Route :-19 Nights / 20 Days
Duration:-Delhi
- Kathmandu - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra - Jaipur - Udaipur - Jodhpur -
Jaislamer - Bikaner - Mandawa - Delhi
Day 01 Arrive
Delhi You be met & welcomed on arrival and escorted to your
hotel.
Afternoon: Half-day visit of New Delhi. Half-Day tour
of New Delhi. The tour starts with a drive to Raisina Hill. Visit the
Viceroy's House (Now the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the residence of Indian
President) and Lutyen's magnum opus. It is larger than Versailles and
architecturally is a fusion of Indian and Western design. Within the
courtyard is the 145 feet high Jaipur Collumn, a symbol of victory designed
by Luyten. He created another masterpiece - 250 acre Mughal Garden on the
grounds of the Rastrapati Bhavan which at one time required the care of 418
men. The great Vice Regal Palace required a staff of 2000.
At
the foot of Raisina Hill is the India Gate, a war memorial arch which Luyten
built in honor of 60000 soldiers who died in World War -I. It is also
inscribed with the name s of some 13000 Indian and British soldiers missing
presumed dead. Next to it is Lutyen's last imperial monument he built, a
stone canopy in which he placed the marble statue of the King George - V
after his death in 1936. Proceed to the Parliament House, which Luyten built
in a circular colossum design. It was here that the constitution of
independent India was drafted. Drive to Humayuns Tomb which is perhaps the
finest Mughal building in Delhi. The tomb stands on a raised platform and is
built of red sandstone. The construction of the Tomb was completed in 1565.
The tomb stands in well-laid out Mughal garden. Proceed to the Qutub Minar
complex, which is Delhi's Eiffel Tower. Visit the mosques, mausoleums and
ruins of the forts that lie around it including the Iron Pillar which is
Delhi totem pole 24 feet high, made of 99% steel and which has stood for
1600 years without a speck of rust on it.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 02 In Delhi Morning: Breakfast
at the hotel. Later half-day city tour of Old Delhi.
The tour of Old
Delhi starts with the visit of Red Fort. This palace citadel was built Shah
Jehan in 1648 and was a veritable city within a city. When Shah Jehan
transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi he built the Red Fort as his
residential palace as well as his military fortress. The fort is a complex
of marble buildings with balconies, filigreed windows, massive red sandstone
walls, ramparts and gateways. The most elegant building is the DIWAN I KHAS
or the Hall of Private Audience. From the Red Fort you will take a cycle
rickshaw to Chandni Chowk or the Moonlit Square. It is a medieval area in
which you will recognize not just Cairo or Istanbul, but also Chester and
Heidelberg.
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This is perhaps one of the Delhi's most
populated areas and the largest marketplace - jewelers, spice merchants,
food vendors, money lenders, shopping arcades, workshops as well as
residences, are crammed here. Within this area is the British built Town
Hall, the St. James Church built by colonel Skinner in the early 19th
century, the old St. Stephen's college and the office of the state
department of Archeology with a colonnaded facade going back to the 19th
century when it was the British Residency.
Rest of the day is at
leisure.
Overnight at the hotel. Day
03 Delhi / Kathmandu Morning flight to Kathmandu. On arrival you
are met and escorted to your hotel.
After lunch, half day sightseeing
tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square. Kathmandu Durbar Square is the complex of
the former royal palace, court yards and temples dated back to the medieval
age (12th to 18th century). Visit the Kasthamandap, a medieval public
assembly hall constructed on 16th century. This name was later deformed in
Kathmandu. Another remarkable monument is Kumarighar, the residence of the
living goddess Kumari.
Overnight at the hotel Day 04 In Kathmandu
Morning: Breakfast at the Hotel. Later full day sightseeing tour of
Swayambhunath, Patan and Bungmati. The term Swayambhu refers to "one
who is created by himself". And its history is linked with the
formation of the Kathmandu valley, which is said to have been a lake once.
The present Swayambhu hillock had a lotus on the surface of the lake.
Buddhist mythological character Lokeshwar Manjushri came to pay homage to
the lotus and by compassion to the habitants residing by the lakeside he
drained the water out of the valley. The hillock became the pilgrimage site
for the Buddhist. The present stupa was rebuilt on 14th century.
