New Delhi

India’s largest city, Delhi, has been one of the country’s commercial and economic hubs for centuries and, as a result, is incredibly rich in culture and history. Made up of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the more modern sector, New Delhi, the city encompasses a staggering array of beautiful architecture, notable monuments, and age-old temples, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Red Fort, Qutab Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. Other key attractions include the 17th century Chandni Chowk marketplace – still one of the city’s most popular retail centers today, particularly for jewelry and traditional Indian saris; the iconic Bahà’i Lotus Temple – an award-winning architectural gem; and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.

Day Itinerary

Namaste & welcome to India!

Arrive in Delhi and after having done all the formalities of immigration, baggage, and customs as you exit the arrival halls, you will be greeted by a Lumle Holidays representative waiting to receive you with a placard bearing your name.

You will then be assisted & transferred to your hotel.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips

Standard check-in time is 1400 Hrs.

Overnight: The Imperial

The Imperial just oozes colonial history – from the airy atriums and Victorian-era décor of the bars to the chandeliers, marble lobby floors, wrought-iron balustrades, and staff in appropriately regal attire. The rooms & suites are as exquisite as imagined, with several reminders of British India. Spend countless hours sipping gin and tonics on the lawns, splashing about the gorgeous pool, admiring the hundreds (if not thousands) of prints from the Raj era lining every wall, and indulging in the Turkish-style spa.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, enjoy a rickshaw experience in Chandni Chowk. This is not your standard guidebook tour! Join an expert and witness the architectural marvels, the multicolored facades, beautifully decorated shops, ethnically dressed locals, and the fragrances emanating from the potpourri of eateries that line the historical alleys.

After the tour, set out to explore Qutub Minar, the second-tallest Minaret in India. It is made of red stone and marble covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur'an.

Next, we will visit Humayun's Tomb. It was built in 1570 and is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

We will also drive past the India Gate, Parliament House, the Secretariat Buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities

Rickshaw Ride By WII

Qutub Minar

Humayun's Tomb

Rickshaw Ride By WII

This is an extensive 2 1/2 - hour tour of Old Delhi conducted on specially designed rickshaws. The tour includes a mix of palaces, mansions, elegant shrines, and colorful bazaars. Included on the tour are an audio aid, hot and cold drinks, and food from some famous eateries. At the end, a book, that has been specially drafted with the help of experts in the field of Indian history, is given to each guest.

On these tours, drive by the following places:

• Historic Monuments: Jama Masjid Mosque, Red Fort, Town Hall
• Worship Places: Gauri Shanker Hindu Temple, Digamber Jain Temple, Christian Baptist Church, Fatehpuri Mosque & Gurudwara Sis Ganj
• Palaces: Begum Shamroo Palace, Gadodiya Palace
• Spice Market: Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market
• Bazaars: Chandni Chowk (Moonlit Square), Kinari Bazaar (wedding market, traditional outfits), Dariba Kalan (jewels and ornaments), and Ballimaran Bazaar (bangles and footwear).
• Havelis: Heritage Havelis with original Mughal architecture
• Eateries: Century old shops serving famous Old Delhi delicacies

Qutub Minar

The majestic Qutub Minar is a heritage building located in downtown Mehrauli in India. Standing tall at 73-metres, the tower consists of 5 storeys with a flight of spiral stairs leading to its top. The walls are adorned with decorative motifs and Quranic inscriptions. At the foot of the tower lie other monuments of historical significance, such as the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar of Delhi. The Amazing race Australia used this site as a pitstop in the second series. Visitors can take advantage of stunning photo opportunities.

Humayun's Tomb

The mausoleum complex of Humayun, India’s second Mughal Emperor, was commissioned by his widow in 1565 and was the first garden tomb to be built in India, taking seven years to complete. Humayun had travelled widely in Persia and Central Asia during his lifetime, and many of the architectural principles he brought back from these journeys were incorporated into the building at his wife’s instructions. With its double domes, decorative inlaid marble and vast garden with pools connected by channels, this 16th Century building set the stage for the style that culminated in the Taj Mahal almost 100 years later.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Agra

Home of the world-famous Taj Mahal, Agra is one of India’s prime tourist destinations for specifically this reason, though its attractions also extend to an array of other impressive historical sights. These include the red-hued Agra Fort, the sacred Jama Masjid mosque, and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs and semi-precious gems. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and needless to say is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect proportions.

Day Itinerary

In the morning around 0700 hrs, transfer to the rail station and board your express train to Agra.

Train: 12050 0810 | 0955

Upon arrival, tour the majestic Agra Fort. Its walls and palaces are a silent witness to the rise and fall of the Imperial Mughal Empire and feature a variety of ingenious Islamic inspired devices (some decorative, some more practical) within the fabric of the buildings. It is a citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves, and terrace pavilions.

Later check-in to your accommodation.

