Royal & Rustic Rajasthan Tour
Duration: 19 Nights & 20 Days
Destinations: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Pushkar - Bundi - Kota - Chittaurgarh
- Udaipur - Narlai - Ranakpur - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Bikaner - Mandawa - Delhi
Destination Information
DELHI:
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis
with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction
to the composite culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope -
that is India.
Old Delhi- A sightseeing tour of Old Delhi would entail visiting the
Raj Ghat - the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama Masjid
- the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent fort
and palace of the Moghul Empire.
New Delhi- An extensive sightseeing tour of New Delhi would include a
visit to the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial avenue
- Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House, the President's Residence
and would end with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.
AGRA:
Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village
of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the
name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught
up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow
galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city
of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects
its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.
Taj Mahal, Agra
As Taj Mahal is to India …. this country’s most famous architectural
wonder so is the Statue of Liberty to America, the pyramids to Egypt and the
leaning tower of Pisa to Italy. Variously defined as `A materialized vision
of loveliness’; This poignant Mughal mausoleum was constructed by Emperor
Shah Jahan in memory of his second wife Mumtaz Mahal, whose death in childbirth
in 1631 left the emperor so heartbroken that his hair is said to have turned
grey overnight. Construction of the Taj began in the same year and was not completed
until 1653. Although the Taj is amazingly graceful from almost any angle, it's
the close-up detail which is really astounding. Semiprecious stones are inlaid
into the marble in beautiful patterns using a process known as pietra dura.
Fatehpur Sikri -
A world heritage site which exceptional testimony to the development of
various artistic expression, which are of outstanding value. Fatehpur Sikri
is the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty. It is very difficult to express
the architectural grandeur of this city as one can only experience the aura
of these forts. Famously known as the city of Ghosts, it was built by the Great
Mughal Emperor. Fatehpur Sikri is a place worth visiting to discover how once
the city could have been which has now turned into ruins.
JAIPUR:
Jaipur the capital city of the northern Indian state of Rajasthan is one of
the most vibrant and colorful cities of India. Famous for its colorful culture,
forts, palaces, and lakes the city basks in the glory of a rich and eventful
past. Jaipur is a planned city which is made all the more attractive by the
pink wash that most buildings are periodically given. Besides, it remains the
only city in the world that symbolizes the nine divisions of the universe, through
nine rectangular sectors. The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be
traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who
ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana.
In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character
and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly
known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant
pink plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort
of Queen Victoria. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent
palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.
Sight Seeing in Jaipur
Amber fort Palace -
The Amber Fort in Rajasthan built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh, is one of the finest
examples of Rajput architecture. Perched high on a barren ridge, it commands
extensive views over a deep narrow valley and the wider plains beyond. The building
was finally completed in the early18th century when the threat of Mughal domination
was receding. Amber was once, the capital of the Mina tribes, believed to be
the original inhabitants of this region. Located up on the hills that surround
Jaipur, the fort, sprawled along the Maotha Lake, boasts of a massive complex
gateways, courts, stairways and pillared pavilions, and palaces that recall
the glory and wealth.
Hawa Mahal -
The Hawa Mahal (literal meaning, palace of the winds) is an important landmark
of the city of Jaipur, the pink city of India. It is an interesting building,
although it is actually little more than a façade. This honeycombed building
was originally built to facilitate the women of the royal household to watch
the everyday life and processions of the city.
Jantar Mantar -
Jantar Mantar is the most famous of five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh
in India. Jai Singh was a great admirer of progresses and research made in the
fields of science and technology. There is a very interesting story behind the
construction of this observatory, considered as the largest stone observatory
in the world.
City Palace -
In the heart of the city is situated the City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani
and Mughal architecture. The City Palace is marked by projecting balconies,
arches on slender pillars, and ornate entrances. The city palace has an exclusive
part devoted to the arms and ammunitions used by the royal family in the past.
PUSHKAR:
PUSHKAR - Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem - Pushkar.
Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search for his abode on earth, performed
the supremely spiritual VEDIC YAGNA at Pushkar. It is thus the site of the only
Brahma Temple in the world. Blessed with cultural blends, it is the venue for
the famous Pushkar Fair, with people coming from all over Asia to buy and sell
cattle of breeds from across the world. The consecrated mausoleum of Khawaja
Moinuddin Chisti at Ajmer attracts pilgrims from all over the world. A city
of Pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and Ghats Pushkar begets
a legacy of timeless architectural heritage. Pushkar radiates an ambience of
peace and spirituality that casts a lure to visit again and again. The Pushkar
fair is amongst the largest cattle fairs in the world and amongst the oldest
cities in India, with references in mythology and the Mahabharat. There are
52 bathing Ghats, which are linked to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake.
Each Ghat has its own miraculous qualities and powers of healing and this city
of temples has over 500 temples built over different eras with varied architectural
styles. The rose garden of Rajasthan - the essence of the famous Pushkar rose
is exported the world over.
BUNDI:
The Undiscovered Splendour at a distance from Kota is a tiny picturesque town,
Bundi, which is one of the unexplored cities, with a rich historical wealth.
Once a part of Kota, it was ruled by the Hada Chauhans - an off shoot of the
famous Chauhan clan who ruled Delhi and Ajmer. In 1193 AD, when Prithvi Raj
Chauhan was defeated by Sultan Mohammed Ghauri, some Chauhan nobles sought shelter
in Mewar and became allies to the Rana while other young warriors moved towards
the Chambal Valley and over powered the Meena and
Bhil tribals - thus establishing their own kingdom of Hadoti. Later, two branches
of Hadas formed two separate states of Kota and Bundi, on either side of the
River Chambal. Bundi is surrounded by the Aravalli hills on three sides and
is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. Monuments including impressive
medieval forts, palaces, havelis, temples with beautiful stone idols and 'chattris'
with carved pillars, along with a picturesque lake in the heart of the town,
add to its charm. Bundi is very famous for its intricate carvings and murals.
KOTA:
The city of Kota is situated at a center of the southeastern region of Rajasthan
a very region widely known as Hadaoli the land of the Hadas. Kota lies along
the banks of the Chambal river. The historical places and temples are getting
surrounded with signs of modern development. . Kota is on a high sloping tableland
forming a part of the Malwa Plateau. The Mokandarra hills run from southeast
to northwest axis of the town. The town of Kota was once the part of the erstwhile
Rajput kingdom of Bundi. It became a separate princely state in the 17th century.
Apart from the several monuments that reflect the erstwhile glory of the town,
Kota is also known for its palaces and gardens. Kota - an amazing example of
majestic medieval age and modern industrialization. Its wealth of impressive
forts, opulent palaces and splendid temples of past centuries retain their former
glory. Its present-day edifices and heavy industries have made it the industrial
heartland of Rajasthan.
CHITTAURGARH:
Chittaur echoes with the tales of romance and valour unique to the Rajput tradition.
A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts, graceful
palaces and spectacular 'chhatris'. The ascent to this awesome hill fort is
by a torturous winding road defended by seven fortified gateways with each turn
of the road having a legend of the sacrifice of a brave soldier. Particularly
touching are the cenotaphs of two teenaged Rajput chieftains Jaimal and Patta
who led the fortress' defence against the might of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
An outstanding feature of the fort is the Vijaysthambha (Tower of Victory)
profusely carved with images of gods and godesses; this nine-storied architectural
masterpiece is visible from the plains below for miles around. Chittaur's blood-soaked
earth silently screams a long history of valour, chivalry and glorious death.
THE EPITOME OF ROMANCE AND VALOUR - The pride and glory of Rajasthan,
CHITTAUR echoes with the tales of romance and valor unique to the Rajput tradition.
This is a ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts,
graceful palaces and spectacular CHATTRIS. This fortified settlement has been
ravaged thrice and each time the outcome was 'JAUHAR' -when women and children
immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre while men donned in saffron robes
of martyrdom rode out of the fort towards a certain death.