Patan Durbar Square is the former royal palace complex with many others
temples of all style such pagoda and Shikhara (Indian architecture). The
lord Krishna temple in Shikhara style is more remarkable, it has got 21
pinnacles and was constructed on 17th century. Monuments in the surroundings
consist of Buddhist monastery and most remarkable among them are Kwa Bahal,
Mahabauddha, Rudrabarna Mahavihar and Machhindranath temple. Lunch at Patan
Later visit Pashupatinath and Baudhanath. Pashupati Nath, a holy
site for Hindus, is situated 5 km east of Kathmandu. The temple is dedicated
to the Lord Shiva as the master of animals (pashu and pati mean animal and
master respectively, the term animal also refers to human being). Also the
cremation site near by the Bagmati river attracts our attention. Baudhanath
is the biggest Buddhist stupa of Nepal. After the Chinese invasion in Tibet,
Baudhanath became the refugee center for the Tibetan. Consequently they have
built many Tibetan Monastery around this ancient monument.
Overnight
at the hotel. Day 05 Kathmandu / Varanasi
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Later transfer to airport for
flight to Varanasi.
Arrive Varanasi and be escorted to your hotel.
Visit Sarnath on the way to hotel. Sarnath - located about 10km from
Varanasi, it is one of the important Buddhist centres. It is the site where
Lord Buddha had preached his first sermon or in religious language, set in
motion the Wheel of Law (Maha-Dharmachakra-Pravartan) enshrining the
principles of his teaching into laws. 200 years later, in 3rd century BC,
the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka who spread the Buddha's message of love and
compassion throughout his vast empire, built massive stupas, viharas and
monasteries making it the centre of the Buddhist world. Several Buddhist
structures were raised at Sarnath between 3rd century BC and 11th century AD
and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the
Buddhist trail.
There are two ancient stupas for ceremonial
public worship and their present names are Dhamekh and Dharmarajika. Jagat
Singh of Varanasi dismantled Dharmarajika in 18th century. Ashoka erected
several monuments here. Chaukhandi Stupa comes first. Akbar repaired the
same in order to commemorate his father's visit to Sarnath.
Sarnath Museum - has a rich collection of Buddhist sculptures and numerous
Buddha and Bodhisattva images that are considered amongst the finest
specimens of Buddhist art. It also has the magnificent Lion capital, India's
National Emblem
After the visit Check into your hotel. Rest of the day
at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel. Day 06 In Varanasi
Early morning visit the Ghats - The grandeur of the sacred Ganges
River here cannot be expressed in words. It is said that bathing here
removes all ills and sins. A boat ride early in the morning on the holy
river is an unforgettable experience. A chance to see the Burning Ghats
where cremations are conducted and the Bathing Ghats where devotees take a
dip in the holy water and offer prayers. Thousands of pilgrims flock here
daily to take a dip in the sacred waters and to worship the sun. Near
Manikarnika, the chief burning ghat of Varanasi is the Charanpaduka pedestal
where Lord Vishnu's footprints are preserved in marble. The other important
ghats are Asi Ghat, Lala Misi ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Dandi Ghat, Hanuman Ghat,
Ahalya Bai Ghat, Munshi Ghat, Mir Ghat and many more.
After the visit
of the ghats come back to hotel. Later visit the VARANASI city. Varanasi,
the City of Lord Shiva, is situated on the bank of the sacred Ganges River
and is one of the holiest cities of India. Hindu pilgrims come to bathe in
the waters of the Ganges, a ritual that washes away all sins. The city also
known as Banares is a magical city where the most intimate rituals of life
and death take place in public on the city's famous ghats (riverbanks). It
is this accessibility to the practices of ancient religious tradition that
captivates many visitors.
In the past the city has been known as
Kashi and Banares, but its present name is a restoration of an ancient name
meaning the city between two rivers, the Varuna and Assi. It has been a
centre of learning and civilization for over 2000 years and claims to be one
of the oldest living cities in the world. The old city, situated on the
western bank of the Ganges in a labyrinth of alleyways, does have an antique
feel but few buildings are more than a couple of hundred years old due to
the marauding Muslim invaders and the destructive tendencies of Mughal
Emperor Aurangzeb.
Lord Buddha further enhanced its eminence by
preaching his first sermon after attaining the enlightenment at Sarnath
located 10km away from Varanasi. The early history of the city as gleaned
from Buddhist literatures speak of a constant struggle between the dynasties
of the Kosalas and Mallas for its possession. In later times it suffered
defacement as Muslim invaders destroyed many of its temples
Overnight
at the hotel Day 07 Varanasi / Khajuraho
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Afternoon transfer to airport
for your flight to Khajuraho.
