Legendary India

Day 1: Sunday, October 28
Departure           
The vast and exotic sub-continent of India beckons as we depart for New Delhi, India from Los Angeles. (Meals Aloft)           

Day 2: Monday, October 29           
In Transit. (Meals Aloft)

Day 3, Tuesday, October 30           
Arrival in Delhi           
Late night arrive into the national capital of India, New Delhi. Upon arrival and after clearing immigration and customs meet your Tour Manager and transfer to Taj Palace Hotel.Delhi is the capital of India. Its history goes back to 3000 years. Eight successive cities were built by various rulers in and around present day Delhi. Few capitals in the world have as many monuments. Taj Palace Hotel (Meals Aloft)

Day 3, Wednesday, October 31           
Delhi                       
Morning tour of New Delhi. Designed in 1911 by the British, New Delhi is one of the greenest capitals in the world. Visit the impressive Qutab Minar, a 234-foot sandstone tower, and Humayun's tomb, a predecessor to the famous Taj Mahal. Later, drive past the government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath, Diplomatic enclave. Enjoy an afternoon tour of Old Delhi. Visit the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power. Later we experience a rickshaw (pedi-cab) ride around Chandni Chowk (old shopping street) on to the Jama Mosque area. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial of the great Mahatma Gandhi. We will also visit a Temple of the Sikhs called a Gurudwara and the Crafts museum.  Prior to dinner, gather for our welcome reception. Evening informal lecture by local expert on India’s booming economy. Taj Palace Hotel (B, D)

Day 4, Thursday, November 1            
Delhi/Varanasi
Morning transfer to the airport for flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival transfer to Taj Ganges Hotel. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath and its fine museum. At sunset witness the evening prayer ceremonies on the ‘Ghats’ (steps leading to water) of river Ganges followed by an authentic Indian ‘Thali’ dinner. According to historical records, it is a city contemporary with Niniveh and Thebes and therefore is the oldest living city in the world. It is today the most important place of pilgrimage for Hindus, and the sight of devout Hindus praying, standing waist deep in water is a moving experience. Varanasi has been a seat of learning from time immemorial. It was at nearby Sarnath that the Buddha preached his first sermon. Taj Ganges Hotel, (B, D)

Day 5: Friday, November 2            
Varanasi/Agra
Enjoy an early morning boat ride on the holy river Ganges. To see thousands of devout Hindus descend to the holy waters of the Ganges for prayer and rituals may be one of the most extraordinary experiences of a visit to India. Varanasi has over 100 bathing Ghats but the Manikarnika is the most sacred of them all. During holy occasions it is visited by a multitude of pilgrims who offer flowers, milk, sandalwood and sweetmeats. Return to the hotel, and after breakfast a sightseeing tour of the city will include visit to Bharat Mata relief map of India and a drive through the Benares Hindu University, one of the oldest universities of India, constructed in the beginning of the 20th century, founded by Pandit Malviya as a centre of education in Indian art, culture and music, and for the study of Sanskrit.  Visit a silk factory with a lecture/demonstration on the various stages of ‘sericulture’, designing and manufacturing process. Watch a demonstration of dressing in the traditional Indian outfit for women, ‘Sari’. Afternoon transfer to the airport for the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to by road to Agra (4 hours drive). Trident Hilton Hotel (B,D)

