ITINERARY SPECIALLY PREPARED FORTRIP TO RAJASTHAN (INDIA)

(14 Nights/ 15 Days)

Arrive Delhi by Air France flight AF 226 @ 2310hrs ex France.

Delhi, the city is acclaimed for being the cultural capital of India. The spectacular architecture of Delhi city is evident through its antique monuments. This city witnesses an interesting blend of diverse cultures (some even 5000 years old). Delhi has always had a mysterious eternity, the city having witnessed empires rise to glory and fall to ashes. The contemporary Delhi is a culmination of seven cities built by different emperors. Ruins of this ancient city are found even today and

now converted to some major tourist attractions, which can be seen during city tours.

You will be well received on your arrival at Delhi International airport by your friends and transfer to their residence.

Overnight in Delhi.

After Breakfast at hotel, you can proceed for full day city tour of Old Delhi (in the morning) & New Delhi (in the afternoon).

The city of Delhi can broadly be divided into two parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of Delhi’s Muslim rulers notably the Mughals between 17th & 19th

Day 01 PARIS/ DELHI

Day 02 DELHI

centuries. New Delhi on the other hand is referred to as the IMPERIAL city when the British decided to move their capital from Calcutta in 1911.

Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in India where thousands of Muslims offer prayers every day. The mosque was built in 1656 with the flight of stairs and large courtyard, which are marvels of architecture. It has three gateways, four angle towers, and two minarets standing 40 meters high and constructed of alternating vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble. Broad flights of steps lead up to the imposing gateways.

Chandni Chowk: It was the eyes and ears of the Mughal's commercial instincts and is today one of the country's best known wholesale markets for textiles, electronic goods and many other items. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan'' favorite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of the time. In today's time, this area is highly congested. Rickshaw ride through Chandi Chawk. Raj Ghat: It is situated to the south of Red Fort and is very peaceful. The black marble tomb is inscribed by the words “Hey Ram”, the last words that were spoken by Mahatma Gandhi, as he fell down after being shot by Nathuram Godse. The whole edifice of the Samadhi reflects the simple and nature-loving personality of the great leader. The cenotaph stands surrounded by earthworks that protect it from the flooding of the Yamuna. These walls have resulted in the open space of the memorial being converted into an enclosed garden. In the afternoon, proceed to visit New Delhi, visiting India Gate (drive pass Parliament House & President House), Humayun’s Tomb and Qutab Minar.

India Gate: India Gate is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi. The impressive colonial architecture of India Gate is a symbol of modern Delhi. The beautiful stone arch was built by the British in honor of Indian soldiers killed in World War I. Here you will also find the 'Amar Javan Jyoti', which is a permanent flame in honor of the Indian soldiers who died in wars since 1918.

Rashtrapati Bhavan: The Rashtrapati Bhavan or the President's House is the official residence of the President of India. The Bhavan has 340 rooms and is spread in an area of about 330 acres. It is a wonderful blend of Mughal and Western architectural styles. The Bhavan comprises of the magnificent Durbar Hall, the Ball Room, the State Dining Room, and private chambers. The Mughal Gardens within the complex are a treat for the eyes and are open to public during certain periods of the year.

Parliament House: To the northwest of Vijay Chowk, this huge circular, colonnaded building comprises three semicircular chambers for the Legislatures and a Central Library crowned by a 27.4m high dome. It is 173m in diameter and covers 2.02 hectares in area, with colonnaded verandahs enclosing the entire circumference. The three semi-circular areas were designed for the

Chamber of Princes, the Council of State and the Legislative Assembly. Today they house the chambers of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), Rajya Sabha (Upper House) and the library. A verandah with 144 columns surrounds the three chambers. The boundary wall has blocks of sandstone carved in geometrical patterns that echo the Mughal jalis. Humayun's Tomb: Humayun's wife, Hamida Begum, built this monument in Delhi in the year 1556. The tomb is set on a platform amidst a garden and is believed to have influenced the design of the Taj Mahal. The structure of the tomb is as magnificent as the Taj Mahal in Agra. The

splendor of this grand monument becomes overpowering on entering through the lofty double storied gateway. The fountains with simple yet highly developed engineering skills enhance the beauty of the garden. Qutab Minar: It is the highest tower in India, built in red and buff sandstone. The monument covers an area of 14.32m in diameter at the base and about 2.75m on the top with a height of

