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Out Travel
Details
- 12 nights
- From $3790 AUD
- Departing 14 September 2013, 20 April 2014
Destination
- Asia
- India
- Gay men and Lesbians
-
Tour #409
Type
India in Style
* Exclusive Small Group Tour hosted by Out Travel
We give you a peak into India in the lap of Luxury, using the exclusive TAJ Palace Hotels. Wonderful locations, stunning architecture, elegant furnishings, superb service and sumptuous food ensure that they are not just places to 'stay', but will remain a highlight of your visit to India. This exclusive journey through North India will show the cultural diversity, wealth and beauty of its people and landscapes. Enjoy safety, comfort and personalised service, as you explore one of the oldest civilisations in the world.
Overview
Gifted with natural beauty and rich history, Rajasthan is a popular tourist destination in India. Rajasthan is situated in the north west of India and is known as the most colourful region of India. The landscape of Rajasthan is very gorgeous and the people adorn interesting customs. Witness to a great royal past, Rajasthan is endowed with extraordinary forts and palaces. The landscape has its own variety from lofty hills to simmering sand dunes, thus contributing different tourist attractions of nature and wildlife. It has strange combination in all its forms - people, customs, culture, attires, music and cuisine.
Host
Join Reece Farmilo, Director of Out Travel as we explore the beauty of Rajasthan. Along with our local guides we visit many of the historical sites including the famed Taj Mahal. Our tour will be seemless from the moment you step of the plane in Delhi until the sad day of your departure from India. During the 13 day tour we sill stay in my favourite hotels and marvel in their grandeur and style. Please join this once in a life time experience.
Hotels
3 nights Delhi - Taj Mahal (Luxury Room)
1 night Agra - The Oberoi Amarvilas (Premier Room)
3 nights Jaipur - The Rambagh Palace (Palace Room)
2 nights Jodhpur - Umaid Bhawan Palace (Palace Room)
3 nights Udaipur - Taj Lake Palace (Palace Room)
Inclusions
THE TOUR PRICE INCLUDES: -
• 12 Nights Accommodation on Twin sharing basis at hotels mentioned or similar
• Accommodation will be on Bed & Breakfast basis at all the hotels + 01 welcome Dinner at Bukhara Restaurant.
• All transfers, sightseeing, excursion & en-route using One air conditioned Tempo Traveller as per the detailed itinerary
• Services of English speaking local guide during sightseeing as per program.
• Rickshaw Ride (02 Pax Per Rickshaw) at Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi
• Decorated Tonga ride (03 Pax Per Tonga) up to the gate of Taj Mahal.
• 01 Exclusive boat ride at Lake Pichola
• All road taxes, parking fee, fuel charges, interstate taxes.
• Assistance on arrival and departure by Cox & Kings representative.
• All currently applicable taxes including 2.575% service tax which has been shown separately
Not Included
THE TOUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE: -
• Expense of personal nature like tipping, laundry, and telephone/fax calls, alcoholic beverages, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure tax etc.
• Meals other than those specified above.
• Any non alcoholic or alcoholic beverages.
• Anything, which is not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Optional activities (Supplement quoted separately)
• Any International or Domestic airfares
• Any accommodation in Delhi/ Mumbai during the end of the tour
Important Notes
• 02 bottles of Mineral water on route during city drives with our compliments
• Fruits, Nuts & Cookies on route during city drives with our compliments
• Wet Tissue with our compliments
• Shoe Cover during Taj Mahal visit with our compliments
Weather Conditions
In September, the month of your tour the maximum and minimum temperature could vary between 34 degrees C to minimum 27 degrees C approximately.
Tipping
In India it is quite common to tip and in general all staff in your hotels, guides etc usually accept this token of appreciation gracefully. Usually an individual tip comprises of 1-2 USD per person however it is at the discretion of the guest and is a completely a personal choice.