On arrival in Khajuraho you be met and
escorted to your hotel.
Later half-day visit to the world famous erotic
Khajuraho Temples.
Khajuraho - The erstwhile capital of
the Chandela Kings, Khajuraho is famous for its magnificent temples
dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain tirthankars. These temples
were built between 950 and 1050 AD and represent some of the most exquisite
specimens in medieval India that has made Khajuraho one of the most
beautiful religious centers of that time. Today Khajuraho is a little
village in a lonely corner of the state of Madhya Pradesh. None of the
palaces or dwellings of the former city remain and there is no sign of the
golden date palms that once graced the entrance of the city and gave it the
name "Khajurvahika" or bearer of the date palms. With the wane of
the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected and vulnerable
to the ravages of Nature. It was only in the last century that they were
rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve.
Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. Despite the
fact that they were dedicated to different Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu and Jain
saints, they followed the same architectural style. Each structure stands on
a high masonry platform with a distinct upward direction to their build,
further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of
an overall lightness. The temples are almost all aligned east to west, with
the entrance facing east. Some of the earliest were made of granite, but all
the ones from the classic period of Khajuraho's history are made of
sandstone. The three main compartments of the temple are the entrance
(ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha
griha).
The decorations, the exquisitely carved sculptures, with
which the temples are so liberally embellished have made Khajuraho famous.
The divine sculptures in these temples are a tribute to Life itself,
embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it.
There is an astonishing profusion of individual figures of gods, goddesses,
and voluptuous women, mythical beasts, couples in erotic poses and elaborate
friezes carved in minute detail. The murals depict the life and times of the
Chandelas and celebrate the erotic state of being. They not only testify to
the mastery of the craftsman, but also to the extraordinary breadth of
vision of the Chandelas.
The Western Group - comprise of the
following temples:
Kandariya Mahadeo - is not only the largest
but also artistically and architecturally the most perfect of Khajuraho's
temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it soars 31m high. The sanctum enshrines a
lingam while the main shrine is ornately carved and depicts various gods,
goddesses, apsaras (heavenly maidens) in elaborate detail. The entrance
arch, the massive pillars and ceilings are adorned with exquisite carvings
that leave the visitor spellbound.
Overnight at the hotel. Day 08 Khajuraho /
Orchha / Jhansi / Agra Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Later drive to Jhansi city enroute visiting Orchha. Orchha is located in the
northern part of the State of Madhya Pradesh and lies besides the Malwa
plateau along the Betwa River. The word Orchha literally means 'hidden
place'. Once the capital of the Bundelas, it is now just a village set among
a wonderful complex of well preserved palaces and temples. It was founded in
the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap and it
remained the capital till 1783, when nearby Tikamgarh became the new
capital. Orchha's golden age was during the first half of the 17th century.
Of the succeeding rulers, the most notable was Raja Bir Singh Deo who ruled
for almost 22 years. Complementing the notable proportions of the exteriors
are the interiors that represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school
of painting. Today Orchha is just a village set amongst a complex of well
preserved palaces and temples but nevertheless a wonderful relaxing place.
Its impressive temples dating back to the 17th century are still in use
today and are visited by thousands of devotees. The area is peppered with
fascinating little shrines and memorials, all of which add to the
overwhelming feeling of nostalgia, the city evokes in the visitor
Later drive to Jhansi railway station to board your train to Agra.
On
arrival in Agra you are met and escorted to your hotel.
Overnight
at the hotel.
Day 09 In Agra
Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.
Later half-day tour of Agra City. The City of
the Taj is an educational and business centre known for its craftsmen and
handicrafts. In the great epic Mahabharata the region of Agra is described
as 'Agraban' and it was an integral part of 'Braj Bhoomi' or the land of
Lord Krishna. Concrete history outlines the origins of Agra to 1475 AD when
it was under the reign of Raja Badal Singh. However, Agra came into
limelight during the rule of the Afghan King Sikandar Lodhi, who had made it
the capital of his empire.
