Welcome to India! Arrive in the energetic capital city of New Delhi; meet your representative and transfer to the hotel. Time to rest and relax after your journey and acclimate to the new time zone.Overnight at New Delhi.
Begin in the walled city of Old Delhi, founded by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. Travel along the winding streets to Jama Masjid, the largest and best-known mosque in India. On a cycle rickshaw, continue along the lanes of Chandi Chowk, once the imperial avenue of Mughal royalty. After lunch, on to New Delhi, a city of airy boulevards, lush parks and gardens. Visit the Sikh Temple and drive past the imposing India Gate War Memorial to Indian and British soldiers, Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. Enjoy a visit to the Gandhi Smriti, the official residence and is a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi where he spent the last 144 days of his life. The tour continues with a visit to Humayun's Tomb set in stunning gardens, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening, meet with your fellow travelers and tour manager for a briefing on the incredible journey in India that awaits you. Tonight is at leisure to begin your discovery of Indian cuisine at one of the fine regional restaurants.Overnight at New Delhi.
Depart New Delhi to Jaipur, the gateway to the desert state of Rajasthan. En route, stop for some photos at the graceful sandstone Qutab Minar Victory Tower, the world's tallest brick minaret, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in glorious Jaipur, with its stucco buildings lining the wide streets and you'll understand why it is nicknamed the “Pink City.” The city was painted its unique color in 1876 to celebrate the visit of the Prince of Wales. Drive past stunning hilltop forts and glorious palaces on the way to a bargain-filled bazaar we will visit a beautiful jewelry shop. Dinner at the hotel.Overnight at Jaipur.
Excursion to the spectacular Amber Fort, a stunning fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles with its gorgeous Palace of Mirrors. Ascend the hill to the ramparts by jeep, or on the back of an elephant (if available). From here, see the panoramic views of Jaipur's original city walls and the lake below. Stop for refreshments before browsing a local Rajasthan textile and handicrafts store with silk-weaving, embroidery, clothing and carpets created by the villagers. Spend the afternoon at leisure strolling through the city's delightful gardens, or, join the optional tour to view the well-preserved 18th century Jantar Mantar Observatory and drive past Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of Winds" with its lacy ornamental façade. Later, the tour continues to the opulent City Palace, a former royal residence, now a grand museum with an extraordinary collection of miniature paintings, costumes, and armory. Tonight's optional evening is highlighted by the exotic flavors of Indian cuisine at a local neighborhood restaurant, while you're entertained by performers in traditional attire as they perform various interesting dance moves on the rhythm of the accompanying musical instruments. Overnight at Jaipur.
Depart Jaipur to the small ancient village of Abhaneri in northern Rajasthan. Begin at Chand Baori, one of the largest step wells in India, fortified on all sides. This unique idea was conceived by the early natives to work as a water reservoir, located adjacent to the temple dedicated to Harshat Mata, goddess of joy and happiness - an architectural jewel. Then after lunch, continue on to Agra, with its celebrated past, rich heritage, and architectural delights. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the delights of this splendid city. Dinner at the hotel.Overnight at Agra
Memorable day as we visit the astonishing Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved Queen. Perhaps,this is the most perfect architectural monument in the world, built of white marble and precious stones over a 22 year period – considered the finest example of Mughal architecture in the world. Afterwards, we stop at a local marble shop to see the selection of marble arts and crafts. In the afternoon, participate in the not-to-be-missed optional tour to the red sandstone Agra Fort, with its incredible maze of walled courtyards, mosques and lavish private chambers reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire; this monument has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, to the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah built of the finest Indian marble embellished with mosaics and inlay of semi-precious stones. This evening's optional dinner at an Agra restaurant, discover all the fun & excitement of Bollywood beats with a dance performance by a dancer on recorded music that will take place during or after your dinner.Overnight at Taj Mahal.
We depart Agra this morning and return to New Delhi on our last day in India. Upon arrival, time to freshen up before tonight's festivities. Bid farewell to your new-found friends and tour manager at a festive farewell dinner at the hotel. Overnight at New Delhi.
We will transfer you at the airport.Farewell, friend.
