37 DAY INDIA, NEPAL & BHUTAN

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Duration: 36 Nights / 37 Days
Places Covered: Amritsar - Aurangabad - Rajasthan - Ranthambhore - Agra

Day 01: Arrival at Delhi, sightseeing in Delhi 

A Our India Holiday representative will receive you on arrival at the Delhi airport and transfer to your hotel.

Delhi, India’s capital has seen great empires rise and fall around it for millennia, with each new batch of rulers building over the works of their predecessors. As a result, the city abounds in monuments and ruins of stunning diversity. The seat of the world’s largest democracy, it also boasts of magnificent symbols of government that pay architectural tribute to the ideals of self-rule and democracy. These co-exist side by side with wide multi-lane motorways, shopping malls, fast cars and ultramodern steel-glass office complexes that characterise any large 21st century metropolis.

Proceed for a guided tour of Old Delhi after breakfast.

Raj Ghat is the famous memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. The shrine bears testimony to the simplicity of the man who changed the world with the power of ideas.  A simple black stone structure with an eternal flame burning at one end.

The majestic Red Fort was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, and remained seat of the empire for the next two centuries. Today, the Prime Minister of the India delivers his Independence Day speech to the nation from the ramparts of this red sandstone structure.

Jama Masjid is one of Asia’s largest mosques. We shall view this magnificent structure from outside, its lofty and highly ornate domes and minarets reminiscent of a scene from the Arabian Nights.

Take a rickshaw through the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, “Moonlit Square,” the celebrated 17th century market complex, where sweetshops from the 1790s still do roaring business .

After lunch proceed for a sightseeing tour of New Delhi.

New Delhi was built by the British in the 1930s as their imperial capital. Majestic government and administrative buildings line the wide, tree-lined avenues of what is also known as Lutyen’s Delhi after Sir Edwin Lutyens who was commissioned to design the city in 1911.

Further south lies the Qutub Minar. Built by Qutubuddin Aibak, a slave general in 1193, it is India’s tallest stone tower and marks the site of the country’s first Muslim kingdom. The iron tower in a square opposite is unique in that it never rusts, although it has been exposed to the elements for centuries.

Next stop would be the majestic Humanyun’s Tomb.

Start at India Gate, the red sandstone arch erected in memory of Indian and British soldiers who laid down their lives in World War I. Close by are the majestic Parliament House, the seat of the world’s largest democracy and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the Indian President’s official residence. Inside are the famed Mughal Gardens with its ornate fountains and manicured lawns. Mughal Gardens are open to the public during spring.

Overnight at Delhi.

Day 02 : Sightseeing in Delhi 

Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Afterwards visit the Akshardham Temple.

At the fascinating Akshardham Temple, a few millennia of Indian history comes alive through a mind-boggling kaleidoscope of dioramas, animatronics, giant iMax screens and installations. The immense temple structure itself is a modern architectural marvel with highly shikharas, plinths, domes, pillars and statues in the traditional Indian style held up without the benefit of even an ounce of steel.

In the evening, visit the fabulous Kingdom of Dreams for an unforgettable cultural and entertainment extravaganza. Tuck into delicacies of India beneath the open sky. Later on, enjoy the Kingdom’s famous Bollywood show, a breathtaking on-stage performance that spectacularly brings to life the magic of Indian celluloid.

Overnight at Delhi.

Day 03 : Delhi to Amritsar by air

Proceed to the airport and board flight to Amritsar.

Located on the ancient trade route that connected India to Central Asia, Amritsar is one South Asia’s oldest cities, steeped in history, with a rich tradition of culture and commerce. Amritsar is also the spiritual center of Sikhism and is home to numerous religious sites, most importantly the stupendous Golden Temple. The old part of the city is walled, with a system of narrow alleyways that lead into residential units called katras which , in the old days, provided the city with a line of defence against invaders.

In the evening visit the Wagah border border for gate closing ceremony.

Large, vocal crowds from both countries gather in large numbers to watch soldiers bedecked in ceremonial uniform conduct elaborately choreographed “Beating the Retreat” and “Change of Guard” maneuvers within handshaking distance of each other, accompanied with many theatrical glares and hostile gestures. In spite of the apparent belligerence (which the crowds love) between the two parties, the maneuvers are more often than not co-choreographed by officers from both sides over an amiable cup of tea.

Overnight in Amritsar.

Day 04:  Sightseeing in Amritsar
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Proceed for a tour of Golden Temple.

Shri Harmandir Sahib or Shri Durbar Sahib, colloquially referred to as the Golden Temple, is Sikhism’s holiest shrine. Constructed in the 16th century, the dazzling gurdwara rests on a rectangular platform over the waters of Amrit Sarovar (lake of ambrosia) that gives Amritsar its name. The architecture of the temple is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles and decorated with intricately carved wooden panels with elaborate gold and silver inlays. There are entrance gates in all four directions, symbolic of the Sikh faith’s openness, bidding welcome to followers of all faiths.

Inside the temple during the day, on a ceremonial throne, lies the holy book of teachings, the Adi Granthor the Guru Granth Sahib which is returned every night to the Akal Takth, the seat of the religious governing body of the Sikhs. The early morning procession that brings the Adi Granth back to the temple is a highly recommended watch.

On 13th April, 1919, a British military officer ordered his troops to open fire upon a peaceful gathering of Indian protestors in Jallianwalla Bagh, injuring over a thousand people, and killing, according to official figures, 379. Today, a poignant flame-shaped monument marks the site of the killings, “hallowed by the mingled blood of two thousand innocent Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims,” according to the memorial plaque. Preserved on the site are walls with bullet holes and a well into which people dived to escape bullets and drowned.

Overnight at Amritsar.

Day 05:  Amritsar to Delhi by air, Delhi to Aurangabad by air 
The city of Aurangabad was founded in 1610 by Malik Kafur, prime minister to the Nizam. Formerly called Fatehpur, it was later named Aurangabad when it came under the rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who built walls around the city to fortify it from Maratha invaders.

