Day 1: Arrive Delhi

On your arrival at the Delhi airport you will be greeted by our representative and then transferred to your respective hotel.

Delhi - The capital city of modern India has behind it centuries of history, which has enriched its culture. Nowhere has tradition blended with modernity on a scale as evident in Delhi, where age-old monuments stand along with ultra modern hi-rise buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for centuries. Today, old and new city combine to present a harmonious whole offering the traveler, elegant shops, broad avenues, sun warmed elegant forts and mosques that were once stronghold of Mughal powers and the not be missed ‘ delightful vibrant bazaars’.

Check in at the hotel and relax. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: In Delhi

After breakfast proceed for sightseeing of New and Old Delhi. A bustling metropolis which is in fact really two distinct cities – the colourful bazaars and Mughal architecture of Old Delhi contrasting with the formal splendour of Lutyen’s New Delhi.

Old Delhi:- Visiting the Jama Masjid - Built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, the Jama Masjid is the largest and one of the most magnificent mosques in India, drive past the Red Fort built by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648, Drive through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk- Chandni Chowk (Moonlight Square) is opposite the Red Fort and is a market that hubs with activity all through the year. The area was laid out by Shahjahan's daughter, Jahanara. The water in a pool reflected the moonlight and then flowed into a channel that flowed through the avenue. It is a crowded place and normally there is a maze of traffic that one has to negotiate almost every second. & lastly visit Raj Ghat, the memorial built for Mahatma Gandhi.

In New Delhi – Check out Qutab Minar - a 239ft sandstone tower is an Indo-Islamic architectural wonder of ancient India. The complex has a number of other important monuments- the gateway built in 1310. Also visit the Humanyun’s tomb - One of the most spectacular Mughal buildings, Built by Haji Begum, the widow of Humanyun’s, the second Mughal Emperor, the mausoleum is known to the precursor of world famous Taj Mahal. At the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the middle of a crossroad. It commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. Lastly drive through Rashtrapati Bhawan, & other important government buildings.

Overnight stay at the hotel

Day 3:  Delhi – Mandawa (5 Hours)

After breakfast leave to Shekhawati, on arrival transfer to hotel

Mandawa is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India. It is part of Shekhawati region. Shekhawati - Nicknamed the Garden of Shekha, Shekhawati reached its political height in the early 18th century during the rule of Shardul Singh. Rao Shekhar, a Kachawaha satrap who ruled over a large part of this land in the 15th century gave the name of Sekhawati to this place. With subsequent historical findings and social developments the monotonous look of the region disappeared to blossom into a colour extravaganza of art and life. Having a fascination unique of its own, this semi desert region, more commonly called as the open air-art gallery, houses a plethora of painted havelis all signifying to the artistic tradition of the land - Goenka Double Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli etc.

The Mandawa Fort is one of the most famous forts in Mandawa. It is located in the midst of Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan. The painted archways in the fort are a visual treat. There are a number of paintings in the fort as well. A medieval ambience and charm is mainly prevalent in the fort. The Mandawa Fort is currently transformed into a heritage hotel.

Overnight stay at hotel

Day 4: Mandawa – Bikaner (3½ hours)

After breakfast leave to Bikaner, on arrival transfer to hotel. Later proceed for sightseeing of Bikaner.

Bikaner: Someone said if ever beauty has bloomed in a desert, it has been at Bikaner. The colorful desert city of Rajasthan was founded by Rao Bika Ji during 1488 AD; Bikaner is located in North West part of Rajasthan in India. Rao Bikaji was a descendant of Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. Bikaner was an important historic city in India and it was a major trade center as it stood on the ancient caravan route which linked central Asia and North India with the Gujarat seaports. Tourist Attractions: - Junagarh Fort & Museum, Lallgarh Palace, Camel Breeding Farm.
India’s only camel breeding farm is located in Bikaner. Started in 1975, nearly half the camels bred in India come from this farm. Roughly 230 camels from 3 different breeds are reared here where experiments are conducted on a regular basis.

The tourist visiting the center can see the camel of different breeds and their behaviour. Facilities of camel riding, safari and video/photography are available for the visitors. Camel milk parlour is a special attraction because it vendors unique value added camel milk products like ice-cream, hot and cold beverages. You can have some thick camel milk while listening to a Raika or Rebari, a camel breeder's tribe telling you about camels and how they are bred. Every year thousands of Foreign and Indian Tourists visit the center.

