Classical India 10nights/ 11days

Harmeet SinghTravel SpecialistW Travels+91 11 41649030 / +91 9810311292http://[email protected]

Classical India 10nights/ 11days

TRIP SUMMARY

Pick up from airport and transfer to hotel

Delhi Sightseeing

Lunch during sightseeing

Dinner options

NIght visit Albert Hall Museum

Dinner options

Jaipur Sightseeing


Dinner options

Abhaneri Sightseeing

Lunch enroute

Fatehpur Sikri Sightseing

Dinner options

Agra Sightseeing


Dinner options

Arrive Delhi

Delhi

Delhi - Jaipur (265kms/ 5hrs approx)

Jaipur

Delhi - Abhaneri - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra (245kms/ 5hrs approx)

Agra - Gwalior (204kms/ 4hrs approx)

of 18

Gwalior Sightseeing

Lunch

Orchha Sightseeing

Dinner options

Lunch

Khajuraho Sightseeing

Dinner options


Evening Holy Ganga Aarti on Ghat

Dinner options

Varanasi Boat Ride

Varanasi Sightseeing


Dinner options

Gwalior - Orchha (120kms/ 2hrs approx)

Orchha - Khajuraho (178kms/ 4hrs approx)

Khajuraho - Varanasi (flight)

Varanasi

Varansi - Delhi (flight)

of 18

Pick-up

ARRIVE DELHI

Pick up from airport and transfer to hotelOn arrival at airport meet with our office executive assistance and transfer to hotel.Rest time free and easy for personal activities relax. Overnight at hotel.

DELHI

Breakfast at hotel.

Delhi SightseeingCity tour of Delhi visit Red Fort the residence of the Mughal emperor for nearly 200years, until 1857. Cycle rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk Bazar. Visit JamaMasjid (Mosque) opposite the fort one of the largest mosques in the world, built byShah Jahan. Raj Gath: The memorial of Mahatma Gandhi where he was crematedafter his assassination. India Gate: The 42m high stone "Arch of Triumph", erectedin the memory of Indian soldiers who died in the First World War; Drive throughRajpath "Kingsway" a VVIP area of Delhi including RashtrapatiBhawan.Humayun’s Tomb: Build by wife of Humayun, the second mughal king. Itis an early example of Mughal architecture. Qutab Minar: The building complexdated back on the onset of Muslim rule in India and are fine examples of Afghanarchitecture. Lotus Temple: In the heart of New Delhi, the bustling capital of India,a lotus-shaped outline has etched itself on the consciousness of the city'sinhabitants, capturing their imagination, fuelling their curiosity, and revolutionizingthe concept of worship. [Red Fort & Lotus Temple remain closed on Monday's].

of 18

Lunch during sightseeingLunch during the tour at your choice of restaurant on direct payment basis. Ourguide can suggest the restaurant of your choice meal and within your budget.

Dinner optionsDinner at your choice of restaurant or at your hotel on direct payment basis.Overnight at hotel.

DELHI - JAIPUR (265KMS/ 5HRS APPROX)

Breakfast at hotel drive to Jaipur check in at hotel.

Lunch en route at highway restaurant or in hotel on direct payment basis.

Rest time to visit the colorful local market Johari Bazaar or any place of yourinterest without guide.

NIght visit Albert Hall Museum

of 18

The Albert Hall was completed in 1887 by the architect Samuel Swinton Jacob. Thetemporary museum and the exhibition whose artifacts had been collected fromseveral parts of India and its neighbourhood were merged and shifted to theirpermanent home in the new museum. The building itself became an integral part ofthe display, its Indo-Saracenic architecture and stone ornamentation, became asource of reference for varied classical Indian styles of design from Mughal toRajput. Even the corridors were decorated with murals in a variety of stylesincluding the Ramayan, reproducing paintings from illustrations in the PersianRazmnama prepared for Emperor Akbar. European, Egyptian, Chinese, Greek andBabylonian civilizations were portrayed in the other murals to enable the people ofthe region to compare and contrast them with their own and develop theirknowledge of history and art.