Later in 1526 AD the Mughal Emperor
Babar took upon himself the task for rendering Agra, a unique character and
beauty of its own. The visionary that he was and a great patron of the arts,
he brought in a change in the culture and lifestyle among the people of
Agra, which then brought forth some of the finest craftsmen, artists,
statesmen, warriors and nobility, this part of India had ever witnessed. The
golden age of Agra's history thus began to set in. The next few hundred
years witnessed the rise of the pomp and pageantry of three great Mughal
monarchs, Akbar, Jahangir and Shahjahan, all of whom lavished on this city,
their love and riches to transform the land into one of the great centers of
art, culture, learning and commerce. Marble and soft-stone inlay work,
carpet and leather goods are some important traditional crafts of the city.
Visit Taj Mahal - situated on the banks of the Yamuna
River, this masterpiece in marble built on a sandstone base is a monument to
love and beauty. Shahjahan built it in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz
Begum. There are tombs of Mumtaz and Shahjahan within the mausoleum. The
construction started in 1631 a year after Mumtaz's death, it took 22 years
in the making and an estimated 20,000 people worked to complete this
enchanting mausoleum.
Agra Fort - is situated by the
side of Yamuna River. The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the
construction of the Agra Fort in 1565 AD although additions were made till
the time of his grandson Shahjahan. The forbidding exteriors of this fort
hide an inner paradise. There are a number of exquisite buildings like the
Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl, Diwan-i-Am (Hall
of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Musamman Burj,
where Shahjahan died in 1666 AD, and Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors).
Jahangir's Palace within the fort complex contains evidence of Bengali and
Gujarati architecture.
Tomb of Itmad-ud-daullah - was
built by Empress Noor Jahan, the wife of Shahjahan in memory of her father
Mirza Ghiyas Beg during 1622-28 AD. It is a small tomb but made of splendid
marble construction that is considered to be the forerunner of the Taj
Mahal. The craftsmanship foreshadows that of the Taj Mahal. It was here that
'pietra dura' the inlay work on marble, so characteristic of the Taj was
first used.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 10 Agra / Jaipur Morning: Breakfast
at the hotel. Later drive to Jaipur en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri - perched atop a rocky ridge 37 km west of Agra, lies this
abandoned capital of the Mughals. It was built by Akbar during 1564 AD and
was the first planned city in Indo-Islamic style. A sonless Akbar visited
the village of Sikri to seek the blessings of the Muslim saint Sheikh Salim
Chishti. The saint prophesied the birth of three sons to him and soon
thereafter was born Prince Salim, later to become Emperor Jahangir. In
gratitude for the blessing Akbar decided to create imperial residences in
Sikri, which would function as a joint capital with Agra. As a mark of his
faith and his recent victories, he named his new city Fatehpur Sikri.
However, the capital was abandoned after 14 years due to shortage of water.
Akbar was a keen builder and the plan of Fatehpur Sikri reveals an architectural
mastermind at work. The city is built in red sandstone and is a beautiful blend
of Hindu and Islamic architectural elements. Each important edifice here represents
a type by itself. Notable among them are the Buland Darwaza (Great Gateway),
Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Panch Mahal (5-storeyed Palace) and
Birbal's Bhawan (the home of one of Akbar's ministers). The homes of Akbar's
wives, the Hindu Jodha Bai's palace, the Christian Mariyam's mansion and the
Turkish Sultana's Mahal Ankh Micholi (Hide and Seek) are some of the other fascinating
buildings to be seen. The beautiful marble tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti attracts
thousands of devotees. Today it's a perfectly preserved Mughal city built at
the height of the empire's splendor. Drive on and check into your hotel. Rest
of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 11 In Jaipur Morning: Breakfast at
the hotel. Later visit the Amber Fort.
Amber - located 11km
north of Jaipur, this was the ancient capital of the Jaipur State.
Construction of the fort-palace was begun in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh, the
Rajput commander of Akbar's army. It was later extended and completed by the
Jai Singh before the move to the plains. The fort is a superb example of
Rajput architecture, stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a
lake, which reflects its terraces and ramparts. The Fort is a beautiful
complex of palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples. Centuries of
disuse have not withered their pristine beauty. Notable structures include
the Diwan-I-Am (Hall of Public Audience), a pillared hall with latticed
galleries. The Jai Mandir or Hall of Victory is noted for its inlaid panels
and glittering mirror ceiling. The Sukh Niwas or Hall of Pleasure has an
ivory inlaid sandalwood doorway. The Shila Mata temple has the image of the
patron deity Kali, a form of goddess Durga. The temple is still in use. The
best way of experiencing the majesty of the Bygone era is by taking an
elephant ride to the top of the fort.
