Description
Mandava
Mandawa is one of the most loved tourist spots in entire Rajasthan. Steeped in history, this small town is situated just a few kilometers from Jaipur. An important trading post since the 18th century, the place is filled with numerous colorful havelis that never fail to leave visitors mesmerized. At one time, Mandawa served as the resting place for caravans that went to and fro between China and the Middle East. Nowadays it acts as a major draw for the Rajasthan tourism industry.
Places to visit à Murmuria Haveli , The Harlalka Well , The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli , Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli , Bansidhar Newatia haveli , The Chokhani Double Haveli , Open Air Art Gallery etc.
Bikaner
Bikaner was founded in 1488 AD by Rao Bika. It situated in the northern region of Rajasthan.Later with the initiative of Maharaja Ganga Singh, Bikaner became a noteworthy princely state. Bikaner was also an important trade route that was linked with China and Central Asia. It lies in the Thar (Great Indian) Desert. The city is known for the 16th-century Junagarh Fort, a huge complex of ornate buildings and halls.
Places to Visit
Junagarh Fort- This fort was erected in1593 A.D by Raja Rai Singh, the illustrious general of the army of the Mughal emperor Akbar. The fortress is bounded by a moat and consists of 37 palaces and pavilions including Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Karan Mahal. The museum within the fort encloses priceless miniature paintings and extraordinary antiques that are of great interest for art lovers.
Jain Haveli- Bikaner abounds in beautiful havelis- the ancient luxurious mansions with sprawling courtyards where the nobles or the affluent people of Rajasthan lived. These havelies belonged to the Kotharis, Rampurias,Vaids and Dagas and were located in the regions like Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk and so on.
Karni Mata temple - Karni Mata Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Karni Mata at Deshnoke, 30 km from Bikaner, in Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Temple of Rats. The temple is famous for the approximately 25,000 black rats that live, and are revered, in the temple.
Camel Breeding Farm is located at a distance of 8 km from the city centre of Bikaner. One 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.
Jaisalmer
It is the largest district of Rajasthan, situated close to the Pakistan Border and stands in the heart of the Thar Desert. It was a former medieval trading center of silk route. Jaisal Bhati founded the city in 1156 AD. Jaisalmer literally means ‘the Hill Fort of Jaisal’. Jaisalmer is also called the "Golden City" because of the golden yellow sandstone used in the architecture of the fort and city.
Jaisalmer fort -The fort was built in 1156 by Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Jaisalmer Fort is one of the few living forts in the world. There are numerous hotels, shops, guest houses, temples, restaurants, age old havelis (homes) and former maharaja's palatial palace inside the fort area. It has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2013. Jaisalmer Fort has 99 bastions of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647 alone! Jaisalmer Fort has 99 bastions of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647 alone!
Jain Temples - The group of intricately carved jain temples within the walls of Jaisalmer Fort is another attraction. These seven Jain temples were built between 12th and 15th centuries and are connected to each other by corridors and walkways.
Patwo ki Haveli - Patwa ki Haveli or Patwon ki Haveli is not one but rather a cluster of five havelis. These were constructed for each of the five sons of an exceptionally rich trader who made his fortune in jewelry and brocade. These havelis have been constructed in the same sandstone as the fort. One of these havelis is out of bounds for public since it is owned privately but the other have been converted into museums. The havelis with their intricate carvings and views of the fort also offer an insight into just how rich the small town of Jaisalmer really was.
Jodhpur
Jodhpur is the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, India. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, the Rajput chieftan of the Rathores. The Rathore kingdom was also known as the Marwar and was the largest in Rajputana. The city of Jodhpur is located around the grand Mehrangarh Fort, which is bounded by a wall and several gates. The city is called the Blue City as it looks completely blue in colour from an aerial view because of its blue walls and blue houses. Apart from the old blue city, Jodhpur has grown as a city with wider and cleaner roads in some parts. Jodhpur is a very popular tourist destination. The landscape is scenic and mesmerizing. Jodhpur city has many beautiful palaces and forts such as Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhavan etc.
