Colorful Rajasthan

• Day 1: Arrive Delhi

  At the Delhi International Airport, you will be received by a Trans India Holidays representative and he will escort you to the hotel and will help you with the check-in formalities. Your Colorful Rajasthan tour starts from the Capital, Delhi, an active city, with an ideal combination of the ancient and the contemporary era. Delhi has two visible parts: New Delhi, the city created by the British, as the royal capital of India in 1911. The Old Delhi which was considered as the Muslim capital of India between the 17th and the 19th century. There are at least eight cities on the location of modern Delhi among which Indraprastha is one of the first recognized settlements, highlighted in the epic Mahabharata over 3000 years ago. Nevertheless, Delhi has always been one of the major cities in the northern region of the subcontinent. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 2: In Delhi

  After a relaxing breakfast, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you for a guided sightseeing of Old and New Delhi .The Tour includes the following places: Red Fort: The term Red Fort is taken from a Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort. The structure of the Red Fort is very uneven and it is placed in an octet shape along the Yamuna River. This fort is delimited by a wall of about 2.4 kms in perimeter and is constructed of red sandstone. In 1638, Shah Jahan started building this huge fort and it was completed in 1648. The fort has a Diwan-e-Am (Hall for public audience), a Rang Mahal (a water- cooled apartment of royal ladies) and a Pearl Mosque, which was constructed with white marble. Red fort has two hallways: a) The Delhi gate and b) The Lahori gate, and both this gates face the renowned ChandniChowk. Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid is one of the country’s major mosques where hundreds and thousands of Muslims offer their prayers even today. Jama Masjid was constructed by Shah Jahan as an architectural extravaganza in 1658. The wonders of construction in Jama Masjid are seen in the long stretches of stairs and the hefty courtyard. Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): Chandni Chowk is well-known for its flamboyant streets with the famous shopping spots of Old Delhi. It also has the country’s best known extensive market for textiles, electronic goods, and watches. Entire Chandni Chowk was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s beloved daughter and was then populated by the well-to-do families of that time. The famous Parantha wale Gali, known for its mouth-watering paranthas is also positioned in Chandni Chowk. The famous gold market, Dariba Kalan is also situated here.ll-to-do families of the time. Around the area is the famed Paranthawale Gali, known for its delicious paranthas, Dariba Kalan, the gold market and well-known sweetmeats shops. Raj Ghat: A raised square platform of black marble on the banks of Yamuna River, symbolizes the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated and cremated in 1948. A dedicatory ritual is still performed every Friday, in his memory. Birla Mandir: One of the major praying spots in the city, comprising of idols of numerous divinites. It is situated close to Connaught Place. In 1938, an industrial Raja Baldev Birla constructed the Birla Mandir. India Gate: India Gate is free-standing, 42-meter high arch. It was built in 1931 and was formerly called the All India War Memorial in the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The names of the warriors are engraved all along the walls of the arch. The eternal flame was lit here to honor the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier), in 1971. Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): The Rashtrapati Bhawan is the authorised dwelling place of the President of India. The residence was designed by Lutyens and was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. Humayun’s Tomb: Nine years after the death of Humayun, Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) built this tomb in 1565-66 in his memory. Qutub Minar:The outstanding building in the Southern part of the capital was constructed by a Muslim King, Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1199 A.D. The Minar (tower) was 72.5m tall and its base is a mosque. Bahai’s Temple: It is a very new architectural wonder of the Bahai sect. This temple is visible from quite a lot of spots in South Delhi. This temple is molded in the shape of a Lotus and has precisely been given the name. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 3: Drive Delhi - Agra (220 kms/04 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by one of our representatives who will assist you with the check-out formalities. You will then start your trail to Agra, the next stop on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. The drive from Delhi to Agra will be via the new Expressway, one of India’s finest highways. Agra, Agra is situated on the bank of Yamuna River. It is the dwelling place to India’s famous monument, the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries. On your arrival at the hotel in Agra, you will again be met by our representative and will be assisted with check in formalities. Later in the afternoon, the tour guide will pick you up for the guided sightseeing trip of Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort. Taj Mahal: Emperor Shah Jahan constructed the Taj Mahal in the memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal who died during the birth of their child in 1631. The construction of this famous monument is said to have taken 22 years, starting from 1631. Over 20,000 artisans were working day and night for the construction of this landmark. Crafts persons and whizzes were brought from France and Italy. And the chief architect was from Iran. The visit to the Taj Mahal will long be remembered by you as the highlight of your Colorful Rajasthan Tour. Agra Fort: Emperor Akbar started the construction of this huge red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River in 1565. It was mainly constructed for the soldiers until his grandson, Shah Jahan, added more opulent accommodations. There are a number of attractive buildings within its porches such as Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan–e–Am, Diwan–e–Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. Overnight stay in Agra.