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The city of Amber sprawled below
the Fort, once a settlement of nobles, craftsmen and common folks, is now
mostly is ruins. The remnants of its rich past are the beautifully carved
and planned Jagat Shiromani Temple, a Krishna temple associated with
Meerabai, an ancient temple of Narsinghji and a magnificent step well, Panna
Mian-ka-kund.
Afternoon a half-day tour of Jaipur City. Hawa
Mahal - or the Palace of Winds, built in 1799 is the major landmark of
Jaipur. This 5-storey building that overlooks the main street of the old
city, is a stunning example of Rajput artistry with its pink semi-octagonal
and delicately honeycombed sandstone windows. It was originally built to
enable the ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and
processions of the city. City Palace Complex - located in the heart of the
old city, the City Palace occupies a large series of courtyards, gardens and
buildings. The palace is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The sons
of the last Maharaja and his family still reside in a part of the palace.
Before the palace proper is the Mubarak Mahal or Welcome Palace
built in the late 19th century by Maharaja Madho Singh II as a Reception
centre for visiting dignitaries. It now forms part of the Maharaja Sawai
Mansingh II Museum, containing a collection of royal costumes and superb
shawls including Kashmiri pashmina (goat's wool). Other exhibits include
armory of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes
with chased handles, some of them inlaid with enamel and embellished with
jewels and encased in magnificent scabbards.
Other interesting
features of the complex are the Diwan-I-Am or the Hall of Audience, with its
intricate decorations and manuscripts in Persian and Sanskrit. The
Diwan-I-Khas or Hall of Private Audience, with a marble-paved gallery and
the exquisite Peacock Gate in the Chandra Mahal courtyard. Outside the
buildings are kept enormous silver vessels in which the former Maharaja used
to take the holy water of the Ganges on his trip to England. The complex
also has an Art Gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings,
carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian,
Latin and Sanskrit, acquired by Maharaja Jai Singh II to study astronomy in
detail. Jantar Mantar - located next to the entrance to the City Palace is
this Observatory, built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. Jai Singh's passion
for astronomy was even more notable than his power as a warrior. This is the
largest and best preserved of the five observatories that he built. The
others are at Delhi, Varanasi and Ujjain. The fifth, the Muthura observatory
is destroyed. The complex is a collection of curious instruments, each
having a specific purpose such as measuring the positions of stars,
altitudes and azimuths and calculating eclipses. The most striking
instrument is the sundial with its 27m high gnomon.
Museums &
Galleries - there are a couple of interesting museums and galleries in
Jaipur. The Central Museum, housed in the architecturally impressive Albert
Hall in the Ram Niwas Public Gardens has sections on natural history, tribal
wares, dioramas depicting Rajasthani dances, decorative arts, costumes, and
musical instruments. The Museum of Indology is an extraordinary private
collection of folk art objects and other bits and pieces of interest. There
is everything from a map of India painted in a rice grain to manuscripts
(one written by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb), tribal ornaments, fossils, old
currency notes, clocks and much more. Near the Ram Niwas Public Gardens, in
an old theater is Jaipur's Modern Art Gallery. The Juneja Art Gallery has an
excellent collection of contemporary paintings.
Overnight at the
hotel.
Day 12 Jaipur / Udaipur
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to Udaipur.
Often
called the Venice of the East, Udaipur is no doubt the most enchanting and
romantic city of Rajasthan. Founded in 1568 by Maharana Udai Singh II
following the final sacking of Chittorgarh by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. This
extraordinarily beautiful city has come to be celebrated for its association
with Queen Padmini, and Meera Bai, royal princesses who are linked with the
fortunes of the Sissodia family.
The old city was once
surrounded by a wall with entry through eleven gates, of which only five
remain. The Suraj Pol or Sun Gate on the eastern side is the main entrance
to the city. Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure Pichola Lake, hemmed
in by the lush hills of the Aravallis. It 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 valour and chivalry. It is full of palaces, temples and havelis
ranging from the modest to the extravagant.
Evening enjoy an exclusive boat ride on Lake Pichola.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 13 In Udaipur Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel. Later visit this beautiful city.