Next visit the baby Taj. Often referred to as the "Baby Taj Mahal", the tomb of Itimad-ud-Dalulah is a Mughal mausoleum and is often regarded as a copy of the Taj Mahal. It basically consists of Indo-Islamic architecture, using arched entrances and octagonal-shaped towers. If you take a bird's eye of Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb, it looks like a jewel box set in a garden.

Evening, we will visit the Mehtab Bagh to witness the Taj Mahal at sunset from across the garden. The gardens in the Taj are perfectly aligned with the ones here and the view of the Taj from here, with the setting sun in the background is spectacular.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips

Gatiman express does not operate on Fridays.

Overnight: ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra

ITC Mughal - This opulent hotel’s 233 rooms and suites recreate the Mughal period, but the feather in its cap is undoubtedly Kaya Kalp—one of the best spas in India. Dining experiences range from the Peshawari restaurant for North West Frontier cuisine, Taj Bano and Mughal Pavilion for multi-cuisine fare, the lounge bar Maikhana, and the garden restaurant, Bagh-E-Bahar.

Activities

Agra Fort

Tomb Of Itmad-Ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)

Mehtab Bagh

Agra Fort

Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605) and is a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. Its palaces, grand mosques and elaborate public hall are crafted from pink-red sandstone and are testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly marked by influences from Persia, was at its height. Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal for his deceased wife, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort. He is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself built, with one of the most alluring views of the Taj Mahal.

Tomb Of Itmad-Ud-Daulah (Baby Taj) Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum built for the grandfather of the Mumtaz Mahal, who the Taj Mahal was in turn built for. the tomb colloquially known as the "jewel box", or the "Baby Taj".

Mehtab Bagh

The Mehtab Bagh garden was the last of eleven Mughal-built gardens along the Yamuna opposite the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort; Emperor Shah Jahan had identified a site from the crescent-shaped, grass-covered floodplain across the Yamuna River as an ideal location for viewing the Taj Mahal. It was then created as "a moonlit pleasure garden called Mehtab Bagh

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Ranthambore National Park

Located in the Sawai Madhopur district, the Ranthambore National Park, in the western state of Rajasthan, is one of the most visited wildlife parks in India. Spanning over an impressive 1300-square-kilometer stretch of wilderness, the park’s outstanding natural beauty is characterized by its dense jungle, golden savanna, dramatic cliffs and lotus-filled lakes. Considered the best spot to catch a glimpse of tigers in the wild, the park offers visitors a spellbounding combination of mystical temples, wild beauty and crumbling ruins. While the main attraction is undoubtedly the elusive Bengal tiger, the park provides a sanctuary for other wildlife including, among others: sambar, gazelle, caracal, black buck, crocodile, chital, wild boars and a wide array of birds. Don’t miss the ancient Ranthambore Fort, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the vast expanse of this spectacular park.

Day Itinerary

Wake up at the crack of dawn to view the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20, 000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world.

Return back to your hotel for breakfast.

Later check out and you will be transferred in your private vehicle to Ranthambore. (5.5 hrs. approx.)

Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest national parks in northern India. It is named after the historic Ranthambore fortress, which lies within the park. The park used to be the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur but later in 1972 the sanctuary came under the Project Tiger scheme. Ranthambore National Park is famous for its tigers and is one of the best places in the country to see these majestic predators in the wild.

Dinner & overnight is at the hotel.

Expert Tips

Taj Mahal remains closed on Friday

Overnight: AamaGhati Wildlife Resort

AamaGhati Wildlife Resort is situated in Sawai Madhopur, near the Ranthambore National Park entry gates. The resort features a unique jungle-themed design. All rooms and suites are luxuriously designed and feature free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and tea-making facilities. Other amenities include a swimming pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a wellbeing centre.

Activities

Taj Mahal (Sunrise Visit)

Taj Mahal (Sunrise Visit)

It is fitting to see this extraordinary monument, the Taj Mahal, (closed on Fridays) by the first light of day as its exemplary beauty is awe-inspiring and will create an unforgettable memory. This time of the day is the least crowded and affords a very peaceful and tranquil experience of the world's most romantic site.

Basis : Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day Itinerary

Today enjoy early morning & afternoon game drives in Ranthambhore National Park by Shared Jeeps. Experience its lush forests that are home to Tigers, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Sambar deer, Chital, Nilgai, and over 250 species of birds. The duration of the safari is around 03 hours and is accompanied by an experienced naturalist.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Expert Tips

Please be informed that earlier order is reinstated, Safari booking will be closed every Tuesday ( Zone 1 to 5 ) and open ( zone 6 to 10), and every Wednesday, zone (1 to 5 ) will open & and Zone (6 to 10 ) will be closed for tourists as per the order of the department of Forest, Govt. of Rajasthan.

