India – A Journey of the Senses

ITINERARY

• DAY 1

  Welcome to Delhi, India

  Upon arrival at the airport, you will get the assistance right at aerobridge and later the assistant will escort you to your hotel.
  
  Delhi stands as the capital of Modern India. Here you can see the mingling of the Old and New India, the ancient and the modern. Delhi is made up of seven ancient cities, spanning the period from the 11th to the 20th centuries. Delhi has seen the rise and fall of many emperors, which has left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Very few cities in the world can express such a profusion of architectural styles.

  What's included?

  • Accommodation
  • Transfer
• DAY 2

  Old Delhi - Sightseeing Guided Tour

  After breakfast, proceed for a guided tour of Old Delhi. Start with the visit of Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. After this visit, hop on to your rickshaws and enter the colorful, narrow valley of the sand gullies of Old Delhi. Discover the gems of the main street of Chandni Chowk. Then proceed into busy streets which are forever bustling with the clamor and routine of daily trade, offering a glimpse of life back in the day and age when the city started as a commercial hub. Proceed to Kinari Bazaar or wedding market where one can buy all the paraphernalia required for an Indian wedding. At night, the gold and silver decorated borders, laces, and colorful embellishments in this lane twinkle, glitter, and shine, casting flirtatious looks upon innocent passers-by. Visit Asia's largest spice market, where spices, which in times gone by were once so valuable that they caused invasions and fierce battles, is still traded! On the way, you have the option of sampling some of Delhi’s delicious street food from Jalebis to samosas! A food walk curated and led by a renowned Chef through crowded markets of Old Delhi, a unique chance to understand and savor street food available in Delhi from some of the oldest food places in the city. During the walk, we will visit 6-9 different food joints, each one of which is in business for decades, some being as old as 120 years. We will walk through some landmark markets, lively markets, ride rickshaws, walk a bit, and stuff ourselves with the delicious street food of Old Delhi. What makes the Experience special is that it’s led by a local chef, which gives you an insider’s view of the city’s food culture, food joints, kitchens, and related businesses. On the course of the walk, we try out about 12-15 dishes from 6-9 different places. Evening, visit the famous mausoleum of this city – Nizamuddin Dargah that was a famous Sufi saint of the Chishti Order in the Indian Subcontinent, an order that believed in drawing close to God through renunciation of the world and service to humanity. He is one of the great saints of the Chishti order in India. His predecessors were Fariduddin Ganjshakar, Bakhtiyar KakiandMoinuddin Chishti. In that sequence, they constitute the initial spiritual chain Orsilsilaof the Chisti order, widely prevalent in the Indian subcontinent.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 3

  Lutyens New Delhi - Experience Community Kitchen Cooking and Serving at Bangla Sahib

  Lutyens’s New Delhi. New Delhi was designed and built by the British in the 1920s - it's a city of wide boulevards, impressive Government buildings, green parks, and gardens. In 1911 King George V announced the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi. The King's architects, Lutyens and Baker, set in motion the design and construction of Delhi's eight cities - New Delhi. Lutyens designed an "Imperial City" having palatial-sized buildings set amid broad tree-lined avenues punctuated by Mughal-style gardens, complete with fountains and shallow pools. It took 20 years to complete this immense undertaking only to have the British pack up and relinquish the subcontinent in 1947.
  Visit two monuments from Delhi's past; The first one, Qutub Minar, is the historical construction of a landmark In 1199. Qutub-Ud-Din raised the Qutub Minar either as a victory tower or as a minaret to the adjacent mosque. From a base of 14.32m, it tapers to 2.75m at a height of 72.5m.
  The second one, Humayun's tomb, was built by emperor Humayun's wife, took eight years to complete. It's regarded as an example of early Mughal architecture. The emperor's wife, Begai Begum, was buried in the tomb and the structure is the first of its kind built in the center of a well-planned garden. The combination of white marble and red sandstone was a great influence on later Mughal architecture. It is generally regarded as a prototype of the famed Taj Mahal of Agra).
  Your drive takes you along the ceremonial avenue, Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate (At the center of New Delhi stands the 42m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like Archway in the middle of a crossroad. It’s almost like its French counterpart war memorial. It commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the First World War and bears the names of more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the North-western Frontier in the Afghan war of 1919. The foundation stone was laid by His Royal Highness, the Duke of Connaught in 1921 and was designed by Edwin Lutyens), President House (The palatial building built on an area of 330 acres with a private garden designed by the illustrious Lutyens, as the official residence of the Viceroy of India during British reign, is now the official residence of the First Citizen) and the Parliament House (This is the symbol of Indian democracy). Later visit Bangla Sahib (Sikh Temple). You will experience community Kitchen cooking and serving at Bangla Sahib. The Community Kitchen at also known as an institution of Guru ka Langar has served the community in many ways. It has ensured the participation of women and children in a task of service for mankind. Women play an important role in the preparation of meals, and the children help in serving food to the pangat. The Guest is just going to visit this place and no meal will be served to the guest.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 4

