Rajasthan Heritage & Culture Tour

Tour Duration : 16 Nights & 17 Days
Places Covered : New Delhi - Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur - Chittorgarh - Bundi - Pushkar - Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra - Delhi

Detailed Itenarary :

Day 1 : New Delhi

Your arrival at Delhi. Meet upon arrival. Transfer to a hotel. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 2 : New Delhi - Mandawa

Early morning after breakfast drive towards Mandawa. Mandawa was founded in 1755 by Thakur Nawal Singh and is still the home of his descendants. Mandawa houses a collection of armories, costumes of ancestors, canons from 1820, ancient coins, numismatic collection and many other interesting items preserved in a museum. The whole area of Shekhavati has beautiful frescoes, havelis & mansions and is called the open air gallery. Overnight Mandawa or any of the Shekhawati villages.

Day 3 : Mandawa - Bikaner

Leave after breakfast for Bikaner. On arrival transfer you to the hotel. Get fresh and then proceed to visit: - Junagarh :: is built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Emperor Akber. The structure is encircled by a moat and has beautiful palaces in between made of redstone and marbles. Devi Kund :: is a royal crematorim with several ornamented cenotaphs built in the memory of Bika Dynasty rulers. Maharaja Suraj Singhs cenotaph is the most impressive one created entirely with white marble with spectular rajputs paintings on the ceilings. Bhandasar Jain Temple :: is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Parasavnathji. The temples have colorful wall painting and some beautiful carving. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum :: has one of the richest collections of terracotta ware, weapons miniature paintings of Bikaner schools and coins. It also has separate section displaying exclusive arts and crafts of the region. Over night stays in the hotel.

Day 4 : Bikaner - Jaisalmer

Leave after breakfast for the Golden city of India - Jaislamer - you enjoy the ride as the roads are absolutely empty and you only watch the camels and at certain places sometime the Deers and other wildlife - upon arr. have lunch and proceed for a walking tour to: - HAVELIS - Nathmalji ki Haveli :: This late 19th century haveli displays intricate architecture and sheer craftsmanship. One very interesting fact about this haveli is that two brothers carved its two sides. Though not identical they are very similar and in perfect harmony. The interior walls are ornate with splendid miniature paintings. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building. Patwon ki Haveli :: This is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis in Jaisalmer. Located in a narrow alley, it is five storeys high. It has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers. One of the rooms is painted with beautiful murals. Salim Singh ki Haveli :: 300 years old, this haveli was the residence of the powerful Mohta clan - ministers of the Jaisalmer rulers. The blue cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the form of peacocks is distinctive, and an exquisite projecting balcony adorns the top storey. Evening watch the local dances in a restaurant while having the dinner - over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 5 : Jaisalmer

Have breakfast and proceed for full day city tour of Jaisalmer and visit - The Fort :: This 12th century fort that withstood the ravages of time rises out of the sea of sand. Its rounded battlements of golden sandstone, echoes the colors of the desert. The fort has four approach gateways. Several entrances guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal, which bear the imperial symbols of the Bhatti clans lunar lineage. Outside the fort, is the main market place called Manek Chowk. From Manek Chowk, one can walk into the lanes, where the famous carved havelis, beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th -15th century and five interconnected palaces can be found. Tazia Tower :: The pagoda - like five storey Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each storey of the tower has a beautifully carved balcony. Muslim craftsmen built the tower, in the shape of a Tazia and gifted it to their royal patron. Gadsisar Lake :: It is a scenic rainwater lake surrounded with numerous beautiful shrines. The lake is a tranquil spot for outings. Lodurva (15 Kms) :: Lodurva is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer and an important pilgrim centre of the Jains Some of the magnificent Jain temples are located here. The temples have intricate carvings on the arches at the main entrance. A Kalptaru or a divine tree is the main attraction of the temple. Manak Square :: A main marketplace outside the fort leads to the narrow lanes dotted with famous havelis Sam Sand Dunes (42 Kms) :: No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without trip to Most picturesque dunes of Sam . The ripples on the wind – caressed dunes, that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight for trigger- happy photographer. Various cultural programmed are organized against the back drop of these fascinating sand dunes, Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert on the camel back - dinner and over night in the Hotel.