Overnight stay at hotel

Day 5: Bikaner – Jaisalmer (5½ hours)

After breakfast leave to Jaisalmer, on arrival transfer to hotel. In the evening, go for a Camel Safari on Sand Dunes.

Sam Sand Dunes: The most popular site for the sand dunes, Sam sand dunes are located 42 Km from Jaisalmer. The beautiful Sam Sand Dunes is the most popular excursion to see the total sandy bush less desert. It has a truly glorious stretch of sweeping sand dunes. A camel safari to the spot lasts for three to four days. The desert festival in February draws a lot of tourists.

Overnight stay at hotel

Day 6: Jaisalmer

After breakfast, leave the hotel for sightseeing of beautiful Jaisalmer.

About a quarter of the old city’s population resides within the walls of the Jaisalmer Fort, which has 99 bastions around its circumference, you journey will begin here, a fascinating place to wander around during the day.

Nathmalji ki Haveli ~ the late 19th century Haveli with intricate architecture a display of sheer craftsmanship. The left and right wings of the mansion were carved by two brothers are not identical but very similar and balanced in design. The interior walls are ornate with splendid miniature paintings. Patwon ki Haveli ~ The most elaborate and magnificent of the Jaisalmer havelis. It has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers. One of the apartments of this five story high Haveli is painted with beautiful murals.

Also visit Salim Singh ki Haveli ~ These 300 years old Haveli of Jaisalmer Prime Minister to Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh - Salim Singh, has a beautiful blue cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the form of peacocks. And Gadisar Lake, a scenic manmade rainwater lake, surrounded by small temples and shrines. Earlier this lake used to be the main water source of Jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer - evokes a vivid picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. Legend has it that Rawal Jaisal laid the foundation of the city in 1156 A.D. After consulting a local hermit by the name of Eesul. Tricuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva to establish this new capital. Tourist Attractions: - The Jaisalmer Fort, Tazia Tower, Gadsisar Lake, Jain Temples, Havelis.

Overnight stay at hotel

Day 7: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur (5 hours)

Jodhpur is the second largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. After its population crossed a million, it has been declared as the second 'Metropolitan City' of Rajasthan. It was formerly the seat of a princely state of the same name, the capital of the kingdom known as Marwar. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many palaces, forts and temples, set in the stark landscape of the Thar Desert. It is also called "blue city".

Visit the impressive Mehrangarh Fort on a 37 m low sandstone hill built by Rao Jodha in 1459. From the top of the fort one can get a bird’s eye view of the old city. You will notice the predominance of blue houses referred to as Brahmin houses - the colour being associated with the high caste. Proceed to the Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph built in 1899 for Maharajah Jaswant Singh II, Umaid Bhawan Palace and smaller memorials to other Maharajahs of Jodhpur. There are a number of attractions within the fort like several palaces, galleries, a museum, temples and so on, other attraction Jaswant Thada, Clock Tower and Sardar Market.

Overnight stay at Jodhpur

While at Mehrangarh Fort, you have the option of doing one of the most exhilarating adventure sport, Ziplining. It is one of the most popular adventurous sports which give you the experience of flying over the city of Jodhpur and gives you the best aerial view of the beautiful blue city. Zipline from one of the highest fort in India like Mehrangarh Fort which is situated 400 ft above the city. It is also important to have the right kind of things and knowledge to enjoy this adventure sport. Planning such an adventure trip is something which can seem like an impossible task. (Optional)

Later, proceed to visits Bishnoi Village - The Bisnoi’s are a Eco-friendly sect of Hindu religion. Bish means 20 and noi means 9. Thus, Bishnoi translates as Twenty-niners. Killing animals and felling trees were banned. Before the death of the Sect leader Guru Jambheshwar (b. 1451), he stated that the Black Buck was his manifestation after death and should be conserved. The Khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria), is also considered to be sacred by the Bishnois. Bishnoi Village Safari is an organization started by Rajas and Maharaja’s of Jodhpur to showcase the rich cultural life around the state of Marwar. (Optional)

Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 8: Jodhpur - Udaipur (5 hours)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Udaipur en route stop over at the Ranakpur Jain Temple.