Places to visit
Mehrangarh fort - An architectural masterpiece in itself, Mehrangarh Fort is a magnificent fort and is among one of the largest forts in Rajasthan. The name Mehrangarh is derived from a combination of two Sanskrit words: ‘Mihir’ meaning the Sun god, and ‘Garh’ meaning fort. Built in around 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort is situated 410 feet above the city and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. The walls of the fort have a height of 118 feet and a width of 69 feet that protect the massive area of it. The palaces at Mehrangarh Fort are called Sheesh Mahal (the mirror hall), Moti Mahal (glass-painted windows of pearl colours where the Maharajas held their courtroom), Phool Mahal (the extravagant hall of leisure activities of the royal family), and Zenana Deodi (women’s quarters made of sandstone).
Jaswant thada - Jaswant Thada is a royal cenotaph. It is made of pure white marble and known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh of in 1899 in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Along with the memorials, there is also a separate cremation ground of the royal families. Local musicians and folk singers sit on the steps of the monument to greet the visitors with some authentic Rajasthani melodies.
Pushkar
Pushkar, one of the oldest cities of India, is one of the five sacred dhams for devout Hindus and is famous for the only place to have a dedicated temple Lord Brahma. Every November, Pushkar is host to the Pushkar Mela, one of the biggest camel fairs in the country. Lined with cafes, cheap boutiques and craft stalls, Pushkar has slowly evolved from a religious destination to a multi-cultural hotspot with travellers from all over the world.
Surrounded by hills on all sides, Pushkar is located only 150 km from Jaipur in Rajasthan and has relatively cooler weather during the monsoon and winter season. Centred around a small lake of the same name, Pushkar is home to more than hundreds of temples with devotees coming from all over India. With temples surrounding the lake, the ghats (steps near the lake) are flooded with devotees, closing eyes in the serenity of chants coming from temples around.
Pushkar Mela The Annual Cattle Fair is a multi-day festival witnessing hundreds of thousands of visitors. The fair peaks in the last five days of the month of Kartik (October/November) and is a celebration not to miss. The colourful gathering involves camels and traders in their colourful attire, local music and dances from different parts of Rajasthan, food stalls and games and rides for children.
Places to visit Pushkar Lake , Brahmaji Temple , Savitri Mata Temple , Rangji Temple , Varaha Temple , Pushkar Adventure camp & Camel Safari , Pushkar Fair , etc.
Jaipur
The city was founded in 1727 by Jai Singh II, the Raja of Amer who ruled from 1699 to 1743. He planned to shift his capital from Amer, 11 kilometres (7 mi) from Jaipur to accommodate the growing population and increasing scarcity of water
Amer Fort: This fort is famous for fascinating Rajputana architecture, splendid sandalwood work and places like Sheesh Mahal and Diwaan-e-Khaas. A unique artistic brilliance is clearly visible in its construction and design and this makes a trip to this palace unforgettable.
Jal Mahal(Water Palace): Also known as Jal Mahal, this palace is situated in the Man Sagar Lake and is flanked by Nahargarh Hills all around. The beauty of the palace lies in its gardens and courtyards built in the royal style displaying Mughal tastes. Various species of birds all around the palace mesmerise the bid lovers to the core.
Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace): Also famous as Hawa Mahal, Wind Palace is one of the most favourite destinations for tourists as it is a beautiful architectural masterpiece which has more than 953 small windows.
City Palace Jaipur : The City Palace, Jaipur was established at the same time as the city of Jaipur , by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who moved his court to Jaipur from Amber, in 1727. Jaipur is the present-day capital of the state of Rajasthan, and until 1949 the City Palace was the ceremonial and administrative seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The Palace was also the location of religious and cultural events, as well as a patron of arts, commerce, and industry. It now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, and continues to be the home of the Jaipur royal family. The royal family of Jaipur is said to be the descendants of Lord Rama. The palace complex has several buildings, various courtyards, galleries, restaurants, and offices of the Museum Trust. The Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum Trust looks after the Museum, and the royal cenotaphs (known as chhatris).