City
Palace - is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan, with its scalloped
arches, fretted balconies and cupolas. It is an imposing and majestic
architectural marvel towering over the lake on a hill surrounded by
crenellated walls. The building was started by Maharana Udai Singh II and
there were subsequent additions by various maharanas down the years. It is a
conglomeration of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and
hanging gardens. Although added by various maharanas at various times, the
complex still retains a surprising uniformity of design. The main entrance
is through the triple arched gate, the 'Tripolia'. The main part of the
palace is now preserved as a museum. It includes the Mor Chowk with its
beautiful mosaics of peacocks. The Manak Mahal or Ruby Palace has glass and
mirror work while Krishna Vilas has a remarkable collection of miniatures.
The Chini Mahal is noted for its blue and white ceramics and ornamental
tiles. More paintings can be seen in the Zenana Mahal (Women's Palace) and
in the Bari Mahal there is a pleasant central garden.
There is also a
Government Museum within the palace complex. The exhibits on display include
apart from sculptures and paintings, a stuffed kangaroo and a Siamese twin
deer.
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The other part of the palace
against the lake shore has been partly converted into two heritage hotels,
the Shiv Niwas Palace and the Fateh Prakash Palace. There is a stunning
Crystal Gallery in the Fateh Prakash Palace. The items on display include a
rare collection of Osler's crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan
Singh in 1877, crystal chairs, tables and even beds. The Crystal Gallery
overlooks the grandiose Durbar (Assembly) Hall with its massive chandeliers,
some of the largest in the country. This is one of India's most impressive
Durbar Hall with a lavish interior. The walls display royal weapons and
striking portraits of former maharanas of Mewar. Th top floor of this high
ceiling hall is surrounded by viewing galleries, where ladies of the palace
could watch in veiled seclusion what was happening below. The foundation
stone of the Durbar Hall was laid by Lord Minto, the viceroy of India in
1909 during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh and as a mark of honour to the
viceroy, it was originally named Minto Hall.
Lake Pichola -
this placid lake was enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh II after he founded the
city. He built a masonry dam, known as the Badipol and the lake is now 4km
in length and 3km wide. In the lake are two islands - Jag Niwas and Jag
Mandir. Boat rides on the lake especially in the evenings are very popular.
Jag Niwas - is the island on which stands the famous
Lake Palace. The palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754 and
covers the whole island. Formerly the royal summer palace, it is today a
luxury hotel with shady courtyards, lotus ponds and even a small mango tree
shaded swimming pool.
Jag Mandir - is the other island
palace on Lake Pichola. It was commenced by Maharana Karan Singh, but takes
its name after Maharana Jagat Singh who made a number of additions to it. It
is said that the Mughal emperor Shahjahan derived some of his inspiration
for the Taj Mahal from this palace after staying here in 1623-24 while
lading a revolt against his father Jahangir. Flanked by a row of enormous
stone elephants, the island has an impressive chhatri (cenotaph) carved from
grey blue stone. The view across the lake to the city is a scene of rare
beauty.
Jagdish Temple - located near the entrance of
the City Palace, this temple was built in 1651by Maharana Jagat Singh. This
fine Indo-Aryan temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, enshrines a black stone
image of the Lord as Jagannath, Lord of the Universe.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari - or the Garden of the Maids of Honour, located in
the north of the city, is a small ornamental garden with fountains, kiosks,
marble elephants and delightful lotus pool. It was a popular relaxing spot where
the royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the name.
Bharatiya Lok
Kala Mandir - has an interesting exhibition of folk arts including
dresses, dolls, masks, musical instruments, paintings and puppets. It is
also a foundation for the preservation of local folk arts.
Overnight
at hotel Day 14 Udaipur / Jodhpur
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to Jodhpur via Ranakpur.
Ranakpur is one of the largest and most important Jain temple complex lying
in a remote valley of the Aravalli ranges in Southern Rajasthan. These
temples were created in the 15th century AD during the reign of Rana Kumbha
and are enclosed within a wall. They are well preserved and in near perfect
condition. The main 'Chaumukh Temple' or Four Faced Temple is dedicated to
the first tirthankar (apostle) Adinath. Built in 1439, this huge superbly
carved temple has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, all distinctly carved
and no two alike and enshrines the four-faced image of Adinath. Rising in
three storeys, the temple has four small shrines with 80 spires supported by
420 columns. Within the complex are two other temples dedicated to Neminath
and Parsvanath. The temples have beautiful carvings similar to that of
Khajuraho. There is also a Sun Temple, located a little distance away. The
temple has polygonal walls richly embellished with carvings of warriors,
horses and solar deities riding splendid chariots.