Activities

Ranthambore Morning Jeep Safari (Shared)

Ranthambore Afternoon Jeep Safari (Shared)

Ranthambore Morning Jeep Safari (Shared)

Enjoy a morning safari by jeep in Ranthambore National Park which boasts a fantastic wildlife. Experience its lush forests that are home to Tigers, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Sambar deer, Chital, Nilgai and over 250 species of birds. The duration of the safari is around 03 hours and accompanied by an experience naturalist. The safaris are booked through jungle authorities and offered on first come first serve basis.

Ranthambore Afternoon Jeep Safari (Shared)

Enjoy an afternoon safari by jeep in Ranthambore National Park which boasts a fantastic wildlife. Experience its lush forests that are home to Tigers, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Sambar deer, Chital, Nilgai and over 250 species of birds. The duration of the safari is around 03 hours and accompanied by an experience naturalist. The safaris are booked through jungle authorities and offered on first come first serve basis.

Basis : Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Jaipur

Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur is the capital and largest city in India’s northern state of Rajasthan. This city is famed for being India’s first planned city featuring a multitude of pink terracotta buildings within the walled historic center, earning it the nickname,’ The Pink City. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which includes Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, and serves as a gateway to the neighboring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. This colorful city is a combination of tradition and modernity and offers visitors vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces, and ancient temples. The salmon-hued old city is home to the opulent City Palace, encompassing an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards, and buildings. Don’t miss the fairy-tale splendor of the Amber Fort, set against the backdrop of the arid landscape.

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, you will be transferred in your private vehicle to Jaipur. (04 hrs approx.)

On arrival in Jaipur, you will be met and assisted with your check-in at the hotel

The colorful city of Jaipur is one of India's first planned cities. Bustling markets, historic buildings and hidden temples, and an oasis of peace set against the majestic backdrop of the Amer Fort make this a must-visit city in Rajasthan.

Later in the afternoon, take a walking tour of the old city with a local expert to explore the vibrant bazaars. It’s a great way to explore Jaipur and learn about the rich artistic traditions of this fascinating city.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Overnight: Samode Haveli

Samode Haveli is a Jaipur gem. This 300-year-old haveli was one of the Pink City's first to turn boutique hotel. Colour-pop pastel interiors, familiar service, and arguably Jaipur's most inviting pools, make it a very popular stay. Located down a quiet street within the old town's pink ramparts, the city's main attractions, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar, are just a five-minute drive.

Rooms are decorated in a classic style, and in comparison, more modern than the rest of the hotel. Bathrooms are all a very good size and all include rolltop baths as standard. Samode Haveli is known for its excellent royal Rajasthani cuisine and the Laal Maas, a traditional hunting dish, is a must try.

Activities

Evening Bazaar & Food Walk, Jaipur, India (Experience)

Evening Bazaar & Food Walk, Jaipur, India (Experience)

Overview

Maharaja Swai Jai Singh in 1727 decided to shift the bastion of the Kachwaha rulers from Amber because he felt the need for a bigger more spacious capital. For the designing of the new capital, he roped in Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Chakravorty. The auspicious beginning of the new capital was formalized with architectural mores conceived from ancient Vedic tenets. The blueprint of the city divided the new capital into nine blocks (chaupars/chowkries) and featured wide and straight streets. The entire setting was fortified by a formidable wall. The new city had a dedicated block for the palace with temples, gardens and other royal buildings; a separate block for courtiers; another for the chiefs of the state’s divisions; yet another for Jain and Hindu businessmen and other officials; merchants shared space in one area with artistes; and temples and havelis built by royalty congregated in another space. There was space allocated for the residences of the general populace; the bazaars were laid with streets for different crafts and commercial activity. So even today it’s quite easy to navigate one’s way around what is now the 'old city'.

Your tour through busy market space and eat street holds the promise of a lively interactive experience with the Jaipur of yesteryears in the very best way.

Why you will love it

• Bangle-making demonstration by a local artisan
• Checking out the wedding market of Jaipur
• Experience the local street food of Jaipur with delicious Indian sweets

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Post breakfast drive just outside Jaipur to the ancient capital of Amber to see the fabulous Amber Fort, en-route stopping for a photo stop at `Palace of Winds, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal.

Visit the City Palace, an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art, and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armories, costumes, carpets, and miniature paintings.

Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur in the 18th century and is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day.

End your day with a cooking demo with an Indian Family.

What would you say if, during your stay in Jaipur, you could enjoy a unique cooking demonstration, in a unique hotel? This is what we are offering you today! Come and discover Dera Mandawa Hotel and its hosts, who are the best in welcoming people and will definitely make you feel at home.

Get to know the owner of this place by sharing a homemade dinner, made in a friendly atmosphere during a cooking demonstration.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities

Amer Fort

Jaipur City Palace

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

Cooking Lesson at Dera Mandawa Hotel

Cooking Lesson at Dera Mandawa Hotel

What would you say if, during your stay in Jaipur, you could enjoy a unique cooking demonstration, in a unique hotel? This is what we are offering you today! Come and discover Dera Mandawa Hotel and their hosts, whom are the best in welcoming people and will definitely make you feel at home.