Itinerary
| Day 1 | Arrive Delhi | You will arrive in the evening at New Delhi International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, a Cox & Kings representative will meet you as you EXIT the ARRIVALS TERMINAL building after which you would be transferred to your hotel (Check-in time 1400 hrs). Area Information Delhi India's capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its fold the ancient and the modern. One of the most historic capitals in the world, Delhi is a treasure trove that reveals the ultimate combination of tradition and trends. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors, which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles. Its many-layered existence is tantalising and can entice the curious traveller into a fascinating journey of discovery. Overnight in Delhi Meals: None |
| Day 2 | Delhi | Excursion: Full day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi This morning enjoy a combined sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. You will head for a guided city tour of the Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad’, founded by one of the greatest Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Your introduction to the city will be with a visit to Raj Ghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive past Red Fort - the magical monument in red sandstone, built at the pinnacle of the Mogul empire. From here proceed in bicycle rickshaws through the bustling streets to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in Asia built by Shahjahan. Afternoon guided tour of New Delhi. Visit India Gate - War Memorial Arch, Qutab Minar (Tower of Victory) - built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India and Humayun’s Tomb - the first great example of a new distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty. Also drive past the Rashtrapati Bhawan – the President’s Residence, the Parliament House – the Government headquarters and other Government buildings. Return back to the hotel in the evening. Overnight in Delhi Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 3 | Delhi | Full day at leisure for independent activities [No transport services included] Dinner at the Bukhara Restaurant. Known the world over, Bukhara brings alive the rustic flavours of the north-west frontier cuisine that is traditionally prepared in a clay ‘tandoor’ oven. This local hotspot with mounted Bukhara carpets and hanging copper vessels has Flintstones–style decor, with stone walls and mock log-top tables. In a busy display kitchen, chefs slave to produce delicacies from a menu that hasn't changed in over 25 years. The best way to experience Bukhara's internationally celebrated cuisine is to order an assorted kebab platter. Follow that up with any of the classic lamb (raan) dishes, best savoured with thin butter nanas. Finish off with a traditional rice-based phirni pudding or one of their amazing kulfis (ice cream). Overnight in Delhi Meals: Breakfast & Welcome Dinner |
| Day 4 | Agra | Morning you will be met at your hotel and transferred to railway station for your train to Agra, Train journey from Delhi to Agra Departure Delhi At: 0615 hours Train Shatabdi Express-12002 Arrival Agra At: 0812 hours With Packed Breakfast Upon arrival in Agra, you will be met at railway station and taken for visit to Agra Fort and later check-in at the hotel as check-in time at the hotel is 1400 hours Area Information Agra Welcome to Agra – globally renowned as the home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces in Agra is a vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. Agra was their capital for nearly a hundred years from 1564. A pleasant town, with a comparatively easy pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by artisans who are hereditary craft persons. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes. Excursion: Visit to Agra Fort Upon arrival proceed for a visit to the Agra Fort. Few forts in the world have a more fascinating story to tell than the Great Fort of Agra, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Originally planned as an impregnable military structure by Akbar, the Agra Fort, over a period of time, acquired all the elegance, lavishness and majesty of an imperial palace. Situated 1 km upstream of the Taj Mahal, on the right bank of the Yamuna, the Agra fort was built under the direction of Akbar, by Mohammed Quasim Khan, his commander-in-Chief and Governor of Kabul and added to by his son Jehangir and grandson Shahjahan. An imposing structure with walls of red sandstone, almost 3 kilometres (two miles) long. The eastern part of the fort (the only part open to visitors) contains palaces, audience halls and mosques built by all the three emperors. The fort presents a good sampling of their favoured architectural styles. The Diwan-i-am (public audience hall) once housed the fabled peacock throne, which incorporated virtually all the important gems of the imperial treasury. The beautiful Diwan-i-khas (private audience hall) and the magnificent Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) are other attractions within the fort. Later check-in at your hotel Rest of the day at leisure in the city of Love for independent activities Excursion: Evening sunset visit to the Taj Mahal Taj Mahal - Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. There are tombs of Mumtaz and Shahjahan within the mausoleum. Done in white marble, it took 22 years and over 20,000 workers and craftsmen to complete this rhapsody in stone (1630-52 AD). The main structure is set amidst landscaped gardens. While on three sides it is surrounded by high walls, the rear is bound by the river Yamuna. Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding. You will have ample time to view and be mesmerized by this outstanding piece of architecture. Enjoy an exciting Tonga (horse carriage) ride to the mesmerizing Taj Mahal at sunrise. Referred to as one of the wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. A symphony in white marble, a tribute to eternal love, it was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Overnight in Agra Meals: Packed Breakfast |
