Experience beyond your wildest dreams, many of our past tour participants have found travel to India to be a life altering experience. A land with about 1.2 billion people of a rainbow of world’s religions, 23 languages, different geographical conditions, its monuments built in architectural influences ranging from ancient Hindu, Jain, Buddhist, Persian, Central Asian, Victorian and even Art Deco. In its teaming cities the ancient collides with the most modern, yet the inhabitants seem to be living in harmony. Among the oldest civilizations in the world, India offers one of the richest tapestries of cultures and heritage woven by history. This 15-day (14 hotel overnights) journey in India takes you to its most historical and culturally fascinating regions. The state of Rajasthan was ruled by mostly Hindu Maharajas who managed to maintain a semblance of sovereignty by entering into treaties with Islamic rulers and later with colonial British rulers of Delhi. Religious ceremonies and traditions remained intact under the Hindu Maharajas of the kingdoms of Rajasthan. One can still experience these colorful events during the traditional festivals. The journey concludes in Mumbai, the financial capital and Bollywood, India’s massive film Hindi film industry. Relish your stay at some of the world’s most luxurious hotels in Agra, Udaipur and Mumbai!

Schedules:

October 26 to November 10, 2023

Price from San Francisco $ 6,895
Price from Los Angeles/Santa Barbara $ 7,250

DAY 1, Thursday, October 26, 2023, SAN FRANCISCO:

Board Air India direct flight from San Francisco to Delhi. For flights from other airports please call or email us.

DAY 2, Friday, October 27, 2023, NEW DELHI:

Arrive in Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi in early afternoon. Traditional Indian welcome with marigold flower garlands and transfer to Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel, a newly renovated 5-star hotel near diplomatic area of New Delhi. The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure to relax and adjust to time difference. There are Spa facilities and massage sessions can be booked in advance of arrival. Light refreshments with tea or coffee and overnight in Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel.

DAY 3, Saturday, October 28, 2023, NEW DELHI:

After breakfast in hotel embark on a full day’s sightseeing of Delhi.

The construction of was Qutub Minar was initiated by Qutubudin-Aibak in 1198 CE upon becoming the first Sultan of Delhi. Qutub Uddin Aibak was born in Turkestan of ethnic Mamluk descent. This was a region where youth went out to neighboring countries and joined their armies as mercenaries. Often they were enslaved when their army lost. Qutubuddin was sold to the Qazi (Islamic judge) of Nishapur in Persia. There he became the favorite slave of the Qazi, his master because of his skills of horse-riding and archery among other warrior abilities. Qazi’s sons were jealous and they sold him after the Qazi’s death. Finally he ended up as slave of Sultan Muhammad of Ghur province of Afghanistan. He led Sultan of Ghur’s army in the 1st and 2nd battle of Tarain. Muhammad Ghur’s army was routed by a combined Rajput army under Raja Pritviraj Chowhan. The Sultan himself was wounded. He returned to northern India the following year, when Raja Jaichand of Kannauj assisted him. This time Muhammad Ghur won and Raja Prithviraj was killed in the battle. He was appointed Governor of Lalkot, the capital of the last Hindu Chauhan dynasty kingdom. When Muhammad of Ghur was assassinated in Kot Dhamiak in 1206, Qutubuddin bin Aibak declared himself sovereign monarch and started the construction of Qutub Jami Mosque (a.k.a. Quwwat ul Islam Mosque) and Qutub Minar. The construction of minaret did not complete in his lifetime and many later Islamic rulers of various successive dynasties left their mark on this monument, which is now 5 stories high and 73 meters or 240 feet tall. The mosque was constructed using architectural elements of 27 Hindu and Jain temples that were demolished to build it. Much of the decorative pillars and facades of walls in the mosque were used without alteration in the new mosque, only the Arabic verses from the Quran were added new, sculpted by Hindu artisans who did not know the Arabic language and curved the endings of letters as they did with Sanskrit language carvings. Qutub Minar complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the Second Mughal Emperor Humayun's Tomb - its architecture may have influenced the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra. Emperor Humayun died just six months after winning the throne of Delhi in 1556 CE. His widow, Hamida Bano Begum (a.k.a. Haji Begum) supervised its construction under Mughal Emperor Akbar’s rule. Having recently returned from Persia and its architect, Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, being a Persian, the monuments has elements of Persian and Hindu architecture blended in it. Many later Mughal rulers are also buried in this mausoleum. Humayun’s Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Proceed further for sightseeing of India Gate (the war memorial), Parliament House and Presidents House (from outside). The British East Company decided in 1911 to move their capital from Calcutta (now Kolkata) to Delhi. Edwin Landseer Lutyens and his friend Herbert Baker were chosen for designing various buildings in the new capital. In 1914 the First World War started and continued until 1918. During this period the new capital’s construction was halted. Finally after construction completed, the British East India Company capital was moved to New Delhi in 1931. India Gate was originally a monument to honor the fallen Indian soldiers in World War I, but now honors Indian soldiers martyred in all subsequent wars.