Ranakpur Temple: Beautiful sculptured Jain temples mark the glory of this renowned place. Marked as one of the five holy places for the Jain community, these were created in the 15 the century. The central Chaumukha [four faced temple] is dedicated to Adinathji the temple is an astounding creation with 29 halls and 1,444 pillars all distinctly carved and no two being alike is an amazing evidence of the genius sense of architecture that enhances the charm of the place. Every temple has this conceivable surface carved with equal delicacy. Overall Ranakpur is known as ' The tranquil pilgrimage town‘.

After the visit continue your journey to Udaipur. On arrival at Udaipur check into the hotel, overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 9: In Udaipur

Udaipur is a very popular tourist destination. Apart from its history, culture, and scenic locations, it is also known for its Rajput-era palaces. The Lake Palace, for instance, covers an entire island in the Pichola Lake. Many of the palaces have been converted into luxury hotels. It is often called the "Venice of the East", and is also nicknamed the "Lake City" or "City of Lakes". Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar and Swaroop Sagar in this city are considered the most beautiful lakes in the country.

After breakfast, start your day by viewing the sights of the City of Lakes. Visit the Palace Museum, made of granite and marble with filigreed balconies, ornate windows and craftsmanship in glass. Each palace within the museum is an outstanding creation of art.

Another famous landmark is the Lake Palace – a fairy-tale confection that seems to float on the lake’s waters, gleaming by day and moon lit by night

In the evening, enjoy a Boat cruise in Lake Pichola on which the majestic Lake Palace Hotel is situated. Watch a gorgeous sunset and admire grandiose palaces on the lakeside. Also, visit Sahelion ki Bari, the “Ladies Garden”, with its rich foliage and intricately designed fountains. Also visit the Bhartiya Lok Kala museum, which has an excellent collection of Indian folk art including costumes, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, musical instrument and deities.
(Overnight stay at the hotel)

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN UDAIPUR AT ADDITONAL COST

During the day you will be taken to a site to make you visit the art of Koftgari. " Koftgari" is an overlay art. First the surface of the metal is heated blue and then a design is hatched into it using a special tool called ' Salai'.Fine drawn wires of gold and silver are overlaid into these patterns which is ten heated and hammered. The surface is then polished using a white porous stone. This metal craft was used to decorate weapons like swords, daggers, and shields. Some of the last remaining craftsmen of the Siklegar community who are carrying this tradition into the 21st century. It is extremely fascinating to watch an Siklegar engrossed in creating magical beauty on a metal surface. Come and be a part of this resurrection of tradition!!
Also we will make you visit the art o JAL SANJHI (painting on water).
Cycling through beautiful and hilly terrain can be arranged, Trekking through tribal villages too is possible.
Meeting with an Astrologer, they have small museum there (Jodhpur Royal family's priest) on the way from Jodhpur to Udaipur.
Make the students attend Yoga classes
Visit to Vintage car museum
Heritage walk of old city

Day 10: Udaipur – Pushkar – Jaipur (6 hours)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive to Bikaner via Pushkar.
Pushkar has become a place of Hindu pilgrimage because of this holy lake. Devotees take a religious dip in this spiritual water which is said to have miraculous powers. Also visit Savitri Temple which is located on top of the Ratnagiri Hill. Pushkar has a number of exciting tourists’ attractions including the famous Pushkar Lake and Brahma Temple, Savitri Temple, Rangji or Rangnath Temple.
Later drive to Jaipur and check in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 11: In Jaipur

After breakfast, begin your sightseeing in Jaipur.
Jaipur: known as the ‘Pink City’ is the most popular tourist destinations. Steeped in history and culture, this city is known for its magnificent Palaces and forts. Jaipur is and important destination in Golden Triangle of Indian tourism. Founded in 1727 AD by one of the greatest rulers of the Kachhawaha clan, the astronomer king Sawai Jai Singh. The pink color was used at the time of making to create an impression of red sandstone buildings of Mughal cities - and repainted in 1876, during the visit of the Prince of Wale. Stop for photography at the tapering Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of Winds" built in 1799 to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch street processions. Proceed to visit Amber Fort, perched atop the hill overlooking a lake. Built by Raja Man Singh I, it is known for its artistic style, blending both Hindu and Rajput elements. Upon arrival at Amber, ascend to this hilltop fort in Maharaja style by decorated Elephant.
the City Palace - the Royal residence of Maharajah built in Rajasthani and Mughal architecture & the Observatory (Jantar Mantar) are the most famous tourist attractions. Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Sawai Jai Singh who was a Rajput king.
(Overnight stay at the hotel)