Agra
Agra boasts of having one of the seven wonders of the world and three UNESCO world heritage sites, the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort and the Fatehpur Sikri nearby. Agra is a delight for history and architecture lovers. The medieval city located on the banks of the river Yamuna, it is one of the most visited cities by tourists in India.
Strategically located at the heart of India in the mundane plains between the Ganga and Yamuna, Agra had been a religious and commercial centre for centuries, but it matured and perfected itself only when the Mughals made it their home. Agra is not only famous for its Mughal art and culture but is also known for its food, chat, and the famous Panchi ka Petha. The city even after being one of the hottest cities of the country, is visited in high numbers every day.
Taj Mahal:- Taj Mahal is one of the famous finest architecture of the world. It is in a seven wonders of World and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in (1631-1653) with the orders of Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz. 20,000 workers labored and 32 crore rupees were spent during the construction of the monument and it was built according to Islamic architecture. The meaning of Taj Mahal in English is ‘ Place of Crown ‘. Taj Means Crown and Mahal means place.
Agra Fort
Agra fort is not more than 2 k.ms from Taj Mahal on same river bank. The Emperor Shah Jahan, who built Taj Mahal was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in the Agra Fort where he had a view on the building erected for his deceased wife. Shah Jahan is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a tower with a beautiful marble balcony. From there you probably have the best view on the Taj. Between the many pavilions, you find small well maintained gardens.
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
This tomb is the first to be built in white marble instead of red sandstone, which officially marked the cessation of red sandstone from Mughal architecture. Itimad-ud-Daula is sometimes referred to as the “baby Taj” or a draft of the Taj Mahal, as it has been constructed with the same elaborate carvings and pietra dura (cut-out stone work) inlay techniques.
The tomb is surrounded by beautiful gardens that make it the perfect site to relax and experience the beauty of an old era that was rich in art, culture, and history.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century, 37 km from Agra. Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in northern India, just west of Agra, founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. Red sandstone buildings cluster at its center. Buland Darwaza gate is the entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby is the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti. Diwan-E-Khas hall has a carved central pillar. Jodha Bais Palace is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, next to the 5-story Panch Mahal that overlooks the site.
Mughal gardens are a group of gardens built by the Mughals in the Persian style of architecture. This style was heavily influenced by the Persian gardens particularly the Charbagh structure. Significant use of rectilinear layouts are made within the walled enclosures. Some of the typical features include pools, fountains and canals inside the gardens.
Delhi is very beautiful and ancient city in india . it is located on the edge of Yamuna in Northern india. Delhi, the capital of India has a strong historical background. It was ruled by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history.
Travelling in Delhi isn’t just limited to history but it’s a step to take past and present hand in hand. Blended with modern advancements, Delhi is the modern-day city of Troy. The amalgamation of all religion and spiritual hubs of different faiths coexisting together in peace is the testament of the unity in diversity. Delhi offers numerous tourist attractions ranging from monuments, museums, shrines to modern day markets. Exploring the city is like witnessing a mini-India, with Delhi Tourism being a reflection of rich culture of India.
Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque. With minarets on all four sides that reach the skies, Jama Masjid, Emperor Shah Jahan’s last architectural indulgence, was commissioned in 1650 and took six years to be built. The enormous courtyard of the Jama Masjid can hold around twenty-five thousand worshippers.
India gate
Situated in the heart of the city, India Gate is one of the most popular and well known monuments in India. It was designed by Edwin Lutyens. With lush green and well-manicured lawns around, the foundation of this historical structure was laid in 1920.
It was unveiled in 1933 and dedicated to all the Indian soldiers of the British Army that were killed in World War 1 .
