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First Timer India Tour
If you are planning to visit India for the first time, then you can plan it now. India is the only country where you can visit any time as it has variety to offer you in all seasons. Here you can enjoy your holidays in every season. The glimpse of this country will take you to the past and future at the same time. It has everything like green forest, hitch city, and wide oceans spread across the country. If you are thinking of exploring the rich heritage and culture, then this is a place to be visited. This wonderful country is blessed with some rare and exceptional beauties.
We have designed a special Itinerary to make sure that your first trip to Indian history, culture and tradition becomes a lifetime experience.
The tour has been designed and planned in a way that it extends to Rajasthan, Taj Mahal, Kerala, Wildlife, stay in Luxury Palaces, Desert Safari, Festivals, Himalayas and many more themes. Rajasthan is called a land of kings. It has Forts and Palaces along with some huge museums. The sunshine will add the warmth of love and tenderness that will enchant your attention along with the historical cities like Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner, Pushkar, Ranthambore and several other historical places. The south India can be explored with Kerala Tour that offers you Spa and Ayurveda with Golden Beaches. The backwater in Kerala is the main attraction among tourists.
Durations : 14D/13N
Destinations : Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra - Jaipur - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Delhi
Day – 01
Delhi:
Arrival at Delhi
You will be met on arrival at the International airport. Transfer to your hotel. Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land and a window to the kaleidoscope - that is India. Overnight will be at Delhi.
Day – 02
Delhi Trip:
After breakfast proceed for a day sightseeing tour of the city.
OLD DELHI - Start with the sightseeing of Old Delhi. The tour will begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; drive past the Red Fort continuing to the Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaws, one of Asia's largest mosques. The magnificent Red Fort, overlooking the river Jamuna was built during the years 1638 - 48 when the Moghul Empire was at its peak. The tour continues to Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosques and which is viewed from the outside.
People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.
Enjoy the rickshaw ride at Old Delhi.
NEW DELHI - After visiting Old Delhi, you will be driven to New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The division between New and Old Delhi is the division between the capitals of the British and the Mughals respectively. The division in the walled city and New Delhi also marks the division in the life-styles. The walled city is all tradition where one will be able to glean a past life-style in all its facets, colours and spells. New Delhi in contrast, is a city trying to live up to the best of 21st century standards.
Imperial Delhi will include the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President's residence.
Proceed to see DANCES OF INDIA SHOW and FAREWELL DINNER. Overnight will be in Delhi.
Day – 03
Delhi - Varanasi:
By flight
Have the breakfast at hotel.
Explore the markets around the hotel or enjoy the spa and the beautiful hotel amenities.
You will be taken to the airport to board the flight to Varanasi.
Varanasi or Banaras is known to be one of the oldest living cities in the world. The city is perfectly and picturesquely situated on the bank of river Ganges. Mark Twain once wrote "Varanasi is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together." Vamana Purana Says Varuna and Assi River were originated from the body of the primordial person at the beginning of the time itself. These two streams still flow in the north and south of the city. From time immemorial it has been a great religious centre for Hindus and one of their most sacred places of pilgrimage, being visited by millions of people every year. For a first time visitor it will be a breathtaking experience. The down rays is reflected from the sacred and clean water of the Ganges, the golden hue on temples and shrines, continuous hymns and chanting of mantras with the fragrance of incense sticks will leave you amazed and will take you to a different world. It always attracts a large number of pilgrims and worshippers from all over the world. The magical but sometimes overwhelming city is where the most intimate rituals of life and death take place in public on the city's Ghats. Varanasi is also known for silk weaving which gives birth to famous Banarasi Silk Saree.
The trip will then head towards Sarnath. It is five miles away from Varanasi. This is one of the holiest places for Buddhist. In 590 BC Lord Buddha preached here his first Sermon. Here he revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace, Enlightenment and Ultimate Nirvana. You can see the ruins of Buddhist Monastery and then have a round of a museum which incorporates an excellent and fine collection of sculptures found in the city.
You can't ignore the Ghats for the evening ceremony.
Stay Overnight at Varanasi.
Day – 04
Varanasi - Khajuraho:
By flight
The troop will be taken to the Daswamedh Ghat and you will be taking a boat ride. Here you will witness the rituals of one of the most important and oldest religion. Reaching the banks of river Ganges before sunrise will give an unforgettable experience. Take a boat and reach the middle of the river and see the sight of sunrise unfolding before you. In the background you will notice the chanting of mantras in the temples all across the bank of Ganges. While walking back you will notice the growing crowds at the shops will be open and many faithful worshippers and devotees will come to offer prayer to Kashi Vishwanath. Take a bow while getting back to the hotel.