JAIPUR

Breakfast at hotel full day sightseeing of Jaipur

Jaipur SightseeingVisit Amber Fort and enjoy Elephant Ride. Raja Man Singh the Rajputcommander of Akbar’s army constructed the fortress palace in the end of 16thcentury. Amber is superb example of Rajput architecture, situated on a hilltop,overlooking a lake. Amber Fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending bothHindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artisticmastery. The fort borders the Maota Lake.

Jaigarh Fort or Fort of Victory considered to be one of the most well fortifiedstructures in India. The magnificent fort was constructed by Sawai Singh of Jaipurin 1726 in order to tighten the security of Amber and Jaipur. Situated on the top ofthe hill the fort provides the stunning view of the Jaipur town and magnificent amberfort. The main highlights of the fort are massive Cannon, fortification, museum,palaces, temples and the magnificent water tanks. Jai Van is claimed to be thelargest cannon on wheels in the world. The length of the barrel of this cannon is 20ft. 2 inches, the diameter 8 ft. 7 inches and it weighs 50 tons. The range of the gunis 22 miles and it consumes 100kgs of gunpowder for every shot.

of 18

Afternoon city tour of Jaipur,visiting Main tourist attractions of Jaipur. City Palacesituated in the heart of the old City, it occupies about one seventh of the old cityarea. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture and house finecollection of textiles, costumes and armory. Palace of the Winds built in 1799, byMaharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is the most recognizable monument of Jaipur. The 5storied stunning semi-octagonal monument having 152 windows with over hanginglatticed balconies is a fine piece of Rajput architecture. Observatory Maharaja JaiSingh was a great astronomer of his time. He built here extraordinary (and veryaccurate) stargazing Observatory here named as “Jantar Mantar”. Laxmi NarayanTemple known for the intricate marble carvings in white marble, popularly known asBirla Temple. Overnight at hotel.



DELHI - ABHANERI - FATEHPUR SIKRI - AGRA (245KMS/ 5HRSAPPROX)

of 18

Breakfast at hotel drive to Agra en route visit Abhaneri step well & Fatehpur Sikri.

Abhaneri SightseeingAbhaneri is a small village popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) andHarshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by theKing Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named as Abha Nagri, which means thecity of brightness, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to thepresent name. In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still it attractstourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for 'Baoris', which are theunique invention of the natives for harvesting rain water. Amongst the other stepwells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located infront of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest andlargest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to theeyes.

Lunch enrouteEn route stop for lunch at midway restaurant.

Fatehpur Sikri SightseingFatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 yrs. Dueto scarcity of water. Predominately, a red sandstone construction sprawling over a

of 18

huge area, the architectural style is very much in tune with emperor’s dream &partakes of both Hindu & Muslim styles. See the graceful buildings including JamaMasjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other places.


AGRA - GWALIOR (204KMS/ 4HRS APPROX)

Breakfast at hotel

Agra SightseeingSunrise visit Taj Mahal: One of the Seven Wonder of the World was build by ShahJahan in 1631 AD and was completed in 1651. This symbol of love was build inmemory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Described as the most extravagant monumentever build for love. It was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as amemorial to his queen Mumtaz Mahal, made out of white marble took 22 years tocomplete. Ustad Ahamad Lahori, a Parsian Architect, is said to be the maindesigner and planer of this magnificent memorial. On full moon night, the glory ofthe Taj is at its best. (Taj Mahal remain closed on every Friday)

Agra Fort: build by the famed Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565AD, the fort is

of 18

predominantly of red sandstone. Construction of the massive red sandstone AgraFort on the bank of the Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565,though additions were made up until the rule of his grandson, Shah Jahan region ithas partially become Palace. The fort presents a good sampling of their favouredarchitectural styles. Akbar drew on Islamic and Hindu traditions and the result iseclectic. By Shah Jahan's time the style had become so homogenized that it isimpossible to separate the Hindu and Muslim strands. The Diwan-I-Am (publicaudience hall) the beautiful Diwan-I-Khas (private audience hall) were also addedby Shah Jahan.