72.5m. In 1199 A.D. Qutub-u'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Qutab Minar for the use of Mu'azzin. He built the first storey, later three more storeys were added by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish. The tower symbolizes Islamic rule of the city. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone, the fourth and fifth storeys of marble and sandstone.

Overnight in Delhi.

After breakfast at hotel, drive towards Mandawa.

Lying on an old caravan trade route, Shekhawati is renowned for its painted houses or “Havelis” of its wealthy merchant class, the Marwari’s. The region resembles an open air art gallery with paintings dating from the mid 19th century. The

Day 03 DELHI/ MANDAWA (270Kms & 6-7hdrive)

paintings are to be found in several villages notably Mandawa.

Mandawa - an ancient city established by the wealthy and dominating merchants - boasts of its age old massive havelis and beautiful murals/wall paintings. Its rich art forms and traditions make it one of the most frequented and admired tourist destinations during Rajasthan tour. Located in the Shekhawati region, this historical town is surrounded by the majestic Aravali range and is a favorite destination of history lovers. Its grand forts, havelis, palatial mansions, paved archways, mirror works, paintings and murals make it an open air art gallery.

Arrive Mandawa and check in your hotel.

In the afternoon, proceed for city tour of Mandawa, visiting Mandawa Fort, built in 1797 by the Shekhawati ruler Nawal Singh, is a masterpiece of elegance & grandeur and famous havelis like Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Goenka Double Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli etc. The best part of these havelis lies in their beautiful paintings, which depict Indian mythological characters like Indra Dev and Lord Shiva, wild animals, political leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, etc.

Overnight in Mandawa.

Day 04 MANDAWA/ BIKANER (180Kms & 4h drive)

After breakfast at hotel, drive towards Bikaner.

Bikaner- If ever beauty has bloomed in a desert, it has been at Bikaner. Founded in 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji, it's located in North West part of Rajasthan state in India.The imposing palaces, beautiful and richly sculptured temples of red and yellow sand stones display some of the finest creations of Rajput civilization. It's lust for "dessert"or affection for "desert" that tickles every heart to visit Bikaner.

Arrive Bikaner and check in at your hotel.

In the afternoon, proceed for sightseeing tour of Bikaner, visiting Junagarh Fort, which 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. Lalgarh Palace, the majestic palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in 1902 is a magnum opus in red sandstone. Camel Breeding Farm was founded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research on July 1984. The Camel Breeding Farm is one of the largest camel farms of Asia and breeds the finest of camels in Bikaner.

Overnight in Bikaner.

After Breakfast at hotel, drive towards

Jaisalmer. On the way, visit Deshnoke (Rat) Temple or Karni Mata temple. This 17th century temple where rats are revered in the belief they are reincarnated saints and roam freely is unique in its own right.

Continue drive to Jaisalmer.

Day 05 BIKANER/ JAISALMER (330Kms & 7h drive)

Unlike any other city, this desert fortress is one of Rajasthan's most exotic and unusual towns. Jaisalmer, an important ancient trading centre because of its strategic location on the camel trade routes, is often described as the 'golden city'. The havelis, built by merchants of the 19 th

century, are exquisitely carved from golden-yellow sandstone and are still in a beautiful condition. The fort built by Rawal Jaisal in the 12th century, stands on the 80 metre high Trikuta hill, with beautifully carved Jain temples. Arrive Jaisalmer and check in at your hotel.

Overnight in Jaisalmer.