• Day 4: Drive Agra - Samode (250 kms/05 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will assist with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Samode, the next destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour, enroute stopping at Fatehpur Sikri for guided tour of this ancient capital. Fatehpur Sikri: The deserted capital of Emperor Akbar roughly 35 Kms outside Agra. This city was built in the 16th century, and was abandoned for 12 years due to the paucity of water. The entire city is still intact, and a sight of this city is worth remembering. The Buland Darwazais the main entrance to this city. It is 54 m tall. This gate was constructed in the honor of Akbar’s victory in Gujarat. After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, continue your drive to Samode and upon arrival, check in at the Samode Palace. Samode Palace - Samode Palace is situated on the primeval hill range of the Aravalli Hills, in the north of Jaipur. The Palace is an outstanding example of Rajput-Mughal architecture and flaunts some of the best paintings and mirror-work in the state. The Samode Palace has some of the finest rooms and suites than any other heritage hotels. The Palace has a grand swimming pool and the neighboring village is very beautiful to take walk around. Overnight stay at the Samode Palace.

• Day 5: Drive Samode – Mandawa (130 kms/03 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast at the Samode Palace, you will then start your drive to Mandawa, the next destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Mandawa - Mandawa is a very beautiful small town in the Jhunjhunu district, which is also a part of the Shekhawati region. Mandawa is famous for its painted havelis. The semi deserted region of Shekhawati is popularly known as the ‘open-air art gallery’ of Rajasthan. This region has hundreds of havelis, temples, monuments, wells and forts. On your arrival at Mandawa, check in at the Castle Mandawa. Castle Mandawa is a perfect place to discover the heirloom of the 18th century paintings that ornament the havelis of this beautiful town. It has covered balconies and turreted battlements. It also offers a modern comfort with a old world charm. The highlight of your stay is a royal repast, where the guests dine under the stars, entertained by Rajasthani fire dancers. A two hundred and forty year old fortress, which has been converted by the family into a fine example of traditional hospitality. Later in the afternoon, the guide will take you for a guided tour of Mandawa. The tour includes the following places of interests: Aath Haveli Complex, AnandilaPoddar Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli &Chokhani Haveli. Overnight stay at the Mandawa Castle.

• Day 6: Drive Mandawa - Bikaner (190 kms / 04 hrs)

  After breakfast at Mandawa Castle, you will then start your drive to Bikaner, the next destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Bikaner - Rao Bikaji, the second son of the founder of Jodhpur, established Bikaner. The old city stands on a slightly high ground delimited by a fortified wall. The Ganga canal, which was constructed between 1925 and 1927, fetched fortune to this otherwise dry desert region. On your arrival at the hotel in Bikaner, you will be met by our representative and will be assisted with check-in formalities. Later, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel for a guided sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Tour includes a visit to the following places of interest: Junagarh Fort & Museum: The Junagarh fort was built in the late 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The Fort lodged palaces inside it and many Maharajas added comfortable suites to it. There are beautiful halls in the fort likeDiwan-e-khas (private audience hall), Anup Mahal, Badal Mahal, Gaj Mandir and Hawa Mahal. The Fort also houses an interesting collection of royal vestments, armory (enormous bore guns used from the back of the camels), Maharaja Ganga Singh’s 56-kilogram suit of armor, a sword with ivory and crystal handles and a biplane presented to Ganga Singhji by the British during World War I. Only two models of this plane were apparently made. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum: The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum is a vault for some of the most incredible collections of antiquity. The museum has been branched into various sections according to the order and historical importance of the exhibits. In this museum, we can see Traditional Rajasthani musical instruments, terracotta ware, the Silk Robe of Prince Salim along with the delicate collection of miniatures from across the desert, antique carpets and royal garments. You can also see the war weaponry and the Litho prints of the British Empire. Some of the old photographs, trophies are also on the view. Camel Breeding Farm: The Camel Breeding Farm is 8 kms away from the city. On this farm, you can learn a lot about the ship of the Desert. The farm allows tourists at certain hours of the day only. There are different breeds of camels on the farm. The ones from Bikaner are the long-haired ones with hair on its ears; these camels are farmed for its strength. And the light-colored ones are the ones from Jaisalmer and are prized for their speed. The dark-colored Camel comes from Gujarat and the females are prized for their milk-producing capacity. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