Day 6 : Jaisalmer - Jodhpur

Proceed for the Blue city of Rajasthan i.e. Jodhpur, which is located on the eastern fringe of the Thar Desert, has the distinction of neither being a part of the Thar Desert nor out of it. At best, it is a doorway to the wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrain and thorny trees. It is the home of the Rathors - the awesome princely state of Rajasthan, who conquered Marwar or Maroodesh, land of the sand after the fall of Delhi and Kannauj. In 1459 AD, Rao Jodha, chief of Rathore clan of Rajputs, who claimed descent from Rama, the epic here of the Ramayana, laid the foundation of Jodhpur. A high stonewall protects the well-fortified city. The wall is nearly 10 km in length and has eight gates facing various directions. Within, stands an imposing fort on a low range of sandstone hills, about 125m above the surrounding plains. Invincible! Moreover, dauntless in its league with time! The city lies at the foot of the hills. The clear distinction between the old and the new city is visible from the ramparts of the fort. On the other side of the city, facing the fort is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the most spacious, sprawling and well-planned palaces in India. Moreover, from here, as you look at the fort, a tantalizing view rises before your eyes at sunset. The peculiar slant of the sunset lends the desert landscape an awe-inspiring glow and the people, a chivalry undaunted. After reach Jodhpur, transfer you to the hotel. After lunch start visit the following: - Mehrangarh Fort :: Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this Majestic Fort is sprawled across a 125m high hill. This is one of the most impressive and formidable fort in fort-studded Rajasthan. A winding road from the city 5km below approaches the fort. Seven gates lead into the fort. The Second gate is still scarring by cannon ball hits; Maharaja Man Singh built the Jayapol in 1806 following his victory over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner; the Fatehpol or Victory Gate was erecting by Maharaja Ajit Singh to commemorate his defeat of the Mughals. The Lohapol (Iron Gate) is the final gate beside which are 15 hand prints, the sati (self-immolation) marks of Maharaja Man Singhs widows who threw themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843. They still attract devotional attention. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace apartments with marvellously carved panels, latticed windows have evocative names such as Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant howdahs (used when the Maharajas rode their elephants in processions), miniature paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. There is even a display of rocking cradles. The Chamunda Devi Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga, stands on the southern end of the fort. There are also old cannons on the ramparts at this end and the views from here are superb. Umaid Bhawan Palace :: Maharaja Umaid Singhji who built this palace was fascinated with western lifestyles so he marshalled the services of a well-known Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, a creditable equal of Edward Lutyens (architect of New Delhi) to construct a three hundred and forty seven roomed Umaid Palace. This was to become India last of the great palaces and the biggest private residence in the world. Jaswant Thada :: On the way down from the fort, on left is Jaswant Thada, the graceful marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. His son Maharaja Sardar Singhji built the Taj Mahal of Marwar in the memory of Maharaj Jaswant Singhji II of Jodhpur. Maha Mandir :: The Mahamandir Temple is supported by 100 pillars and has carvings depicting yoga postures. Mandore Gardens :: Mandore was the former capital of Maharajas of Marwar and is located about 5 miles north of Jodhpur, but was later abandoned for the security of Mehrangarh fort. Here you will find the dewals, or cenotaphs of Jodhpurs former rulers. Unlike the usual chhatri-shaped cenotaphs typical of Rajasthan, they were built along the lines of a Hindu temple, four stories high, with fine columns and an elegant spire, all in red sandstone. Evening you have the walking tour of Clock Tower market also called as the Spice Market and is quite interesting to see the villagers shopping. Later return to the Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 7 : Jodhpur - Ranakpur

Morning drive to Ranakpur Temples. Ranakpur - 98 kms from Udaipur, the Jain Temples built in the 15th century are situated in the lovely valley of the Aravali. Its surrounding is quiet & picturesque. Ranakpur has grand structures & beautiful sculpture. There are 1444 pillars in the temple and none of them are similar. The magic of light & shade is really awe-inspiring. Surya Temple and other Jain Temples are side attractions. Overnight Ranakpur.