After Breakfast at hotel, proceed for sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer; visiting Jaisalmer Fort- The Rajput ruler Jaisala constructed this majestic fort in the year 1156 A.D. The secret of this desert state's prosperity in spite of the fact that it lies right in the middle of the desert is the fact that Jaisalmer was an important stopover on the camel trade route in between

Rajasthan and the countries of Central Asia. Patwon Ki Haveli, is a fine specimen of the skillful Rajputana architecture and is among the prominent places to see in Jaisalmer. This massive haveli is known for its exquisitely carved pillars and an extensive network of corridors. One particular apartment inside this large haveli is decorated with pretty murals depicting historical scenes. Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a 300-year old haveli that is one of the most interesting places to see in Jaisalmer. Salim Singhji, the prime minister in the court of the princely state of Jaisalmer, constructed this massive private residence. This haveli is known for the lovely murals painted on

Day 06 JAISALMER

its walls. Gadisagar Lake built in 1367 was once the city’s only source of water and lined with

ghats and temples, it is a photogenic place to visit.

Overnight in Jaisalmer.

After Breakfast at hotel, drive to Jodhpur.

Jodhpur is the land of the valiant Rathore kings, whose courage was a match for the tyranny of the Thar Desert. A bleak scarp rears up 120 meters from the desert valley. Straddling the rocky crevices is the massive Jodhpur Fort, its sheer walls reflecting the strength of its warrior builders.

Arrive Jodhpur and check in to your hotel.

In the afternoon, proceed for city tour of Jodhpur, visiting the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, undoubtedly the most prominent landmark of the city. The museum within the fort is one of the finest in Rajasthan and displays royal apparel, ancient paintings and manuscripts, fabled treasures of the royal household and an armoury and Jaswant Thada – Maharaja Jaswant Singh II's cenotaph, built in 1899 - all previous rulers have their cenotaphs at Mandore.

Overnight in Jodhpur.

After Breakfast at hotel, drive towards Udaipur; visiting the famous Kumbalgarh Fort & Ranakpur Temple on the way.

Day 08 JODHPUR/ UDAIPUR (280Kms & 6h drive)

Day 07 JAISALMER/ JODHPUR (290Kms & 6h drive)

Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second most important fort of Rajasthan after Chittorgarh. Located at a distance of 64 kms from Udaipur in Rajasmand district, Kumbhalgarh Fort is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur. This unconquerable fortress is secured under the kind protection of the Aravali ranges. Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Maharana Rana Kumbha in the 15 th century. The fort derived its name from the same factor.

Encircled by thirteen elevated mountain peaks, the fort is constructed on the top most ridges around 1,914 meters above sea level. The fortifications of the fort extend to the length of 36kilometers and this fact has made this fort to be in the international records. It is stated to be the second longest wall in the world, the first being ''the Great Wall of China''. The huge complex of the Fort has numerous palaces, temples and gardens making it more magnificent.

Ranakpur is located about 56miles north of Udaipur and in any case a must, if you are in this region. This Jain Temple was built under the reign of monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15 th century. The Jains are among other things known for their asceticism and absolute nonviolence. With a

4,500 square yards basement (approximately 60 x 62 meters) it is the largest Jain temple in India. Entering this marvel of architecture we were overwhelmed by the lavish abundance of marvellous stonemason works on white marble. There are four subsidiary shrines, 24 pillared halls and all in all 1444 marble pillars each from one piece and all richly decorated with most elaborately carved sculptures and filigrees, including the domes. The creativity and beauty of these elaborate works is unimaginable and the variety is such, that no two of the 1444 pillars are alike! A special effect is the amazing play of shadow, light and colours. As the light shifts

through the temple over the day the pillar's colours change from white over bluish to gold. When the mogul emperor Akbar visited this temple he was full of admiration that he had made an inscription on one of the pillars which says, that no one ever will be allowed to destroy this jewel of architecture.

Continue drive to Udaipur.