Day 5: Saturday, November 3           
Agra                       
The earliest reference to Agra is in the epic ‘The Mahabharat’. Ptolemy, Alexander the Great's geographer also called it Agra. It was, however, in the medieval period that Agra earned prominence as a capital city under the Mughals. Its many wonderful monuments and the Taj Mahal, the greatest of them all, have given it a unique position as a major tourist center. The Taj Mahal, simply, is beauty - not just in design and technique, but in desire and intent. It was built as a monument to Love, a manifestation of life's most powerful emotion. When his wife died unexpectedly, Emperor Shah Jehan vowed to honor her with a memorial of unmatched beauty. He commissioned the world's best craftsmen and 20,000 workers to build this beautiful structure. The result  is a delicately carved, white marble jewel, which seems to float on a sea of red limestone. Morning  visit to the Taj Mahal and the Agra fort, the massive red sandstone Mughal Fort built in 16th century by Emperor Akbar and additions made to it until the rule of his grandson, Shah Jehan. Visit a private collection of marble inlay work as used in Taj Mahal. And visit private collection of gems/jewelry and embroidery/tapestries in Agra (as mentioned in National Geographic magazine, *KOHINOOR). This evening ends with an enjoyable ‘Magic’ show. Trident Hilton Hotel  (BD)           

Day 6:  Sunday, November 4            
Agra/Jaipur           
This morning we head towards Jaipur (4-5 hours) visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri (one hour from Agra), the once-fabled Mogul capital which has taken on a sleeping beauty quality, Lying quietly but wonderfully preserved. See the Halls of Public and Private Audiences, the Tower of Victory, and the Tomb of Salim Chisti, which is laced with mother-of-pearl. Upon arrival, transfer to the Trident Hilton Hotel, Jaipur. Meet an astrologer for a chance to understand the importance of astrology in different facets of Indian lives in terms of housing, marriage, education, business etc. In the evening attend a lecture/discussion on the ‘Legacy of Rajputs’ – the people, culture, customs and traditions of the erstwhile kingdom of Rajasthan. The rose-pink capital of Rajasthan is surrounded on all Sides by rugged hills. The city was founded in 1727 by the astronomer-king, Sawai Jai Singh II and built according to the Shilpa Shastra, the ancient Hindu treatise on architecture and sculpture. It is a walled city with seven rectangular blocks.. The Maharajah's palace stands in the center of the city amidst lovely gardens. Jaipur is aptly called the ‘the pink city’ of India. Trident Hilton Hotel (B, D)

Day 7: Monday, November 5           
Jaipur                       
This morning we travel just north of Jaipur to visit Amber and its famous palace. Riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we approach the palace in the traditional way. The high gateways allow us to enter on these broad-backed animals. Inside, find lavish courtyards, beautifully decorated halls and the Chamber of Mirrors. Afternoon tour of Jaipur city and visit of Jantar Mantar, an observatory which is equipped with instruments of astonishing size and precision, including a 90 foot high sun dial which is remarkably accurate, Also see the ornate and elaborate Palace of Winds, the Hawa Mahal, a famous landmark of Jaipur and the City Palace museum. Explore the famous exotic ‘bazaars’ of Jaipur to get an insight into the artistic wealth of the city of Jaipur. See some production/design houses for Tie n Dye printing (Block printing) on textiles, carpet weaving, blue pottery etc. Evening visit to an Indian family home for cocktails. Trident Hilton Hotel (B, D)

Day 8: Tuesday, November 6            
Jaipur/ Jodhpur
Morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, transfer to the Taj Hari Mahal Hotel. The 15th century city of Jodhpur, stands at the edge of Thar Desert and is the largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur. Jodhpur is a resplendent city, with a blend of modern and traditional buildings. The city is totally dominated by a massive fort sprawled across 125- meter high hill known as Mehrangarh Fort, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. A flourishing trade centre in the 16th century, Jodhpur is still one of the leading centers of wool, cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops. It boasts of some of very fine reminders of its glorious past-palaces, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical significance. Also Jodhpur is popularly known as the ‘Blue City’ because of the beautiful houses painted with indigo color mostly belonging to the Brahmin caste. You can get a magnificent view of this Blue city from the ramparts of the Mehrangarh Fort.  This afternoon, participate in one of the most interesting features of this tour, a ‘Village Safari’ On the Village Safari, experience first hand the authentic rural well preserved life of India. See how the natives utilize the meager resources to make items of daily use.  You may see the pot maker or shoemaker in action. Visit a few homes and meet the village people to learn about their farming practices and how they keep their animals. We may see Bishnoi tribal villages- strict vegetarians- they have allowed herds of spotted dear to grow unharmed around their villages. The Bishnoi’s are steeped in history: this 450-year-old tribe has a distinctive way of life. They are environmentalists in the fundamental sense, preserving the wild centuries of living with nature by nature. In village of other tribes one can witness the opium ceremony- a ritual by which guests are traditionally welcomed. Gaily attired men and woman carry on about their chores and one can catch a glimpse of their norms and customs. The smoothened mud floors of the village huts remain in the mind's eye, the effervescence of a cool ambiance. Later, visit the downtown Clock Tower where vegetables, spice, Indian sweets, textile, silver markets abound. Dinner is on the ramparts of Meherangarh Fort with a view of the city of Jodhpur. Trident Hilton Hotel (B, D)