Overnight at Aurangabad.

 

Day 06: Sightseeing in Aurangabad
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Proceed for a visit to the Ellora and Aurangabad Caves.

The magnificent rock-hewn cave temples of Ellora are just a short drive from Aurangabad. The 12 Mahayana Buddhist caves were built first between 550-750 AD. Then came 17 Hindu caves between 600-875 AD followed by 5 Jain caves from between 800 to 1000 AD. Recently, 22 more caves of Hindu origin dedicated to Lord Shiva have been uncovered.

The remarkable Kailas Temple in cave 16 occupies pride of place among the Ellora Caves. Carved out of a single massive rock by hand, the temple is complete with a gateway, a pavilion, a courtyard, a vestibule, a sanctum sanctorum and a tower. Several generations of a seven thousand strong team of laborers are believed to have worked in continuous shifts over a period of one hundred and fifty years to coax out its massive form from unyielding rock. A stupendous living testimony of the workmanship of the era.

The Aurangabad Caves are a set of twelve with the oldest dating back to the 2nd Century A.D. and show a distinct Buddhist lineage featuring chaityagrihas, viharas and exquisite panels and sculptures depicting the Avalokiteshwara and his consort Tara. Of particular interest is Cave 3 with its extremely intricate columns and sculptures depicting scenes from the Jakata tales that describe Buddha’s various incarnations and Cave 7 with its praying Bodhisattva.

Overnight at Aurangabad.

Day 07: Expedition to Ajanta caves, Aurangabad to Mumbai by air
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Proceed for a visit to the Ajanta Caves and Daulatabad Fort.

High above the Waghora river gorge, lie thirty extraordinary caves that conceal in their depths entire temples hewn from solid rock. Once used as monsoon shrines and quarters by Buddhist monks and craftsmen, the Ajanta caves were built in two great bursts of extraordinary creativity separated by over 700 years. The older of the caves date back to 2nd and 1st centuries BC. The more modern caves, relatively speaking of course, belong to the 5th to 6th centuries AD. Inside the caves are chaitagrihas or prayer halls, and viharas or full-fledged monasteries. Vivid natural colour murals depicting the Buddha’s life and teachings adorn their walls.

The 12th century Daulatabad Fort stands on a hill top on the outskirts of Aurangabad. Spectacularly fortified with layers of protective moats, towers, heavily spiked gates, and a medieval version of a gas chamber to discourage intruders, this fortress beat back successive waves of formidable intruders over the centuries. As Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan lamented, “No ant or snake can scale it.” Don’t miss the panoramic view of the city from its ramparts.

Transfer to the airport in the evening in time for your flight to Mumbai.

Originally an archipelago of seven islands on the Arabian Sea, Mumbai was named after Mumba Devi, patron goddess of the Koli  fishermen indigenous to the area. In the 19th century, reclamation work joined up the islands in a long, narrow strip of land that is the Mumbai we know today. This bustling metropolis is India’s commercial capital and home of Bollywood, the world’s largest movie industry. A city of contrasts, Ferraris and Porsches stand shoulder to shoulder on Mumbai roads with strikingly retro Premier Padmini cabs, and glitzy malls stocking super luxury brands co-exist side by side with buzzing local markets.

Overnight at Mumbai.

Day 08: Mumbai to Udaipur by air
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Founded by Maharana Uday Singh, beautiful Udaipur on the banks of Lake Pichola is a fairyland with beautiful palaces in the middle of lakes, islands, opulent havelis and temples. Surrounded by the ancient Aravalli hills, Udaipur shimmers in dazzling white and is also called the City of Dawn.

Walk around the old city and proceed to the Monsoon Palace in the evening for sunset. Have a cup of tea in Fatehgarh Palace with a beautiful view of the city below.

Overnight at Udaipur.

 

Day 09: Sightseeing in Udaipur
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur, stopping first at City Palace.

The massive City Palace overlooking the Lake Pichola is a glittering example of Rajput architecture. A part of the city palace is now a museum. Behind the fortified walls of the palace, dark, steep and narrow staircases connect a maze of royal chambers and courtyards. Dazzling intricate miniatures, antiques and paintings are on display everywhere. Of note are gorgeous mosaics of peacocks in Mor Mahal and a courtyard full of shady trees on the terrace of Amar Vilas.

Maharana Sangram Singh built Saheliyon Ki Bari or “Garden of the Maidens” in the mid 18th century on the shores of Fateh Sagar Lake. The lush green lawns of the garden are replete with fountains whose spouts are placed inside the trunks of large stone elephants. The water flow is controlled solely by water pressure. No pumps are used. Of particular note is an interesting medieval experiment in sound design. In a secluded corner of the garden, carefully selected large leafed plants damp the sound of flowing water on stones to create the auditory effect of being in a large tropical forest in the pouring rain. 

Built in 1751, Bagore Ki Haveli on Gangaur Ghat of Lake Pichola has over a hundred rooms displaying interesting artifacts and paintings. Of note is the fascinating puppet museum. The officials in charge are happy to organize a short impromptu puppet show for interested visitors.

The magnificent 17th century Jagdish Temple is located in the center of the city and is a fine  example of Indo-Aryan architecture. The main deity at the center is a giant black stone image of Lord Vishnu. The outer walls of the temple and the tower feature highly detailed carvings depicting Vishnu and scenes from the life of Krishna. 

Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From the boat you will be able to view the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake in the middle of the Rajasthan desert. Also visit the Jag Mandir Palace - the other island palace in the middle of the lake. Spend some time at the Jag Mandir Palace.

Overnight will be at Udaipur.

 

Day 10: Udaipur to Jodhpur by road, enroute visit Ranakpur 
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Start for Jodhpur visiting Ranakpur enroute.

The 15th century Ranakpur Temples are situated in the middle of dense woods and are an important pilgrimage for the Jain community. The temples’ exterior is majestic yet somber, while the interiors are richly embellished with highly intricate carvings covering every inch of the solid marble walls. This reflects the Jain belief in the importance of a rich inner life within a simple exterior.  The huge domed marble central ceiling of the temple is so adorned with dazzling filigree work that it looks almost translucent. The hushed silence inside the temple and the subtle smell of incense will put even the most gregarious traveller in a contemplative mood.

Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan, founded the city of Jodhpur in 1459. Situated on the edge of Thar Desert, Jodhpur embodies the romance and feudal splendor of Rajasthan. Jodhpur is also called the ‘Blue City’ from the blue houses that surround its most famous landmark, the majestic Mehrangarh Fort that sits on the top of a hill 125 meters above the city. The city itself is surrounded by high walls 10 kilometers long.

Designed by the British Royal Institute of Architects, the Umaid Bhawan is one of world’s largest private residences with over 300 rooms, lavish theaters, banquet halls and a ballroom. A part of the palace has been converted to a museum with an impressive collection of royal memorabilia and weaponry.

Overnight at Jodhpur.


Day 11:  Sightseeing in Jodhpur
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

Hewn out of solid rock atop the red sandstone cliff overlooking Jodhpur 400 feet above the city, the awesome 15th Century Mehrangarh fort spreads out over 5 kilometers and in the words of Rudyard Kipling, is the “work of angels and giants”. The fort’s defenses are impressive, with seven highly fortified gates to reach the fort, and massive, ornate cannons perched on the bastion walls. The view of the Blue City from the ramparts of the fort is breathtaking. In spite of the forbidding exteriors, the fort’s exquisitely latticed windows, carved panels, and ceiling with radiant glass tiles reveal another more artistic side to its warrior inhabitants. Batman fans might remember Mehrangarh Fort from an iconic scene in Chris Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises.

Jaswat Thada, the white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II is known for its highly intricate lattice-work. The marble used in the structure is translucent and in the day time, the interior walls glow from the sunshine outside. Jaswant Singh II was known for his innovative irrigation projects and to this day, locals throng to Jaswant Thada to pay their respects to the benevolent king whose touch once healed their arid land.

Drive to the Bishnoi Villages for a short jeep safari.

The Bishnoi tribe have been steadfast conservationists centuries before conservation became fashionable. Much like the Native American people, the Bishnois have a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all species and believe that the continued survival of mankind is only possible if mankind takes steps nurture and preserve every species of plant and animal that populates our planet. So much so, that it is common to spot, completely unafraid herds of blackbuck grazing right inside the Bishnoi villages. A visit to the Bishnoi Village gives one a rare and intimate insight into the daily life of this ancient, enlightened tribe.

Overnight at Jodhpur.

Day 12:  Jodhpur to Jaisalmer by road 
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

In the heart of the Thar desert, Jaisalmer stands amidst a shifting landscape of giant sand dunes, its yellow sandstone buildings blending seamlessly with the desert sands. Founded in the 12th century by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, Jaisalmer is the perhaps the most iconic of Rajasthan’s cities.

Overnight st Jaisalmer.

Day 13 : Sightseeing in Jaisalmer
The magnificent Jaisalmer Fort is one of the oldest in the world and still in use, housing more than a quarter of the city’s population. Brooding, proud and tall, Jaisalmer Fort stands atop a hill, its dazzling yellow sandstone walls providing a natural camouflage against the yellow sands all around. Three layers of high yellow walls surround the fort, never breached in 800 years. Inside, narrow serpentine alleyways lead into and around magnificent old havelis, museums, markets and cafés. The sharp cry of peacocks occasionally break the majestic silence of the surrounds.

The Jaisalmer Fort also houses some intricately carved Jain Temples dating back to between the 12th and 15th centuries. An ancient library, Gyan Bhandar, in the temple complex houses very old and rare manuscripts from that era.

The 19th century Nathmal ki Haveli may be identified by the two life sized yellow sandstone elephants that stand guard at its gates and the murals that adorn its walls. According to legend, the building was built by two brothers one of whom concentrated on the left side of the structure and another on the right, leaving the final product a bit asymmetric.

The three hundred year old Salim Singh ki Haveli is an interesting experiment in building design. Narrow at the base, the structure grows wider with every level. Completely stable, the haveli is occupied to this day.

The magnificent six story high Patwonji ki Haveli is known for the highly intricate carvings on its walls and houses the local office of the Archeological Survey of India.

The Tazia Tower was a gift to the rulers of Jaisalmer from the Muslim stone carvers who worked on the city. Shaped like a tazia, a wooden tower carried by Shia Muslims during Muharram, it is, in terms of building style, different from everything else in Jaisalmer.

The 15th century Godi Sagar Lake once held the town’s entire water supply. Surrounded by temples, the lake is home to migratory birds in winter. Don’t miss Tilon ki Pol, the beautiful yellow sandstone gateway that leads one to the lake.

In the late afternoon, proceed to the sand dunes for visiting the typical Rajasthani Desert Village.View the sunset from the dunes, as the sky is set on fire. Return to the village for dinner amidst Rajasthani musicians playing haunting tunes.

Overnight at Jaisalmer.

Day 14 : Jaisalmer to Bikaner by road
After breakfast proceed to Bikaner. Reach and check in at hotel.

In 1488, A Rathore prince named Rao Bikaji used his army to convert these northwestern wastelands of Rajasthan into a thriving city that he named Bikaner after himself. Rao Bikaji was astute in his choice of land as the spot he chose was located near a water source, a precious commodity in these parts, and fell on the ancient Central Asian trade route. Surrounded by seven kilometer long medieval walls on its rocky perch, Bikaner is a splendid sight, and a proud example of the rugged and exotic desert kingdoms of Rajasthan. 

The camels are the domestic beast of choice in Bikaner and they are everywhere - pulling carts, transporting grain and drawing water from wells. Bikaner is also known for its famous riding camels, widely regarded as the world’s finest.

A mouthwatering local snack, ubiquitous in the town’s narrow winding alleyways, is highly popular all over India as Bikaneri Bhujia.

