Itinerary
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| SEPTEMBER 16, 2023: DELHI |
Arrive in Delhi. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building, after which you will be transferred to your hotel for 2-night stay. Later in the evening, visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib to imbibe the Sikh spirit of Seva. It is one of the most prominent shrines of the Sikh Community, and before the pandemic used to see over 12 lakh visitors every year. Participate in a Seva which translates to selfless service and is central to the Sikh faith. "One who performs selfless service, without thought of reward, shall attain his Lord and Master". Overnight stay at the centrally located hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 17, 2023: DELHI |
This morning after breakfast, visit the only heritage park of Delhi – Sunder Nursery. You will be guided by a youth from the local community who is trained to lead the walk about restoration project done by Aga Khan Foundation. You will also get to spend some time in the Sunday farmer’s market and see the most innovative artisanal products made by the new generation of India. Post your sightseeing in New Delhi, we take you back in time for sight-sensing in Old Delhi. As you arrive at the by-lanes of Old Delhi, you will time travel with our expert to an era and discover the City of Cities. You will walk through the lively lanes of Chandni Chowk and hear the stories of many Kings, Warriors, Poets, and Religions that have all contributed to the becoming of India’s national capital. You will also visit Jama Masjid, drive past the Red Fort Wall, explore Asia’s largest Spice market, and many more wondrous places, the walk unravels the story of Delhi’s fascinating past and present through its pleasant and persevering people.
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| SEPTEMBER 18, 2023: DELHI ~ BIKANER |
Early this morning, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Bikaner at 9:30 AM. You will be met upon arrival in Bikaner at 11:00 AM and transferred to your hotel. Bikaner’s history dates back to 1488 when a young princeling, Rao Bika – the second son of the Jodhpur clan leader, broke away from his family’s ancient legacy and sought to establish his own lineage. The site he chose was rather peculiarly called ‘Jungladesh’ and was an uncontested barren outcrop of land. Through the centuries, the city-state grew to evolve into a poster-child of competence and able governance through the agency of some exceptional Maharajas and their ministers who advanced an idea of welfare and development that was notable for its time. In a more modern context, the descendants of the founding father Bika – from whose name has derived the city-state Bikaner, served India with aplomb and integrity as sterling examples of benevolent Maharajas, as outstanding Generals in the Indian army, as politicians who steered young and tentative democracy and, as sportsmen who shone brightly on international platforms. Later in the day take a short tour of visiting the old Havelis of merchants. The city thrived due to its prime location along the caravan routes between Western and Central Asia. Enriched by this bountiful trade the nobles and the merchants of Bikaner built palaces, Havelis, and temples in red sandstone that stand pristine to date. End your day with the rooftop poolside dinner, and the food is inspired by the Muslim cuisine of Bikaner. Overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 19, 2023: BIKANER ~ JAISALMER |
This morning, drive to the Golden city of Jaisalmer (approx. 5 - 6 hrs. drive). It is named so because of its magnificent yellow sandstone structures and is an artistic marvel in the midst of the arid desert. The splendid palaces and Havelis with intricate carvings, latticed windows, and 'jharokas' or balconies, showcase the artistry of the Rajasthani stonemasons at their best. The ancient fort is still a living one, as a busy township buzzes within its walls. The 'Land of Sands' owes its name to Maharaja Jaisal of the Bhatti Rajput clan who built the city in 1156. Once an important trade center, strategically located on the caravan trade route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, Jaisalmer saw a golden era from the 12th century onwards. The erstwhile rulers grew rich by looting gems, silk, and opium from the caravans, but by the 16th century, Jaisalmer became relatively peaceful with the rulers and traders competing against each other to showcase their newfound wealth. This resulted in the construction of grand palaces and huge Havelis. Upon arrival check in at the luxury hotel Suryagarh. Later enjoy a sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer. Visit Jaisalmer Fort, the main attraction of this picturesque desert city. Built in 1156, it is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Visit the intricately carved havelis or mansions, like Salim Singh ki Haveli and Patwon ki Haveli. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 20, 2023: JAISALMER ~ JODHPUR |
This morning, visit the Girl's school which is an architectural masterpiece and provides a haven for young girls to follow their dreams. In a state like Rajasthan, where the literacy rate is barely 32%, this school aims to bestow young girls and their mothers with a bright tomorrow while promoting sustainability. Continue driving to the blue city of Jodhpur (around a 5 - 6 hrs. drive). The second largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur has been the hub of Marwari traders since time immemorial. The Mehrangarh Fort rises dramatically out of the rugged mountainside and is surrounded by the blue-washed houses that dominate the city's landscape. Started in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort compound has various later structures that are more ornate and decorative - the Phool Mahal, Takhat Mahal, Moti Mahal and Jhanki Mahal. Jodhpur brings to mind a bygone era with its old Havelis, bustling bazaars, and loads of rustic charm. The enigmatic city that was once the capital of Marwar state has been on the Rajasthan tourist circuit for the last two decades now. Its merchant class, the Marwaris dominate the business sector not only in Rajasthan, but across India. Jodhpur is divided into two sections, the Old City, well fortified by a long high wall, and the New City where you can find restaurants and big markets. Upon arrival check in at the Raas Jodhpur overlooking the Mehrangarh Fort. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 21, 2023: JODHPUR |
Set off with your guide to explore the city of Jodhpur during this half-day tour. Start your tour at the 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, set on a dramatic escarpment overlooking the walled city where many buildings are painted in the iconic shade of blue. Inside the fort are a number of palaces that are equally interesting to visit. Next move on to Jaswant Thada, a beautiful white-marble memorial dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II; a peaceful place with stunning views over the city. Later visit the Umaid Bhawan. It is the monumental palace built in the 50s when the royal family of Jodhpur moved out of Mehrangarh. Their living quarters take up half of the palace and the Umaid Bhawan Hotel takes up another quarter. As such, not much of the palace is accessible to the public, but the few rooms that are open, as part of the palace museum, are worth a visit. Return to the hotel. Later enjoy the culinary tour lead by the chef. He will take you around the grain, spice, vegetable, and pulse markets, showing you where all the food at the restaurants is sourced and giving you a taste of how fresh your dinner is! It is a lovely way to explore the city, accompanied by an old hand who knows where all the best food is to be found. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 22, 2023: JODHPUR ~ JAWAI |
Drive to Jawai today (2.5 hrs. drive). SUJÁN JAWAI derives its name from the seasonal Jawai river, which flows through this remarkable landscape, in the heart of Godwar, Rajasthan, and empties itself into the Jawai Bandh, one of the largest reservoirs in the state. A dramatic backdrop of granite hills and kopjes, dated over 850 million years old, situated between rich agrarian fields, sand rivers, scrubland, and patches of light forest surround our pioneering, luxury tented camp which is set on its own private wilderness. The camp is located equidistant between the medieval Rajput kingdoms of Jodhpur and Udaipur, which makes this unique and otherwise remote wilderness very accessible to travelers. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the surroundings.