Udaipur, A royal past makes itself evident in every nook and corner in Udaipur. Whether it is the ornate doors that are entrances to people's homes or the palaces, gardens and monuments, Udaipur gives one a glimpse of what the place would have looked like in its time of glory. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1568 and considered the jewel of Mewar, Udaipur's air is filled with a strong sense of romance, adventure and the best of Rajputana.

Arrive Udaipur and check in at hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 09 UDAIPUR

After breakfast at hotel, proceed to visit Eklingji & Nagda.

The little village of Eklingji with a number of ancient temples is 22kms north of Udaipur. The Shiv Temple in the village was originally built in 734 AD, although its present form dates from the rule of Maharana Raimal, between 1473 AD and 1509 AD. The walled complex includes an elaborately pillared hall under a large pyramidal roof and features a four faced Shiva image of

black marble. Photography is not allowed.

At Nagda, 1km before Eklingji, are old temples. The Jain temple of Adbudji is essentially ruined, but its architecture is quiet intresting. The nearby Sas Bahu or Mother and Daughter-in-Law Temple is worth visiting. In the afternoon, proceed for city tour of Udaipur, visiting The City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola, surrounded by crenulated walls. Built in 1567, it is composed of 4 major palaces and several minor palaces that form a single façade. Jagdish Temple, built in 1651 by Maharaja Jagat Singh, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located in the centre of the old city. The temple has a black marble image of Lord Vishnu, which is unusual for the northern part of the country, where statues of Gods are

normally in marble. Sahelion ki Bari, Maharana Sangram Singh built this garden for his daughter and the ladies of the Queen's court. It is said he wished to recreate the monsoon for his daughter, who had been ill for a long period.

Also visit the Vintage and Classic Car Collection where grand limousines and cars showcased in the museum are the private collection of the House of Mewar and are in perfect running condition. The collection includes a Rolls Royce, 1939 Cadillac open convertibles, rare Mercedes models, a 1936 Vauxhall, a

1937 Opel and an MG-TC 1946 convertible are on display.

In the evening take sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola. A manmade lake, Lake Pichola is one of the prime attractions of Udaipur. The lake is kn own for the palace build amidst the lake. The lake was built by Maharana Udai Singh II. Cradled amongst hills, gardens, havelis, temples and ghats, Lake Pichola is the picturesque spotlight of Udaipur. The lake is about 4km long and 3km wide, and not very deep. It often dries up in the severe summer months.

Overnight in Udaipur.

After breakfast at hotel, drive towards Pushkar.

Pushkar is a town in the Ajmer district in the state of Rajasthan. It is situated at 14kms North West from Ajmer at an average elevation of 510metres (1673 feet) and is one of the five sacred dhams (pilgrimage sites for devout Hindus). It is often called "Tirth Raj" - the king of pilgrimage sites - and has in recent years become a popular destination for foreign tourists.

Pushkar is one of the oldest cities of India. It lies on the Shore of Pushkar Lake. The date of its actual origin is not known, but legend associates Lord Brahma with its creation. It is mentioned that Brahma performed penance here for 60,000 years to have a glimpse of Vishnu.

Pushkar has many temples. Most of the temples are not very old, since many were destroyed during Muslim conquests in the area. Subsequently, the destroyed temples were re-built. The most famous among all is the Brahma Temple built during the 14th century AD. Very few temples to Lord Brahma exist anywhere in the world. Other temples of Brahma include Bithoor in Uttar Pradesh; village Asotra near Balotra city of Barmer district

Day 10 UDAIPUR/ PUSHKAR (280Kms & 6h drive)

in Rajasthan; Mother Temple of Besakih in Bali, Indonesia; and Prambanan in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The Pushkar Lake has 52 ghats where pilgrims descend to the lake to bathe in the sacred waters. Pushkar is also famous for its annual Pushkar Camel Fair. Arrive Pushkar and check in to your hotel.

Later in the afternoon, proceed for city tour of Pushkar.