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN JAIPUR AT ADDITONAL COST
Heritage walk:- Walking tour of some interesting streets, local market and squares (chopper) of the Pink City to catch glimpses of the habitual patterns of its people, you may test local mithai (sweets) or drop by a famous chai dukan (tea stall) of Sahu, A rickshaw ride will give you an opportunity to glimpse the real pink city, which even includes attending heart-rending prayers at Sri Govind Devji temple.
Real interaction with elephants:- We can arrange an opportunity to experience the life of an elephant. Bathe the elephants, feed and water them. Have a painting-class and learn about elephant-decorations. Learn about elephant medicines and treatments. Ride them to the pond for a swim and a scrub (swimming depends on weather condition).
Meeting with musician (depend on client's interest) Kathak, Tabla, Harmonium. An excursion tour of Sanganer, where guest can visit very interesting industries like Blue pottery, Sanganeri block printing, Hand made paper factory.
Optional trip to the grand Samode Palace and have lunch there.
Chokhidhani an ethnic village where you can enjoy all village related activities like Rajasthani folk dances, puppet shows, magic shows, rides followed by traditional Rajasthani Dinner
Visit to a renowned NGO – working for children welfare (optional)
We can organize lunch with a local family at village Garh Himmat Singh on the way to Jaipur near Mahua, here we can arrange some visit of School, potters house, local Bazar and Abhaneri step well.
Tea at Nahargarh by sunset

Day 12: Jaipur – Bharatpur – Agra

Early Morning, after breakfast leave for Agra and enroute stop at Bharatpur. Enjoy half day bird watching in national park by looking out for exotic and beautiful birds.

The famous Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park is situated in Rajasthan. Bharatpur bird sanctuary is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India and one of the finest bird parks in the world. Thousands of rare and highly endangered birds come here during the winter season. The Bharatpur bird sanctuary is paradise for the bird lover’s to watch some of the most exotic birds in the world. Migratory birds at Bharatpur bird sanctuary include, several species of Cranes, Pelicans, Geese, Ducks, Eagles, Hawks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails, Warblers, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks and Pipits, etc.

After bird watching proceed for drive to Agra. On arrival at Agra check into hotel for overnight stay

Day 13: Agra – Khajuraho

After breakfast you will proceed for sightseeing of Agra. Early morning visit Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a testament for his love for his wife Mumtaz Muhal. This World Heritage site is an architectural masterpiece, and the most remarkable legacy of the Mugal Empire that ruled over India for 200 years from the early.

Continue by road across the Yumuna River to the red sandstone Agra Fort, built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. Your guide will lead you into the fort's massive walls and through a maze of buildings that form a city within a city. Also visit the Itmad-ud-daulah, which was constructed by Nur-Jahan between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to the tomb she constructed for her husband.

After the sightseeing, proceed to Agra. On arrival, board a train from Agra to Jhansi. On arrival at Jhansi, transfer to Khajuraho.
When you reach Khajuraho, check into the hotel for overnight stay.

Day 14: In Jaipur

In the morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of the Chandela Dynasty temples. The temples rate as one of India’s greatest attractions and were mostly built during a major creative burst of genius from 950AD to 1050AD. Remarkably enough, these ancient temples are incredibly well preserved. The temples were built during the Chandela period, a dynasty that survived for five centuries before falling to the mighty Mughal onslaught. Their sheer beauty and immense size has confounded experts as to why and how they were built in Khajuraho, a small town then and still a relatively small town now.

Experience The Sound-&-Light Show: Technicolour floodlights sweep across the temples of the western group as Indian classical music soundtracks a potted history of Khajuraho narrated by the ‘master sculptor’. Photography is prohibited. Later transfer to the airport in time to catch flight for Varanasi. On arrival at Varanasi meet representative at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Evening free and overnight stay at Hotel

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN KHAJURAHO AT ADDITONAL COST

The Archaeological Museum Announced by a wonderful 11th-century statue of Ganesh dancing sensuously for an elephant-headed deity, has a small but well-presented collection of sculptures from around Khajuraho.

