12 Day North India

Your exploration of India will commence at Old Delhi, the former citadel of the Mughal Empire during the 17th and 19th centuries. You will visit the magnificent Red Fort, constructed in 1648 and serving as the seat of the Mughal Empire. The fort’s imposing 1.24-mile-long red sandstone walls will leave you in awe. Next, you will embark on a thrilling cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling alleys of Chandni Chowk. This experience will immerse you in the vibrant culture, past sacred temples, and historic dwellings adorned with captivating architecture.

Your itinerary will also include a visit to the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque built by Shah Jahan in 1658. This architectural marvel is both a testament to Islamic artistry and a sacred place of worship.

Concluding your visit, you will pay your respects at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. A humble black marble monument amidst lush greenery marks the solemn spot where Gandhi was laid to rest on the banks of the Yamuna River.

Afternoon: Following the Old Delhi tour, you will be transported to New Delhi, a regal capital constructed by the British. The distinction between Old and New Delhi lies in the division between the two capitals: Mughal and British. You will visit the Qutab Minar, a 234-foot sandstone Victory Tower erected in 1193. The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate, a 138-foot stone arch of triumph commemorating 90,000 Indian Army soldiers who sacrificed their lives in various conflicts worldwide. It houses an eternal flame in honor of the Unknown Soldier. Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful Mughal red sandstone structure, will also be visited. Subsequently, you will traverse Lutyen’s New Delhi, which encompasses the Diplomatic enclave, numerous spectacular Victorian-era government buildings, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara (a magnificent temple dedicated to Sikhs), and the impressive and ornate Hindu Birla Temple. Your tour of New Delhi will culminate at Connaught Place, the primary shopping, business, and tourist hub of the city.

After breakfast, proceed to check out of your hotel and be driven to Agra (approximately four hours) via North India’s newest highway.

Upon arrival in Agra, check-in to your hotel.

Afternoon: You will visit the massive red sandstone Agra Fort which was built by the famous Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, primarily as a military structure. During Shah Jahan’s reign it was converted into a palace. It finally became a prison for Shah Jahan after his son came to power in 1658. The fort has numerous courtyards, private chambers and a marble mosque. On the opposite side of the Yamuna River is the exquisite Itmad-ud daulah built in 1628 by Mughal Emperor’s queen, Nur Jahan in memory of her father. The tomb is the first monument that was constructed entirely of marble inlaid in Pietra Dura.

Late afternoon: A sunset visit to the magnificent white marble mausoleum, one of the world’s seven wonders, the Taj Mahal, is a must-do experience for tourists worldwide. This exquisite monument, dedicated to the enduring love of Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, attracts visitors from distant corners of the globe year-round. Constructed between 1653 and 1675 AD, the Taj Mahal required the labor of 22,000 skilled craftsmen over a period of 22 years. The white marble is intricately inlaid with semi-precious stones in captivating patterns, a technique known as pietra dura. The symmetrical design of the Taj is further enhanced by minarets at each corner. The basement of the Taj houses the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, serving as a testament to their enduring legacy.

Check out of your hotel by noon and drive to Jaipur. Enroute stop to visit the Chand Baori stepwell at Abhaneri. The Chand Baori is one of the oldest, deepest and largest baoris (stepwells) in Rajasthan. The oldest parts of the structure date back to the 8th century. This colossal step well has a depth of 20 meters, with 13 levels. Despite being so huge, the well still has delicate and intricate carvings which are a visual treat. Arrive at Jaipur and check in to your hotel. Jaipur is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan also known as the ‘Pink city’.

After breakfast: Drive 7 miles north of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort and Palace. This was the ancient capital of Jaipur state. Mount your caparisoned elephant to ascend up (an option to use a jeep is available) to the main gate of the splendid Amber fort situated on a hillock overlooking a lake. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Rajput rulers, a clan which was famous for its military heroism. In sharp contrast to the rugged exteriors of the soaring fort is the opulent ambience of the interiors, especially the Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Mirrors which is a result of the intricate and delicate use of mirrors.