• Day 7: Drive Bikaner - Jaisalmer (330 kms / 05 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will help you with the check out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jaisalmer, the next and perhaps the most thrilling destination of your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Jaisalmer - Jaisalmer was established by the head of the Bhati sect, RawalJaisal Singh in 1156 A.D. It is called the golden city of the Thar Desert, because yellow sand and yellow sandstone is used in most of the buildings in the city. Jaisalmer was declared a National Heritage City in 1974 and since then the town has been very well maintained and protected for the pleasure of the tourists. The vicinity of Jaisalmer is the residence for many rare desert flora and fauna. On your arrival at the hotel in Jaisalmer, you will be met by our representative and he will help you with the check in formalities. You are free for the rest of the day. You can either relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

• Day 8: In Jaisalmer

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up by the tour guide from the hotel and he will take you for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer. Tour includes the following places of interest: Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort was constructed in 1156 by the Bhati ruler, Rao Jaisal. This fort stands over the 80 m tall Trikuta hill, and is delimited by 3 walls and 99 bastions. The Golden sandstone fort over the centuries witnessed many battles between the Bhatis, Mughals and the Rathores of Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Fort is said to be the oldest and largest living Fort in the World. Jain Temples: In the fort complex there are many beautifully carved Jain Temples constructed in the 12th and the 15th century. The Maharawals (rulers) of Jaisalmer were sincere Hindus, but were humane on Jainism and encouraged art and religion. There are seven Temples in the complex: Chandraprabhu, Parasnath, Shitalnath, Sambhavanth, Shantinath, Kunthunath and Rikhabdev Temple. All this temples are connected by an array of halls and alleys. The Gyan Bhandar, a library established in 1500 A.D. is also close to the Fort. This Library stocks some of the priceless manuscripts and other displays like the astrological charts. Laxminath Temple: The Laxminath Temple is situated in the heart of the Fort.This Temple is one of the less decorative temples in the fort. It displays an exciting dome of fine paintings. Havelis: Jaisalmer has vouched for different forms of construction in different eras. It has witnessed the dominating Rajputana architecture as well as the blend of the Rajputana and delicate Islamic architecture. Havelis are the places, which served as the dwelling place of the ministers and the landlords and they commission these Havelis to show their social status in the society. Patwon ki Haveli is the most elegant and palatial of all the Jaisalmer Havelis. This haveli was constructed between 1800 and 1860 by five Jain brothers. Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmalki Haveli are the other two havelis that are open to visitors. Gadi Sagar Tank: Gadi Sagar Tank was once the source of water supply to the city. The tank is encircled by shrines and temples and a variety of waterfowl can be spotted here in the winter months. Later in the evening, a visit to the Sam Sand Dunes. Just outside the city of Jaisalmer, lie the panoramic dunes of Sam, a visit to which will remain in your memory as one of the highlights of your Rajasthan tour. The spirits of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a fascinating mirage that stretches for miles and miles. The tour includes a short camel ride, giving you wonderful views of the sunset over the dunes. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

• Day 9: Drive Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (290 kms/05 hrs)

  After breakfast, you will be met by our representative at the hotel and he will assist you with the check out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jodhpur, the next destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Jodhpur - Jodhpur is famous as the 'blue city' because of its blue cottages. The lively desert city of Jodhpur stands at the fringe of the Thar Desert and is the second major city of Rajasthan after Jaipur. The city is differentiated by a huge fort that covers a sheer rocky ridge rising in the heart of the town. The old city is still delimited by a 10 km long wall, made about a century after Jodhpur was established. There are eight gates leading out of the old city. You can take a stroll through the beautiful winding streets. The city of Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the chief of a Rajput clan known as Rathores and was earlier called Marwar. On your arrival at the hotel in Jodhpur, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check in formalities. You are free for the rest of the day. You can either relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

• Day 10: In Jodhpur

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest: Mehrangarh Fort: Rested on a hilltop, it takes five kilometres by a curvy road to reach Mehrangarh Fort. Mehrangarh is considered by many as the most striking fort in Rajasthan. Initially built by Maharaja JodhaRao, the fort was further succeeded by the rulers of Marwar. Of the seven huge gates to the fort, a few like Jayapol and Fatehpol were built to celebrate Marwar rulers' victories over countless enemies. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. If you enter through Surajpol, the Jodhpur Museum stocks a brilliant collection of relics of Rajasthan. Jaswant Thaada: Located close to the Mehrangarh Fort, is the white marble war memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, known as the JaswantThada. The best way to explore and experience the city of Jodhpur is to take a fascinating walk around the colorful Sardar market and the Clock Tower. Besides experiencing the culinary delights of Jodhpur in the small local restaurants, the antique shops are also worth a visit. You can relax for the rest of the day or explore the city on your own. Overnight stay in Jodhpur

