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INTRODUCTION
Rajasthan claims to be India's most beautiful state. One of its best kept secrets is its unusual hotels converted from castles, palaces, forts and ornate havelis, many of which are still home to India's oldest monarchies. India's second largest state, Rajasthan was once remarkably prosperous with traders from as far afield as Persia and China crossing its dry plains to reach India's southern ports.
You will be introduced to its history and culture as we travel in comfort through this fascinating country on a tour that includes a touch of adventure and designed for the discerning traveller.
There is a certain magic about travelling through Rajasthan which differs from any other place in the world. Herds of camels move slowly across the yellow desert sands; graceful women balance brass pots for fetching water; stark fortresses stand on deserted hills and enchanting doorways are gaily painted with elephants and peacocks. Everything here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and fascinating.
Adding another dimension to this holiday is a visit to Amritsar to see the spectacular Golden Temple. This is the spiritual and cultural centre and pilgrimage place of the Sikh religion. Visitors are bound to be impressed by its stupendous beauty and peacefulness. We also witness the Flag Ceremony on the India/Pakistan border.
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| Dates: |
29 October - 13 November 2012 |
| Price ex-Heathrow: |
£3500.00 |
| Single supplement: |
£800.00 |
| Business Class upgrade: |
on request |
| Grade: |
Easy [E] More info |
| Availability: |
Places available |
| Book this holiday now |
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HIGHLIGHTS
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Holiday Highlights
- Combination of luxury, adventure, sightseeing and walking
- Explore rural Rajasthan
- Stay at unique privately-owned palaces and castles
- Taj Mahal
- Red Fort of Agra
- Samode Bagh
- Amber Fort
- Aravilli Hills
- Deogarh Hills
- Temples of Ranakpur
- Fortress of Kumbalgarh
- Udaipur - Lake Pichola and City Palace
- Golden Temple in Amritsar
- Indian/Pakistan border Flag Ceremony
- Visit Old Delhi
This holiday offers a combination of culture, exceptionally high quality hotels, sightseeing and guided walks that include rural communities, temples, villages and nature reserves. In Rajasthan we travel along a route that takes us from Delhi to Agra, Ranthambor National Park to visit the tiger reserve and view other wildlife, remote villages of Samode and Deogarh, Kumbalgarh, Jaipur and Udaipur. Whilst the tour includes well-known destinations such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur and Udaipur, we visit fascinating areas including that were formerly forts and palaces, now converted to hotels, and located in remote rural villages and surrounded by tribal lands well off the beaten track, where the architecture is stunning and the sights spectacular. After our journey through Rajasthan we visit Amritsar.
We fly from the UK to Delhi. Our journey in Rajasthan will be in our own private coach with a driver and local guide, with internal flights from Udaipur to Amritsar and Amritsar to Delhi.
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ITINERARY { B = breakfast L = lunch D = dinner } |
Day 1 - Monday 29th October 2012 - Outbound flight
Depart from London Heathrow/ Manchester with Emirates via Dubai for the flight to Delhi
Day 2 - Tuesday 30th October 2012 - Delhi
Met on arrival by our agents, Cox & Kings. Assistance with arrival formalities. Transfer by private coach to The Claridges, Delhi.
Free time. Welcome reception followed by dinner and overnight at The Claridges, Deluxe rooms. Delhi. D
Day 3 - Wednesday 31st October 2012 - Delhi / Agra
After a leisurely breakfast, leave Delhi and our private coach takes us to Agra (205km / 4h30). At the time of the Moghuls in the 16th & 17th Century, Agra was the capital of India and its superb monuments date from that era.
On arrival in Agra transfer to the Trident Hotel where we can relax beside their outdoor swimming pool and enjoy optional afternoon tea.
In the afternoon, visit the Agra Fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. This original red sandstone fort was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Later Emperor Shahjahan added the Marble Palaces within. It is a magnificent citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves and terrace pavilions The fort is also known as Lal Quila, Fort Rouge and Red Fort of Agra. The great Mughals Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb lived here and the country was governed from here. It contained the largest state treasury and mint. It was visited by foreign ambassadors, travellers and the highest dignitaries who participated in the making of history in India.
Return back to hotel.
Dinner and overnight at the Trident Hotel, Agra - Deluxe Garden Rooms. BD
Day 4 - Thursday 1st November 2012 - Agra (Taj Mahal), Samode
Early morning visit to the Taj Mahal, the greatest monument to love and devotion. The Taj is amazingly graceful from almost any angle but it is the beautiful patterns of semi-precious stones inlaid into the marble which are most astounding.