  Agra - Walking Tour and a Special Look at The Taj

  After breakfast at the hotel proceed to Agra. On arrival check in at the hotel. Later proceed for Life in a local village walk: A 1-2-hour walk exploring the village and meeting the villagers who live in the shadow of the Taj Mahal. This is a walk initiated by the NGO CURE together with USAID to benefit the local communities surrounding the Taj Mahal. It is a wonderful, unique, and interactive experience that gives a rare ‘behind the scene' glimpse of the world’s most famous tourist attraction. Take a walk through Kachhpura Village which is in the shadow of the Taj Mahal with one of the village boys. He will show you the lesser-known heritage monuments of Humayun’s Mosque and Gyaraha Sidi, and walk you through this historic settlement where you can meet its people, and discover their way of life as agriculturists next to the Taj. Enjoy tea and pakoras on the rooftop of a village house overlooking the monument and see how creating this experience has benefited the local community. The walk ends at Mehtab Bagh or Moonlit Garden which has exceptional views of the Taj Mahal. The money generated from this tour is used to put sanitation in the village, educate women and provide initiatives for children.
  
  Later take a special look at the Taj from the other side of the River. A visit to Mehtab Bagh gives you a truly unique perspective as this is one of the very few spots where the Taj Mahal, the Mosque, and the Guest House can all be seen from one point. Emperor Shahjahan transformed a 25-acre patch into a magnificent four-quartered garden that blended perfectly with the sanctified complex of the Taj. This pleasure garden was called Mehtab Bagh or moonlit garden, profuse with white plaster pathways, breezy pavilions, pools, and fountains. An octagonal pool situated strategically showed the reflection of the Taj on a full moon night.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 5

  The Taj Mahal by Sunrise & Agra Fort and The Itmad Tomb

  That magnificent monument of love - The Taj Mahal, was built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and is believed to have taken 22 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. The design and construction are said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had Lahori's hands cut off, and blinded, so he would never be able to duplicate the structure. What makes the Taj Mahal unique is its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction, and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. It is impossible to visualize the Taj Mahal in any surrounding other than its paradoxical garden. Paradise, in Islam, is visualized as a lush garden where running streams flow. When the Mughals brought this concept to India they elevated it to heights of incomparable artistry.
  After the visit return to your hotel. Post breakfast proceeds for a visit to Agra Fort. Visit the impressive Agra Fort, where you are taken through the chambers of this royal residence. As you drive through the city, witness the local life and bazaars (markets) and the hustle-bustle of everyday India. Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Agra, India. The fort is also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge, and Red Fort of Agra. It is about 2.5 km northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. It is the most important fort in India. The great Mughals Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb lived here, and the country was governed from here. It contained the largest state treasury and mint.
  Later, visit The Itmad-Ud-Duala’s Tomb is situated on the left bank of the river Jamuna next to Chini-ka- Rauza. Itmad-Ud-Daula was the title given to Mirza Ghiyas Beg, father of Nur Jahan. He held the post of Lord of the treasure of the empire and later rose to the dignity of wazir under Jahangir.
  In the Evening we enjoy Mohabbat the Taj show. Love without lust can be a spiritual experience, one that distinguishes man from beasts. It is a passion and the idea of being romantically engaged at a higher level that defines the intensity of pure love.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• "> DAY 6