The beautifully preserved majestic Junagarh Fort was constructed in the 16th century and has never been taken in battle. The fort’s designer must have been a man of eclectic taste, borne out by the intricate inlay work on the inner walls of the fort.

Overnight at Bikaner.

Day 15 : Bikaner to Jaipur by road
Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City’ from the facelift it received in 1853 to celebrate a visit by Prince Albert, is dotted with havelis (traditional mansions), bazaars, opulent palaces and rugged majestic  forts that showcase the glorious past of its rulers, the Rajputs.

The Rajput princes were fierce warriors some of whom declared loyalty to the invading Mughals and proved to be formidable allies of the empire.  Among them was King Jai Singh II, whom the Mughals gave the title Sawai Maharaja, or “King and a quarter”. Jaipur gets its name from this valiant king.

This evening, you can enjoy an exuberant Rajasthani Folk Dance Performance and a puppetry show, performed by a local tribe, followed by dinner consisting of typical Indian cuisine.

In the magical land of Rajasthan where the heat shimmers like phantom water, where the things you see are not really there and where the things that vanish behind veils of illusion, stands Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort with a blend of rustic environment and modern amenities making it an important destination in Pink City.

Overnight at Jaipur

 

Day 16 :  Sightseeing in Jaipur 
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort after breakfast. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.

Situated on the top of a hill, the magnificent Amber Fort Palace offers a panoramic view of the old city. Established in 1592, its rugged exteriors belie the delicate architecture inside, a rare fusion of traditional Rajasthani and Islamic styles. Reach the fort the old fashioned way, atop a ceremonial elephant along a cobbled path up that opens into several havelis, step wells, courtyards and temples. Visit Sheesh Mahal or chamber of mirrors, Jas Mandir with its ornate ceilings and latticework and the stunningShila Devi temple with its intricately carved silver door.

The sprawling City Palace has been home to the rulers of Jaipur since the 18th century. The architecture of the palace is a blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The City palace Museum is located here and houses various items from Jaipur’s princely and warrior past.

The scientific-minded King Jai Singh II, an astronomy enthusiast, commissioned five observatories named Jantar Mantar around West Central India in the early 1700s.  The one in Jaipur is the largest and the best preserved. The massive architectural instruments are constructed out of local stone and marble some of which are still in use. We shall walk through and explore this surreal maze of giant geometric objects.

The exquisite outer facade of Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of Winds," resembles a manmade honeycomb and is one of Jaipur’s most iconic and oft photographed sights. Designed to facilitate maximum air circulation and cross ventilation, the five-storied Hawa Mahal is made of lime and mortar, and decorated with impossible intricate trelliswork. From the privacy of its ornate jharokhas (traditional Rajasthani windows), the ladies of the court could gaze out at life in the streets below.

Relax in the evening or visit the markets. You could take a rickshaw ride or visit the Birla Temple for the evening aarti. A stunning white marble structure, the three towers of the Birla Temple stand for three different approaches to religion. Carvings on the ornate pillars celebrate Hindu gods and goddesses along with Christ, Virgin Mary and St. Francis of Assissi. Don’t miss the hypnotic evening Aarti, the ritual lighting of oil lamps.

Overnight will be at Jaipur.

 

Day 17 : Jaipur to Ranthambore National Park by road 
After breakfast at your hotel, proceed to Ranthambhore National Park in a spacious Our approved vehicle.

Ranthambhore is the largest national park in North India and its dry deciduous forests are home to over 500 species of flowering plants and 270 species of birds in addition to leopards, nilgai, sloth bear and wild boar. 

Ranthambhore of course is best known for its large tiger population. The chances of spotting a tiger is relatively high in Ranthambhore, with the elusive predator often seen basking in the sun or enjoying the shade of a tree.

Ranthambhore’s most famous denizen is the aging T-16, better known as Machhli or “fish” after the curious markings on her face. Machhli has been the subject of numerous wildlife documentaries and is an “Internet phenomenon” - a video of her hunting a giant salt water crocodile generating over 2 million views on Youtube.

Other notable striped residents of Ranthambhore include Machhli’s grown up cub T-17 or Sundari (the pretty one), her boyfriend the temperamental T-25 (better known as Dollar), the elusive T-19, the current dominant female of Ranthambhore, and the majestic T-28 or Sitara (Star), the park’s dominant male.

Overnight at Ranthambore.

 

Day 18 :  Sightseeing in Ranthambore
Proceed for an early morning safari safari in the National Park. Return to the resort for breakfast.

The rest of the morning is free. You could spend time at the pool or explore the town. You could also visit the temple on top of the fort. Leave for afternoon safari after lunch.

Dinner will be at the resort. Overnight at Ranthambhore.

Day 19 :  Ranthambore to Agra by road, enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri  
Stop for lunch at Bharatpur hunting lodge.

Fatehpur Sikri, or the “City of Victory”, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 in honour of sufi saint Salim Chishti was the capital of the Mughals for 14 years. The white marble Tomb of the Salim Chisti with its intricately carved marble screens occupies pride of place in the central courtyard of the structure.

Attractions include the colossal Buland Darwaza, a victory gate built to mark the conquest of Gujarat by Emperor Akbar, the Diwan-i-Aam where the emperor held his legendary hearings with the general public and the Diwan-i-Khas where he held private consultation with his nine ministers, or as he called them, his navaratna or nine gems.

Fatehpur Sikri also houses the palace of Jodhabai, Akbar’s Hindu wife, and the house of the legendary Birbal - Akbar’s Hindu minister and one of the navaratnas - the tales of whose extraordinary wit and wisdom are the stuff of popular culture in India, inspiring countless comic books and children’s animation TV shows.

The Mughal capital of Agra on the banks of the Yamuna River is a bustling town teeming with narrow, winding alleyways that hark back to an era gone by. Dotted by magnificent monuments including UNESCO World Heritage SIte Taj Mahal, the city is a dazzling contrast of red sandstone and white marble structures.


Day 20 : Sightseeing in Agra, see the Taj Mahal
Proceed to the Taj Mahal at sunrise for the best view and exploration.

Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his queen Mumtaz Mahal and designed by Persian architect Ustad, the magnificent Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world. A massive white marble structure so delicate that it appears to float in the air, the Taj is otherworldly in its beauty and is best viewed in moonlight or at dawn and dusk. The close-up view reveals breathtakingly intricate inlay work carved into the marble, and bears eloquent testimony to the triump of Mughal art, culture and architecture at its peak. No holiday in India is complete without the Taj.

A beautifully maintained tree-lined monument at Sikandra marks the grave of the illustrious Akbar the Great. A great believer in harmony and equality of all religions,  this visionary Mughal Emperor created Din-i Ilahi, a unique religion that combines the fundamentals of Islam, Hindusim, Buddhism and Christianity. His memorial imbibes architectural motifs of all the faiths that inspired him.

Standing across the river from the Taj, the majestic red sandstone structure of Agra Fort was erected in 1565 by Mughal Emperor Akbar the great. Little did he know that the same fort would later serve as prison for his grandson Emperor Shah Jahan in the end of his days. From his prison perch of Muamman Burj, an exquisite octagonal marble tower atop the fort, Shah Jahan would spend his last days looking out longingly at the Taj.

Itmad-ud-Daulah is perhaps the Mughal Empire’s best kept secret. Empress Nur Jehan, wife of Jehangir, son of Akbar, commissioned the structure as a memorial to her father. Mistakenly called Baby Taj, Itmad-ud-Daulah in fact is decades older than the Taj, and may have served as its design blueprint.

Overnight at Agra.

Day 21 : Agra to Gwalior by road
Drive to Gwalior after breakfast in a spacious comfortable Our approved vehicle.

According to legend, the city of Gwalior was named by a grateful prince after the sage Gwalipa whose gift of water not only quenched the royal’s thirst but cured him of all ailments. Strategically located in the heart of North India just a 100 kilometers south of Agra, the grand former princely state of Gwalior has been in the news since the 8th Century. From the Tomar Kings to the Rajputs, the Afghan Surs to the Mughals, the British colonists to the 1857 mutineers, Gwalior has always been in the thick of empire-building, the proverbial eye of the storm. Consequently, successive dynasyies have built and rebuilt the city, each leaving an indelible mark on Gwalior’s architectural and cultural landscape.

Enjoy a sound and light show at Gwalior Fort in the evening.

Overnight at Gwalior.

Day 22 :  Sightseeing in Gwalior
Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Afterwards, proceed for a sightseeing tour of the city.

One of India’s biggest fortresses, the Gwalior Fort stands atop a hill whose slopes have been artifically made steeper to render it unclimbable. Over 2.4 kms long, the ramparts of the fort loom imposingly over the skyline from vertiginous heights. The earliest mention of the fort goes back to the Hunas in AD 525. Over the centuries, the fort changed hands from the Hunas to the Pratihars, the Turks, the Sultanate, the Tomars, the Mughals and eventually the Scindia rulers who later aligned with the British colonial forces.

The fortress houses well-maintained palaces, monuments and temples, all adorned with highly intricate stone carvings. Don’t miss the intricate rock-cut Jain temples lining the southern approach to the fortress, in particular the 40 foot tall Tirthankara statue.

Also of note are the 15th century Man Mandir Palace and Gujari Mahal built by King Man Singh Tomar. The ornate vast chambers of Man Mandir Palace that once served as music halls hide dark secrets. The dungeons underneath saw large scale incarceration and executions in the Mughal Era, including fratricide, while the nearby Jauhar Pond served as a site for mass self-immolation by the palace’s womenfolk following the defeat of their king in battle. The exquisite and much more cheerful Gujari Mahal was built by the king for his beloved Gujar Queen, Mriganayani. The Mahal is very well preserved and today houses the Archeological Museum. On display are artifacts dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries BC and an exquisite Salabañjika - a traditional figurine depicting a young woman and a tree, and believed to be a fertility symbol. The Salabañjika is usually not on display but can be shown to travellers upon request.

The 11th Century Sas Bahu Temples (Mother- and daughter-in-law in Hindi, but actually a corruption of Sahasrabahu, or the Thousand Armed One) in the Gwalior Fort Complex are highly ornate three tiered red sandstone structures unique in the fact that no arches have been used to support their bulk. Instead, they stand solely on the strength of a precise distribution of beams and pillars.

Other attractions in Gwalior include the newly constructed Sun Temple that draws inspiration from the original one in Konarak, Orissa, the Afghan Prince Ghaus Mohammed’s Tomb, famous for its exquisite stone latticework said to be as delicate as lace and the Gurdwara Data Bandhi Chhod built in honour of Sikh Guru Hargobind Sahib who was detained for two years at the Gwalior Fort by Mughal Emperor Jehangir. Also of interest is the luxurious Jai Vilas Palace belonging to the last of the Gwalior dynasties the Scindias. A joyous pastiche of European architectural styles, this grand structure is now partially a musuem.

Gwalior also is a major hub of Hindustani Classical Music, home to two of its most prestigiousgharanas and birthplace of legendary 17th century musician Mian Tansen, one of the “Nine Gems” orNavaratnas in the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great. Consistent with that formidable legacy isGwalior Sarod Ghar, a unique repository of all things HIndustani Classical. With a proud display of documents, photographs and musical instruments belonging to the great masters, Sarod Ghar spectacularly brings to life India’s glorious musical heritage through meticulously curated items, audiovisual presentations and regular performances by some of the country’s finest artistes.     

Overnight at Gwalior.

 

Day 23 : Gwalior to Khajuraho by road, enrouet visit Orchha
Breakfast will be served at the palace.

Drive to Orchha through the famous Chambal Ravines.

12 kms from Khajuraho, the medieval city of Orchha on was founded in 1501 by the Bundela rulers on the bank of the Betwa river. The town is famous for its cenotaphs, locally known as chhattris, built in the memory of long-dead kings.