The Taj Mahal is all that has been said about it and more. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried 200 miles away and was transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, in mid 17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. 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.
Return to hotel for buffet breakfast.
Morning you will be driven to Samode; a journey of about 270 kms/ 7-8 approx hrs drive. En route visiting Fatehpur Sikir (the abandoned city).
Located 40 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 Samode (200 kms / 5 hrs drive apporx). Along the way, we stop for photographic opportunities as requested by the group.
Check-in at Samode Bagh for three nights.
Samode Bagh is a garden paradise situated 4km from Samode Palace, nestled on 20 acres of beautiful grounds combines warmth and luxury, an atmosphere that is quiet, relaxed & elegant. It is a romantic hideaway where you can be as active or contemplative as you wish. Samode Bagh offers a unique experience of an air-conditioned tented camp where the dune coloured tents are luxuriously furnished with every comfort. The garden is about three blocks long and is enclosed by a 15ft high stone wall. A 200ft long row of fountains fed from natural springs and wells are displayed all along the garden. Victorian and traditional Rajasthani décor echo life in a 16th century luxury camp.
Dinner at the hotel. Overnight Samode Bagh - Deluxe Rooms. BD
Day 5 - Friday 2nd November 2012 - Samode
After a leisurely breakfast we trek about 8km through rural countryside and villages, including a visit to a farm to meet the family and enjoy their hospitality of morning tea. The walks ends at the Samode Bagh's sister hotel, the Samode Palace, one of India's most charming and romantic hotels, where we are given a conducted tour and learn of it's history. Return to Samode Bagh by coach. Optional lunch at our hotel.
Free time in the afternoon to soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy optional afternoon tea in the gardens or swim in the pool.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Samode Bagh.Deluxe Room. BD
Day 6 - Saturday 3rd November 2012 - Samode
This morning we go on a Jeep Safari to further explore local villages and the farming communities returning to Samode Bagh for optional lunch. Free time in the afternoon.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Samode Bagh. Deluxe Room. BD
Day 7 - Sunday 4th November 2012 - Jaipur, Deogargh
Early start and head for Jaipur, the City of Victory and founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It is a well-planned city, built from rose-coloured terracotta, which has given it the name 'Pink City'. Its bazaars teem with people, camels, horses and a multitude of vehicles.
This morning, proceed on an excursion to Amber Fort commencing with a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal, otherwise known as the Palace of the Winds: an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to sit and observe life going on in the streets below. Amber Fort is the ancient capital of the region, now a deserted complex, it still recalls its heydays in the majestic ramparts rising steeply along the contoured hillsides. Ride by elephant to the stately splendor of the main Palace, where a local guide explains the history of this beautiful complex.
Drive to Deogarh (280km / 6h30 hours). A long, but interesting drive, stopping for optional lunch or snack. Deogarh is a small village where we stay for three nights at the spectacular hilltop fort of Deogarh Mahal, which dominates the delightful small town nestling in the Aravalli Hills. These rugged, rocky hills are dotted with a number of old, majestic forts and more than 100 lakes. When we arrive at Deogarh, we make our way to the hotel by open jeep, with our luggage taken by cart, as the streets of the town are too narrow for large vehicles.
Check in to the Deogarh Mahal for two nights.
Deogarh Mahal was converted into a hotel by the present owner Rawat Nahar Singh. A part of the Mahal is still occupied by his family who personally supervise and monitor the on goings. The care is reflected in the minutest details which have made Deogarh a benchmark of Heritage Hospitality in Rajasthan. Every guest here is special and is treated with the customary Mewari hospitality.
Every room in the hotel reflects a different era, Gokul Ajara, Moti Mahal and Ranjit Prakash room dates back to 1670AD, and the decor reflects the Rajput era. With its domed ceiling, the Jog Maya Mahal or temple room enshrines the family deity.
The hotel features a swimming pool and heated Jacuzzi and a team from Kerala is available to provide relaxing and therapeutic Ayurvedic massage.
Dinner in the hotel's open-air restaurant in the ramparts overlooking the town.
Overnight Deogarh Mahal. Deluxe Suite.
BD
Day 8 - Monday 5th November 2012 - Deogargh
Short drive by jeep to the start point for today's trek in the hills including Gokal Garh Fort and the Shiva cave temple at Anjana Mahadeoji.
Anjana Mahadoeji temple is a Shiva shrine ensconced in a huge rock cavern. It has two "lingams"; one is natural (swayambhu) and the other has been placed there. This is what makes it different from other temples. Also entering the dark cave with only the shrine lit up by lamps.. It is a revered shrine of the area and you find a lot of people thronging to it, specially on Mondays and on Shivratri.