Day 9: Wednesday, November 7           
Jodhpur                       
Morning sightseeing tour of Jodhpur, Visit the Meherangarh Fort. Within the walls are royal palaces, with priceless jewels and a striking collection of arms. Also visit Jaswant Thada, the white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II built in 1899. Enjoy a demonstration on the art of tying ‘turban’ at the Meherangarh Fort, a true delight. Meet the Indian Chef at our Hotel for an informal discussion on Indian cuisine and spices. Visit the priceless collection of the Maharaja of Jodhpur at the Umaid Bhawan Palace museum with dinner at Umaid Bhawan Palace. Trident Hilton Hotel (B, D)

Day 10: Thursday, November 8            
Jodhpur/ Udaipur
Drive deeper into the Rajasthani countryside towards Udaipur (5 hours) visiting en route the ornate Jain temples at Ranakpur. The Jain temple of Ranakpur is a 15th century temple built in white marble with exquisitely intricate carvings. The entire complex is built on over 40,000 sq ft and comprises 29 halls 5 spires, 32 domes and 1441 pillars. The temple is enclosed on all four sides with a row of 86 chapels. All these architectural elements are covered with carvings that are so delicate that it looks like lacework. It is amazing to find that among hundreds of pillars no two are alike.Meetthe head priest of the temples of Ranakpur and attend an exclusive prayer ceremony. Later if interested, join a short meditation session. Lunch at Fateh Bagh Palace Hotel which is probably India's first attempt at 'transplanting a palace', faithfully preserving the richness of Rajput architecture for 21st century visitors. En route to Udaipur gain insight into the rural life of India and being an agrarian developing economy, the majority of the Indian population lives in the villages. A kaleidoscope of colorful turbans with soup-strainer moustaches sported by the men and bright mirror-work skirts and the silver jewelry of Rajasthani women, amidst clanging temple bells, cows, bullocks, oxen and goats. Upon arrival transfer to Trident Hilton Hotel (B, L)

Day 11: Friday, November 9           
Udaipur                       
Morning sightseeing tour of Udaipur includes a visit to the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, Jade, and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, yet ethereal quality. Also visit Jagdish Temple, 16th century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Drive past Fateh Sagar Lake with a visit to Sahelion-ki- Bari, garden of the maids-of-Honor. Visit the Crystal Gallery in the Durbar Hall at the Fateh Prakash Palace which once used to the venue of state banquets, official functions and formal ‘durbars’, offers breathtaking views of the Lake Pichola with Jagmandir, Lake Palace and Sajjangarh Fort (Monsoon Palace). Visit a private collection of antiques, furniture and paintings. Sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola to visit the Jag Mandir Palace. This palace is built on an island, which covers 4 acres and is noted for its marble interior and imposing dome. Witness the daily life on the banks of the lake. Today is Diwali, The Festival of Lights. Diwali symbolizes the lifting of spiritual darkness. It is an occasion for great excitement and rejoicing. Villages, small towns and entire cities are turned into a fairyland with thousands of flickering oil lamps and electric lights. The festival is celebrated with spectacular fireworks and special ceremonies and prayers are held. The Hindu financial year begins and the goddess of wealth and prosperity is worshipped. Spring-cleaning and whitewashing of houses and floral designs called rangoli’s are painted on floors and walls. New clothes are bought and family members and relatives gather together to offer prayers, distribute sweets and to light up their homes. Participate in an escorted walk through the ‘bazaars’ of Udaipur to witness the festivities. Visit a local Indian family home to participate in the festivities. This evening, gather for our Farewell Dinner. Trident Hilton Hotel (B, D)