According to Hindu mythology, all the gods visit Pushkar for five days in a year to bless the devout and absolve them of their sins. There are many legends associated to the origin of Pushkar and Pushkar Fair but they have one thing in common. They are all associated with Lord Brahma. A visit to pushkar Fair is an experience of a lifetime and is certainly not worth a miss.

Brahma Temple: The Brahma temple of Pushkar is only Hindu temple where Lord Braham, the creator of universe is worshipped. Only 15kms from Ajmar, this holy temple is situated in the Pushkar valley. The Brahma temple, built with marble, is decorated with silver coins and there is a silver turtle on the floor of the temple. The temple enshrines a life-size idol of Lord Brahma. Without visiting Pushkar’s Braham temple your Rajasthan tour will be incomplete.

Savitri Temple: Dedicated to Savitri, one of Brahma's wives, the temple is located on the highest hill above the Pushkar town. You have to climb a long series of steps to reach the shrine. The temple offers a panoramic view of the Pushkar Lake and surrounding sand dunes. This is a must visited place of Pushkar so go and see the temple of devoted wife, Savitri.

Pushkar Lake: The Pushkar Lake is considered as one of the most sacred spot in India. It is believed that the lake was created by the lotus petals, which fell from the hand of Lord Krishna. Every year during Kartik Purnima (Month of October/ November) when moon appear in full size, pilgrims come from across the world for take a holy dip in holy Lake. The tranquil and beautiful lake amidst the hills has fifty-two bathing Ghats, built around the lake. The Lake is semi-circular in shape. The water around each Ghat is supposed to have special powers.

Overnight in Pushkar.

After breakfast at hotel, proceed to visit the Tomb of Muslim saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti.

One of the most sacred shrines of the Muslims as well as the Hindus, Ajmer Dargah Sharif in Rajasthan is actually the tomb of the revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti. This famous Sufi saint came all the way from Persia and worked for the betterment of the underprivileged and the deprived class. The architectural style of Ajmer Sharief has the typical touch of Mughal style of construction and has been modified by all Mughal rulers from Humayun to Shah Jahan. In Ajmer, Dargah Sharif is one of the most famous landmarks and should be visited of you are going to Rajasthan.

Day 11 PUSHKAR/ JAIPUR (150Kms & 4h drive)

The gate of the Dargah is an imposing structure that has massive silver doors that have been built in various stages. A silver railing encircles the real tomb of the saint and a screen made of marble and gold plated dome surrounds the tomb. According to legends, the saint lived for 114 years and died in solitude, locked in a room. The place is supposed to have been blessed by the saint and it is said that a true devotee will get what he wishes for sincerely.

Every year a festival is held in Ajmer Dargah Sharif in remembrance of his death. The famous Urs festival is held in Ajmer for six days in the honor of this saint. The Dargah Sharif is packed with thousands of devotees who come from all over the world. Devotees make rich offerings in the Dargah, which is known as "Nazrana". The offerings can also be something as simple as rose and jasmine flowers, sandalwood paste, perfumes and incense sticks. Others can offer cash also. Whatever is offered, be it small or big, it is done with full devotion. It is said that whoever prays sincerely at Dargah Sharif never leaves empty handed.

The place smells of rose and jasmine and other sweet fragrances. Just outside the gate of the tomb one can find "Qawwals", who are professional Qawwali singers. They sing in the praise of the saint and the high pitched hymns add to the divinity of the place. You will also find beggars, locally known as "Fakirs" who sit around the main gate begging for alms. A visit to the Dargah Sharif will leave you enriched and will provide food for the soul.

Overnight in Jaipur.

After breakfast at hotel, proceed to visit Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the present day rulers of Jaipur. Located 13kms from Jaipur, Amber Fort is a must see for visitors. This huge, yet gorgeous complex has elements of both Mughal and Hindu architecture. There are a number of palaces here as well as gardens and temples. Situated on Maotha Lake, the fort offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The building of the fort palace was started by Raja Mansingh a noted general in Emperor Akbar’s army. Successive rulers later added to the fort. Its architecture is highly influenced by the Mughals.