Thakur Durga Singh, the current custodian of Dera Mandawa, besides being a good cook, is a keen observer of history, culture, religion, current affairs, and is a bank of knowledge so vast that he has a point of view on anything under the sun.

It is a tranquil escape into living the way chieftains of yesteryears did. In this unique place, the silence is broken only by the twittering of the birds. Get to know the owner of this place by sharing a homemade dinner, made in a friendly atmosphere during a cooking demonstration.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Jodhpur

Known as the gateway to the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is the second-largest city in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is a popular tourist destination featuring a variety of ornate palaces, age-old forts, and sacred temples. Dubbed “The Blue City", most houses in the old city are painted a beautiful shade of indigo. While Jodhpur is largely a sprawling modern metropolis, enclosed within its old city walls is a labyrinth of winding, narrow medieval streets, and bazaars. Jodhpur is home to one of the largest forts in India, the massive 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which towers over the city from its sandstone plinth. Other must-see attractions include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the world's largest private residences; and the Jaswant Thada, an intricately carved white marble mausoleum.

Day Itinerary

After an early breakfast, check out and you will be transferred to Jodhpur in your private vehicle. (approx 6 hrs)

On arrival, visit the Umaid Bhawan Palace & Museum. Built in 1929 by Maharaja Umaid Singh, this palace is one of the largest private residences in the world. It currently houses the royal residence, a luxury hotel, and a family museum – the only part of the palace accessible to the general public. The extensive collection of memorabilia at the museum will take you through the fascinating 20th-century history of the Jodhpur kings.

After the tour, check in and relax for the day.

Also known as the blue city, Jodhpur is famous for its exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music, and brightly attired people. Mehrangarh Fort here is one of the best-preserved private forts in India.

Evening, you are free to explore the colorful markets of the city on your own.

Overnight is at the hotel

Overnight: RAAS Jodhpur

Set in Jodhpur’s old walled city, in the shadow of majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Raas Jodhpur boutique hotel brings an 18th-century haveli (maharaja’s mansion) bang up to date. A butler-serviced pool and smart alfresco dining may speak of the Med, but the call to prayer from a nearby mosque is a soul-stirring reminder that you’re in the heart of Rajasthan.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, start your day by walking up to the stunning Mehrangarh Fort from the Clock Tower Side. It’s an experience you will treasure; taking the cobbled path up while admiring Rajasthan’s most imposing structure in its many moods and the awesome defense structures it had in place to thwart enemies. If you still want to look back while walking, do so, for the views.

Next, we will visit the Jaswant Thada. This white marbled architecture is a memorial site of a Rajput clan. The architecture is made of white marbles which are so fine that the outer surface of the whole building emits a warm glow during sunlight. Currently, it exhibits a variety of paintings and portraits of Jodhpur rulers.

Break for lunch at local restaurant (on direct payment.)

In the afternoon, join your local expert for a walking tour of Jodhpur.

Walking into the obscure corners of the city, exploring its stunning architecture, passing by cluttered ‘Chaupars’ (intersection points), slipping through the crowded market streets. It is a way of embracing the Jodhpur life in all its traditional rhythms and routines.

Brahmins, residents in the old city for ages, and who have said to paint their houses blue to stand out from the other castes, have engrossing narratives, age-old stories and secrets to share of the indigo hued lanes that not everyone knows about! Sauntering through these old alleys, stopping by the homes of the Brahmins living here you might even chance upon windows to the city from another perspective.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities

Mehrangarh Fort

Jaswant Thada

Brahmin and Blue city walk , Jodhpur ( Experience)

Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is situated in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. The fort was constructed in 1459 by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha and stands a hundred feet in splendour on a perpendicular cliff, four hundred feet above the skyline of Jodhpur. The fort's boundaries house several palaces with intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and a museum featuring various relics.

Jaswant Thada

If you’re looking for a quiet place in Jodphur head to Jaswant Thada, popularly known as the ‘Taj Mahal of Marwar’. This architectural landmark was built in 1899 by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur State, in memory of his father, Maharaja Jaswant Singh I. Built from intricately carved marble sheets and boasting some beautiful carved marble lattice work, the impeccable design and architecture is symbolic of the fine craftsmanship of a bygone era. Beautiful sculptures, carved gazebos and frescos characterise the cenotaph, with the tiered garden offering superb views across to the fort and over the city.

Brahmin and Blue city walk , Jodhpur ( Experience)

Overview

Walking into the obscure corners of the city, exploring its stunning architecture, passing by cluttered ‘Chaupars’ (intersection points), slipping through the crowded market streets…. it’s all a way of embracing the Jodhpur life in all its traditional rhythms and routines. Brahmins, residents in the old city for ages, and who have said to paint their houses blue to stand out from the other castes, have engrossing narratives, age-old stories and secrets to share of the indigo hued lanes that not everyone knows about! Sauntering through these old alleys, stopping by the homes of the Brahmins living here you might even chance upon windows to the city from another perspective.