  Abhaneri Stepwell en-route to Jaipur "Pink City"

  After breakfast at the hotel depart to Jaipur, proceed to visit Abhaneri Stepwell. Abhaneri is a small-town village, situated at a distance of 95 km from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra road. The place is popular for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. The village of Abhaneri is believed to be established by King Raja Chand. Originally Abhaneri was named Abha Nagri, which means the city of brightness, but due to mispronunciation of the term, it is changed to the present name. In the present day, this city of brightness is in ruins; still, it attracts tourists from across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for 'Baoris', which is the unique invention of the natives for harvesting rainwater. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is located in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes. After the visit, continue your drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival check-in at your hotel Jaipur is known as the “Pink City”, Jaipur is the capital of the colorful state of Rajasthan. It has the distinction of being a well-planned and laid-out city. As you drive through the old part of town, you will witness a life most unlike others. Witness how the city blooms during the day in a kaleidoscope of color and sound.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 7

  Amber Fort and Jaipur

  After breakfast, proceed for a half-day excursion to inspiring Amber Fort, 11 Kms (7 miles) from Jaipur. Amber Fort is a marvelous example of Rajput architecture with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. The interiors of the fort have various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror, and glasswork complemented by exquisite wall paintings. As you move between the rooms of this magnificent structure feel the history and visualize the pomp and grandeur of a kingdom that was never conquered. Later proceed for a private tour of City Palace. Visit the City Palace Museum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. The museum is resplendent with its collection of robes of royal princes, carpets, an armory of old weapons, miniature paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes, and processions. Continue to visit the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar (an accurate observatory built in 1726 AD). Also included is a photo visit at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes, and spires. Located in the heart of the walled city, The City Palace Complex gives you an idea about the farsightedness of the founder of Jaipur Sawai Jai Singh. He left behind a legacy of some of the most imposing and magnificent architecture, art, and craft structures in the city. Sawai Jai Singh built its many buildings but some of the structures were also built by later rulers and some of them are even dated to the twentieth century too. The palace is a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture and the royal family still lives in a part of the palace. Enjoy cooking demo & dinner with a family. The hospitality of the Indians is legendary. In Sanskrit Literature the three famous words 'Atithi Devo Bhava' or ‘The guest is truly your god' are a dictum of hospitality in India. Indians believe that they are honored if they share their mealtimes with guests. Even the poorest look forward to guests and are willing to share this meager food with a guest. And of importance is the Indian woman's pride that she will not let a guest go away unfed or unhappy from her home. Indians are known for their incredible ability to serve food to their guests invited or uninvited.
  
  Recommended Tour: Hot Air Ballooning
  
  Early morning, enjoy Hot Air Ballooning.
  indulge in the lifestyle pleasure of drifting with the wind over the panorama of Amber Fort. You will fly over villages & Amber Fort. They’ll give you a flight of joy that you’d want to experience repeatedly. You will see the world from a completely new perspective, sailing with the wind during your flight.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 8

  Jaipur - Explore the Art of Bagru Block Printing & The Indian Handicrafts

  Bagru is a little town 30 Km (18 miles) far from Jaipur. Known for its unique art of Bagru Block Printing, Bagru has emerged as one of the industrial areas for textile printing in Rajasthan with over 100 small & large Factories.
  
  Today, with the gaining popularity of such workshops, even locals have started promoting their art at big stages but what goes wrong is the "Staged Workshops" which are set for the explorers in one place. For somebody interested in Indian Handicrafts, this is a must "To do things in Jaipur".