Day 8 : Ranakpur - Udaipur

Have breakfast and proceed for city tour & visiting - Juna Mahal :: One of the main tourist attractions of Dungarpur is the Juna Mahal. It is a seven-storied structure that resembles a fortress, dating back to the 13th century. Crenulated walls, towers, narrow access ways and passages were built in this fortress to impede the enemy. Adorning the interiors of the Mahal are beautiful frescoes, miniature paintings and exquisite glass and mirror work. The royal family of Dungarpur still resides inside the palace. Udai Bilas Palace :: Maharwal Udai Singh II built this palace to serve as the royal residence. The palace, a magnificent example of Rajput architecture, is adorned with sculpted pillars and panels, balconies and spectacular arches. Gaib Sagar Lake :: The famous places to see in Dungarpur include the Gaib Sagar Lake. Set amongst scenic environs, the lake is a bird watchers paradise. The picturesque surroundings of the lake house numerous species of birds. Also situated along the lake is a famous Shrinathji temple. The temple complex has a number of beautifully built shrines inside it, with one being the main temple. One of them is the Vijay Raj Rajeshwar Temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Rajmata Devendra Kunwar State Museum and Cultural Centre :: Rajmata Devendra Kunwar State Museum and Cultural Centre, Dungarpur" was opened to the general public in the year 1988. The museum has a beautifully sculpture gallery that brings to fore the history of Vagad Pradesh, which spreads over present day Dungarpur, Banswara and Kherwara. Later in afternoon drive towards Udaipur - the city of the lakes located on the banks of the shimmering lake Pichola, is one of the most romantic cities of Rajasthan. Nestled among the lush hills of the Aravalis, it has inevitably been dubbed the Venice of the East. It is a kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carries the flavour of the heroic past, epitomizing valor, and chivalry. Founded in 1568 A.D by Maharana Udai Singh, the city is a harmonious Indian blend of whitewashed buildings, marble palaces, lakeside gardens, temples and Havelis. According to the legend, Maharana Udai Singh, the founder was hunting one day when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the Lake Pichola. Maharana followed the advice of the hermit and founded the city. The marvelous architecture of the palaces is spelled bounding. Met upon arrival and transfer you to the hotel. Remain day at leisure. Over night stay in the hotel.

Day 9 : Udaipur

Largest royal complexes in Rajasthan, situated on a promontory on the picturesque Lake Pichola. The complex has 11 beautiful palaces with balconies and towers. Offering the breathtaking view of the lake the City Lake Palace :: also known as Jag Niwas is a beautiful Island Palace built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. Situated on picturesque Lake Pichola, the white marble structure appears like emerging out of the shimmering blue waters on the lake, creating a spellbound effect. Jag Mandir :: is another beautiful island palace on Lake Pichola, built by Maharaja Karan Singh in 1615 AD. The palace once sheltered the Mughal prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the world-famous Taj Mahal) who rebelled against his father Jehangir in the 1620s. The Palace has a giant stone sculpture of elephants and an impressive chattri (cenotaphs) that add to its beauty. Saheliyon- Ki- Bari :: garden was built in early 18th century AD as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. The enchantingly beautiful Garden is famous for its lotus pool, fountains (in the shape of birds), lush green lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions, offering a breathtaking view to visitors. Maharana Pratap Memorial (Moti Magri) :: is an impressive bronze statue of Maharana Pratap and his favourite and loyal horse, who was fiercely protective about his master and stood by him till his last breath, stands at the top of Moti Magri (Pearl Mount) overlooking Fateh Sagar. Lake Pichola :: Pichola Lake derives its name from Pichola Village was submerged and Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city. He built a masonry dam known as Badipol and lake is now 4 km long and 3 km wide. This picturesque lake encloses the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir. Moreover, the City Palace extends along its eastern banks. Eklingji (21 Kms) :: is A Religious Complex Northern region of Mewar (22 Km). It houses 108 temples chiselled out of sandstone and marble, this temple of Eklingji was build in 734 AD. Enclosed by high walls, it is devoted to Eklingji (A form of Shiv Deity adored under the epithet of EKLINGA). Built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651 the temple enshrines a black stone image of Lard Vishnu. There is a brass image of Garuda the Lord Bird carrier. The exterior and the plinth are cover with base relief of alligators; elephants, equestrians and celestial musicians rise in tiers. Evening is free and over night stay in the hotel.