Afternoon: Continue your tour of Jaipur city; visit the City Palace Complex, a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture consisting of courtyards, gardens and buildings. The royal family of Jaipur still resides in a part of the Palace. You will then visit the Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory. Enjoy your visit to the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. Located in the heart of the old city’s bustling market place, the Hawa Mahal is a pink sandstone five storey building that has a fascinating façade of numerous intricately designed and embellished windows. It was originally built to enable the royal ladies to look at the bustling city without being seen.

Check out of your hotel and drive to Jodhpur. The second biggest city of Rajasthan is at the edge of the Thar Desert. Arrive at Jodhpur and check in to your hotel.

Late-afternoon: Walk with your guide through the bustling Sadar Bazaar, often referred to as the Clock Tower Market, due to the monument that forms the center of the circle around which the bazaar is laid out. Return to your hotel after this exploration.

After breakfast drive through the narrows winding alleys to the majestic Mehrangarh Fort which is perched on a rocky hill soaring 400 feet. The fort dominates the horizon of the city and is spread over an area of 5 sq. km. Made of red sandstone, Mehrangarh Fort in one of the most beautiful forts of Rajasthan. Inside the fort are magnificent palaces and museums replete with palanquins, royal furniture, vessels, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes. Visit the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Sheesha Mahal (Mirror Palace) and the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace).

Afternoon: You will next visit the Jaswant Thada, a 19th century royal cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, the 33rd Rathore ruler of Jodhpur. Jaswant Thada

You are assisted with your checkout from your hotel in the mid-morning and now you proceed on the drive to Narlai. Arrive at Narlai and check in to your heritage hotel.

Afternoon - Explore the nearby villages with your Tour Director who is available to you until 6 PM.

You are at leisure to explore the local area at your own pace. The 15th century old village of Narlai is a sleepy yet amazing destination, and a great place to explore the local countryside. The village is popular for a large number of temples, stunning natural landscapes and known for its friendly local people. Formerly, Narlai was an important hunting ground for the Royal family of Jodhpur.

To end the day, we suggest Rawla Narlai’s signature Stepwell Dinner (not included), which is the highlight of a stay here for many of our guests. This magical setting beside a 1,100-years-old stepwell, spectacularly lit by hundreds of oil lamps and accompanied by soulful folk songs performed by a local musician, includes a four-course meal consisting of sumptuous local specialities.

Check out of your hotel in the morning and drive to Udaipur, the city of lakes, palaces, temples and havelis. En-route visit Ranakpur famous for the 15th century Jain temples. Ranakpur is situated in the Aravalli Range 37 miles from Udaipur. The main temple, Chaumukha or Four Faced Temple, is dedicated to the Jain Tirthankara (revealer of truth), Adinath. It contains 1444 exquisitely carved marble pillars, no two are alike.
Neminath, Parasnath and Sun Temple are some of the other ornate temples in the complex.

Late afternoon: Arrive at Udaipur and check in to your hotel.

After breakfast visit the City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings built by various Emperors. There are many palaces within the palace each dedicated to a theme. The palaces are resplendent with glasswork, mirror work, ornamental tiles, paintings, miniatures, mosaics of peacocks, ivory doors. Walk through the Crystal Gallery which has an amazing collection of exquisite crystal. There are balconies, courtyards, towers and cupolas which offer a fine view of the lake.

Afternoon: Also visit the 18th century fountain gardens called Saheliyon-ki-Bari or Garden of the Maids of Honour. The tour also includes a visit to the local museum.

Evening: Enjoy sunset cruise on Lake Pichola and spend some time at Jagmandir (if available). Although a fairly shallow lake, it is one of the main attractions of Udaipur. There are two islands in the lake-Jagniwas and Jagmandir. It is believed that Shah Jahan got the inspiration to build the Taj Mahal after staying in Jagmandir. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Karan Singh, it has a row of enormous stone elephants. There is a scenic view of the city from Jagmandir.

You are at leisure this morning to enjoy the facilities at your hotel. You are assisted with your check-out from your hotel by noon. and then driven to the airport in time to board your mid-afternoon flight to Delhi.

Our services end at Udaipur airport.