Take the refreshments at the hotel and move for the tour of Varanasi.
Bharat Mata Temple where you can see a relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. This wonderful place is worth watching. We will also visit the famous Durga Temple made in the 18th century. This temple is also known as Monkey Temple as you can see a huge number of monkeys all around. Further move towards Tulsi Manas Temple which will showcase you the incidents of Ramayana engraved on its marble walls. You can also visit the famous BHU campus. This is the biggest residential university in Asia. This beautiful campus has an Art Gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
Take an afternoon flight to Khajuraho.
Khajuraho is highly appreciated and well known for its temples and legendary dance festival. The awesome place is situated in the northern part of the Madhya Pradesh. The name of this wonderful place is derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which is grown everywhere in the region. The Khazuraho Temples have two major highlights: architecture and sculpture. The best of medieval Hindu style has been represented in the architecture and human knowledge and anatomy has successfully and minutely been depicted in the sculptures. It is also famous for erotic architecture. These temples have been designed and carved to lead the eyes from ground level upward till you seem to be looking at heaven.
Have your lunch and visit the EASTERN SET OF TEMPLES in the afternoon.
You can enjoy the SOUND & LIGHT SHOW at the temple complex in the evening.
Stay overnight at Khazuraho.
Day – 05
Khajuraho - Jhansi:
By Road
By Road 175 km in 4 hr
Jhansi - Agra:
By deluxe train at 1800 hr reaching at 2000 hr
Have your breakfast at the hotel.
If you wish you can visit the western set of temples.
Move for Orchha
ORCHHA
Orchha is a place founded by Bundela chief Rudra Pratap Singh, the first king of Orchha. He also built the fort of Orchha. Apart from this fort you can also visit Chaturbhuj Temple which was built during the time of Akbar. This is perfect and worthy place to be visited.
Enjoy your lunch at Orchha.
Proceed for a light walk and sightseeing of ORCHHA sites within the Fort Complex.
We will move towards Agra by a Deluxe Train and will reach Agra in the evening.
AGRA:
Mughal Emperor Akbar and Shah Jahan transformed this little village of Agra into a second capital Mughal empire. At that time it was known as Dar-ul-khilafat (seat of the Emperor). This wonderful place enchants the travellers through the mesmerising marble built Tajmahal and huge red sandstone built Red Fort. The city still retains the culture and heritage of the Mughal Empire in a conspicuous way. A walk down the narrow bustling streets of the city will introduce the visitor to the wafting aroma of Mughlai cuisine
The overnight stay will be at Agra
Day – 06
Agra Trip:
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the day proceedings.
We will move for the sightseeing of Agra.
TAJ MAHAL:
This wonderful architectural monument does not need any introduction. This is the raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. This has been rated as the finest example of Mughal Architecture. The style incorporates Persian, Turkish and Indian Architecture. This monument was built in the memory of Mumtaj Mahal, one of the beautiful wives of Shah Jahan. It took 22 years to be completed when thousands of labourers worked day and night. Persian Architect Ustad Isa designed the monument. The stunning design balance and perfect symmetry is combined with its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen.
AGRA FORT -
Agra Fort or Red Fort of Agra was built by the greatest Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD on the right bank of the river Yamuna. The Fort is made up of red sandstone. The huge and strong fort encompasses within its enclosure walls of 2.5 km. This larger than life citadel comprise a beautiful Palaces like Khas Mahal, Diwan-e-khas, Diwan-e-aam and many more place to be visited.
After Agra Fort we will visit BABY TAJ (The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah). It is also referred as Jewell Box and. It is said that the interiors of the Baby Taj is better than the actual Taj Mahal.
Overnight stay will be at Agra.
Day – 07
Agra - Jaipur:
By Road 221 km in 5 hr
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Drive to Jaipur. On your way, stop at Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri is 37 km west of Agra. Jajal-ud-din-Muhammad Akbar, Humanyun's son, accessed the throne at the tender age of 14. While hunting around Sikri his curiosity was aroused by the songs of some minstrels about the celebrated Khwaja -Mu'inu'd-din Chisti, the founder of the Chisti order of SUFIS. Akbar, who was without a male heir heard about Saint Salim Chisti and visited him in the year 1568. The saint blessed him with 3 sons and in gratitude Akbar ordered the great mosque of Fatehpur Sikri built under his supervision. As a mark of respect to the saint, Akbar shifted his capital to Fatehpur Sikri and built various secular buildings like the Diwan -I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Jodhabai palace, Birbal's house, Marian's house and the Panchmahal.