Day 10 : Udaipur - Chittorgarh - Bundi

Morning drive to Kota visiting Chittaurgarh enroute. 113 kms. from Udaipur, the Fort of Chittor was originally built by mighty Bhim, one of the Pandava heroes of Mahabharata. Bundi rises from a narrow gorge in rows of terraced gardens & arched Rajput houses like a two dimensional miniature painting imposed on the landscape. Visit the palace with its intricate spy-holes, secret trap doors and under ground passages. Also see the spectacularly ingenious water supply system. Ajmer was founded by the Chauhan ruler, Aiaipal, duringthe 11th century & is dominated by the Taragarh Fort built by Prithviraj Chauhan.. Overnight Bundi.

Day 11 : Bundi - Pushkar

Leave after breakfast for Pushkar - the Holiest city of the hindus - Pushkar- the quiet little town of eastern Rajasthan, is located 11 km from Ajmer, on the edge of a small and beautiful lake. Pushkar is a city of 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats. Pushkar prides itself on being the site of the only temple of the Hindu God of Creation, Brahma. Every November, Pushkar comes alive with the vibrancy and colour of the famous Pushkar Fair and the full moon festivities at the Ghats. No pilgrimage is considered complete without a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake. Pushkar has as many as 400 temples and 52 ghats and the only temple in the country that is dedicated to Brahma is to be found here. While Pushkar is a heaven for the religiously inclined, it is also the venue of one of the countrys most colourful cattle fairs - the Pushkar Fair of Hindus. Pushkar became a favorite residence of the great Mughals. One of the first contacts between the Mughals and the British occurred in Pushkar when Sir Thomas Roe met with Jehangir here in 1616. The city was subsequently taken by the Scindias and, in 1818, it was handed over to the British, becoming one of the few places in Rajasthan controlled directly by British rather than being part of a princely state. Upon arrival, check in the Hotel. Take a rest for couple of an Hour. After lunch start visiting, Pushkar Lake :: The pious Pushkar Lake is believed to having been created by the falling of lotus from the hand of Lord Brahma. It is considered to be as old as the creation. The lake is considered as one of the most sacred spots, and believed that one dip in the waters of lake on Kartika Poornima occasion is equivalent to performing yagnas for several hundred years Brahma Temple :: This is the only existing temple dedicated to lord Brahma and was constructed in the 14th century, standing on a high plinth with marble steps leading up to it. A beautiful carved silver turtle sits on the floor facing the sanctorum or Garbha Griha. The marble floor around the silver turtle is embedded with hundreds of silver coins, with donors name engraved on them Saraswati Temple :: Saraswati is the wife of Brahma. Literally her name means the flowing one .In the Rig Veda she represents a river deity and is connected with fertility and purification. She is considered the personification of all knowledge - arts, sciences, crafts, and skills. She is the goddess of the creative impulse, the source of music, beauty, and eloquence. Evening is free and overnight stay in the Hotel