Ascend & descend the FORT by Jeep.

In the afternoon, proceed to visit the Pink City of Jaipur, visiting City Palace, Jantar Mantar & Hawa Mahal.

City Palace, located in the old city area of Jaipur, is a huge complex made up of gorgeous courtyards and perfectly manicured gardens. What makes City Palace special is that the buildings on the grounds show a blend of two types of architecture: Rajasthani architecture and Mughal architecture. One of the most stunning views at City Palace is of the peacock gate at the Pitam

Niwas Chowk (the inner courtyard.) At the inner courtyard, there are four gates, each representing a different season. The peacock gate represents autumn, the lotus gate

represents summer, the green gate represents spring, and the rose gate symbolizes the winter season. These beautiful gates are excellent examples of the workmanship done at this palace. City Palace includes the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal palaces and other buildings, is a palace complex, which was built between 1728 & 1732, it occupies the center of Jaipur and is

Day 12 JAIPUR

surrounded by high walls. The important buildings within the Palace are textile and the costume museum, armory museum, Diwan-I-Khas and Diwan-I-am.

Jantar Mantar is the largest stone observatory in the World and one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. Between 1727 and 1734 Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. The observatories, or "Jantar Mantars" as they are commonly known, incorporate multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. These structures with their striking combinations of geometric forms at large scale have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians worldwide, yet remain largely unknown to the general public. This observatory has a number of architectural structures that are used to observe space. These structures, dating to 1734, allowed scientists to measure time, predict eclipses, track stars, and more!

Hawa Mahal, known as the Palace of the Winds, is another beautiful building in Jaipur. Because of its location next to the City Palace, there is no reason to miss out on this architectural wonder! The design of this palace features intricate patterns on the windows and screens. The Hawa Mahal, in all of its architectural glory, is one of the most recognized buildings in Jaipur. It was built for the ladies of the harem. An interesting fact about this palace is that upon construction, winds used to flow through its openings, giving it the name 'Palace of the Winds.' Sadly, wind no longer flows through the palace.

Overnight in Jaipur at Hotel DERA RAWATSAR

After breakfast at hotel, drive towards Agra. On the way, visit the famous Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and Fatehpur Sikri (40Kms before Agra).

The Keoladeo Ghana National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan is a famous avifauna sanctuary that sees (or saw) thousands of rare and highly endangered birds such as the Siberian Crane come here during the winter season. Over 230 species of birds are

Day 13 JAIPUR/ AGRA (230Kms & 5h drive)

known to have made the National Park their home. It is also a major tourist centre with scores of ornithologists arriving here in the hibernal season. It was declared a protected sanctuary in 1971. It is also a declared World Heritage Site.

Continue drive towards Agra and visit Fatehpur Sikri (17kms from Bharatpur).

The royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 40kms west of Agra, was built at the orders of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. While Akbar himself was illiterate, he took a keen interest in literature, architecture, and the arts. He is also reputed to be a very tolerant ruler, and the buildings at Fatehpur Sikri blended both Islamic and Hindu elements in their architectural style. One of the buildings even reflects the new syncretistic faith founded by Akbar, Din-e-ilahi, which though very short-lived remains a matter of controversy.

Continue drive towards Agra.

Agra is a part of the state of Uttar Pradesh in the northern region of India, situated on the west bank of river the Yamuna. Agra, the city of Taj Mahal is one of the famed cities of India. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra houses one of world's most spectacular monuments - Taj Mahal. The history of Agra is much older than the times of Mughals. Agra is referred as 'Agraban' in the great Hindu epic 'Mahabharat', an integral part of the Brij Bhumi or the land of Lord Krishna. It is claimed that this was the region of Agra. However, it was during the reign of Raja Badal Singh in 1475, that the city is known to be discovered. The Mughal rule had transformed the land into one of the great centers of art, culture, learning and commerce. Magnificent monuments in majestic work of art and architecture are still flourishing with arts and crafts including leather work and pietra dura marble-inlay work. The delicious Mughal cuisine has now become an integral part of Agra.

