to Agra. On arrival check in to the hotel. (B)

Day 3: Agra Early this morning, admire the sunrise at the Taj Mahal. Often considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. When declaring it a world heritage site, UNESCO described it as “the jewel of Muslim art in India”. There are few words that can describe the magnificence of this monument. Marvel as light and colors transform this stunning monument in the beautiful dawn glow. Return back to the hotel for breakfast. Morning at leisure or optional tour to Itmad-Ud-Daulah, known as the "Baby Taj", the first Mughal structure totally built from marble. In addition, visit the Sikandra, the sandstone and marble tomb of Akbar which blends Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Christian motifs and styles. This afternoon, visit Agra Fort; another UNESCO heritage site built and added to between the 16th and 17th centuries by successive rulers of the Mughal Dynasty. The fort was built primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan upgraded it to a palace and later it became his gilded prison for 8 years after his son Aurangzeb seized power. The elegant building inside reflects an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. This evening attend a marble craftsmanship demonstration. (B)

The Innovative Travel Company Freephone: 0508 100 111 ׀ [email protected] ׀ www.innovative-travel.com

Day 4: Agra - Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur Morning drive to Jaipur. Stop en route to visit Fatehpur Sikri, an eerily abandoned capital from the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1586. Akbar built this city to celebrate the birth of his son and future heir to the throne, Emperor Jahangir. While Akbar is believed to have been illiterate, he took great interest in the arts and architecture; Fatehpur Sikri is one of his masterworks. Sadly, it served as capital for little more than a decade, eventually abandoned for lack of accessible water. Afternoon arrival in Jaipur. The Rajasthan’s capital is also known as the Pink City. The origin of this nickname becomes immediately apparent as you enter the old city walls and greet the pink –coloured buildings that rise at every turn. Tonight enjoy an Authentic Rajasthani dinner. (B,D)

Day 5: Jaipur Start the day with an exhilarating excursion to Amber Fort perched on top of a hill. A royal ride on elephant (subject to availability) up the hill like the Maharajas of past times and visit the Jagmandir (the hall of victory). Perched on a hillside on the outskirts of town, the palace was constructed in the 1590s by Maharaja Man Singh, the commander of Akbar’s army, and was largely motivated by the highly defensible location. This is a beautiful and very well preserved structure, built on four levels and surrounded by ruins, which served as the backdrop for the Mira Nair movie “Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love.” This afternoon, see the grand Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This magnificent structure was built to allow the royal ladies of the palace to discretely watch the grand processions along the main street. Visit the City Palace and the impressive Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built in the early 1700s by Maharaja Jai Sing II, the great warrior-astronomer to which this city owes its name. Also enjoy a rickshaw ride through the old part of the Pink city and attend a gem-cutting & polishing demonstration. (B)

Day 6: Jaipur – Pushkar Morning drive to Pushkar a sacred city for Hindus. Surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the fourth, Pushkar forms a fascinating location and a befitting backdrop for the annual religious and cattle fair (held in November). A quiet, secluded desert town for 51 weeks a year, for just a few days it becomes an absolutely incredible and authentic extravaganza during the annual Pushkar Fair. This afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the holy city of the God, Brahma; visit the holy Pushkar Lake and the famous 8th century Brahma Temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. Experience a special Puja ceremony at a Ghat with a Hindu priest on the banks of Pushkar Lake. (B)

Day 7: Pushkar – Udaipur Morning drive to Udaipur. Udaipur is the majestic city of lakes and palaces. Referred to as Rajasthan’s most romantic city, its rich history is matched by its picturesque setting among the Aravalli Mountains and three manmade lakes. On arrival in Udaipur; check in to the hotel. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola, sailing past picturesque Ghats and palaces, stopping at the island of Jag Mandir, a 17th century water palace that witnessed two important historical events. It was the refuge for Prince Khurram, later known as Shah Jahan, when he was exiled by his father and later during the uprising of 1857, the island offered safety to several British families who fled the troubles. (B)

Day 8: Udaipur Begin your day at the City Palace, overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola. The palace consists of a number of beautiful courtyards and gardens. The main hall has been converted into a museum, housing opulent artifacts and original works of art. Inside the complex we will find the exquisite crystal gallery, exhibiting 19th century pieces including crystal chandeliers, tables, sofas and beds . Continue walking towards the Jagdish Temple to study its many remarkable friezes. Lavishly built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh, it is easy to understand why Jagdish is the most venerated Hindu temple in Udaipur . Afterwards explore the Old City, wandering through its bustling streets lined with art shops, spice vendors, tailors and more. Tonight enjoy a special dinner. (B,D)