Day 12 : Pushkar - Jaipur

After taking breakfast, leave for Jaipur - the Pink city of India which is - Settled in the rugged hills of the Aravalis, Jaipur is the pristine jewel in the desert sands of Rajasthan. Jaipur is as remarkable for its marvelous architecture and town planning as it is for the lively spirit of the people who inhabit it. The city presents a unique synthesis of culture that has to be experienced in order to be appreciated. With its origin buried deep into the pages of history, the city still exudes a magical old world charm; an aroma of chivalry and romance is evident, despite having evolved into a city that is the hub of modern commercial activity in the region. Tell-tale signs of the glorious past and regal splendor of the city lie strewn across with gay abandon. Widely known as the Pink City, Jaipur is color washed pink to welcome Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria of England who visited India in 1883 A.D. The city was founded in 1727 A.D by one of the greatest ruler Jai Singh II. Jaipur is surrounded by hills on three sides, crowned by formidable forts and majestic palaces, mansions and gardens. Jaipur is the only city in the world, which is sub-divided in to nine rectangular sectors symbolizing nine divisions of universe. Jaipur is the first planned city designed in accordance with Shilpa Shastra- epochal treatise of Hindu architecture. The lively spirit of fanfare, festivity, and celebration of the people adequately match the colorful and intricately carved monuments. Even today, one can find weather beaten faces with huge colorful turbans, fierce moustaches, and lips that spontaneously crease into a heart-warming smile. A city like Jaipur, where modernity and tradition live hand-in-hand, is truly rare. Perhaps this is what makes it an attractive destination for tourists who flock to Jaipur, year after year. Upon arrival check in the hotel & later proceed for a drive around the city & over night stay in the hotel.

Day 13 : Jaipur

Have breakfast & full day city tour of Jaipur and visit to: - Hawa Mahal :: The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Their five-storey structures 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 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 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 Jal Mahal :: Also known as Water Palace, Built in the mid 18th century by Madho Singh I The Palace was developed as a pleasure spot and was used for the royal duck shooting parties. A causeway leads to Jal Mahal Palace situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, opposite the cenotaphs. Evening is free for shopping and over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 14 : Jaipur

Have breakfast and cruise and explore the city your way, indulge yourself in the best place for shopping as Jaipur is known for it craft work - Precious Jewels and Beautiful Rugs and Carpets.

Day 15 : Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra

After taking breakfast, leave for Fatehpur Sikri :: The Deserted city - which got built by the Third mughal ruler " Akbar " and remained as capital from 1570 until 1585 and due to the water shortage the mughal ruler Akbar was compelled to shift his capital from Fathepur sikri to Agra . The Important Features of the fort are Shahi Darwaza ( Kings Gate ) , Tomb Of Sheikh Salim Chisti , Palace of Jodha Bai , Birbal Bhawan , Panch Mahal , Hide and seek Palace , Hall for the Common - Private Audience. After taking lunch, now there is the time to proceed for Agra, the Taj City by road enjoying countryside & enrooted visit Mathura & other small old villages. Stop in between for Lunch/ snacks. After reaching Agra, transfer you to your hotel. Evening is free for leisure. Over night stay in the Hotel.

Day 16 : Agra - Delhi

Morning - at sun rise visit - Taj Mahal (at sunrise) :: is also known as Crown Palace, is in fact the most well preserved & architecturally beautiful tomb in the world. The English poet, Sir Edwin Arnold, as “Not a piece of architecture, best describes it as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor’s love wrought in living stones." It is a celebration of woman built in marble and that’s the way to appreciate it. Construction began in 1631 and was complete in 22 years. Twenty thousand people were deploying to work on it. The material brought in from all over India and central Asia and it took a fleet of 1000 elephants to transport it to the site. The Iranian architect Ustad Isa designed it and it was best appreciate when the architecture and its adornments are link to the passion that inspired it. It is a "symbol of eternal love. Back to hotel for b/fast and then proceed to visit - Agra Fort :: built by Akbar in red sandstone. Most of the buildings within the Agra Fort are a mixture of different architectural styles. The assimilation of these different styles has given the buildings within the fort a distinctive look. Jama Masjid the mosque at Sikri was the first structure to be building in 1571.The exterior is modest but the interior carries the most gorgeous ornamentation in the floral arabesques and ingenious geometrical patterns in brown. Sikandra Tomb :: The tomb of Third Mughal Ruler "Akbar " during the early 16th centaury , the five storeyed building is quite Impressive and is an interesting to place to study the gradual evolution in design that culminated in the Taj Mahal. After city tour of Agra, now proceed to Delhi and overnight at Hotel.

Day 17 : New Delhi

Departure to International Airport as per your Flight timings. END OF OUR SERVICES