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Day 01

12th of November 2012

Monday

Delhi:

Company representatives will receive you on arrival at the international airport in Delhi. 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. It is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope – that is India.

Overnight will be at the hotel.

 

Day 02

13th of November 2012

Tuesday

Delhi:

After breakfast at the hotel start a guided tour of Old Delhi.

The tour will begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. He is also famously known as the “father of the nation”.

One of the most important buildings of Old Delhi is the RED FORT. The magnificent Red Fort was built during the years 1638 – 48 when the Moghul Empire was at its peak. In 1638 Shahjahan transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi and laid the foundations of Shahjahanabad, the seventh city of Delhi. It is enclosed by a rubble stonewall, with bastions, gates and wickets at intervals. Of its fourteen gates, the important ones are the Mori, Lahori, Ajmeri, Turkman, Kashmiri and Delhi gates, some of which have already been demolished. His famous citadel, the Lal-Qila, or the Red Fort, lying at the town's northern end on the right bank or the Yamuna and south of Salimgarh, was begun in 1639 and completed after nine years. The Red Fort is different from the Agra fort and is better planned, because at its back lies the experience gained by Shahjahan at Agra, and because it was the work of one hand. It is an irregular octagon, with two long sides on the east and west, and with two main gates, one on the west and the other on the south, called Lahori and Delhi gates respectively. While the walls, gates and a few other structures in the fort are constructed of red sandstone, marble has been largely used in the palaces.

 

Continue your tour to Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaws, one of Asia’s largest mosques. 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 peddling through the narrow by lanes of Chandani Chowk. After lunch, enjoy a tour of the beautiful AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE.

Akshardham Temple Delhi: Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme God, the abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads where divine bhakti, purity and peace forever pervades. SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARDHAM in New Delhi epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breath-taking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. Overnight will be at the hotel.

Day 03

14th of November 2012

Wednesday

New Delhi – Departure:

After breakfast, proceed for the half-day city tour of New Delhi. New Delhi reflects the legacy of 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, colors 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. Qutb-Minar in red and buff standstone is the highest tower in India. It has a diameter of 14.32 m at the base and about 2.75 m on the top with a height of 72.5 m. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 for the use of the mu'azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first floor, to which were added three more floors by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36). All the storeys are surrounded by a projected balcony encircling the minar and supported by stone brackets, which are decorated with honeycomb design, more conspicuously in the first floor.

Next stop would be the majestic Humayun’s Tomb. Humayun died in 1556, and his widow Hamida Banu Begum, also known as Haji Begum, commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture. It is well known that Humayun picked up the principles of Persian architecture during his exile, and he himself is likely to have planned the tomb, although there is no record to that effect.

The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President’s residence. Visit the Lotus temple located in south of Delhi. It is lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name. It is made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. It is open to all faiths and is an ideal place for meditation and obtaining peace and tranquillity. Its founder, Bahaullah (1817-1892), is regarded by Bahai as the most recent in the line of Messengers of God that stretches back beyond recorded time and that includes Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Zoroaster, Christ and Muhammad.

Enjoy lunch at an Anglo Indian restaurant – one of its kind in Delhi. Freshen up at the hotel and you will be transferred to the railway station to board Palace on Wheels.

The journey of a lifetime begins at the Delhi Safdarjung Railway station where the guests are accorded a warm, traditional welcome before the Palace-on-Wheels pulls out into the night for a week-long luxury cruise through fascinating Rajasthan.

Departure: 18.30hr

Day 04

15th of November 2012

Thursday

Jaipur: Arrival: 03.00hr

The first stop of the Palace-on-Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world of its time. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City,was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, in 1727 A.D.

To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, which is a remarkable five, storied building a one the main street of the old city in pink splendour with semi-octagonal and delicate honey combed sandstone windows. This is followed by a visit to Amber Fort where elephant ride is available to climb up the hill. Lunch will be at a Five Star Hotel, followed by a visit to City Palace Museum and Observatory.  

Departure: 23.30hr 

Day 05

16th of November 2012

Friday

Sawai Madhopur: Arrival: 05.30hr

One can almost sense a life of the wilderness, as the Palace-on-Wheels arrives in Sawai Madhopur, a city named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. After breakfast a visit is arranged to the Ranthambhor National Park, wherein are located the ruins of a 10th century fort. This wildlife sanctuary is considered to be the best in the country, for observing and photographing the activities of the tiger. The park, covering an area of 392 sq. km is home to more than 300 species of birds. The tiger, hyena, rate, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here. Sawai Madhopur is known for its excusive toys, ethnic ornaments and costumes. Upon return to the Palace-on-Wheels, you leave for Chittorgarh, when one gets an opportunity to watch the colourful countryside passing by in the daylight.

Departure: 10.30hr

Chittorgarh: Arrival: 16.00hr

After lunch on board you are in Chittorgarh. Images of love and velour; scars of battles lost and won...thrice-besieged, Chittorgarh Fort is all this and more. Moving legends of honor and pride will echo in your mind as you proceed to Udaipur.

Departure: 02.00hr (next day i.e. on Saturday)

Day 06

17th of November 2012

Saturday

Udaipur: Arrival: 08:00hr

Udaipur, the Lake City, was founded by Maharana Udai Singh of Mewar, after the Sisodia dynasty was driven way by the Mughals, in 1559A.D. Perhaps the two most beautiful sites of Udaipur are the dream-like marble palaces- the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandir, which appear to rise from the blue waters of Lake Pichhola. After lunch at a Five Star Hotel, proceed for a visit to the City Palace. 