Humayun’s Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a stunning piece of Persian architecture built in the Mughal era. It was commissioned in 1526, nine years after Humayun’s death, by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. This beautiful monument is made of red sandstone.
The tomb is in the centre of Charbagh-style of gardens with pools that are connected to canals. It has two entrances: a southern side and a western side. The high central arch and the octagonal shape of the structure are important aesthetics of Mughal architectures
Red Fort
This enormous red sandstone fort is synonymous with Delhi and is testimony of the glory of the Mughal Empire. Built in 1638 by Shah Jahan, it took around ten years to be completed.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is octagonal in shape with walls adorned with flowers and calligraphy, typically in the style of beautiful Mughal era architecture.
Itinerary
Day 1 Delhi - Mandawa
Arrival in Delhi and drive to Mandawa.(257 km/5.30 hours) Check in at your pre booked hotel and later in evening visit the World renowned mandawa havelis and take an interesting walk in village.Overnight Stay.
Day 2 Mandawa-Bikaner
After breakfast drive to Bikaner.(200km/3 hours) In the city visit the Junagarh Fort and enjoy the tuk-tuk ride in old market. Overnight stay in Hotel.
(Optional:- you may visit the famous Karni Mata temple or also called as Temple of Rats.) 20$
Day 3 Bikaner-Jaisalmer
After breakfast drive to Jaisalmer.(330km/5.30 hours) On the way visit Pokran Fort followed by lunch. Check in at hotel and overnight stay.
(Optional:- You may enjoy sunset in the evening.)15$
Day 4 Jaisalmer
After breakfast you will be exploring for full day the historical city of Jaisalmer. Visit Jain temples, Fort and Palace complex and Old Havelis. Later in the evening drive to Sam sand dunes for camel ride and sunset. Return to hotel and overnight stay.
Day 5 Jaisalmer-Jodhpur
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur.(283 km/ 4.30 hours) Upon arrival visit Mehrangarh fort and Royal Cenotaph’s of Jaswant Thada. Later check in at hotel and overnight stay.
(Optional: enjoy the walk of bustling bazaar of Ghanta Ghar.) 20$
Day 6 Jodhpur-Pushkar
Affter breakfast drive to Pushkar.(188km/4 hours) Check in at Hotel then visit famous Hindu Brahma Temple and Lakes, explore local market then enjoy sunset view at sand dunes. Return to hotel and overnight stay.
Day 7 Pushkar-Jaipur
After breakfast Drive to jaipur. (150km/3 hours) Check in at Hotel then visit City Palace, Observatory and later visit Hindu Temple for Aarti Ceremony. Return to Hotel, Overnight Stay.
Day 8 Jaipur
After breakfast take a visit full day sightseeing include Amber Fort, Jal Mahal (Palace of water), Hawa mahal also known as Palace of Winds (Photostop only),Albert Hall Museum Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 9 Jaipur to Agra
After breakfast drive to Agra(240km/4.30 hours) enroute visit famous world heritage UNESCO site Fatehpur sikiri (The abandon mughal city or also called ghost city). The historical town built by Mughal emperor Akbar. Upon arrival visit Agra fort then check-in at pre booked hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 10 - Agra-Delhi
Early in morning will visit the magnificent Taj Mahal in Sun Rise. The most photographed monument in the world. After visit return to hotel and depart to delhi. Upon arrival we will visit Jama Masjid and Raj Ghat. Then check in at hotel and overnight stay.
Day 11 - Delhi
After breakfast drive pass to India Gate and government buildings i.e. President House and Parliament house. Also visit Qutub Minar (A World Heritage UNESCO Site). At the appropriate time transferred to Delhi International Airport.
Inclusions
Included :
All Transportation and , Hotel accommodation in Delhi, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pushkar, Jaipur,and Agra, with everyday Breakfast, Rickshaw ride in Jaipur, Drop off to Delhi airport .
Not included :
Monument Entry Fees, Mineral Water Bottle and any kind of personal expenses .