The temple priests who took "live samadhi" are buried in the cenotaph which was erected for the purpose (our guide will explain) The Garh stands on a hill offering commanding views of the surrounding rocky countryside and the neighboring Aravalli Hills. Picnic lunch. Return to the hotel by jeep.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Deogarh Mahal. Deluxe Suite. BLD
Day 9 - Tuesday 6th November 2012 - Kumbalgarh
Drive to Ghanero, meet up with local guide and start today's circular walk in the surrounding hills to visit tribal villages and farming communities. Three hours walking. Return to Ghanero where our coach will be waiting to take us to Kumbalgarh.
Check in at Aodhi Kumbalgarh. Optional lunch in the hotel. Free time in the afternoon.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Aodhi Kumbalgarh, where we stay for two nights. Deluxe Rooms. BD
Day 10 - Wednesday 7th November 2012 - Kumbalgarh
Nature is surprisingly different in this part of Rajasthan with rocky hills and lots of greenery. Starting from the hotel, and accompanied by a local guide, we follow a well-defined footpath through wilderness area which,for the first part of the walk, is mainly downhill. Wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and as we enter a narrow fertile valley where cultivation by local hill tribes includes sugarcane and other staple foods are being cultivated. Look out for old Persian water wheels driven by oxen. The walk, approximately five hours, ends at Ghanero, where our coach will be waiting to drive us back to the hotel at Kumbalgarh. Picnic lunch.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Aodhi Kumbalgarh - Deluxe Rooms. BLD
Day 11 - Thursday 8th November 2012 - Kumbalgarh / Udaipur
Early morning visit to Kumbalgarh Fort, strategically located on a 1100m high hilltop and impressive for its location with splendid views. During the walk we explore huge ramparts and a wealth of temples, palaces and gardens. After about two hours exploring the fort we set off on a stunning drive through the Arravali Hills to Ranakpur, where we stop for optional lunch and visit the Jain Temples.
Ranakpur boasts some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country and are famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. It is one of the holiest Jain sites of India. Nestled on the banks of the river Maghai and surrounded by mountains, Ranakpur's beauty is accentuated by its seclusion. The main Chaumukha (four faced) temple was built in 1439 and is dedicated to the first Enlightened One, Adinatha Rishabdeva. An inscription traces its origin to the reign of Rana Kumbha. Erected on a raised platform, it is surrounded by 66 subsidiary shrines. It has 1444 beautifully carved pillars, of which no two are alike.
The drive from Kumbalgarh to Udaipur is about two hours. Check in at the Fatehgarh Palace Hotel, where we stay for two nights.
Udaipur - "City of Dreams" is often referred to as the most romantic city in India. In contrast to some of its desert neighbours, it presents an enchanting image of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes and green hills, and is an oasis of colour in a stark and arid region.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight at the Fatehgarh Palace Hotel, Udaipur. Renaissance Rooms. BD
Day 12 - Friday 9th November 2012 - Udaipur
Morning sightseeing of this wonderfully romantic city set on the banks of Lake Pichola, including the City Palace with its superb museum, paintings and glasswork. On completion of the visit, time has been allowed to browse the local art and craft shops or to have a leisurely mid-morning coffee. Return to the hotel. Optional lunch either in Udaipur or hotel.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight at the Fatehgarh Palace Hotel, Udaipur. Renaissance Rooms. BD
Day 13 - Saturday 10th November 2012 - Udaipur / Amritsar
Transfer to the airport at Udaipur for the domestic flight to Amritsar.
Met on arrival by our agents and transfer to the Ista Hotel where we stay for two nights - Premium Rooms. Free time to relax at the hotel and to enjoy their leisure facilities.
Amritsar Lake of the Holy Nectar is a city in the northwestern part of India and is the administrative headquarters of Amritsar District in the State of Punjab. Amritsar is 32 kilometers east of Lahore, Pakistan, and therefore, very close to India's western border with Pakistan. Another origin of Amritsar's name is from Amrit-Saagar, "The Ocean of the Nectar of Immortality".
Amritsar is home to Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, the spiritual and cultural center of the Sikh religion. This important Sikh shrine attracts more visitors than the Taj Mahal in Agra and is the number one destination for non-resident-Indians in the whole of India.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight at the Ista Hotel - Premium rooms. BD
Day 14 - Sunday 11th November 2012 - Amritsar
After breakfast at the hotel the visit the Golden Temple will probably be the highlights of our visit to India.