A kilometer
away from the main complex is located the Amba Mata Temple, dedicated to a
form of goddess Durga. Please note shoes and all leather articles must be
left at the entrance before entering the temple. Arrive Jodhpur rest of the
day at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 15 Jodhpur / Jaisalmer Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel. Half-day tour of Jodhpur City. Set at the edge of
the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur. This
imperial city that echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the
desert, was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of
Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama, the hero of the epic
Ramayana. The Rathores ruled not only Jodhpur but also other Rajput princely
states. The Rathore Kingdom was then known as Marwar, the Land of Death. The
city is dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort, topping a sheer rocky
ridge right in the middle of the town. The old city is surrounded by a 10km
long wall built around a century after the city was founded. From the fort
one can clearly see where the old city ends and the new begins. As one of
the closest major Indian cities to the border with Pakistan, Jodhpur has a
large defence contingent.
Jodhpur is affectionately referred to
as the 'Blue City' because of the indigo coloured houses in the old town.
These can best be seen from the ramparts of the fort. Traditionally, blue
signified the home of a Brahmin, but these days non-Brahmins have also taken
on the practice. Apart from looking fresh and lively, it is believed that
the colour works as an effective mosquito repellent. It is fascinating to
wander around the jumble of winding streets in the old city.
While the graceful palaces , forts and temples strewn throughout the city
bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances music
and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. The
lifestyle in Jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing lovely
multihued costumes artistically designed. The colorful turbans worn by the
men folk add more colour to the city. Part of the film Rudyard Kipling's
Jungle Book was shot in Jodhpur and it was from here that those baggy-tight
, horse riding trousers, jodhpurs, took their name. Countless festivities
celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar
Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza.
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. The fort is approached by a
winding road from the city 5km below. There are seven gates that lead into
the fort. The Second gate is still scarred by cannon ball hits; the Jayapol
was built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806 following his victory over the
armies of Jaipur and Bikaner; the Fatehpol or Victory Gate was erected 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 Singh's 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 marvelously 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.
Jaswant Thada - located a
short distance from the fort, just off the fort road, is a white marble
memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The cenotaph built in 1899, was
followed by the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs that stand
nearby. There are some beautiful marble jali (lattice) work and fine views
from the terrace in front of the cenotaphs.
Later drive to
Jaisalmer. Arrive Jaislamer and check into your hotel.
Overnight at
the hotel.
Day 16 In Jaisalmer
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Later visit the city.
Jaisalmer
Fort - the golden hued fort, built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Rawal
Jaisal and reinforced by subsequent rulers, is a sentinel to the bleak
desertscape from its 80m high perch on the Trikuta hill. The fort is entered
through a forbidding series of massive gates leading to a large courtyard.
The former Maharaja's 7-storey palace fronts onto this. The courtyard was
used to review troops, hear petitions and present extravagant entertainment
for important visitors. Part of the palace is open to the public. Within the
fort walls are a group of beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th
and 15th centuries AD. They are dedicated to the Jain apostles Rikhabdev and
Sambhavnath. Its fascinating to wander through the winding labyrinth of
streets within the fort as nothing has changed here for centuries. It has an
enchanting
Havelis - or mansions are the impressive
intricately carved sandstone buildings built by the wealthy merchants of
Jaisalmer and several of these fine are in good condition. The noteworthy :
Patwon ki Haveli, the most elaborate and magnificent of
all the Jaisalmer havelis. It has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive
corridors and chambers. One of the apartments of this 5-storey high haveli
is painted with beautiful murals. There are also remnants of paintings and
mirror-work on f its inside walls.
Salim Singh ki Haveli,
located just below the hill, was built about 300 years ago and part of
it is still occupied. Salim Singh was the prime minister when Jaisalmer was
the capital of a princely state. This mansion has a beautifully arched roof
with superb carved brackets in the form of peacocks. This extraordinary
mansion in yellow stone is covered with intricate carvings and has an
elaborate projecting balcony on the top storey.
Nathmal ki
Haveli, is a late 19th century haveli and was also a prime minister's
house. which were carved by two brothers, are not identical but very similar
and balanced in design. The interior walls are ornate with splendid
miniature paintings. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building and even
its front door is a work of art.