Day 9: Udaipur – Jodhpur Morning drive to Jodhpur. En route, visit Ranakpur Temple built in the 15th century and located in a valley on the western side of the Aravali Range. Ranakpur is considered one of the five holiest sites of the Jain community and is exceptionally beautiful. Over 1444 marble pillars, each differently carved in exquisite detail; support the temple although legend has it that it is really impossible to count the pillars. Not to be missed in the temple is one carving out of a single stone with 108 heads of snakes and numerous tails. Afternoon at leisure in Jodhpur. (B)

Day 10: Jodhpur - Jaisalmer Visit Jaswant Thada and the superb Mehrangarh Fort overlooking the Blue City. Later, drive to Jaisalmer which was a major staging post on the trade route across the forbidding Thar Desert. The first glimpse of the honey coloured walls of the fort, rising out of the hot and barren desert is magical. Untouched by time, Jaisalmer, with its golden crenulated walls, narrow streets lined with exquisite havelis, has a medieval ambience. (B)

Day 11: Jaisalmer Tour Jaisalmer; the fort, often referred to as the Golden Fort because of the colour of the stone, encloses palaces decorated with delicate jali or lattice worked screens, carved doors and floral carvings and elaborately carved 12th to 16th century Jain temples. The havelis in both the fort and the town are exceptional, similar in style to the homes of Venetian merchants; the havelis were the mansions of wealthy traders. The houses are decorated with beautifully carved facades, screens and windows. Each haveli has an inner courtyard surrounded by richly decorated apartments. Walk through the narrow streets of the fort to see the Nathmalji-ki-Haveli with its beautiful arched roof with carved brackets in the form of peacocks; Patwon -ki-Haveli the most elaborate and magnificent haveli and best known for its latticed façade and Salim Singh ki Haveli. Outside the walls of the fortified town is the small oasis of Gadi Sagar, which led Prince Jaisal to found his city. This evening, enjoy a unique camel ride excursion to see the sunset at Sam Dunes known for its enormous sand dunes that make a surrealistic landscape patterned by the wind. (B)

Day 12: Jaisalmer - Bikaner Morning drive to Bikaner. Arrive in Bikaner this afternoon. Visit a camel research and breeding centre to learn about the indispensable “ship of the desert”. The farm extends over 2000 acres of semi arid land and is managed by the Central Government. These camels are sold in the cattle fairs of Bikaner and Jaisalmer where they are decorated in all their colourful and attractive finery, complementing the brown terrain of the desert. (B)

Day 13: Bikaner - Mandawa Morning visit to Junagarh Fort, built by Raja Rai Singh in the 16th century. The outer wall, built of light red sandstone is surrounded by a moat, and within are beautifully designed palaces with balconies, kiosks, fine jali or lattice work screens with richly decorated interiors. The Badal Mahal in the fort has walls covered with stories from Krishna’s life, whilst the walls of the oldest palace, the Lal Niwas, are elaborately decorated in red and gold. Later, drive to Mandawa and depart for a walking tour of the city dominated by a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. Visit Chokhani and Ladia Havelis and the street with Saraf Havelis. (B)

Day 14: Mandawa – Delhi (265km) Drive back to Delhi and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B) Note: if booking a flight ex Delhi on that day, it has to be a flight after 8.30pm as drop off at the airport will be at around 5.30pm


Included in the price: - Professional English speaking Tour Manager - Professional local English speaking guides - Small group touring (min 2 – max 16) - 13 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected First

class/Deluxe or heritage hotels - All transportation and transfers in an AC Chauffer driven

vehicle - One bottle of water daily - Sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary - Daily buffet breakfasts including a wide selection of hot &

cold dishes - Rickshaw Ride in Jaipur - Elephant ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur (subject to the

availability of elephants) - Camel ride at Sam sand dunes, Jaisalmer - Boat ride on Lake Pichola, Udaipur (subject to water

levels) - Special Dinner at Rajbagh in Udaipur - Authentic Rajasthani dinner in Jaipur - All presently applicable land taxes Not included in the price: - Optional tours - Customary tips to guide and drivers - Personal Expenses - Porterage - Visa


Your hotels on this tour (or similar): Delhi : The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa Located in New Delhi’s city centre (5-minute drive from Connaught Place), the Metropolitan Hotel & Spa New Delhi features an outdoor pool. The stylish air-conditioned rooms feature Indian motifs and are well equipped. The hotel offers 3 dining options. Sakura Restaurant serves Japanese dishes, while Chutney Bar and Tandoor Restaurant offers Indian delights.