Of interest, the Orchha Fort, the majestic high domes and spires of Chaturbhuj Temple and the Raj Mandir, both constructed in the later half of the 16th century.

Continue to Khajuraho.

The Chandela dynasty of Central India is credited with the construction of the magnificent Khajuraho Complex between the 9th and 10 centuries AD. The name Khajuraho may be a corruption of the Sanskrit Kharjura Vahaka, the bearer of the scorpion and could be a reference to one of Khajuraho’s popular sculptures, depicting woman undressing to remove a scorpion from her body.

The sandstone walls of the Khajuraho temples are crowded with countless sculptures of gods, goddesses, dancers and beasts but it’s the sections containing erotic sculptures that the temple is most famous for. Some interpret them as an indicator of the liberal and enlightened outlook of medieval Indian society but according to some scholars, the figures are merely metaphoric and conceal a deeper symbolism.

Khajuraho is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most exotic high points of your luxury tour of the Indian subcontinent.

Spend evening watching the amazing sound and light show in the Western Temple Complex.

You could also dine at the Italian Restaurant facing the temples.

Overnight at Khajuraho.

 

Day 24 : Sightseeing in Khajuraho 

Kandariya Mahadev is the largest temple in the complex and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, with over 800 exquisitely sculpted figures of gods and celestial maidens adorning its walls.

Chausat Yogini Temple is the oldest in the complex. The only granite temple among the cluster, it’s a shrine to one of the aspects of the fearsome Hindu Mother Goddess Kali, or The Dark One.

The Lakshmana Temple stands at the southwest corner. Look out for a minor shrine where one of the ancient sculptors added his own likeness in a touching act of vanity.

Other temples include the Vishwanath Temple with exquisite stonework on its outer wall, theMatangeswara Temple with its famed eight foot high phallic lingam, the Chitragupta Temple, inside which the radiant Sun God rides his seven-horse chariot, and the Varaha Temple that houses a 1.5 m high Varaha, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a giant boar, that attempts (and fails) to find the end of the universe.

The Brahma and the Hanuman temples are the most famous and best preserved among the Eastern Group of temples. Don’t miss the Vamana temple that showcases in elaborate stone work all ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

This place also has a few temples belonging to the Jain religion, probably because one of the descendants of the Chandela dynasty may have adopted Jainism. The prominent among these are the Ghantai temple, the Parsvanath and the Shantinath temple.

Overnight at Khajuraho.

 

Day 25 :  Khajuraho to Varanasi by air
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

The ancient city of Varanasi on the west bank of the holy Ganga has been a spiritual center for Hinduism since the dawn of time.

Varanasi’s high ghats (steps leading to and from the river) are crowded with priests, wrestlers, astrologers, devotees, bathers, morning walkers and saffron clad mendicants or sadhus. The ringing of temple bells and the heady, heavy smell of incense permeate everywhere. In Varanasi, even a short walk or a simple boat-ride is an unforgettable adventure.

The cinematic nature of daily life in Varanasi is not lost on filmmakers and over the years, many have made Varanasi their backdrop, among them maestros like Roberto Rossellini, James Ivory and Satyajit Ray. Fittingly, the first moving picture ever shot on Indian soil was filmed here in 1899.

Varanasi is one of the unforgettable highlights of your luxury holiday in the timeless Indian subcontinent.

Spend the evening shopping in the lanes of Varanasi. Later in the evening visit the Ghats for the auspicious and breath-taking Aarti of Lights offered to Goddess Ganges.

Overnight will be at Varanasi.

Day 26 : Sightseeing in Varanasi  
Go for an early morning boat ride along the middle of the river to watch the spiritual life of Hindu India unfold before you along the banks. Visit Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika, the holiest of the Varanasi ghats. A section of Manikarnika serves as a cremation ground and it is said the funeral pyre never dies here.

Proceed for a sightseeing tour of the ancient city.

Visit Bharat Mata Temple, with a huge marble relief map of India as deity.

Later, visit the 18th century Durga Temple. According to legend, the idol of the goddess simply appeared in the spot where the temple stands today.

The white marble Tulsi Manas Temple has scenes and stanzas from the Hindi epic Ram Charit Manasengraved upon its walls. The temple is in the traditional Shikhara style, its towers representing the great Himalayan summits or shikharas. 

Up next, the 4000 acre Benaras Hindu University campus houses an art gallery and the Mosque of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

A short drive from Varanasi, lies Sarnath where, millennia ago, the Buddha delivered his first ever sermon. Today, thousands of travellers from all over the world pour in every year to pay homage to what is one of the holiest places in Asia. The 1600 year old Dhamekh stupa marks the spot where the Buddha sat as he delivered his first teachings. Interestingly, this ancient stupa is a stand in for an even earlier structure erected by Emperor Asoka in 249 BC to commemorate the teaching. 

The highly recommended Sarnath museum houses antiquities dating back to the 3rd century BC. Don’t miss the gigantic red sandstone standing Bodhisatvas and the magnificent Asokan pillar that is India’s state symbol.

Overnight at Varanasi.

Day 27: Varanasi to Kathmandu by air 
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

The fertile Kathmandu Valley has always been a coveted prize for the Himalayan dynasties, changing hands from the Lichchhavis to the Mallas and finally to the Shah Kings who ruled initially as absolute and later as constitutional monarchs of Nepal until as late as 2006. Nestled between the southern low lying Mahabharat Range and the dizzying northern snow peaks of the Great Himalaya Range, Kathmandu Valley is a fertile saucer-shaped tract of land of unbelievable richness, both literal as well as figurative, with a dazzling cultural tradition of art, music and architecture. The pagoda design, ubiquitous in Asia, is Nepal’s cultural legacy to the world, its blueprint carried to the Chinese Emperor’s Court in the 13th Century by Newari virtuoso architect Arniko. Each of the three cities of Kathmandu Valley - Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan - are treasure troves of sculptures, woodwork, palaces, temples and stupas and are home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The capital of modern Nepal, Kathmandu City evolved around a single wooden structure used as a rest stop by travelers plying the ancient trade route between India and Tibet. The wooden pavilion or kastha mandap that lends the city its name still stands in Kathmandu’s expansive Durbar Square. A prominent destination on the hippy trail, Kathmandu has been highly popular with tourists for decades and on its busy streets, buzzing cafés, pizzerias, pubs, book shops, sushi bars, music stores and camera sellers jostle for space with exotic centuries-old temples, residential houses and stupas. As a gateway to the great Himalayan peaks of Everest, Annapurna and Kanchenjunga, Kathmandu is one of the world’s most important mountaineering hubs and it’s common to, before climbing season, to run into legends of the mountaineering world across the table from you in a coffee shop.

