| DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a two-night stay. Delhi is a wondrous city with a rich history and culture. The "capital of seven empires" has many thousands of recognized monuments within its borders. Though Bombay has more residents, Delhi is widely considered the cultural heart of India. DAY 2: DELHI A full day of touring awaits you in India's capital city. This morning's tour of Old Delhi includes the Red Fort with its imposing sandstone walls; Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; and Jami Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Then hop onto cycle rickshaws and set out through the bustling marketplace, Chandi Chawk. Pass through Dariba Kalan, the gold and silversmith district, then through Kinari Bazaar, which has the most colorful shops in Old Delhi, and Khari Baoli, which is famous for its nut and spice shops. Continue on to New Delhi; huilt by the British in the 1920s, New Delhi is a city of wide boulevards, impressive government buildings, and green parks and gardens. Visit the 12th century Qutab Minar, the Birla Temple, the famed Baha'i Lotus Temple, and Humayan's Tomb, a forerunner of the Taj Mahal. Return to your hotel for the night. (B) DAY 3: DELHI - VARANASI This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, the most sacred city in India for Hindus, and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon visit Sarnath, just outside Varanasi. This is the site of the Buddha's first teachings. Remains of early monasteries create a relaxing atmosphere, complemented by a deer park and aviary. Although only a few miles from Varanasi, Sarnath is a tranquil spot that seems far removed from the bustle of the nearby city. In the evening, visit the ghats (stone steps) on the Ganges River to participate in a Deepmala Ceremony, during which earthen lamps are set afloat on the water as an offering for your good health and prosperity. (B) DAY 4: VARANASI - DELHI - AGRA An early morning drive takes you to the river, where you will embark on a boat ride on the Ganges. The views of the city from the water are mysterious and magical: bathers, yogis and worshippers start the day at the banks of the river. Continue a tour of the city. Explore the bazaars, full of the famed Benares silk, and tour the city's temples and Benares University. The University's museum contains a superb collection of Nicholas Roerich's paintings of the Himalayas. This afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight Delhi, and continue by road to Agra. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a two-night stay. After freshening up, take a decorated carriage to the Taj Mahal to see it bathed in evening light. One of the most photographed buildings in the world, the Taj still moves visitors with its perfect proportions and exquisitely jeweled walls. (B)*Note: The Taj Mahal is closed for maintenance on Fridays. DAY 5: AGRA While Agra is deservedly famed for the Taj, this Moghul city has many other riches to offer the visitor. Visit Agra Fort, which provides awesome views of the Taj. Shah Jahan was imprisoned here by his son Aurangzeb. The Shah spent his final years gazing at the tomb he had commissioned for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. You will also visit Itmad ud Daulah, the tomb of Mirza Ghiyath Beg. His daughter, Nur Jahan, the most powerful woman in Moghul history, designed it. Continue for some flexible touring. Agra is the home of marble inlay work, stonework, and rich Zardozi embroidery. You may wish to visit some factories where you can see the craftsmen at work and/or explore the bazaars to purchase costume jewelry, bangles, etc. (B) DAY 6: AGRA - JAIPUR This morning depart by car for Jaipur via the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built in the 17th century, this Moghul city was abandoned due to severe water shortages. The buildings are perfect examples of the pinnacle of Moghul architecture. Later this afternoon, proceed to Jaipur, the center of India's gem trade and a marvel of pink sandstone, and transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay. This evening visit the famous Birla Temple and witness the evening arti ceremony - a traditional Hindu prayer. (B) DAY 7: JAIPUR A morning of touring begins with a drive to Amber Fort, a magnificent example of Rajput fort building at its best. Ride an elephant up the long sweeping ramparts to the fort. Fortified by natural hills and a succession of gates, the fort was a perfect capital for the Kuchwaha Rajputs from the 11th to the 18th centuries. The fort contains a dramatic Hall of Public Audience opposite a beautifully painted Ganesh Pole. Ganesh, the elephant-headed son of Siva and Parvati, is commonly propitiated before beginning any new venture. Visit the fountain gardens and the marble rooms cooled by water pouring through fine perforations in the center of the wall. This low-tech air conditioning was highly effective, and easy to use. This afternoon you have a driver and guide available for flexible touring and/or shopping at your request. Jaipur is famous for its products, especially silver and gold jewelry. Explore the various local bazaars buzzing with activity and vibrant with color. (B) DAY 8: JAIPUR Today continue your privately guided touring of Jaipur. Visit the Observatory, which is well equipped with mortar instruments of remarkable size that, for sheer accuracy, are difficult to beat even today. Also visit the Maharaja's City Palace, the former royal residence and now a museum housing a vast collection of Indian miniature paintings (note the elaborately jeweled doors, decorated with peacocks and wild animals). Enormous silver vessels sit in the courtyard; the Maharaja used them when he traveled to England so he did not have to risk drinking foreign water. Also stop by the beautiful Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), a beautifully decorated pink facade with 953 windows. Return to your hotel by mid-afternoon for some time at leisure. (B) DAY 9: JAIPUR - UDAIPUR Transfer to the airport for your flight to Udaipur, arguably Rajasthan's most romantic city. After settling in, set out for a full day tour starting at the City Palace, standing on a hill surrounded by crenellated walls. Its main entrance is through the triple-arched gate, the Tripola, built in 1725. Here you will stop to see the Crystal Gallery and Vintage Car Museum. Also visit the Jagdish Temple, the largest and most splendid temple in Udaipur, and the beautiful gardens of Saheliyon Ki Bari. At sunset, take a boat trip on Lake Pichola. Serene views of the city, the Lake Palace, and the surrounding hills will be available on the cruise, as well as the beautiful island of Jagmandir and Gangaur Ghat where, during the colorful Gangaur festival, Rajasthani women offer prayers for a good husband. (B) DAY 10: UDAIPUR This morning, take an excursion to Ranakpur to visit the elaborate complex of Jain Temples. Jainism has existed for at least 2,500 years, and is noted for its strict principles of non-violence and respect for nature. Practicing Jain households vow to avoid injury, falsehood, theft, infidelity and worldly attachment. Jain temples are notably ornate, with highly detailed carvings. Built in 1439 on land donated to Jains by Rana Kumbha, the main temple is two stories high in parts, and its roof undulates with tiny spires that crown the small shrines to Jain saints lining the temple walls. There are 29 halls and 1444 pillars, each sculpted with unique design, in the temple complex. Have lunch at the Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat before returning to Udaipur. The remainder of the day is free for flexible touring with your driver and guide. (B,L) DAY 11: UDAIPUR - DELHI Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for the afternoon. You will have a driver and guide available for last minute shopping or touring. (B) DAY 12: DEPART DELHI Transfer to the airport for your international flight. |