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 9

  Udaipur - The City's Inherent Romance and Beauty

  Dotted with marble palaces, hibiscus-laden gardens, and fountain pavilions, Udaipur appeals to the imagination of poets and painters, travelers and writers like no other city in the country. The city's inherent romance and beauty and its remarkable past redolent with episodes of heroism and splendor, continue to enthrall the visitor even today. Udaipur, the City of Dawn, looms up like a vision in white. Surrounded by hills and mountains and set on the edge of three lakes that lead on to a fertile plain - it is a truly enchanting city. Narrow streets lined with vividly colored stalls, gardens, temples, and palaces mirrored in the placid blue waters of Lake Pichola, add to the magic of Udaipur.
  
  Optional - Dinner at Darikhana Restaurant at Jagmandir Island
  
  Jagmandir Island Palace is a historic 17th-century palace redeveloped as a complete destination: with its all-day café, stylish-dining restaurant, bar, and spa designed to uplift moods and spirits.
  The picturesque Jagmandir Island Palace today plays host to 21st-century guests. Corporate and leisure travelers, celebrities from all over the world for whom ceremonial parties and mega-events are seamlessly organized. Year after year, Jagmandir Island Palace continues to make news in the global glamour world for the exclusive ‘regal experiences’ it offers.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 10

  Visit the City of Udaipur & Enjoy a Boat Ride on the Placid Waters of Lake Pichola

  Visit the City Palace Museum - grandeur and intricacy stroked all over in granite, marble, and mosaic displayed in the sparkling white filigreed balconies and windows, ornate arches and cupolas atop magnificent octagonal towers, Jagdish Temple - built in 1651 AD. Also, visit Sahelion Ki Bari - the spectacular garden displaying the unique lifestyle of the royal ladies who once lived in the palaces. You will also have time to spend in the bustling market that sprawls behind the City Palace Complex. Visit Jal Sanjhi Art: The art was first introduced in the temple by the elder priest who created the paper stencils which are still being used to create the same beauty. Mr. Madhav Lal Pancholi learned the art of creating stencils in Maharashtra and the tools he used are still preserved. In the evening boat ride at Lake Pichola. Early this evening enjoys a boat ride on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the lake, you have a wonderful view of the City Palace stretching along the east bank, while the south bank has pleasant gardens running down to the waterside. (Boat ride depending upon the water level of the lake)

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 11

  Udaipur - Trek through the Indian Countryside - Morwaniya Village to Ubeshwarji & Lunch with the Bedla Family

  Trek through the Indian Countryside - Morwaniya Village to Ubeshwarji. This is a wonderful 9 km (5 miles) trek which starts at a charming village, takes you through the countryside of Rajasthan, meeting villagers and farmers, ending up at Ubeshwarji an area renowned for its natural beauty. There are plenty of photo opportunities along the way, with scenic views, village life as well as wonderful flowers and colorful birdlife; see the villager's going about their daily chores and looking after their cattle grazing in the fields and passing through various small villages and hamlets where The Bhil Tribals, one of the oldest indigenous tribes still reside. The trek ends at Ubeshwarji, a well-kept secret that is known only amongst the locals for its pristine natural beauty, it is a remote area is surrounded by the green valleys of the Aravali Mountains and seasonal rivers. It is also a religious spot for the people of Udaipur. There are a couple of temples here, one of them dedicated to Lord Shiva and The other to The Mother Goddess.
  
  Lunch with the Bedla Family:
  The Bedla family has had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru the first prime minister of independent India.
  