Kathmandu Durbar Square in the center of the city, has been the center of Nepali social, cultural and political life for centuries. The entrance to the Royal Palace is through the ornate Hanuman Dhoka(Hanuman Gate) which gives the palace its colloquial name of Hanuman Dhoka Royal Palace.

The Durbar square itself is dotted with ancient structures, some following the pagoda structure, others in the traditional Hindu Shikhara form. Of note are the giant 16th Century Taleju Temple, the pagoda style Jagannath Temple and the Shikhara style Krishna Temple. Krishna Temples all over the valley can be identified by the stone figure of a praying Garuda (the half-man half-gryphon mount of Krishna) outside the entrance.

Across from the Taleju Temple, stands the fearsome statue of the giant Kal Bhairav. The statue was found abandoned in a paddy field outside the city during the Malla era, and little else is known of its origin. The most fearsome figure in the square however is the Svet Bhairav. So fierce is this vengeful god that his face is covered every day of the year but a handful, when he wakes to have his hunger slaked by copious animal sacrifices.

In the evening enjoy a local dance program with an authentic Nepali dinner at the cultural centre.

Overnight at Katmandu.

Day 28 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu, See Mount Everest
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

You can take an early morning EVEverest flightfor a view of the majestic Himalayas and the Mount Everest.

Proceed for visits to Pasupatinath, Swambhunath and Bouddhnath.

Pasupatinath is one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world and part of the Panchkedar, the five holiest temples to Shiva. The majestic two tiered pagoda structure of the temple is embellished with gold and silver. Shiva’s bull, a six feet tall black stone Nandi guards the entrance which is restricted to Hindus only, although the goings-on in the temple can be observed quite clearly from the vantage point across the Bagmati River.

The magnificent Swayambhunath Stupa stands on a hill gazing down benignly at the valley below through its benevolent Buddha eyes. The high winds on the hill cause the maze of prayer flags around it to flutter noisily as devotees turn the prayer wheels, light candles and butter lamps, while circumambulating the stupa.    Erroneously and flippantly called Monkey Temple owing to the large simian population in the wooded hillside, Swayambhunath is among the oldest structures in the Valley, and according to legend, not built by the hands of men.

On the outskirts of Kathmandu, the stupendous Boudhanath is the largest stupa in the world. There is a maelstrom of activity around the stupa at all times of day. Devotees walk around it, children play on it, curio stores blare Buddhist chants set to electronica, ceremonial drums beat in nearby monasteries and the heady smell of incense and butter lamps  hand heavy in the air. Above them all, the stupa’s giant Buddha eyes keep watch. 

Overnight will be at Kathmandu.

Day 29 :Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Proceed for a full day visit of Patan and Bhaktapur after breakfast.

Across the Bagmati River, lies Patan, the second largest city of Kathmandu Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious, busy Durbar Square - crowded with locals who gather there to relax on the temple steps or catch up on the gossip - yields to numerous narrow winding alleyways snaking out in every possible direction. Some lead to tucked away temples, others to Malla-era houses still in use, while still others might lead to workshops where artisans are engrossed in making fearsome traditional masks or exquisite thangkas. In Patan, there is something surprising and magical around every corner.

Look up to the roof struts to see carvings of figures engaged in quite athletic acts of intercourse. A few minutes' walk north of the square is the Golden Temple, a Buddhist monastery guarded by sacred tortoises that potter around the courtyard.

 Near the Northern edge of the Durbar Square, stands the majestic five-tiered pagoda structure of theKumbheshwar Mahadev Temple. The oldest temple in Patan, this structure dates back to the 14th century.

A little further South lies Jwalakhel with Nepal’s only zoo.

Bhaktapur, the “City of Devotees” stands on a hilltop a few miles east of Kathmandu. One of the four Malla Era capitals of Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur retains much of its medieval charm and way of living and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A treat for the eyes, Bhaktapur is full to the brim with exquisite shrines, palaces, sculptures, temples, columns and lakes, with practically every visible square inch of the city teeming with elaborate and intricate stone- or woodwork. Fittingly, Bhaktapur served as the backdrop for much of filmmaker Bernardo Bertolucci’s stunning “Little Buddha.”

Overnight at Kathmandu.

 

Day 30 : Kathmandu to Pokhara by air 
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

The beautiful lakeside city of Pokhara lies in a valley under the shadow of the mighty Annapurna Range. The highest of her summits reach an altitude of 8091 meters and is designated one of the world’s most difficult to climb. Covered in eternal snow, the great Himalayan summits reflected in the waters ofFewa Lake is one of the iconic and enduring images of Pokhara, and indeed, all of Nepal. But more than the mighty Annapurna peaks, it’s the relatively modest Mt. Fishtail (Macchapuchhre) that is the most identifiable element on the Pokhara horizon. The twin peaked side of Machhapuchhre that resembles the tail of a fish is not visible from Pokhara, from where it rather resembles the Matterhorn. Machhapuchhre is considered a holy peak and not open for climbing.

Pokhara is the trailhead for several of the world’s iconic treks including the legendary Annapurna Circuit Trek , and the headquarters of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), one of the most successful tourism funded conservation projects in the world. Pokhara falls on one of the trade routes from Tibet, and to this day, mule trains carry supplies to and from the cold desert Trans-Himalayan kingdoms beyond the Annapurna range.

