INDIA CAPITAL CITY DELHI

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1 North India

2 INDIA CAPITAL CITY DELHI Jama Mosque: The stunning Jama Masjid mosque is the largest in India and the final architectural magnum opus of Shah Jahan. Red Fort: Built by Shahjahan, the Imposing Fort will engulf you with its size & grandeur. Chandi Chowk: The antiquity of the main market area of Chandni Chowk has rendered it a venerated place in the markets of Delhi. Raj Ghat: The cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most visited sites in Delhi. Qutub Minar: The superb buildings in this complex date from the onset of Islamic rule in India. Humayun s Tomb: Situated on the bank of River Yamuna, this tomb is said to have been a precedent of later Mughal mausoleums in India. Delhi is a palimpsest, bearing the complexities, the contradictions, the beauty and the dynamism of a city where the past coexists with the present. Many dynasties ruled from here and the city is rich in the architecture of its monuments. Diverse cultural elements absorbed into the daily life of the city have enriched its character. Exploring the city can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. Delhi is just not a city but it is a book - a book which narrates the history of India. The city was built and destroyed seven times and has been witness to the various events which has brought India through the history books. Seven times this city went through the pain of being built and rebuilt. SHOPPING: A shopping paradise for people, Delhi has a lot to lure the buyers. For instance, the arts and crafts from all the states of India are available in the emporia at Baba Khadag Singh Marg. Crafts Museum on Mathura Road offers shawls, pottery and paintings. ENTERTAINMENT: Delhi has always been a vibrant city with a cosmopolitan culture which embraces itself to every aspect of life. There are pubs, bars, restaurants and night clubs in Delhi where you can spend your free time with your loved and dear ones.

3 INDIA CITY OF TAJ AGRA TajMahal: Emperor Shah Jahan built the peerless Taj Mahal in commemoration of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal is like a silent rhapsody that you will carry in your heart. Agra Fort: An impressive cluster of palaces fortresses and mosques on the banks of river Yamuna across the TajMahal. Sikandra: The tomb of Akbar the Great. Built in red sandstone inlaid with marble, it is a striking sight. Itmad- Ud Daulah: on the opposite bank of Yamuna, north of the fort, is the exquisite tomb of Mirza Gyas Beg. Fatehpur Sikri: The deserted city literally means 'The City of Victory. A glittering imperial capital conceived and built by Emperor Akbar. Agra synonymous with timeless beauty of TajMahal - radiant a t noon and amber at dusk. Agra came to its own when Shahjahan ascended to the throne of Mughal Empire. He marked the zenith of Mughal architecture, when he built the Taj in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. SHOPPING: Agra is known for its fabulous handicrafts, made of marble and soft stone inlay work. Agra's major handicraft products besides inlay work are: leather ware, brassware, carpets, jeweler and embroidery work. ENTERTAINMENT: The Sanskritik Natyashala presents Mohabbat-the- Taj a series of play depicting the saga of love. The true and immortal love of Shajahan for Mumtaj Mahal- his beautiful wife; the lavish lifestyle of Mughal era.

4 INDIA FORT CITY GWALIOR Gwalior Fort made of sandstone. The outer walls, two miles in length and 35 feet high, still stand as a witness to its reputation as an invincible structure. Gujari Mahal situated within the fort premises is a 15th century monument built by Raja Mansingh Tomar for his Gujjar Queen Mrignayani. Man Mandir Palace: Visit Man Mandir Palace built by Raja Mansingh between A.D. The rooms and vast chambers with fine stone screens and testimony to its past glory. Jaivilas Palace: Visit the residence of the Scindia family & the Museum, the architecture is a combination of Italian, Tuscan and Corinthian styles. A historic city founded by King Surajesan, Gwalior, the formerly princely state of Madhya Pradesh, is famed for its outstanding palaces, sacred temples and glorious monuments. Gwalior's history is as fascinating as the attractions in the city, which can be traced back to the 8th century AD.. A cradle of great dynasties, this fabulous city was in existence over the centuries. With embracing structures like sandstone mosque, rock temples and fabulous statues, Gwalior city upkeeps its glorious tradition of the past. The magnificent fort on the majestic hills, that overlooks the entire city, gives an enthralling look to the scenic ambiance of this marvelous town. SHOPPING: Gwalior specializes in a Gwalior favourite - silver boxes decorated with images from the tile work on Man Singh Palace. ENTERTAINMENT: The show is held at the open Amphitheater at the Man Mandir Palace in the evenings and is a musical narration. The story narration is done by Superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The story mentions about the severe turbulence the Gwalior Fort has faced during the historical times. The Show definitely is worth watching to know the true happenings of the history.