Continue drive to Jaipur.
Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the KSHATRIYA warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth and authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British Raj that followed.
The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal. Literally translated this would mean 'one and a quarter', suggesting that the Mughal thought this emperor to be more valuable than just 'one'. Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink in honor of a State Visit from Prince Albert.
This evening, visit the Birla Temple to learn more about the fascinating religious life of Jaipur. The marble structure, built as recently as 1985, houses ornate statues including one of Lakshmi (goddess of Wealth and Beauty) and Narayan dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Carvings in the temple and on pillars supporting the covered walkways include images of the Hindu pantheon, as well as Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Francis of Assisi. Your visit will coincide with the AARTI Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit and waved, in order to awake and invoke the deity. Enjoy the experience and spend night at Jaipur.
Overnight will be in Jaipur.
Day – 08
Jaipur:
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
Continue sightseeing.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
This afternoon is free for you to relax, shop or explore independently. Shopping is superb in Jaipur, particularly for gold and silver jewellery, pottery, tie-dye materials, silk, saris, wooden handicrafts and carpets.
Overnight will be at Jaipur.
Day – 09
Jaipur - Jodhpur:
By Road 250 km in 6 hr
Enjoy the breakfast at hotel.
Drive to Jodhpur at leisure and on your way stop at CHATRASAGAR for lunch.
Reach later in the afternoon and in the evening relax at the palace.
Set at the edge of the THAR Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha - chief of the RATHORE clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the RAMAYANA. The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.
Visit the museum in the palace complex. Overnight will be at Jodhpur.
Day – 10
Jodhpur Visit:
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Morning sightseeing tour of Jodhpur - gateway to the desert beyond, home of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp, built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a long sentinel. Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive rulers. In this palace you would see different miniature paintings & cradle room. After this you would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial.
In the afternoon explore the blue city. Later in the evening proceed for a rooftop dinner at a HAVELI with a grand view of the FORT.
Overnight will be at Jodhpur.
Day – 11
Jodhpur - Udaipur:
By Road 250 km in 6 hr
Drive to Udaipur.
On your way you will stop at the beautiful temples of RANAKPUR for sightseeing.
The RANAKPUR TEMPLES, dating back to the 15th century have 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The Temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits to two more Jain temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
Enjoy a hot lunch in a nice village restaurant or at the FATEH BAGH PALACE and continue drive to Udaipur.
Reach Udaipur and check in to hotel.
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavor of a heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the LAKE PICHOLA is an enticing sight.
Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR - a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 Years.
Overnight stay will be at Udaipur.
Day – 12
Udaipur Visit:
Breakfast will be at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur, stopping first at City Palace. Here you will marvel at rooms with mirrored walls and ivory doors, colored glass windows and inlaid marble balconies and the Peacock Courtyard.
Also visit the lovely Sahelion-ki-Bari Gardens, the Jagdish Temple and the local folk Museum.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. Also visit the Jag Mandir - the other island palace in the middle of the lake and spend some time. (Currently water level is very low and is subject to increase water level)
Enjoy the visit to the CENOTAPHS of the royal rulers and in the evening proceed for a dinner with dances show.
Overnight will be at Udaipur.
Day – 13
Udaipur - Delhi:
By Flight
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Morning will be spent enjoying the hotel.
Proceed to the airport for flight to Delhi in the afternoon after lunch.
Reach and check into the hotel close to the airport.
In the evening proceed for FAREWELL DINNER hosted by Compass India Inc. Overnight will be at Delhi.
Day – 14
Delhi - Home:
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Enjoy shopping and explore city.
Proceed to the airport in time for international flight home / next destination with sweet memories of India.
TOUR ENDS
COMPASS TOUR INCLUDES:
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Guest Name: Luis Monge
Country: Spain
Tour Taken: First Time to India
Fantastic experience in India. We contracted Compass Tours because of friends advice, whose feedback was great. We tailored the trip with Compass' support, everything run as clockwork. Staff friendly, open, supportive... We went as first time tourists to Delhi, Jaipur, Agra and Varanasi; we hope this has been the Starter for further trips to this wonderful country.
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