Why you will love it

• Capturing the beautiful blue-washed houses on your lens
• Storytelling highlights
• Meeting and interacting with a local family

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Deogarh

Deogarh, situated in India’s Rajasthan Province, is a popular tourist destination boasting a complex of luxurious heritage resorts, including the magnificent 17th-century resort hotel Deogarh Mahal, perched on top of the Aravalli Hills. With the fort and lake nearby, it forms a traditional village surrounded by exquisite countryside. The hotel also houses a well-known school of miniature painting and an impressive collection of vintage cars, while the entire area boasts a wealth of temples, most notably the Anjaneshwar Mahadev Temple, famous for its naturally-formed Sivalinga. Deogarh offers scenic views, with the lush plains of Marwar visible from the majestic mountains, and is home to many wild animals. Don’t miss the opportunity to take the metre gauge train from Deogarh to Marwar Junction, to travel through the sanctuary and hills of Kali Ghati.

Day Itinerary

Today after breakfast, you will be transferred in your private vehicle to Deogarh. (03 hrs approx)

On arrival, check-in to your hotel, located in rural Rajasthan.

Devshree is an elegant and classic heritage property. The 8-bedroom house was constructed in a traditional haveli style with deep verandahs and intricate courtyards of Rajput architecture and influence. The interiors are airy and spacious, and the décor has a contemporary twist. The central courtyard is lovely to soak in the warm sun or sit by the cauldron of fire on the cold winter evenings. As the sun sets, you hear the villagers returning to their homes with their cows and goats, a golden time of day referred to locally as gaudhuli.

Relax at the hotel

Later in the afternoon, enjoy an open 4x4 jeep ride to the countryside. This drive into the countryside lends insight into the life of the people of the area.

Lunch, Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Overnight: Dev Shree

Located in the village of Deogarh, between Jodhpur and Udaipur, Dev Shree was built respecting the traditional architecture of havelis, these beautiful mansions found in Rajasthan. The entire house inspires relaxation and contemplation. Light and air flow through the large central courtyard creating a peaceful oasis; while the distinctly Indian yet modern rooms open onto the surrounding gardens. The terrace, lined with carved columns and overlooking a lawn that stretches to Ragho Sagar Lake, is the ideal place to enjoy a pause as you observe the birds and listen to the villagers returning home at dusk. A simple and delicious cuisine of local ingredients completes the experience.

Activities

Rural Ramble at Devshree

Rural Ramble at Devshree

An evening jeep drive into the countryside lends an insight into the life of the people of the area. The drive is tailored to suit the interest of the guests; whether they are keen on the farming and agricultural side of the village, the temples and cultural aspects or the birds and natural scenic part of the area. We set out in an open hooded jeep equipped with a packed tea, snacks and a pair of binoculars . Just as you get out of the village of Deogarh one drives along the farms and we see crops in the fields and arrive at the Anjana temple, a Shiva shrine ensconed in a cave where bats hang from the roof of the cave.

There is also a step well nearby where pilgrims would bathe before entering the shrine. As we drive on , through a shepherds village, we see the cattle returning from their day of grazing and we end up at a lakeside in time to watch the sun set and view the migratory birds which are our winter visitors.

Basis : Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, proceed for a Rural Train Ride.

A magical experience to traverse down the Aravalli hill section in a small meter gauge train. The journey begins after breakfast when your guide will meet you at Dev Shree at 10:00 am and take you to the charming Kamblighat station. He will purchase the tickets and help you board the train which arrives at 10:30 am. It’s a local train and one is seated on wooden seats along with the locals who can be a wedding party, pilgrims, daily travellers, children and sometimes even their cattle!!!

We will also take you for a visit to a local Government school during school hours wherein you meet the schoolteachers and children. (The school is closed on Government Holidays and weekends)

Return to hotel for lunch and relax for some time.

Later in the afternoon explore the arts and crafts of the Deogarh village folk – just step out of the gate and your local guide will show you the work of the local potter and you could try your hand at the potter’s wheel. The flag maker, the lady with the henna cones, the miniature artists all make for interesting aspects in the walk. Ending at the main street one sees the locals going about their daily business of trading spices, groceries, rations, and bangles etc. There are also some antique and silver shops where one could strike a bargain.

Lunch, Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Activities

Rural train ride - Devshree

Village walk to explore the arts of crafts of the Deogarh

Rural train ride - Devshree

Today morning enjoy a rural train ride – a magical experience to traverse down the Aravalli hill section in a small meter gauge train. The journey begins after breakfast when your guide will meet you at Dev Shree at 10:00 am and take you to the charming Kamblighat station. He will purchase the tickets and help you board the train which arrives at 10:30 am. It’s a local train and you are seated on wooden seats along with the locals who can be a wedding party, pilgrims, daily travelers, children and sometimes even their cattle!!!

Village walk to explore the arts of crafts of the Deogarh Proceed for a village walk to explore the arts of crafts of the Deogarh village folk.

