• Step back in time on special heritage walks through Old Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Jodhpur
• Visit the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the abandoned city of Fathepur Sikri
• Travel by local train through the Khamli Ghats to Deogarh, a wonderful journey made famous by Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale
• Discover architectural gems in the heart of the Aravalli Mountains at Ranakpur, Kumbhalgarh and Udaipur – India’s stunning City of Lakes
• Admire five spectacular and contrasting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Day 1: Tour starts in Delhi: The tour starts around midday in Delhi. After lunch we will begin with a special heritage walk of the Old Town, which will also include a wonderful journey through the backstreets by rickshaw.
The Claridges or similar (L,D)
Day 2: Delhi: Today we will explore New Delhi – visiting Rajpath and India Gate as well as Humayun’s Tomb, one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments, commissioned by Humayun’s son Akbar and designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiya. We will also take some time to visit the Craft Museum, the largest in the country and home to some of India’s more traditional arts and crafts, from centuries ago up until modern day. This evening we will head to Connaught Place for dinner.
The Claridges or similar (B,L,D)
Day 3: Delhi – Agra: Departing early this morning we will drive south to Agra. After checking into our hotel and having lunch, we’ll visit the mighty Agra Fort, a vast riverside complex comprised of exquisite palaces and mosques. The fort was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar, and this fortified citadel which overlooks the banks of the Yamuna River, served as the headquarters of the Mughal Empire when Agra was its capital. Following this we will be treated to another fascinating experience as we are taken on the Mughal Heritage Walk through the farming community of Kachhpura, visiting some interesting sites in the company of one of the local specialist guides who will offer a unique insight into this local community and culture. Dinner tonight will be at our hotel.
Trident or similar (B,L,D)
Day 4: Agra – Fatehpur Sikri - Ramathra: Early this morning we will visit the iconic Taj Mahal for sunrise. This is an extraordinary time of day to visit, as the soft sunlight hits the exquisite marble relief work and semi-precious stones, resulting in a stunning blend of light and colour. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the greatest achievements of Indo-Islamic architecture, and no matter how many times you have seen images of this spectacular edifice nothing can prepare you for its sheer magnificence. Following breakfast at the hotel, we will depart Agra and visit the magnificent fortified ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built by the great Mughal Akbar, and abandoned in 1585 due to water shortages, the well-preserved remains are fascinating. Afterwards we’ll board a train at Bharatpur towards Gangapur city (journey approx. 1 ½ hours), where we will be picked up and taken to this amazing rural part of Rajasthan. On arrival at Ramathra Fort we will be welcomed by our hosts, the old ruling royal family.
Ramathra Fort or similar (B,L,D)
Day 5: Ramathra – Jaipur: After breakfast we drive towards Jaipur. Arriving in the ‘pink city’ in the afternoon, we will enjoy a guided visit of the Palace of Winds and the UNESCO Jantar Mantar, also known as the Observatory, along with the local bazaars. From its creation in 1727 the royal families and nobles of the city patronised the craftsman and artisans of the city and the traditions continue to this day, making Jaipur the crafts capital of India. Here we are able to observe the artisans at work and perhaps visit a private haveli beautifully decorated with paintings, rich tapestries, carpets and other artefacts. End the afternoon with a special heritage walk of the old city.
Alsisar Haveli or similar (B,L,D) Architectural Traveller | Page 69
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