A popular tourist spot, the narrow strip along the lakeside comes alive every evening with buzzing curio stores, bookshops, restaurants, pubs and live music.

Overnight at Pokhra.

 

Day 31 :  Sightseeing in Pokhra

The high vantage point of Sarangkot is highly recommended for fabulous views of the Annapurna range during sunset and sunrise.

Also recommended, the deafening Patale Chhango (or Hell’s Waterfall) where the waters of the Pardi Khola noisily disappears into a gap in the ground. It is said that decades ago, a foreign tourist, either a woman named Devina or Mrs Davis, or a man named David or Devin, came too close to the waterfall and was swept into the earth by the force of the water, giving the waterfall it’s colloquial name ofDevi’s Fall. There is no evidence to corroborate this legend though, and the story appears suspiciously allegorical, warning city slickers of the devastating power of nature.

The Seti Gandaki river which roars through Pokhara unseen or largely underground can be observed from near KI Singh Bridge in the Northern part of the city.

Other suggested spots include the Cave of bats, the Pokhara Museum and the secluded Begnas andRupa Lakes in the outskirts of town.

End your trip by visiting the Tibetan Monastery.

Overnight will be at Pokhra.

Day 32 :  Pokhra to Kathmandu by air, Kathmandu to Paro by air, Paro to Thimpu by road.
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

At an altitude of 2248m above sea level, quiet, laidback and beautiful Thimpu is the capital city of the erstwhile forbidden kingdom of Bhutan, Land of the Thunder Dragon. Surrounded by rolling hills and nestled by the Wang Chuu River, Thimpu is perhaps the only capital city in the world without a single traffic light.

Thimpu has had some habitation as well as its own dzong (fortress-monasteries unique to Bhutan) since the 12th century but it remained not much more than a scattering of hamlets until in the 1960s when it was declared the capital city of Bhutan.

Thimpu is your gateway to the unique cultural traditions of this fascinating Himalayan nation that measures progress not by GDP or per capita income but by Gross National Happiness and has among the highest human development indices scores in the region.

Proceed for sightseeing in the afternoon.

Located on the west bank of Wang Chuu, the Tashi Chhoe Dzong (also Tashichhoedzong orTashichho Dzong) houses the secretariat, the king’s office and throne room, and is also the site for spectacular masked dances during the annual Tsechu festival. Look out for stunning painted mandalas on the ceilings, images of Buddhist masters and the guardian kings on the north east entrance. The original structure dates back to the 17th century although much reconstruction work has happened in the late 19th and early 20th century to repair damage caused by earthquakes and fire.

Overnight at Thimpu.

Day 33 :   Sightseeing in Thimpu 
Breakfast will be at the resort.

Explore THIMPU.

A must-visit quirky spot in Thimpu is the Takin Reserve. According to Bhutanese lore, a Buddhist master known for his fits of madness took the head of a goat and stuck it to the torso of a cow to produce the Takin, the large, shaggy goat-antelope that’s Bhutan’s national animal. An early morning visit is ideal for observing these lumbering, hirstute animals as they crowd near the reserve fences to feed.

Dechen Phodrang is Thimpu’s oldest dzong and is currently a monastic school. On display are rare 12th century traditional paintings and a giant statue of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Tibetan Buddhist master who unified Bhutan.

Return to the beautiful hotel and you would watch a fencing match today if time permits.

Overnight will be in Thimpu.

Day 34 : Thimpu to Punakha by road
Punakha is the old capital of Bhutan and is located in the warmest of the country’s valleys. Bhutan’s famous red rice is grown in the lush green paddy fields that cover the town’s outskirts.

The Punakha Dzong is widely regarded as Bhutan’s most beautiful with stunning woodcarvings, murals and rows of Jacaranda trees that burst into an explosion of purple in full bloom. The Dzong is also the site for the coronation of Bhutan’s first king, Ugyen Wangchuk.

The Khamshung Valley Temple is among Bhutan’s most elaborate and is known for its gorgeous, highly intricate murals as well as traditional paintings of Buddhist deities and saints. Your guide will be at hand to explain their complex symbolism.

The highly intriguing 15th century Chhimi Lhakhang commemorates the Buddhist saint Drukpa Kinley or the Divine Madman whose teachings inform Bhutanese Buddhist faith to this day. An unusual spiritual teacher, Drukpa Kinley used cutting irreverence, ribaldry and sexual freedom as tools to teach Buddhist philosophy and help his flock sever their ties with the material world. Bhutan owes its continuing practice of decorating the eaves of residential houses with phallic symbols to the maverick teacher. Along with frescos and murals deoicting the master’s exploits, Chhimi Lhakhang is known for the silver handled wooden phallus in its sanctum sanctotum. It is said that the Guru himself carried it back from Tibet and to this day, childless women pray to the phallus in the hope that some of its virility will rub off on them and their partners.

Overnight at Punakha.

Day 35: Punakha to Paro by road 
Breakfast will be served at the resort. Later drive to Paro in a spacious, comfortable Our approved vehicle.

Overnight at Paro.

Day 36 : Sightseeing in Paro
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.

In the afternoon, visit Ta Dzong. On the hilltop above Rinpung Dzong, stands the Ta Dzong that in the old days served as a watchtower for the former and today houses the National Museum. The museum has a fine colection of thangkas, Buddhist artifacts, exquisite postage stamps, handicraft and weapons.

The 7th Century Pagoda style Kyichu Lhakhang temple is said to have been visited by the Guru Padmasambhava himself and is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Built by King Songsten Gampo, the temple is, accorsing to local lore, among the 108 temples erected in a single day by the king to pin down a giant demoness who had lain down across the Himalayas to prevent the spread of Buddhism across the region. Standing over the heart of the demoness, Kyichu Lhakhang is the most important of the 108. The museum next door is also well worth a visit.

Overnight at Paro.

 

Day 37 : Paro to Delhi by air, tour ends
Breakfast will be served at the hotel. Later, a Our representative shall drive you to the airport for your flight to Delhi.