The Golden Temple and Darbar Sahib, informally referred to as The Golden Temple or Temple of God, is culturally the most significant place of worship of the Sikhs and one of the oldest Sikh gurdwaras. Located in the City of Amritsar, established by Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth guru of the Sikhs.
After the Holy and spiritual visit to the Golden Temple we are taken to Jalianwala Bagh, a national place of pilgrimage. The Bagh is known historically for the Jalliavala Bagh Massacre, which took place on 13 April 1919 in the heart of Amritsar, the holiest city of the Sikhs.
Return to the hotel before for optional lunch.
In the evening we visit the international border to watch the Flag Ceremony. The ritual comprises a handshake between the captains of the two countries, followed by a battle of angered looks, stomping with vigor to show military strength, the blowing of trumpets and the march past add to the colourful ceremony. It is a unique and thrilling event much enjoyed by people who come from long distances to view it.
Dinner in the hotel. Overnight Ista Hotel - Premium Rooms. BD
Day 15 - Monday 12th November 2012 - Amritsar / Delhi
Check out of the hotel and transfer by private coach to the airport for the flight to Delhi.
Transfer by private coach to The Claridges, Delhi. Dinner in the hotel.
Overnight The Claridges, Deluxe Rooms. Delhi. BD
Day 16 - Tuesday 13th November 2012 - Return flight to the UK
After breakfast in the hotel, transfer to Delhi International Airport for the return flight to the UK via Dubai. B
B = breakfast L = lunch D = dinner
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ACCOMODATION
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Hotels
We stay in excellent quality hotels, all well researched, and you can look forward to exceptional hospitality. Some are privately-owned palaces and castles that have been converted into exquisite hotels, offering opulence and luxury that no modern imitation could ever hope to match.
Samode
We have included three nights in luxuriously furnished, air-conditioned bungalow/tents. They form part of the exquisite former Palace, the Samode Bagh Garden Resort, located in 20 acres and modelled in the style of a Mohall garden where members of the Samode Royal family used to enjoy moments of peace and privacy.
Rooms are spacious and delightful, with carpeted floors, bathrooms with shower, hot and cold water, an attached dressing room and private porch. Each provides an ambience of gracious living.
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FLIGHTS
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Please note that the following flight times and flight numbers are the latest known and are subject to change and confirmation by the airline. All times are local.
| OUTBOUND - Monday 29th October 2012 |
HEATHROW PASSENGERS
Depart Heathrow (T3)
Arrive Dubai
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2200
0845 (30 Oct) |
EK006 |
MANCHESTER PASSENGERS
Depart Manchester (T1)
Arrive Dubai
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2010
0705 (30 Oct) |
EK020 |
Tuesday 30th October 2012
Depart Dubai
Arrive Delhi
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1010
1455 |
EK516 |
Saturday 10th November 2012
Depart Udaipur
Arrive Delhi
Depart Delhi
Arrive Amritsar
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0805
0945
1315
1440 |
9W2604
9W2633 |
| INBOUND - Monday 12th November 2012 |
Depart Amritsar
Arrive Delhi
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1340
1440 |
9W7151 |
Tuesday 13th November 2012
Depart Delhi
Arrive Dubai
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1055
1305 |
EK511 |
HEATHROW PASSENGERS
Depart Dubai
Arrive Heathrow (T3)
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1430
1815 |
EK003 |
MANCHESTER PASSENGERS
Depart Dubai
Arrive Manchester
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1435
1825 |
EK019 |
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PRICE
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| Price ex-Heathrow |
£3500.00 |
| Supplement for a single person occupying a double room |
£800.00 |
WHAT THE FULL PRICE INCLUDES
- International return economy class flight UK to Delhi via Dubai with Emirates
- Internal domestic Higher Economy Class flights
- Private air-conditioned coach with driver for airport transfers and the whole of tour
- Airport departure taxes and security charges
- Indian Government service tax at 2.58%
- Indian Interstate tax
- Portage at all hotels
- Accompanying tour leader throughout
- English-speaking local guides
- English speaking local naturalist guides for the trekking
- Full programme of sightseeing and guided walking
- Services of our agent in India - Cox & Kings (I) Ltd
- Hotel accommodation with full facilities
- All meals as shown in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to monuments, temples and parks
- Welcome Reception
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Holiday/Travel Insurance
- Visa
- Beverages
- Gratuities, which are entirely optional
- Any Government taxes or compulsory charges that may be introduced after the publication of this web page
E&OE
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