Basis : Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Udaipur

Dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’, the city of Udaipur is built around three interconnected lakes – Lake Pichhola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and the smaller Swaroop Sagar Lake – and is encircled by the hills of the Aravalli mountain range. It is home to an array of ancient temples and fairy-tale-like palaces (several of the latter have been converted into luxury heritage hotels) and is known as one of Rajasthan’s most beautiful and romantic cities. Must-see attractions include the City Palace, the Lake Palace (set on a small island in the middle of Lake Pichola), and the Udaipur Solar Observatory – Asia’s premier solar-gazing site.

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and you will be transferred in your private vehicle to Udaipur (approx 3 hrs.)

En route visiting Ranakpur Jain Temple. Surrounded by tangled forests with monkeys abounding in the courtyard, Ranakpur is one of the five important pilgrim centers for the Jain community. The temple, including the extraordinary array of 1144 pillars, is distinct in design with carved ceilings and arches decorated with friezes depicting scenes from the lives of the Jain saints.

On arrival in Udaipur, you will then be assisted for your check-in at the hotel.

With a wealth of enchanting lakes, Udaipur is a true oasis in Rajasthan. Dotted with marble palaces, hibiscus gardens, and fountain pavilions, Udaipur appeals to the imagination of poets, painters, and writers. The city's inherent romance, beauty, and remarkable past redolent with episodes of heroism and splendor continue to enthrall travelers. Udaipur, the City of Dawn, looms up like a vision in white.

Later in the afternoon, your guide will take you to Bagore ki Haveli for a cultural evening filled with folk Dance & music.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Overnight: Trident Hotel Udaipur

Experience the splendour of Rajasthan in Udaipur, nicknamed the 'City of Lakes' for its picturesque lakes framed by the Aravalli range. The history of Udaipur is a rich and charming tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, temples and gardens which reflect the varied influences of centuries past. Built over 43 acres on the banks of Lake Pichola, Trident Udaipur Hotel is perfectly located to explore the famed sites of the city, such as the City Palace, the Crystal Gallery, the Monsoon Palace or the beautiful Jagmandir.

After soaking in the sights of this historic city, return to a private sanctuary at Trident to unwind. Inspired by the architectural and cultural heritage of Udaipur, all the 137 rooms and 4 suites are furnished in hues of muted beige and cream with traditional artefacts, reflecting elegance and charm.

No royal hospitality is quite complete without a lavish feast. The main restaurant, Aravalli, serves authentic dishes from the Kingdom of Mewar, known for its fine cuisine. Children will love the signature Trident Kids' Club, their very own paradise with games, a play area and their very own tent. Enjoy a walk in the sprawling gardens at 'Bada Mahal' - a 150 year old wild life conservatory within the hotel premises. It is also recommended to let the concierge arrange a boat ride under the stars on the beautiful lake in the quaint pontoons to surrender to the charms of this magnificent city.

Activities

Ranakpur Jain Temples

Bagore Ki Haveli

Ranakpur Jain Temples

The white marble Ranakpur Jain Temple, one of the architectural gems of the area, is surrounded by tangled forests with monkeys abounding in the courtyard. Ranakpur is one of the five important pilgrim centers for the Jain community. The whole including the extraordinary array of 1144 pillars each distinct in design, carved ceilings, and arches decorated with friezes, depict scenes from the lives of the Jain saints is fascinating.

Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli, built in 18th century, features more than 100 rooms with well-arranged balconies, terraces, courtyards and corridors. Among the many precious and unmatched articles, Bagore Ki Haveli contains the costumes of the royal king, premium mural paintings of Rajasthan designed in Mewar, exclusive stuff of Rajputs like jewellery boxes, dice-games, hukkas, pan boxes, nut crackers, hand fans, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels and other items of the erstwhile rulers.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

After breakfast, start your day by visiting the City Palace Museum, where grandeur and intricacy are stroked all over in granite, marble, and mosaics which are displayed in the sparkling white filigreed balconies and windows. Marvel at the ornate arches and cupolas atop magnificent octagonal towers.

Then visit the Jagdish Temple, which was built in 1651 AD. Discover the Sahelion Ki Bari, the spectacular garden of Udaipur which displays the unique lifestyle of the royal ladies who once lived in the palaces.

Your evening is reserved for an exclusive boat ride on Lake Pichola.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities

City Palace Udaipur

Jagdish Temple

Saheliyon-ki-Bari

Boatride on Lake Pichola (Private)

Jagdish Temple

Completed in 1651, Jagdish Temple is situated just outside the royal palace. The temple can be seen as soon as visitors enter the city. Puja’s and prayer time are the best time to visit when melodious chants from devotees float through the small interior. Visitors should make a point of climbing the temple's many steps which invite them on a journey of discovery of the rich and vibrant history of Udaipur.