Adivart Tribal & Folk Art Museum This museum-cum-art gallery makes a colourful change from the temples. It gives a taste of Madhya Pradesh’s vibrant tribal culture of both Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh through paintings, terracotta sculptures, masks and statues.

Kandariya Art & Culture Folk dancing can be seen at the comfortable indoor theatre at Kandariya Art & Culture.

Dance Festival In the month of February/March, the Western Group of temples becomes the stage for the weeklong Festival of Dance which is worth attending.

Massage Centre For the real deal, head to Ayur Arogyam, which, given that many ayurvedic treatments are more oil baptism than drool-inducing relaxation coma, is supremely soothing. The lovely Keralan couple who run this small place from their home also have two simple double rooms to rent.

Yoga Apart from the hotels offering yoga, the inspiring Yogi Sudarshan Dwiveda runs sessions at his home. Sessions can be attended with prior intimation.

Day 15: Varanasi

Early in the morning at the time of sunrise (6 am) we take you to banks of the river Ganges where we board a boat to see the morning ablutions of the Hindus from the security of our boat. The boat ride starts from Dasashwamedh Ghat and ends at Manikarnika Ghat along the sacred Ganges. You also get to visit the Assi Ghat, Dasaswamedh Ghat, Harish Chandra Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat and Tulsi Ghat.

Return to your hotel for breakfast. Later in the day a city tour is arranged covering the Vishwanath temple, the Bharat Mata temple, BHU etc. Proceed to visit Sarnath the sacred city for the Buddhist all over the world. It was here that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon to his first five disciples. Also worth visiting is the museum with artifacts dating back to 3rd century BC. Visit the nearby ruins of the ancient seat of learning in Sarnath. The attractions at Sarnath are the Buddha temples, the Dhamekha stupa and Chaukhandi stupa.
(Overnight stay will be at hotel)

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN VARANASI AT ADDITONAL COST

Cultural Walk This cultural walk offered specialises in themed walks to explore beyond the most popular ghats and temples. Walks are usually available on a reservation basis accompanied by a local guide. Most of these guides were born and raised in Varanasi. It's a truly fascinating way to explore beyond the Old City.

NGO Visit Visit to an NGO - Kiran. This Swiss-run organisation works with underprivileged children in its village in Madhopur, 12km south of Benares Hindu University. One can join as a volunteer and it requires a five-month commitment (as well as enrollment in Hindi classes), but the program is as recommended as they come. Time is spent helping to produce handicrafts, assisting an Indian sports teacher or helping with evening and weekend entertainment at the boys and girls hostels, but roles are catered to meet individual volunteer needs and interests. One must be 25 or older.

International Music Centre Ashram This family-run centre is hidden in the tangle of backstreets off Bengali Tola. It offers sitar, tabla, flute and classical-dance tuition, and performances are held every Saturday and Wednesday evening at 8pm. There’s a small, easy-to-miss sign on Bengali Tola directing you here. If you can’t find it, there are loads of musical instrument shops on Bengali Tola, many of which offer tuition.

Visit to Yoga Training Centre Former Army clerk and yoga master Sunil Kumar and partners run set classes three times a day on the 2nd and 3rd floors of this small backstreet building near Meer Ghat (but you can drop-in anytime for a session). He teaches an integrated blend of hatha, shivananda, satyananda, pranayama and Iyengar, and serious students can continue on certificate and diploma courses in both yoga and reiki.

Brown Bread Bakery This restaurant and organic shop's fabulous menu includes more than 40 varieties of European-quality cheese and more than 30 types of bread, cookies and cakes. The partly-AC ambiance – with seating on cushions around low tables on the nonsmoking bottom floor, expansive views from the rooftop patio and live classical-music performances in the evenings – is spot on. Pop in for the shockingly European breakfast buffet (7am to noon), a hearty burger or just for a chai and respite from the heat and hassle. Part of the profits go to the charity Learn for Life.

Day 16: Varanasi - Delhi

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to the airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, check into hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure or witness the evening aarti on the ganges. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 17: Departure Delhi

After breakfast check out from the hotel and drive to the airport for your onward journey to home. Your Classical Rajasthan Tour has come to an end, this wonderful journey will be etched in your memories.