5 INDIA MEDIEVAL CITY ORCHHA Jehangir Mahal: Built in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orchha. Raj Mahal: Situated to the right of the quadrangle, this palace was built in the 17th century. Rai Parveen Mahal: The palace skillfully carved niches allow light into the Mahal which has a main hall and smaller chambers. Chaturbhuj Temple: The temple was specially constructed to enshrine the image of Rama that remained in the Ram Raja Temple. Laxminarayan Temple: The style is an interesting synthesis of fort and temple moulds. Cenotaphs: Memorials to the rulers of Orchha, on the river Betwa. Set in a medieval city teeming with palaces and cenotaphs dating back to the Bundela dynasty, a city of myths and legends. The outline and bold silhouettes of Orchha depict to this day the Grandeur and power of the Bundela rulers: every details, curve and Contour of its cluster of monuments flouting the luxury and the Legacy of the erstwhile rajas. SHOPPING: Dokra metal crafts and artifacts made of wrought iron are popular items for shopping in Orchha. These make for wonderful showpiece, souvenirs, gift or utility items. Do not forget to pick up a piece or two while shopping in Orchha. ENTERTAINMENT: Ayurveda & Spa. The Ayurveda offers both treatments and rejuvenation. YOGA & MEDITATION WORKSHOP: Take Yoga lessons from highly skilled Yoga Guru.

6 INDIA TEMPLE CITY KHAJURAHO The Western group: The Kandariya Mahadev. Perfectly symmetrical, the main shrine has an exquisitely carved entrance arch with a multitude of themes. Chaunsat Yogini, Dedicated to Kali, it is also unique in being quadrangular in plan. Chirtragupta temple, dedicated to the sun-god, Surya. The image of this powerful deity in the inner sanctum is particularly imposing: 5ft high, and driving a seven-horsed chariot. Vishwanath Temple, lions flank the northern steps and elephants the southern, leading up to the temple. The largest Jain temple, Parswanath, is in this group. Exquisite in detail, the sculptures on the northern outer wall make this temple perhaps the finest in the group. A double row of apsaras, celestial nymphs, adorn the outer walls of the Vamana temple. A variety of sensuous attitudes: languid, provocative, mischievously inviting. Khajuraho-whose remarkable 11th century temples amaze visitors, which portray much more than frank eroticism for which they are famous. The imposing proportions of the temples and their richly varied imagery will leave behind lasting impressions. Perhaps no other collection of medieval art uses the body metaphor as voluptuously as these sculptures. The temple walls are living, seething mass of life and vitality. Celebrating youth & beauty, they are sanctuary of lovers both divine & human. SHOPPING: The ace craftsmen of Khajuraho have over the years developed a tradition of handicrafts and handlooms. Miniature stonecarved replicas of erotic sculptures are hot favourite items for shopping in Khajuraho. ENTERTAINMENT: Kandariya Art & Culture: The center conducts various cultural programs from different states of India. The programs are performed in an indoor theatre from 19:00 hrs in the evening every day. This is a one hour show and has an entry fee.

7 INDIA SPIRITUAL CITY VARANASI Sunrise Cruise on River Ganges: At dawn multitudes of pilgrims descend to the holy waters to perform the ritual immersions & prayers at the ghats. Witnessing this spectacle of the practice of religion, unchanged over thousands of years is one of the most extraordinary experiences of a visit to India. Varanasi Ghats: Varanasi presents a unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. Vishwanath Temple is the most sacred temple in Varanasi and is dedicated to Shiva as lord of the universe. Sarnath, Buddha came here to preach his message of the middle way to nirvana after he achieved enlightenment at Bodhgaya. Ganga Aarti at Sunset: Witness and participate in Ganga Aarti by floating lighted earthen ware lamps to the Ganges. The religious capital of Hinduism since time immemorial. A place of devotion & worship, with hundreds of temples dotting the city. Many Hindus in the latter part of their lives wish to spend their retirement here. It is a city that cannot be described, only experienced. Sunrise on the river front, as seen from the boat, can be spiritually uplifting sight. Crowded with temples, & its labyrinth of streets thronged by the curious and the devout. SHOPPING: Silk weaving is perhaps the most popular art of Varanasi and Banarasi silk sarees form an indispensable part of an Indian bride's trousseau. The world-famous gold and silver brocades and richly worked saris are known to have passed on from generations to generations much like family jewels without losing their charm. Besides, you may look for wonderful pieces of brassware, copperware, wooden and clay toys and antique designs of heavy gold jewellery in Varanasi.

