Description
With vivid colours and glittering heritage, Rajasthan is epitome of most of all that appeals about India. This trip focuses on spectacular sights;
Our Rajasthan cultural holiday packages try to touch all the aspects of the opulent history and tradition that contribute largely on making Rajasthan an incredible hub for cultural tourism.
In our Rajasthan cultural vacation packages we offer the opportunity to enjoy folk dances, music, puppet show and delectable cuisine in different cities and villages of Rajasthan.
Delhi
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
Historically Monuments in Delhi
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
Kutub Minar
This 73-meter high tower was built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in the year 1193. Built after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu ruler, the Qutub Minar was constructed to celebrate the Muslim supremacy in Delhi. It is the highest tower in India, with five levels and projecting balconies. The first three levels are made up of red sandstone and the last two of marble and sandstone.
The Qutub Minar has three different types of architectural styles. The construction of the minar was started by Aibak (who only made the basement). Later, Iltutmish added on three stories and then it was completed by Firoz Shah Tuglak, who constructed the last two stories. Quwwat-us-Islam Mosque, the first mosque ever to be built in India, is situated here.
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.
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 .
Udaipur
Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia clan of Rajput in 1559 AD. The city was established as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom. It is surrounded by Aravali Range, which separates it from Thar Desert. It is also called the "City of Lakes". It has seven lakes surrounding the city. Udaipur is also known for its historic forts and palaces, museums, galleries, natural locations and gardens, architectural temples, as well as traditional fairs, festivals and structures.
Udaipur has a romance of setting unmatched in Rajasthan and arguably in all India – snuggling beside tranquil Lake Pichola, with the purple ridges of the Aravalli Range stretching away in every direction. Fantastical palaces, temples, havelis (traditional, ornately decorated residences) and countless narrow, crooked, timeless streets add the human counterpoint to the city’s natural charms. For the visitor there's the serenity of boat rides on the lakes, the bustle and colour of bazaars, a lively arts scene, the quaint old-world feel of its heritage hotels, tempting shops and some lovely countryside to explore on wheels, feet or horseback.
City palace UdaipurUdaipur City Palace is one of the architectural marvels of Rajasthan, located peacefully on the banks of Lake Pichola. This majestic City Palace is the most-visited tourist attraction of Udaipur and often distinguished as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Initially, Maharana Udai Singh built this superb wonder, but the present form of the Palace is the result of subsequent additions by his successors.
City Palace boasts of the wonderful blend of Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture. The Palace has various towers, domes and arches, which add to the flavor of heritage site. Towering on the banks of Pichola Lake, City Palace is truly a feast to the eyes. City Palace is a marvelous assortment of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Encircled by fortifications, this imposing Palace is wholly built in granite and marble.
City Palace has several gates that are known as "Pols". 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate) is the main gate to the City Palace complex that will take you to the first courtyard. On passing 'Bara Pol', you will come across a triple arched gate, which is known as 'Tripolia'. Between these two gates, you would see eight marble arches or Toranas, where Kings used to weigh themselves with gold and silver. Besides Tripolia, there is an arena where elephant fights were staged. Across 'Tripolia', you would enter the 'Elephant Gate' or the 'Hathi Pol'.
City Palace comprises 11 wonderful palaces, which were built by different rulers still they resemble each other. With the sheer glimpse of unique paintings, antique furniture and exquisite glass mirror & ornamental tiles work of these palaces, you will get amazed. Manak Mahal (Ruby Palace) has figures of crystal and porcelain. However, Bhim Vilas flaunts a fabulous collection of miniature paintings depicting the real life stories of Radha-Krishna.
The 'Krishna Vilas' is known for the noteworthy album of miniature paintings portraying royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) is celebrated for its lavish decor while Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors) is known for its breathtaking mirror work. 'Chini Chitrashala' is renowned for its Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles. 'Dilkusha Mahal' (Palace of Joy) is known for the murals and wall paintings.
Bada Mahal is the exotic garden palace that stands erect on a 90 feet high natural rock formation. Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located right to the 'Rang Bhawan'. 'Mor Chowk' has exceptional glass mosaics of peacocks, set in the walls presenting the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon. 'Laxmi Vilas Chowk' is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.
Situated in the premises of City Place complex, Jagdish Temple is the biggest and most beautiful temple of Udaipur. This temple Appeals to the aesthetic sense of the people and we will further discuss it in our other section. You can also trace a Shrine of Dhuni Mata in the complex of City Palace. This part is considered as the oldest part of the Palace where a sage passed his life meditating here.
In 1974, a part of the City Palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) have been transformed into a museum. The museum is open for public and we have discussed it in our other section about museums. One can locate some striking paintings in the 'Zenana Mahal' which further leads to Lakshmi Chowk. 'Lakshmi Chowk' is a beautiful white pavilion. In City palace, the most captivating sight can be viewed from the towers and terraces of 'Amar Vilas' from where you can get a breathtaking view of Lake Pichola.
'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of this Palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces. City Palace is structured in a way that it offers a splendid view of the lake from all its Balconies, cupolas and towers. Unlike the craggy exterior, City Palace has amazing interiors with delicate mirror-work, marble work, murals, wall paintings, silver work, inlay work and surplus of colored glass. The exquisite work of City Palace cannot be bounded in words, so one must visit this palace to capture the real picture of it.
Narlai village
Narlai village Located in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, Narlai is small, busy and idyllic little village surrounded by forested hills; it’s arguably one of the most beautiful rural locations in Rajasthan. Narlai’s location between Jodhpur and Udaipur makes it an ideal one or two night stop and it’s also close to both Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh.