  As the premier “Jagirdars” the Bedla Family has played a significant role in the affairs of the state over the past few centuries. Such was the faith of the Maharana that the Bedlas served as Prime Ministers, Valued Advisors, and official hosts to all the dignitaries visiting Mewar as honored state guests.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 12

  Varanasi - Arrive the holy city of India

  Varanasi, the holy city of India, is also known by the name of Kashi and Benaras. Kashi, the city of Moksha for Hindus for centuries, is known for its fine-quality silks, 'paan' and Benares Hindu University and Avimukta of the ancient days, Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage point for the Hindus. One of the seven holiest cities, Varanasi city is also one of the Shakti Peethas and one of the twelve Jyotir Linga sites in India. In Hinduism, it is believed that those who die and are cremated here get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and rebirths.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Transfer
• DAY 13

  Explore in Varanasi the Magnificent Krishna Balarama Temple and Experience the city

  Situated on the west bank of the Ganges, Varanasi extends back from the riverbank Ghats to a winding maze of picturesque alleys overlooking tall houses alongside, dotted with temple It is a fascinating area to walk around. Varanasi today, is also a center of education, art, and craft. The city has given birth to many academicians, musicians, and artists of world acclaim. As a center of art and craft, it has a vast repertoire, right from silver, brass, copper artifacts to perfumeries and trinkets. The magnificent Krishna Balarama Temple built in 1975 by ISKON has today become Vrindavan's most popular temple and has one of the highest principles of Deity worship and cleanliness. Hare Krishna devotees from around the world can be seen here throughout the year. The Bharat Mata Temple, Alamgir Mosque, Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Archaeological Museum, and Ram Nagar Fort are just some of the places worth visiting in Varanasi.
  
  Later, after the boat ride, visit an Akhara or a traditional wrestling ground. The way they prepare the ground, from the equipment used for exercising to the actual fight the experience is like no other. Sarnath 10 km. from the center of the city, Sarnath symbolizes the birth of Buddhism. It was here that Buddha revealed his doctrine and founded his monastic community. The museum at Sarnath is amongst the most important in India and contains carvings representing a whole range of styles - archaic, the Mathura School, Gupta, past Gupta, and Medieval - covering work of sculptors from the 3rd century B.C. to the 12th-century A.D.Varanasi, the holy city of India, is also known by the name of Kashi and Benaras. Kashi, the city of Moksha for Hindus for centuries, is known for its fine-quality silks, 'paan' and Benares Hindu University and Avimukta of the ancient days, Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage point for the Hindus. One of the seven holiest cities, Varanasi city is also one of the Shakti Peethas and one of the twelve Jyotir Linga sites in India. In Hinduism, it is believed that those who die and are cremated here get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births. Evening visit to Ghats to witness evening Aarti. Aarti is a Sanskrit word that stands for homage or devotion. The aarti or offering of the lamps is observed at prescribed hours of the day and night to invoke the gods. It is believed that the gods physically present themselves before devotees at this ceremony. The lamps are revolved before the idols in a clockwise manner along with the chanting of hymns. This recitation is accompanied by drums, blowing of the conch-shell, and tolling of the temple bells. At the end of the `aarti’, the priest takes a handful of water which he revolves around the god's idol. This is to pacify `Agni' (the Fire God).

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
  • Cruise/Boat
• DAY 14

  A Culinary Journey through the Ancient City in Varanasi & The ‘Banaras Gharana’ of Indian classical music

  After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a culinary journey through the ancient city. Varanasi is a city that has carved a niche by attracting gastronomes looking to discover and rediscover Indian cuisine. In this evening walk, we will hop in and out of traditional roadside eateries, trying the best dishes on the menu. This is a guided tour where we carry our own set of cutlery and basic dining essentials. This allows you to experience the best of the food at your favorite local haunts, without worrying about hygiene or eating with your hands. Later, in the afternoon, proceed for a tryst with Banarasi Gharana. The ‘Banaras Gharana’ of Indian classical music is a very old school/ style of music encompassing both vocals and instruments such as the Rudra Bin, Surbahar, Sitar, Tabla, and Shahnai, in which it has given the country some of the finest performers. In this tryst with the age-old musical tradition, we will interact with one of the most renowned and finest classical performers of the ‘Banaras Gharana’ on the intricacies and nuances of Indian classical music.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation
  • Tour
• DAY 15

  Bon Voyage

  As we come to our final day, after breakfast at the hotel, private transfer to the Airport for flight back home.

  What's included?

  • Breakfast
  • Transfer