Arrive Agra and check in to your hotel.

In the evening, proceed to visit the famous Taj Mahal at sunset.

TAJ MAHAL was built by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal after her death in 1631. It is described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love. Standing on the banks of the Yamuna River it is a flawless architectural masterpiece. The Taj Mahal is recognized worldwide as a symbol of eternal love.

(Taj Mahal remains closed on Fridays).

Overnight in Agra.

Wake up early in the morning and proceed to visit the famous Taj Mahal at sunrise (2nd

visit).

Return to hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at hotel, proceed for city tour of Agra, visiting Agra Fort, Itmad- ud- daula, Sikandara & Mehtab Bagh.

Visit the massive Agra Fort, which lies on the west bank of river Yamuna became one of the principal cities of the Mughal Empire after the death of Ibrahim Lodi at Panipat in 1526. When Akbar chose Agra as his capital he laid the foundation of the Fort of Agra. After Taj this was one of the most important groups of buildings. The construction was started in 1565 and was completed in about eight years at a cost of thirty five lakh of rupees under the superintendence of Qasim Khan Mir Barr-u-Bahr. This fort was just one of the many large fortified residences that the emperor wanted to have at various strategic points of his empire. According to contemporary chroniclers like Abul Fazal the fort contained over five hundred buildings. But later on Akbar's descendants added new buildings, mainly in marble to the fort and demolished the old ones. The Mughal Emperors were always fond of constructing monuments. Perhaps they knew that they would be gone but these structures will remind the world of their grandeur.

Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah is a mausoleum on the left bank of the Jamuna, built by Empress Nur Jehan in memory of her father. Though small, it is perfectly proportioned and regarded as the forerunner to the Taj Mahal, being the first Mughal building all in white marble. Sikandra is the place where the tomb of the great Mughal emperor Akbar is located. It is situated about twelve kilometers away from

the main city of Agra. He followed the Tartary custom of building one’s own tomb. Rather, he tried to but died without completing it. His son Jehangir finished the job but not the way his father had planned. He made several additions of the new art and architecture of his time. Akbar’s tomb is made of red ochre sandstone and beautified with exquisite carvings. It was designed to reflect the secular beliefs of the emperor. The tomb is shaped like a truncated

Day 14 AGRA

pyramid with five storeys. The main tomb is square and one of a kind. The tomb is a huge arched gateway in the midst of lush green lawns where one can see deer grazing. The famous gateway is known as the Buland Darvaza (door) and has strikingly bold decorations with its large mosaic patterns.

In the evening, you will be transferred to Mehtabbagh to see the famous Taj Mahal at at sunset from across river Yamuna.

Mahtab Bagh built in 1631 to 1635 and situated on the sandy bank of Yamuna River just opposite the Taj Mahal mausoleum. Agra Mahtab Bagh is an ideal spot to take picturesque view of Taj Mahal. The name Mehtab Bagh means 'Moon Lit Garden' and the same was testified by the stunning reflection of Taj Mahal in the pool at night in Mahtab Bagh. The place has a history of its own. It is assumed that the great emperor Shah Jahan who built Taj Mahal for his queen required an identical one for himself at Mehtab Bagh India. However the archaeological findings have proved the existence of garden complex. Whatever the trendy beliefs be, the place is significance a visit as it provides bewitching image of Taj Mahal.

Overnight in Agra.

After brekafast at hotel, drive towards Delhi.

Arrive Delhi and transfer to your friend’s House.

In the eveneing, you will be transferred to Delhi International airport to board your onwards flight back home with sweet memories of your India Trip with Dependable Travel Solutions India !!

**** END OF THE TOUR ****

Day 15 AGRA/ DELHI (210Kms & 4hrs drive)