8 CLASSICAL INDIA DELHI - AGRA - GWALIOR - ORCHHA - KHAJURAHO - VARANASI - DELHI Day 1 Arrive Delhi Arrive Delhi. Meeting & transfer to hotel. Today Old & New Delhi combine to present a harmonious whole offering The Traveler Elegant Shops, Broad Laburnum Line Avenues, Sun warmed elegant Forts and Mosques that were once the stronghold of Mughal powers and colorful Bazaars. In New Delhi drive past the Presidential Palace - drive along the ceremonial avenues of Rajpath and view the splendid palace. Parliament House the nerve center. India Gate First World War memorial designed by Lutyens in Humayun s Tomb- Standstone forerunner of the TajMahal. Qutub Minar - 12th century victory tower rising to a height of 73 meters. In Old Delhi drive past Red Fort - with its majestic ramparts. Jama Masjid - One of Asia s largest Mosques from the hub. Rajghat - Mahatma Gandhi's final resting place & Rickshaw ride in Old Delhi. Overnight at hotel. Day 2 Delhi Agra (203 Kms) Breakfast at hotel. Today you drive to Agra - synonymous with timeless beauty of TajMahal - radiant at noon and amber at dusk. Check in at hotel. This afternoon visit the world famous Taj Mahal which is like a silent rhapsody that you will carry in your heart. Emperor Shah Jahan built the peerless Taj Mahal in commemoration of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Mark Twain said of this monument " You cannot keep your emotions within bounds, when that soaring bubble of marble breaks upon your view ". Visit Agra Fort - an impressive cluster of palaces fortresses and mosques. Afternoon go for shopping. Overnight at hotel. Day 3 Agra Gwalior (118 Kms) Breakfast at hotel. Today you drive to Gwalior known for Forts & Museums. Visit Gwalior Fort made of sandstone. The outer walls, two miles in length and 35 feet high, still stand as a witness to its reputation as an invincible structure. Visit Gujari Mahal - situated within the fort premises is a 15th century monument Visit Tansen Tomb a memorial to the great pillar of Hindustani music. Man Mandir Palace: Built between A.D. The rooms and vast chambers with fine stone screens stand testimony to its past glory. Jaivilas Palace: Visit the Museum, the architecture is a combination of Italian, Tuscan and Corinthian styles. Overnight at hotel. Day 4 Gwalior Orchha (125 Kms) Breakfast at hotel. Today you drive to Orchha - city of myths and legends Orchha. Check in at hotel. This afternoon Visit the Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Raj Parveen Mahal, Ramraj Temple, Chaturbhuj

9 CLASSICAL INDIA DELHI - AGRA - GWALIOR - ORCHHA - KHAJURAHO - VARANASI - DELHI Temple, Phool Bagh, Dinman Herdaul's Palace, Sunder Mahal and Cenotaphs by the Kanchana Ghat of the river Betwa. Overnight at hotel. Day 5 Orchha - Khajuraho (175 Kms) Breakfast at hotel. Morning drive to Khajuraho -whose remarkable 11th century temples amaze visitors. Check in at hotel. This afternoon you visit the Khajuraho Temples which portray much more than frank eroticism for which they are famous. Overnight at hotel. Day 6 Khajuraho Varanasi flight Breakfast at hotel. Morning board a short flight for Varanasi - The religious capital of Hinduism since time immemorial. Meeting & transfer to hotel. Check in at hotel. Evening witness and participate in Ganga Aarti by floating lighted earthen ware lamps to the Ganges. Overnight at hotel. Day 7 Varanasi Early morning drive through city of Ghats (stone steps) on the banks of the river, then embark on a Boat Cruise on the Ganges. Sunrise on the river front, as seen from the boat, can be spiritually uplifting sight. At dawn multitudes of pilgrims descend to the holy waters to perform the ritual immersions & prayers at the Ghats. Varanasi is older than traditions. Varanasi presents a unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. It is the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity. Ghats of Ganga are perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi. The Ghats at Varanasi are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins. Return to hotel for breakfast at hotel. Later city sightseeing tour of Varanasi. Visit Durga temple - this small temple was built in the 18th century by a Bengali maharani. Vishwanath Temple in the most sacred temple in Varanasi and is dedicated to Shiva as lord of the universe. Rest of day self explore the spiritual city. Overnight at hotel. Day 8 Varanasi Delhi flight Breakfast at hotel. Today you visit Sarnath The Buddha came to this hamlet, to preach his message of the middle way to nirvana after he achieved enlightenment at Bodhgaya. Transfer to airport to board flight for Delhi. Meeting & proceed to diplomatic quarter where a sumptuous farewell dinner awaits you at Lazeez. In time transfer to International airport. *World Heritage Sites