Saheliyon-ki-Bari

Located in Udaipur, India, Saheliyon-ki-Bari is situated in the northern part of the bustling city. The garden is popular amongst local and tourists offering lush green gardens and beautiful fountains. The garden was built by King Rana Sangram Singh for his wife and her 48 maids, to keep them far from political enticements. A small museum can be found on the property which was once a safe haven for the queen and her main servers.

Boatride on Lake Pichola (Private)

The boat ride on Lake Pichola offers the best scenic view of the lake and the mountains in the city, along with some of the most important historical monuments dotted along the lakeside.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Mumbai

Formerly known as Bombay, the bustling city of Mumbai sprawls along India’s West Coast and is the largest city in the country. This thriving metropolis is a go-to destination for travelers curious to experience a modern Indian city. It serves as the heart of India’s world-renowned film industry, the incomparable ‘Bollywood’, and offers a kaleidoscope of culture, colour and flavours to enjoy. Lapped by the Arabian Sea, this urban seaside peninsula is a melting pot of old and new India. Towering office blocks and shiny apartment buildings shoulder crumbling grand dames of architecture. People play cricket in the leafy central parks, taxis navigate the jam-packed streets, and families stroll along the seaside promenades of Mumbai. Visitors can look forward to viewing the iconic Gateway of India stone arch at the Mumbai Harbour waterfront, visiting the ancient cave temples on the nearby Elephanta Island or hopping on a tuk-tuk tour to experience the magic and madness of this incredible city.

Day Itinerary

Today, check-out of the hotel and you will be transferred to Udaipur airport to board your flight to Mumbai. (Flight details to be advised closer to the date) On arrival in Mumbai, you will be assisted and transferred to your hotel and relax.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Overnight: Trident Nariman Point

The 33-floor Trident Nariman Point overlooks Marine Drive, nicknamed the 'Queen’s Necklace' for its resemblance to a rope of diamonds when the evening lights begin to glow. It’s one of Mumbai’s finest hotels, with fabulous views, sterling service, a lovely spa and a seafront pool. Trident Nariman Point, looking out to sea, has a fantastic location: a short distance from the sights and historic buildings of Colaba and Fort, as well as Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach, the Gateway of India and Mumbai’s museums. Southeast-Asian and Japanese cuisine are served at India Jones restaurant, where chefs entertain with spectacular sleight-of-hand cooking at the Teppanyaki Grill. The sushi is excellent, as is the dim sum. There’s the garden-side Mediterranean Frangipani restaurant.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Morning proceed for the sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Start by visiting the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Formerly known as Prince of Wales Museum) built in grand Indo Saracenic style, drive past Marine Drive, Mumbai’s most popular seaside promenade and see the Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens on the slopes of the Malabar Hills, offering a nice view of the marine lines and the Chowpatty Beach.

Visit Mani Bhawan where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay and the Dhobi Ghat. Drive past the Flora Fountain, the colourful Crawford Market and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Formerly Victoria Terminus Train Station).

We will also visit Dhobhi Ghat. A unique feature of Mumbai, the dhobi is a traditional laundryman, who collects dirty linen, washes it, and return it neatly pressed. The most famous of these Dhobi Ghats Mahalaxmi dhobi ghat, the world's largest washerman colony is at Saat Rasta near Mahalaxmi Station where almost 731 dhobis and their families work together in what has always been a hereditary occupation. This area is strangely popular with foreign tourists looking for a piece of quintessential Indianness. Mahalaxmi dhobi ghat was made in the year 1890 and since then it has been here to stay. Mahalaxmi dhobi ghat is one of the biggest dhobi ghats in Mumbai and one of the favorite tourist spots in Mumbai.

Overnight is at the hotel

Expert Tips

Prince of wales museum is closed on Mondays.

Activities

Prince of Wales Museum

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya

Dhobi Ghat

Prince of Wales Museum

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, is one of the premier art and history museum in India. Situated on the southern tip of Mumbai on the 'Crescent Site', the Museum building is a fine example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.

Today this building is listed as a Grade I Heritage Building and has been awarded the '2010 UNESCO Asia – Pacific Heritage Award' for Cultural Heritage Conservation. It has been awarded first place for Heritage Building Maintenance by the Indian Heritage Society. The aim at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) is to create awareness and sensitivity towards the country's rich heritage through a visitor-friendly museum for the purposes of education, study and enjoyment of the public. The Museum offers a perfect leisure day out for all its visitors where you can engage with a world-class art collection and participate in fun-n-learn activities.

Today, CSMVS is a dynamic institution, buzzing with cultural activities, rotating exhibits, outreach and educational programmes. It is actively engaged in collaboration with international museums and cultural organizations.

Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya

Mani Bhavan, a modest two-storied building on the Laburnum Road in the comparatively quiet locality called Gamdevi, served as Gandhiji's Bombay head-quarters for about seventeen long and eventful years (1917-1934). It belonged to Shri Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri, who was Gandhi's friend and a host during that period. It was from Mani Bhavan that Gandhi initiated Satyagraha against Rowlatt Act and propagated the causes of Swadeshi, Khadi and Hindu-Muslim Unity. In 1955 the building was dedicated as a memorial to Gandhiji and to the very important activities of great significance he initiated from that place.