Gadi Sagar - located
south of the city walls, this tank was once the water supply of the city.
there are numerous beautiful temples and shrines around it. A wide variety
of water birds flock here in winter. An interesting legend associate with
this tank recalls that the attractive gateway, which arches across the toad
down to the tank was built by a famous prostitute. When she offered to pay
to have this gateway constructed, the Maharaja refused permission on the
ground that he would have to pass under it to go to the tank and this would
beneath his dignity. While he was away, she built the gateway anyway, adding
a Krishna temple on top so the king could not tear it down.
Museums
- there are some interesting museums in the city. The Desert Culture
Centre & Museum has textiles, old coins, fossils and traditional
Rajasthani instruments among other things. Its aim is to preserve
Rajasthan's cultural heritage and conduct research on local history. There
is a Jaisalmer Folklore Museum, located on the road leading down to the
lake. The Government Museum has a well-captioned collection of fossils, some
of which date back to the Jurassic era about 160 to 180 million years ago.
Overnight at the hotel. Day
17 Jaisalmer / Bikaner Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Later drive to Bikaner.
Afternoon arrive & visit the Bikaner
city. BIKANER - Bikaner is a true desert country and part of the ancient
caravan route that came from west and entral Asia. Located in the north of
the State of Rajasthan, it was founded in 1488 by a Rathore Prince Rao Bika,
a descendent of Jodha, founder of Jodhpur. Rao Bika chose a barren
wilderness called 'Jangladesh' and transformed it to an impressive city. The
old city is surrounded by a crenellated wall and was once an important
staging post on the great caravan trade routes. The Ganga Canal, built
between 1925-27, irrigates a large area of previously arid land around
Bikaner.
Sheer beauty in the desert is the royal fortified city
of Bikaner. Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground and is circumscribed
by long embattled wall having five gates. Bikaner's forts, palaces and
temples - magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone, are living
manifestations of its rich historical and architectural legacy. One can feel
the medieval aura prevailing in the city's lifestyle. Not only do the
traditions come alive here in colourful bazaars and havelis, but Bikaner is
also famous for the best riding camels in the world. Undulating lanes,
colorful bazaars and bright and cheerful folks make Bikaner and interesting
experience. These are built on high plinths with slender minarets on each of
the four corners and can be noticed even from a distance. Visit - Junagarh
Fort - built between 1588-93 by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of
Mughal Emperor Akbar, this impressive fort is a formidable structure
encircled by a moat. The Suraj Pol or Sun Gate, is the main entrance to the
fort.
Within the fort are thirty-seven palaces, pavilions and
temples, which make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks
and windows. The palaces exquisitely built in red sandstone and marble are
ornate with mirror work, carvings and paintings. Among the notable palaces
are the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), which is decorated with paintings and
carved marble panels, the Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Anup Mahal. A major
feature of the complex is the magnificent stone carving. The fort also has a
fine collection of Rajput weapons and an old World War I biplane presented
to Maharaja Ganga Singh by the British. This is one of the only two models
of this plane in the world.
Lallgarh Palace - located
3km north of the city centre, this red sandstone palace was built by
Maharaja Ganga Singh (1881-1942) in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh.
The palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work. Part of the palace
has been converted into a luxury hotel and a museum known as Shri Sadul
Museum. The museum covers the entire first floor of the palace and houses
old photographs of royal hunts, trophies of wildlife and an extraordinary
collection of the former Maharaja's personal possessions.
Ganga
Golden Jubilee Museum - has an interesting collection of sculptures,
terra cottas, weapons, miniature paintings and musical instruments.
Jain Temples - the narrow streets of the old city have a
couple of notable Jain temples. The Bhandasar and Sandeshwar temples date
from around the 15th century. They have colourful wall paintings and some
intricate carvings.
Overnight at the hotel
Day 18 Bikaner / Mandawa Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel. Later drive to Mandawa.
Visit the famous
havelis of Mandawa. Mandawa - founded in the 18th century, this is a compact
and busy little market town. It was fortified by the dominant merchant
families and its fort dominates the town with a painted arched gateway
adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. The Chokhani, Ladia and Saraf
havelis are some of the splendid examples of this region's havelis. A Shiva
temple with a rock crystal lingam is also worth a visit. The fort is now
converted into a heritage hotel
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 19 Mandawa / Delhi Morning: Breakfast
at the hotel. Later drive to Delhi.
Arrive Delhi rest of the day at
leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