After visiting the FORT proceed to stay at the BIJAIPUR CASTLE. Overnight will
be at the CASTLE.
UDAIPUR:
By Road 150 km/4 hr
Proceed in the morning after a leisurely breakfast and reach Jodhpur.
Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with
tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar
state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs
who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive
15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125
Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with
8 gates and innumerable bastions.
Relax in the hotel and visit the museum of UMAID BHAWAN PALACE. Overnight will
be at Jodhpur.
NARLAI:
Rajasthan stark and sensuous, beckons you to its Aravalli hills, where the sheer
magic of Narlai midway between Jodhpur and Udaipur awaits you. It is situated
in an ancient dwelling, at the foot of a hill, dotted with caves and temples.
Comfortable with a period style the deluxe suites offer a homely atmosphere.
RANAKPUR:
Ranakpur is named after Rana Kumbha whom Dharna Sah, a Jain businessman, approached
when he had the vision of his great temple to ask for the land for its construction.
Renowned for some marvelously carved Jain temples in amber stone, Ranakpur is
one of the five holiest places of the Jain community and exceptional in beauty.
These temples were constructed in the AD 1439. Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan
is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to
an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges. There are four
subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and domes supported by over four
hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately
carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute
in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an interesting sight.
JODHPUR:
Founded in 1459 AD., by the Suryavanshi Rao Jodha, Jodhpur Nestling within the
depths of the Thar Desert, is the stronghold of the Rathore clan - Jodhpur,
once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar, the second largest
city of Rajasthan, The town was once known as Marwar, which means 'Land of Death',
probably, referring to the harsh desert climate. It is an island of marble palaces,
cordoned off from the desert by an immense wall, with eight gates facing different
directions. Jodhpur is one of the leading centres of wool, cattle, camels and
salt. It showcases some very fine mementoes of its glorious past - palaces,
temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value.
JAISALMER:
Jaisalmer is situated in the western most part of the state of Rajasthan, the
heart of the great Thar Desert. It’s neighboring Pakistan on its western
side. Over the years the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched
by outside influences and even during the days of Raj, Jaisalmer was the last
sign the instrument of agreement with the British. Jaisalmer is a marvel of
beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable
experience. The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according
to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote
descendent of the Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill.
His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the
Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a
new capital -Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.
BIKANER:
The city was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the
name Bikaner. Royal walled city is a part of the desert tourist triangle and
lies on the northern tip of the triangle. The city was founded in 1486 AD by
the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner. Bikaji was son of Rao
Jodhaji who had asked his son to establish a kingdom of his own. The challenge
was accepted and Bikaji choose the wild country 'Jangaldesh' as his territory
and thus the city of Bikaner came into existence. The city is surrounded by
great walls, and dotted with many sand dunes. Bikaner retains the medieval splendor
the pervades the city's lifestyle. More popularly called the camel country.
The city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. Bikaner is famous
Carpet-weaving and blanker making center, also known for pottery making and
the manufacture of sugar candy.
MANDAWA:
The medieval Fort of Mandawa gradually rises on the horizon like a mirage. A
breathtaking view of the town can be seen from the terrace of Castle Mandawa.
Precious collection of arms with jade handles, traditional ceremonial costumes
can be seen at the Museum at the Castle. The havelies worth a visit are Chokhani,
Saraf, Goenka and Ladia in this town. Built in 1775 by Thakur Nawal Singh, descendant
of Rao Shekhaji, who also founded the city of Nawalgarh. The Castle, now a 51
rooms hotel has no two rooms alike. It also houses an interesting collection
of paintings, jade, costumes and antiques. The courtyard and the terrace come
to live during evenings with candle-lit dinners and fire-dances during the season.
A two hundred and forty year old fortess, that has been converted by the family
into a fine example of traditional hospitality.
Royal & Rustic Rajasthan Tour, Rajasthan
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