Mani Bhavan has a story to tell as it housed Gandhiji occasionally during the times when he grew in stature and strength, from an agitator to a world figure by successfully introducing satyagraha (individual as well as mass) as a new and effective weapon to fight all evil and injustice. It is obviously impossible to draw the full picture or tell the whole story here. This is an humble attempt to give the reader a few glimpses of the great drama enacted in this small corner of Mumbai by Gandhiji and his illustrious colleagues. To the visitors, it will give an idea of the dynamism of the great Mahatma even while he was shaping himself and the nation, along the uncharted path of non-violent resistance to foreign rule and to all evil.

The visitors from all over the world come to Mani Bhavan, to see the Room that Gandhiji occupied, its Picture Gallery, the Library Hall and the Terrace where he was arrested on January 4, 1932. Gandhiji was a dynamic person and he kept on evolving. Even a change in his outward dress indicated an inner change. On his return from South Africa, he flung away the European style of dressing and took to the Indian style. Then again his original Kathiawadi turban was replaced by a Kashmiri cap which in its turn was discarded in favor of a white-cap popularly known as the Gandhi cap. The change ultimately culminated in a bare loin cloth- a significant symbol representing the Indian peasantry and its poverty. Perhaps Mani Bhavan is the only place besides the Sabarmati Ashram, where he donned all these dresses in their sequence.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

Early morning, join your local expert for a Mumbai by dawn tour to explore how the city of dreams awakens.

Why you will love it!!

• Finding out the unique aspects of the world’s most exciting commercial capitals.
• Diving into the underbelly of a multi-layered metropolis.
• Learning all about a city that never sleeps at night or dawn.

Return to your hotel for breakfast

Early afternoon, proceed for a Dharavi slum tour with a local expert.

Novice filmmakers cut their teeth on the stories that emanate from one of Asia’s largest slums - Dharavi. Despite its all-pervading squalor and the grungy bearings, the large sprawl of this huge community complex bristles in every lane with artistic outpourings. What comes as a shock to the first-time visitor is that with thousands of small-scale industries thriving in the area Dharavi has emerged as the epicenter of Mumbai’s incredible economic growth; another shocking discovery is that many of the people here are owners of multi-million-dollar companies. Dharavi, it is said generates revenue of a staggering billion US Dollars annually.

Why you will love it!!

• Uncovering the nature of Mumbai’s incredible socio-economic narrative.
• Understanding the word ‘slum’ in the context of Dharavi offers a whole new perspective to life in Mumbai.
• Discovering the amazing rags-to-riches stories of many inhabitants.

Later return to your hotel and relax.

Overnight is at the hotel.

Activities

Mumbai by Dawn ( Experience)

Dharavi Tour, Mumbai, India (Experience)

Mumbai by Dawn ( Experience)

Overview

The “City of Dreams” – this large bustling mega-metropolis on the shores of the Arabian Sea, has been a magnet for streams of dreamers and entrepreneurs, seekers of work and peddlers of cons and icons. What stands out about its magnetism is that all of them imbibe of its amazing ability to rise above everything and plunge afresh into its creed of the business of living. And presiding over all this is Mumbai Devi, its patron goddess.

They, in turn, have left an indelible stamp on the culture of this great city which defines its distinctive appeal to all those who follow in their footsteps. The chance to uncover some aspects of the mercurial character of the city presents itself best at dawn when the great city bestirs itself for the new day.

Why you will love it!!

• Finding out the unique aspects of the world’s most exciting commercial capitals.
• Diving into the underbelly of a multi-layered metropolis.
• Learning all about a city that never sleeps at night or dawn.

Dharavi Tour, Mumbai, India (Experience)

Overview

Novice filmmakers cut their teeth on the stories that emanate from one of Asia’s largest slums - Dharavi. Despite its all-pervading squalor and the grungy bearings the large sprawl of this huge community complex bristles in every lane with artistic outpourings. What comes as a shock to the first time visitor is that with thousands of small scale industries thriving in the area Dharavi has emerged as the epicentre of Mumbai’s incredible economic growth; another shocking discovery is that many of the people here are owners of multi-million dollar companies. Dharavi, it is said generates revenue of a staggering billion US Dollars annually.

Why you will love it!!

• Uncovering the nature of Mumbai’s incredible socio-economic narrative
• Understanding the word ‘ slum’ in the context of Dharavi offers a whole new perspective to life in Mumbai
• Discovering the amazing rags to riches stories of many inhabitants

Basis : Bed and Breakfast

Day Itinerary

In time transfer to Mumbai airport for your homebound flight.

Bon Voyage!

Expert Tips

Hotel check-out is at 1200 Hrs

Basis : Bed and Breakfast