Itmad-ud-daulah's Tomb; Built between 1622 and 1628 by Empress Nur Jahanfor her father, boasts of marble trellis work and inlaid with-precious stones, thismausoleum on the opposite bank of the Yamuna from the Taj, exhibits a strongPersian influence. Itmad-ud-daula has important place in history as well asarchitecture. This is actually the very first tomb in India that is entirely made out ofMarble.


Drive to Gwalior check in at hotel. Rest time free and easy for personal activitiesrelax & enjoy the hotels facilities. Overnight at hotel.

Dinner options

of 18

Dinner at your choice of restaurant or at your hotel on direct payment basis.Overnight at hotel.

GWALIOR - ORCHHA (120KMS/ 2HRS APPROX)

Breakfast at hotel

Gwalior SightseeingSightseeing in Gwalior. The Fort: Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, GwaliorFort dominates the city and is its most magnificent monument. The magnificentouter walls of the Fort still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearingwitness to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of India. Thisimposing structure inspired Emperor Babar to describe it "the pearl amongst thefortresses of Hind."

Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century GujariMahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his Gurjar queen,Mrignayani. Man Mandir Palace, built between 1486 and 1517. Teli ka Mandir:The Teli ka Mandir is a 9th century edifice, towering at 100 ft high. Sas-Bahu-ka-Mandir, built in 11th century dedicated to Vishnu. Tomb of Gaus Mohammad andthe Mausoleum of Tansen. Another landmark is the historic Gurudwara DataBandhi Chhod built in the memory of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the 6th Sikh Guruwho was imprisoned here by Jehangir for over two years.

of 18

After sightseeing drive to Orchha check in at hotel.

LunchLunch after sightseeing or after check in at hotel in Orchha. at your choice ofrestaurant on direct payment basis. Our guide can suggest the restaurant of yourchoice meal and within your budget.

Orchha SightseeingVisit Orchha Fort a wonderful example of a medieval fort palace, within the fort arethe first buildings to explore. The tiered Jahangir Mahal was built in 1606 tocommemorate the visit of Emperor Jahangir in 1606. The Raj Mahal, to the right ofthe courtyard, was built by Madhukar Shah and has bold colorful murals inside. Thethird palace, is the Rai Praveen Mahal, which is a two storey brick structure set inthe gardens of Anand Mahal. Of the many temples within the fort, three areespecially worth visiting. The Ram Raja Mandir was originally a palace andbecame a temple more by accident than design. An image of Ram was installedwhile the temple, The Chaturbhuj was being built for it. For some reason the imagecould not be moved from the palace and despite its spires and ornate decorationbecame a sacred place. Linked to the Ram Raja is the Lakshminarayan temple,the interiors of which have some of the best preserved murals and wall paintings inOrchha.

of 18


ORCHHA - KHAJURAHO (178KMS/ 4HRS APPROX)

Breakfast at hotel drive to Khajuraho check in at hotel.

LunchLunch at your hotel or at local restaurant on direct payment basis.

Khajuraho SightseeingSightseeing of Khajuraho, visit eastern, western & southern group of temples.Khajuraho, home to most famous of India’s temples on account of their remarkableerotic sculptures, lies in a rich, well watered plain. The temple of Khajuraho areindia’s unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, tojoy ; perfect in execution and sublime in expression.

Khajuraho temples were built in hundred years, from 950 to 1050 AD. Only 22 ofthe 85 original temples have survived the ravages of time. Each temple stands on ahigh platform. There are three main parts in each temple, the entrance(ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa) and sanctum (garbha griha). TheKhajuraho temples are made of sandstone. The builders didn't use mortar: thestones were put together with mortise and tenon joints and they were held in placeby gravity. This form of construction requires very precise joints. The columns andarchitraves were built with megaliths that weighed up to 20 tons.