| Day 5 | Agra - Jaipur | Road journey Morning you will be driven to pink city of Jaipur (230 kms / 7 hrs approx) enroute visit to the deserted city Fatehpur Sikri Located 50 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 in honour of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chisti. It was the Mughal capital for 14 years after which it was abandoned due to paucity of water. It is made of red sandstone and combines influences from both Hindu and Mughal architecture. Even to this day, the entrance to the fort is through the road that Akbar built which leads to the Buland Darwaza, a huge 54 metres gateway. Other inspiring monuments in Fatehpur Sikri are the Hiran Minar that Akbar built in memory of his favourite elephant, Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Birbal's House and the Diwan-i-Khas. Following visit, continue drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival proceed for check-in at your hotel. Area Information Jaipur The vibrant capital of Rajasthan renowned for its forts and palaces is popularly known as the ‘Pink City’ because of the pink-colored buildings in its old city. An ideal base for touring the royal state, the city has the distinction of being the third jewel of India's "Golden Triangle". Its main claim to fame is that it is India's first 'planned' city built by the famous 18th century astronomer King Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is not only the gateway to the state; it is also the most natural place to begin a discovery of Rajasthan's multifaceted attractions. Its beautiful buildings including the City Palace, Amer Fort and the landmark Hawa Mahal are truly worth seeing. Browsing through the markets in Jaipur, where skilled craftsmen display jewellery, paintings, carvings and colourful textiles, is an enjoyable experience for tourists. Overnight in Jaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 6 | Jaipur | Excursion: Full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur city including Amber Fort This morning, proceed on a full day excursion commencing with a photo stop 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. Continue on drive to the ancient capital of Amer to see the fabulous Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding area. Following your visit to Amber, enjoy a tour of the Pink City, an “abode of rajahs”. The highlights of the tour include a visit to the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes, and armoury of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiselled handles. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It 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. Proceed to the awe inspiring Jantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century. End the tour with a rickshaw ride in the colourful bazaar of the old city. Overnight in Jaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 7 | Jaipur | Full day at leisure for independent activities Overnight in Jaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 8 | Jaipur - Jodhpur | Road journey Morning you will be driven to Blue City of Jodhpur (330 kms / 7 ½ hrs approx). Upon arrival proceed for check-in at your hotel Area Information: Jodhpur Jodhpur, also called the "Blue City" located on the edge of the Thar Desert was once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar state founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan; the monuments temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur. It is still a marvellously medieval city. While the graceful palaces, forts and temples bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza. Rest of the day would be at leisure. Overnight in Jodhpur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 9 | Jodhpur | Excursion: Morning half day sightseeing tour of Jodhpur City Morning proceed to visit magnificent Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan's finest forts, looks down protectively over the city, from the hilltop. Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. There are seven gates that lead into the fort. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace apartments with marvellously 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. The Chamunda Devi Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga, stands on the southern end of the fort. Continue your tour to 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. Following sightseeing tour, return back to your hotel. Overnight in Jodhpur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 10 | Jodhpur - Udaipur | Road Journey: Morning your will be driven to city of Lakes (266 kms / 7 hrs approx). En-route visit Ranakpur Jain Temples Excursion: Visit to Ranakpur Jain Temples Ranakpur Complex which holds an exceptional beauty, and makes for a convenient stop between Jodhpur and Udaipur. Deep in the forest, tucked away in a remote and quite valley of the Aravalli Range, some 90km from Udaipur is Ranakpur. It boasts of some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. The main shrine of Adinath, with its 1444 exquisitely carved columns is the largest and most complex Jain temple in the country. Two Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little distance away are also noteworthy. Following visit, continue drive to Udaipur. Upon arrival proceed for check-in at your hotel. Area Information: Udaipur Udaipur – the ‘City of Lakes’. It is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The chequered history of Mewar is showcased in the city of Udaipur, which is akin to an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan. It is a rich and beguiling tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, temples, havelis and gardens, reflecting the varied influences of the centuries. Also called ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is located in the Aravalli ranges of the royal state of Rajasthan. Surrounded by ancient mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, it is a beautiful old city with narrow lanes meandering through it. Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities Overnight in Udaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 11 | Udaipur | Excursion: Morning half day sightseeing tour of Udaipur city This morning, you will proceed on a half day city tour. Commence your tour with a visit to the City Palace which stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Built in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Its main entrance is through a triple arched gate, the Tripolia, built in 1725. The gate leads to a series of courtyards, corridors and gardens. Continue on to Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour), a small ornamental garden which was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the name. The garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiselled kiosks and marble elephants. Afternoon at leisure Excursion: Evening Exclusive boat ride at Lake Pichola Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Pichola. The picturesque lake, that entranced Maharaja Udai Singh and inspired him to build Udaipur. The lake is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and embankments. Two island palaces, Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) on the lake are of breathtaking magnificence. Overnight in Udaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 12 | Udaipur | Full day at leisure for independent activities [No transport services included] Overnight in Udaipur Meals: Breakfast |
| Day 13 | Departure | Morning will be free at leisure (check out at 1200 hrs). Meals: Breakfast |