Day 12: Saturday, Nov 10           
Udaipur/Delhi           
Morning at leisure to enjoy the hotel or explore Udaipur city. Afternoon transfer to the airport for the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to airport hotel for day use rooms. Later in the evening, transfer to the airport for your homebound flights. (B)

Day 13: Sunday, Nov 11           
Depart Delhi                       
HOMEBOUND FLIGHT. Arrive USA same day. (Meals Aloft)

Itinerary is subject to change based on local conditions.

Exclusive Highlights

• Diwali, Festival of Lights Annual Celebration
• Old and New Delhi featuring Red Fort, Red Ghat and Qutab Minar
• Agra and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Taj Mahal
• Udaipur and its City Palace of the Maharana and Jagdish Temple
• Jodphur’s Umaid Bhavan Palace Museum
• Bishnoi tribal village visit
• Indian Thaili dinner
• Crystal Gallery in the Durbar Hall at the Fateh Prakash Palace
• Sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola to visit the Jag Mandir Palace
• Visit to a private collection of marble inlay work and gems, jewelry and embroidery/tapestries
• Visit to an orphanage to meet the children and teachers
• Sunset on the Ganges
• Turban tying demonstration
• Informal discussion with a chef regarding Indian cuisine and spices
• Silk factory visit with discussion featuring the design and manufacture process
• Sari demonstration
• Home visits
• Discussions and lectures from local experts

 

Included Features

• Domestic flights economy class within India as per itinerary
• Transfers from airport to hotel and vice-versa by air-conditioned motor coach
• Baggage handling of one piece checked bag per person. Please remember domestic airlines allow only 54lb per person.
• Sightseeing tours and excursions as per itinerary by air-conditioned motor coach with driver and English speaking local guides.
• Entrance fee to the monuments and included features.
• Hotel accommodations on sharing twin/double room with private facilities at the mentioned or similar hotels for a total of 11 nights plus day use room (till 10pm) on last day inclusive of any applicable room taxes and service charges.
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary B= full American or buffet breakfast*, L=lunch and D=dinner on table d’hote basis
• Special welcome and farewell dinner as mentioned D=Dinner on table d’hote basis.
• Bottled drinking water and/or sodas in the bus daily.
• Services of an India expert tour escort for the Main tour from the first arrival point in India till your last departure from India including his/hers accommodations, meals, internal airfare and his fee.
• Tips/gratuities to drivers, guides, porters and waiters for included meals are included and will be paid by our tour escort.

 

Not Included

The tour price does not include; any passport and visa fee, any airport taxes**, any camera fee at the monuments, any meals except those mentioned, any transportation except those mentioned, housekeeping tips, laundry charges, telephone calls or any other charges of personal nature, any transportation that is not part of the itinerary, foreign airport taxes, tips to US airport, immigration charges, excess baggage charges. Nor does it include any end of the trip gratuity to our India expert tour escort, which is suggested at $6 per person per day.

Since the airport taxes change frequently, tour members will be asked to pay the airport taxes upon arrival in India. Currently the airport taxes are approximately $25.00 per person for the entire trip, however most international airlines are collecting the airport taxes in advance at the time of ticketing. 

All quoted rates are valid for the tour dates mentioned in the itinerary but are subject to revision if there is a substantial increase in airfares or hotel/transport prices before departure.