Departure: 15.30hr

Day 07

18th of November 2012

Sunday

Jaisalmer: Arrival: 09.15hr

In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 A.D. Here the yellow sandstone fort is an imposing sight, towering magnificently over the city. Discover the painstakingly latticed havelis or mansions with their grand facades. The Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli are fine examples of the stone carver's skill. Shop for fine pattu shawls, mirror work and embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewellery and curios.

After lunch on board, go for an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam, before sipping a refreshing cup of tea. Enjoy the dinner and the cultural porgramme at a Five Star hotel. 

Departure: 23.45hr

Day 08

19th of November 2012

Monday

Jodhpur: Arrival: 07.00hr

Next morning the Palace-on-Wheels is in Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stonewalls with seven gates and several bastions. This second largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 A.D. is known for its rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort. The grand palaces within -Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural excellence. Near the fort complex lays Jaswant Thada, and a group of royal cenotaphs made of white marble. Return to the Palace-on-Wheels after a grand palace lunch. While in Jodhpur shop for exquisite handicraft articles including the famous breeches, embroidered shoes, metal curios, silverware, paintings and tie and dye fabrics. 

Departure: 15.30hr

Day 09

20th of November 2012

Tuesday

Bharatpur: Arrival 05.00hr

In the morning, the Palace on Wheels arrives in Bharatpur, the capital of Maharaja Suraj Mal. After breakfast pay a visit to the world famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place for thousands of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, migratory Water Fowl and other species of birds.

Departure: 08:45hr

Agra: Arrival 10:30hr

Upon arrival visit the Agra Fort and after lunch arrive at the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A pristine monument of undying love, it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Agra is known for its splendid marble inlay work like the Pietra Dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewellery.

Departure: 23.00hr

Day 10

21st of November 2012

Wednesday

Delhi / Samode:

By Road 220 km in 5 hr - Arrival: 04.00hr

Arrive at Delhi.

We will pick you up at the station around 730 AM after breakfast and drive to SAMODE PALACE. This palace was crowned the first heritage hotel in India. Reach and relax.

Proceed for sightseeing of a royal village SAMODE.

Samode according to the Rajputana Gazetteer of 1879 was a large and flourishing town. The Zamidars (landlords) of Samode - the principal thakurs of the state of Amber were the Nathawat clan from Chomu, a branch of the house of Amber, tracing their relation to the Jaipur Maharaja the fabled Prithviraj Singhji the 17th prince of the house of Kacchwaha Rajputs. Gopal Singhji one of his 12 sons was awarded Samode, a noble feudatory of the Amber & Jaipur principality. It was among the wealthiest territories in the Amber kingdom. The Zamidari eventually passed within the clan to the hands of Behari Das, a Rajput warrior in Mughal Service. After 6 generations in the hands of his descendants Samode was relinquished to the Raj.

The 400-year-old SAMODE PALACE has a wealth of frescoes, many of them depicting religious subjects. The highlight is a vast DURBAR HALL. Take a walk of the Rajasthani village or take a camel cart ride. Overnight will be at Samode.

Day 11

22nd of November 2012

Thursday

Samode – Pushkar:

By Road 150 km in 2 hr

Breakfast will be at the palace. Leave for PUSHKAR late morning. Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem – Pushkar. Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search for his abode on earth, performed the supremely spiritual VEDIC YAGNA at Pushkar. It is thus the site of the only Brahma Temple in the world. The place is a mellow, serene and bewitching little town, which attracts those in search of some respite from the tumult of India. Pushkar is right on the edge of the desert and is only 11 km from Ajmer but separated from it by Nag Pahar – the snake mountain.

The town clings to the side of the small Pushkar Lake with its many bathing ghats and temples. For Hindus, Puhskar is a very important pilgrimage centre and you'll see plenty of Sadhus (individuals on a spiritual search).

Pushkar boasts temples, though few are as ancient as you might expect at such an important pilgrimage site, since many were deserted by Aurangzeb and subsequently rebuilt. The most famous is the Brahma Temple, said to be one of the few temples in the world dedicated to this deity. It's marked by red spire, and over the entrance gateway is the hans, or goose symbol, of Brahma, who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as its site.

Blessed with cultural blends, it is the venue for the famous Pushkar Fair, with people coming from all over Asia to buy and sell cattle of breeds from across the world. A city of Pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and Ghats Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage. Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality that casts a lure to visit again and again. The Pushkar fair is amongst the largest cattle fairs in the world and amongst the oldest cities in India, with references in mythology and the Mahabharat.

There are 52 bathing Ghats, which are linked to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake. Each Ghat has its own miraculous qualities and powers of healing and this city of temples has over 500 temples built over different eras with varied architectural styles. It is also often referred to as the rose garden of Rajasthan - the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported the world over. Reach and check in at the luxury camp. Spend evening visiting the GHATS and the local market. Overnight will be at PUSHKAR.

Day 12 & 13

23rd and 24th of November 2012

Friday & Saturday

Pushkar :

Enjoy the CATTLE FAIR and explore the area. Our cultural guide would be showing you around and introducing you to the unique fair. All meals are served in the camp. Overnight will be in Luxury Camp Tents with en-suite amenities.

Day 14
25th of November 2012
Sunday
Samode – Jaipur:
By Road 140 km in 2 hr
Breakfast will be at the camp.Drive to Jaipur at leisure. If time permits then enjoy shopping before taking evening flight to Delhi. Relax at the international lounge before taking connection home with sweet memories of ROYAL & CUKTURAL INDIA.

 

TOUR ENDS