Today, the temples serve as fine examples of Indian architectural styles that havegained popularity due to their explicit depiction of sexual life during medieval times.Locals living in the Khajuraho village always knew about and kept up the templesas best as they could. They were pointed out to an Englishman in late 19th centurybut the jungles had taken a toll on all the monuments.

of 18


KHAJURAHO - VARANASI (FLIGHT)

Breakfast at hotel.

Visit the village by cycle or again visit the temple as per your interest.


Afternoon transfer to airport to board flight for Varanasi. On arrival at Varanasiassistance and transfer to hotel.

Evening Holy Ganga Aarti on Ghat

of 18

Evening walking tour of Ghats’s temples & mosque on ghats. Also attendHoly Ganga Aarti- Every evening, a magical aarti is performed at DasashwamedhGhat. Halt your boat right at the steps for the best view. The presiding priests standon a wooden chauki in the water. To the chant of Sanskrit mantras, and the clash ofcymbals and drums, the river is worshipped with flowers, incense, sandalwood,milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor lamp and then the many- flamed aartilamps are raised high and then arched back to the water, the dark river reflectingthe golden flames as Ganga accepts the worship.


VARANASI

Breakfast at hotel

Varanasi Boat RideEarly morning boat ride and Ghat visit along the Ganges and catch the scene ofdevotees bathing and praying in the sacred water. Varanasi presents a uniquecombination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. According to theHindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. It is the

of 18

Ganga Ghats of Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity. Ghats of Gangaare perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi are full ofpilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed toabsolve one from all sins.

There are number of temples on the bank of the Ganga river in Varanasi. It isbelieved that people are cleansed physically, mentally and spiritually at GangaGhats. It is at the Ganga Ghats where we see life and death together. Forthousands of years people have been thronging these Ghats to offer their morningprayers to the rising sun. There are more than 100 ghats along side Ganga inVaranasi. Some of the prominent and popular Ghats at Varanasi are theDasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat and AssiGhat.

Varanasi SightseeingExcursion to Sarnath: one of the three holiest sites for Buddhists. This is where theBuddha delivered his first sermon in 528 BC. There are many temples here,representing the many cultures where Buddhism is the dominant religiousphilosophy. You'll find the Tibetans, the Chinese, the Japanese, the Burmese andthe Thai have set up centres of learning, monasteries and temples. The AshokanPillar here used to be crowned by a capital that had four lions with their backs toeach other looking out in the four cardinal directions the capital, now a nationalemblem for the Indian Union, is in the Archaeological Museum in Sarnath. TheAshokan Pillar, constructed by the legendary King Ashoka (3rd century BC), still

of 18

stands. There are many stupas here, as is a bodhi tree that is a sapling from thebodhi tree in Sri Lanka. The Bodhi tree is the peepul tree under which the Buddhaattained enlightenment. A cutting from the original was planted in Anuradhapura(Sri Lanka), and the bodhi in Sarnath has been grown from a sapling from that.

Afternoon city tour, visit World famous Benaras Hindu University: founded byPandit Madan Malviya at the turn of the century, also has a new Vishwanath temple.The temple, built by the Birlas, a rich industrialist family, is meant for a caste-less,egalitarian society, Tulsi Manas Temple: Its white marble walls have the verses ofTulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas inscribed on them and Bharat Mata Temple: a modernshrine, inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi. It has a huge relief map of the Indian sub-continent showing all its rivers, mountains and pilgrimages.



VARANSI - DELHI (FLIGHT)

of 18

Breakfast at hotel. Free time till departure transfer to airport to board flight for Delhi.From Delhi board connecting flight for your onward destination.

We recommend to book international departure flight departing after 2000hrs orlater. Vehicle will be provide in Delhi if require for inter terminal transfer and duringthe transit period for visiting the place of your interest in Delhi

of 18

Classical India 10nights/ 11days

Documents

Transcript of Classical India 10nights/ 11days