Agra : Trident Agra The Trident, Agra, set amidst beautiful gardens, fountains, landscaped central courtyards, is built of red stone reminiscent of the Mughal era. The Hotel is literally, a stone's throw away from one of the new 7 Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal.

Jaipur: Trident Jaipur Breathtaking views of the serene Mansagar Lake and the striking Aravalli range welcome guests at the 134 room Trident Hotel, Jaipur. Situated en route to Jaipur’s famous Amber Fort, the Trident, Jaipur offers gracefully furnished rooms that are well -equipped. There are exclusive non-smoking rooms and rooms designed for the disabled too. The hotel’s multi–cuisine restaurant serves an elaborate a ’la carte menu and extensive buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Pushkar : Pushkar Resort Nestled at the Aravalli foothills, Pushkar Resort offers relaxing cottage stays in 15 acres of landscaped grounds featuring an outdoor pool. Decorated in pleasant shades of green and orange, elegant rooms come with a private balcony.


Udaipur: Trident Resort Set in forty three acres of lush green landscaping, Trident, Udaipur is located on the banks of the picturesque Pichola Lake and is ten minutes drive from the city centre. The rooms at the Trident, Udaipur are furnished in shades of beige and light cream and the architecture reflects the ancient heritage of Udaipur. The hotel provides a perfect base to explore the fabled city of Udaipur, acclaimed worldwide for its beautiful lakes, medieval palaces and colourful bazaars.

Jodhpur: Indana Palace Jodhpur or the Gateway Hotel Indana Palace Featuring architecture and interiors moulded from Palaces, Indana resort is a luxurious escape where Traditional Rajasthani touches in the décor blend with modern amenities. Hotel’s facilities include air-conditioned rooms with balconies, free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, Spa & health club, billiard boards and a games room as well as dining options of Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisines.

The Gateway Hotel Located on the outskirts of the city, the Gateway Hotel Jodhpur features traditional architecture, a palace-style courtyard and beautifully landscaped gardens. Spacious air-conditioned rooms are equipped with modern amenities and hotel’s facilities include multi-cuisine restaurant and bar as well as outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, indoor and outdoor games including cricket, badminton and volleyball.

Jaisalmer: Fort Rajwada Fort Rajwada is a regal way of experiencing Jaisalmer. This luxury hotel stands tall among hotels in Western Rajasthan for its exquisite architecture blending with the picturesque & rich heritage of the Golden City.


Bikaner: Gaj Kesri or Lallgarh Palace

Gaj Kesri Housed in red-sand stone palace The Gaj Kersi Hotel is a heritage property featuring 36 guestrooms. All the rooms are stunningly decorated, with great taste and in keeping with the ‘palace’ style and with some of Rajasthan’s finest block -printed fabrics. The onsite restaurant serves a variety of Indian, Chinese and continental cuisine.

Lallgarh Palace The Lallgarh palace is an imposing red-sand stone palace and was built by Maharaja Ganga Singhji in the memory of his father, Maharaj Lall Singhj in 1902 A.D. This oriental fantasy designed by Col. Sir Swinton Jacob, is entirely a hybrid architecture and mixture of different elements of Rajput, Muslim and European styles and can be categorized as Indo- Saracenic style. The Rajput exterior of Lallgarh Palace contrasts dramatically with the occidental décor within. The intricately dexterous carving on red stone is hall mark of great local craftsman.

Mandawa: Desert Resort Surrounded by plains of kejri trees punctuated with seasonal crops of millet and corn, and built in the style of a Rajasthani village, this hotel offers peaceful accommodation. Ethnic accommodations consist primarily of circular mud-thatch huts, their organic shapes charmingly decorated with tribal motifs; almost everything in and on each hut has been sourced from the Shekhawati region.

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Boutique Small Group Tour 14 days/13 nights grp tours/royal india.pdf · Boutique Small Group Tour ׀ 14 days/13 nights ... because of the colour of the stone, ... These camels are