Luni
There are several places in Rajasthan where you can appreciate and experience the rich public record of this World Well-known traveler place. Luni is among the favored places of Rajasthan. It is the suburbs but has its own unique attraction. It is located 32 km off Jodhpur. The calming environment of this place makes it an ideal place for guests coming to this condition for making an investment some time. The craftsmen of this city are known for their capabilities in developing amazing relics from wood made, clay-based and metal.
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 in Jodhpur
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.
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.
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 in Bikaner
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.
Nawalgarh
The town was founded in 1737 by Nawal Singh, one of the five sons of the Rajput ruler Sardul Singh. The arrival of merchants from Jaipur increased the towns prosperity, and some of India's most successful merchants, such as the wealthy Goenka family (responsible for many havelis), hailed from Nawalgarh. The town is quite compact, and most of the havelis are easy to reach on foot.
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.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Delhi
Upon arrival at Delhi airport, meet our tour representative who will help you with guided transfer to the hotel. Complete the check-in formalities. Later on we will proceed for delhi sightseeing. The sightseeing tour of Delhi will include the Jama masjid, Red fort (drive past only), Raj Ghat, Gurudwara Bungalow sahib, Humayun Tomb, India gate & President House (drive past only) Over night in your Hotel.
Day 2 - Delhi to Udaipur by Flight
In time assisted departure transfer to the airport to connect flight for Udaipur. Meeting,, assistance on arrival at the airport and transfer to hotel.
Day 3 - Udaipur
After breakfast proceed for city tour of Udaipur, a splash of color in Rajasthan that is brighter when tinged with the tones of local lore and legends. Visit the City Palace, built in 1725, which hours the
Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal - studded with glittering Belgium Mirrors, Moti Mahal and the Palace of Lord Krishna all of which are ornately decorated. Later visit the Jagdish Temple. This temple built in 1651 is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver in gardens of the maids-of-honour, with beautiful lawns, gardens and fountains. Later visit Sahelion ki Bari.In the evening, enjoy a sharing boat on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. The beautiful Lake Pichola
was enlarged by Maharana Udai Singh after he founded the city. You can also visit the Jag Mandir
Palace – which is a lovely island palace in the middle of the lake.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 4 - Udaipur to Narlai (115 km. approx 2:30 hours)
After breakfast proceed for Narlai village. Located in the heart of the Aravalli Hills, Narlai is small, busy and idyllic little village surrounded by forested hills; it’s arguably one of the most beautiful rural locations in Rajasthan. Narlai’s location between Jodhpur and Udaipur makes it an ideal one or two night stop and it’s also close to both Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh. Check in at hotel. At its heart is Rawla Narlai, a sweet and sophisticated heritage hotel that has oodles of charm and a nice big pool.
Later head out to the nearby lake in jeep, to soak up the bird and sunset over masala chai. The lake is huge and home to wide variety of resident and migratory birds. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 5 - Narlai to Luni ( 130 km. 2:50 minutes)
After breakfast proceed to Luni. There are several places in Rajasthan where you can appreciate and experience the rich public record of this World Well-known traveler place. Luni is among the favored places of Rajasthan. It is the suburbs but has its own unique attraction. It is located 32 km off Jodhpur. The calming environment of this place makes it an ideal place for guests coming to this condition for making an investment some time. The craftsmen of this city are known for their capabilities in developing amazing relics from wood made, clay-based and metal.
Check in at hotel fort Chanwa.
Later in evening proceed for local village excursion in jeep. There is a natural pond of village Luni where you can see migrate birds specially Siberian Crane. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6 - Luni To Jaisalmer via Jodhpur (310 kmm. Approx 6 hours)
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur. In Jodhpur visit Mehrangarh fort and Royal Cenotaph’s of Jaswant Thada. Later drive continue to Jaisalmer. Check in at hotel and overnight stay.
Day 7 - 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 8 - Jaisalmer to Bikaner (330 km / 5 hours)
After breakfast drive to Bikaner. In the city visit the Junagarh Fort and enjoy the tuk-tuk ride in old market. Overnight stay in Hotel.
Day 9 - Bikaner to Nawalgarh (230 km/ 4 Hours)
After breakfast proceed to Nawalgarh. The town was founded in 1737 by Nawal Singh, one of the five sons of the Rajput ruler Sardul Singh. The arrival of merchants from Jaipur increased the towns prosperity, and some of India's most successful merchants, such as the wealthy Goenka family (responsible for many havelis), hailed from Nawalgarh. Check in at hotel. The town is quite compact, and most of the havelis are easy to reach on foot. Later in evening village excursion and visit to notable Havelis. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10 - Nawalgarh to Jaipur (140 km approx 2:30 hours)
After breakfast drive to Jaipur. In Jaipur city visit City Palace, Observatory with free time to roam in the bustling market of the city. Return to Hotel, Overnight Stay.
Day 11 - Jaipur to Agra (230 km/ 5-6 hours)
After breakfast take a visit include Amber Fort, Jal Mahal (Palace of water), Hawa mahal also known as Palace of Winds (Photostop only). Later drive to Agra 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 12 - Agra-Delhi (230 km/4:30 hours)
Early in morning will visit the magnificent Taj Mahal in Sun Rise. The most photographed monument in the world. After visit return to hotel for breakfast and then visit to Agra fort. Later drive to Delhi and at the appropriate time transferred to Delhi International Airport.