• Day 11: Drive Jodhpur – Udaipur (275 kms / 05 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and will be assisted with check out formalities. You will then start your drive to Udaipur, the next stop on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Udaipur - Udaipur, literally meaning “the city of Sunrise”, was established by a Rajput King, Maharana Uday Singh, in 1567, and this city is now also known as the “City of Lakes” and also the "Venice of the East" . Udaipur is a moony lake city with its marble whims, attractive hibiscus-covered gardens and elegant fountain porches, which symbolize the glory of Rajput era. Like many other cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is the heirloom of an honor-bound race that loved the good things in life and often gave up their lives protecting them. On your arrival at the hotel in Udaipur, you will again be met by our representative and he will assist you with check in formalities. Rest of the day is free for you to either relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel or explore the city. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

• Day 12: In Udaipur

  After breakfast, the guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you for a guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Tour includes following places of interest: City Palace: The biggest palace complex in Rajasthan is the grand City Palace towering above the lake. The major parts of the palace are now well-maintained as a museum with anenormouscollection of glass, ceramic figures and small canvases. Jagdish Temple: The famous Jagdish Temple is situated 150 mts from the City Palace. This fine Indo-Aryan Temple was constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651. This temple treasures a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the universe. A brass image of Garuda the Hindu divinity is in a monument in front of the temple. Saheliyon Ki Bari:The Saheliyonki Bari or the garden of the Maids of Honor is situated in the north of the city. It is a small exquisite garden with fountains, stone elephants and a beautiful lotus pond. Lake Pichola: Rest of the day you are free to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the city. Lake Pichola derives its name from Pichali village. This lake is fenced by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and ridges. There are two island palaces in the Lake Pichola, the Jag Niwas and the Jag Mandir. Jag Niwas was built as the summer residence of Prince of Mewar and is now the famous Lake Palace hotel. The Jag Mandir is built of red sandstone with a marble ceiling. An enchanting way to end your day in Udaipur is by taking a beautiful Boat Ride on Lake Pichola in the evening when the City palace in the background unites with the sparkling lake water. Overnight stay in Udaipur.

• Day 13: Drive Udaipur – Jaipur (400kms / 07 hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-out formalities. Later drive to Jaipur, the next destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. Jaipur - It is the capital of Rajasthan, and is known as the “Pink City” because of the pink tinted constructions in the old city. It is situated on a dry lake bed, bordered by barren hills vanquished by forts and broken walls. The city was found in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who wanted to be in the good books of the then ruling Mughals. He positioned the city with rectangular blocks according to early Hindu architecture. It is a great city for shopping. On your arrival at the hotel in Jaipur, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check in formalities. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 14: In Jaipur

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest: Hawa Mahal, Tour Trip to Colorful RajasthanHawa Mahal (Palace Of Winds): Constructed by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of the Jaipur’s main landmarks; the front of the Mahal has pink windows and latticework screens. This Mahal was initially constructed for the ladies of the imperial household to watch the ordinary life and parades of the city. City Palace: The City Palace is still the dwelling of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur. This Palace still has an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons. Jantar Mantar (Observatory): It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. Jantar Mantar appears to be an inquisitive collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a detailed purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial which is 27 meter tall gnomon. The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meters an hour. Amber Fort: The Amber Fort is located 11 kms away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur. The Fort is an excellent illustration of Rajput architecture, impressively situated on a hillside facing a lake, which reflects its walkways and walls. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 15: Drive Jaipur – Neemrana (140 kms/03 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-out formalities. Later, drive to Neemrana, the final destination on your Colorful Rajasthan tour. The drive from Jaipur to Neemrana is approximately three hours; Neemrana is situated almost midway between Delhi and Jaipur. The Neemrana Fort Palace is considered to be one of the oldest and the finest Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan. Located on a hill, this luxurious fort is constructed over 10 levels, with rooms and suites. This rooms and suites are furnished with a selective collection of conventional and colonial furniture, relics and objects d’art. Most rooms have private balconies or sunshades. And the loos are designed to have views. On your arrival at the Neemrana, check in at the Neemrana Fort Palace.. The rest of the day is free to explore the Neemrana Fort Palace. You can take walks around the village and enjoy the beautiful scenic beauty of the fort. The Fort also has a luxurious swimming pool and a well equipped Ayurvedic spa, for relaxing and rejuvenating you. Overnight stay at the Neemrana Fort Palace.

• Day 16: Drive Neemrana – Delhi (120 kms/03 hrs) and depart Delhi

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you will then start your drive to Delhi International Airport in time for your flight back home.

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