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| SEPTEMBER 23, 2023: JAWAI ~ DELWARA |
Early this morning, enjoy your first drive into the wilderness. This experience is defined by the magical intermingling of wildlife and rural village life that coexisted peacefully side by side for centuries. While leopards are the predominant iconic species in the area, you may also see antelope, hyenas, crocodiles, and several other smaller mammals. The area is also home to over 250 species of birds, from the migratory greater flamingos and sarus cranes to resident raptors and bee-eaters, it is a bird's paradise. Encounters with wildlife are punctuated by engagements with local communities and a deep immersion into the local culture. After the drive, return to the lodge. Post breakfast drive to the village of Delwara (approx. 3 hrs). On the way visit the intricately carved Jain temples at Ranakpur. Upon arrival check-in at the Raas Devigarh. The remainder of the day is at leisure to indulge in the wellness offerings. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 24, 2023: DELWARA ~ UDAIPUR ~ DELWARA |
Take an excursion to Udaipur, today. Popular as the lake city, Udaipur is a beautiful, and relatively quiet, Rajasthani city. You will visit the City Palace, still home to Udaipur’s king, which will help to situate the city within its impressive history. City Palace is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it was originally made up of 11 palaces constructed over four centuries of successive rulers it is well-known for the uniformity of its design. Once used solely as a royal residence, the mass of towers, balconies, and gardens now house two restaurants, Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel, City Palace Museum, and Crystal Gallery. Visit the Taj Lake Palace hotel. Time permitting visit another hotel. Return to your retreat. Dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 25, 2023: DELWARA ~ UDAIPUR ~ JAIPUR |
Early morning at 04:30 hrs, transfer to the railway station (1 hr drive) to board the train to Jaipur at 06:00 hrs. Please note as of now Udaipur to Jaipur flight is not showing in the system, if it operates closer to the dates, we shall include the flight and advise the supplement. Arrive in Jaipur at 13:40 hrs. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel Raj Mahal Palace Raas Jaipur. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 26, 2023: JAIPUR |
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit the magnificent Amber Fort and its surroundings. Also included is a photo visit at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes, and spires. Situated on a ridge on the outskirts of the city, the fort-palace complex of Amber (also known as Amer) is surrounded by fortified battlements overlooking Maota Lake. Known for its artistic style, it blends both Hindu and Mughal elements, as seen in its large ramparts, monuments, and series of imposing gates and cobbled pathways. Highlights include the Shila Devi Temple (dedicated to goddess Kali) with its silver doors, the glass mosaics of the Mirror Palace, and the filigreed marble windows in the Jas Mandir. Also, visit the Anokhi Museum of hand printing. Continue the tour to meet the practitioner of 2500-year-old art and experience the love and innocence hidden by simply building a conversation with them. Learn the craft of hand-knotting sitting on the mud-filled veranda. Indulge yourself in the rustic charm of villages from Rajasthan by seeing old architecture, and pottery. Experience the most authentic homemade food. Return to the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 27, 2023: JAIPUR |
This morning, visit the City Palace, home to generations of Jaipur royalty. Our next stop for the day is the Jantar Mantar or Observatory built between 1728 and 1734. It is an architectural and astronomical marvel which was far ahead of its time. The city tour will also include a short rickshaw tour led by a not-for-profit organization that aims to provide a new aspirational employment opportunity to 200 women from low-income households in Jaipur. Skilled to ply custom-designed e-rickshaws, they have enrolled as equity holders in the Pink City Rickshaw Co. that they now proudly own and manage. Return to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 28, 2023: JAIPUR ~ AGRA |
Early this morning check out from the hotel and drive to Agra (approx 5 - 6 hrs drive). Upon arrival check-in at one of the most beautiful hotels with a view of the Taj Mahal from every room. After freshen-up, visit the architectural marvel in marble - The Taj Mahal (remains closed on Fridays). The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 29, 2023: AGRA ~ DELHI |
Enjoy your time at the hotel until check-out. Some of you may want to take a Taj Nature walk to get wonderful views of the luxury Taj Mahal. There is a trail along the Yamuna River which stretches around nine kilometers and includes numerous viewpoints. The Taj Nature Walk can be easily reached when staying at The Oberoi Amarvilas. Later check out from the hotel and you will be driven to Delhi and return to The Oberoi New Delhi for the last night in Delhi. Farewell dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
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| SEPTEMBER 30, 2023: DEPART DELHI |
In time transfer to the airport to board your flight back home.
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INCLUSIVE & IMMERSIVE
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| HERITAGE |
RESTORATION PROJECT IN DELHI
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| TASTE THE CULTURE |
AUTHENTIC SPECIALLY CURATED MEALS
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| MARVEL AT: |
ARCHITECTURAL MARBLE IN AGRA
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SUSTAINABLE
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| PARTICIPATE IN: |
TREE PLANTATION ACTIVITY
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| VISIT: |
KNOTS OF EMPOWERMENT IN JAIPUR
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