Relish an Indian Buffett lunch at the popular Gulati’s Restaurant in Khan Market on Pandara Road.

In the afternoon stop by the Red Fort for photography from outside - the massive sandstone fort built by Shah Jahan on the banks of river Yamuna. The fifth Mughal Emperor Shahjahan moved his capital from Agra to Delhi in 1636 and started the construction of the walled “Shahjahanabad” city with 14 gates. The most important gates, Mori, Lahori, Ajmeri, Turkman, Kashmiri and Delhi Gates still exist along with remnants of the wall. Within the city there were many monuments constructed but the most ambitious project was the Red Fort – according to a horoscope done to determine the auspicious time for starting its construction, the work on building the Red Fort started on May 12, 1639. In the Emperor’s Balcony in Diwan-i-Am or the Hall of Public Audience, there are a set of marble panels that were made in Pietra Dure art by the Florentine jeweler, Austin de Bordeaux. The most famous of these is the one depicting Orpheus playing the flute. There are many other palaces in the fort that are decorated with inlay of semi-precious stones in marble. Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Jama Masjid - is the largest mosque in India and stands across the road from the Red Fort, built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan 1650-56 CE. It was originally called "Masjid-i-Jahannuma" or world reflecting mosque. Its construction was supervised by Vazir Saadula Khan and its chief architect was Ustad Khalil. The floor of the mosque stands on a platform 30 feet higher than surrounding roads outside, giving a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The open courtyard of the mosque is 325 feet (99 meters) square and can offer place for 25,000 people to pray. The two minarets are each 130 feet (40 meters) high. The largest interior space is the prayer hall, 90 × 200 feet (27.4 × 60.96 metres). Of the three gates, the one in east called Shahi (Royal) entrance was reserved for Mughal Emperors, the other two were for general public. The mosque was inaugurated on 23 July, 1656 by Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, from Bukhara, Uzbekistan. He had been invited by Shah Jahan to be the Shahi Imam (Royal Imam) of the mosque. After the 1857, “First War of Indian Independence” the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah “Zafar” was dethroned, arrested and sent into exile to Burma where he later died. The British East India Company took over the mosque and no religious services were allowed until 1862 when under pressure from public the British had to open the mosque for use. In early 20th century the mosque was often used for non-religious, political purposes. Often Hindus and Muslims, despite the simmering tensions between the two religious groups, gathered together to express anti-colonial resentment and plan campaigns against British rule. The mosque was renovated in 2006. After sightseeing enjoy an exciting ride in the busy, narrow lanes of old Delhi Bazaars to the grand market avenue called “Chandni Chowk” built by Emperor Shahjahan’s eldest daughter, Jahan Ara Begum. Dinner will be in the Paatra Restaurant in hotel and overnight will be in Jaypee Vasant Continental Hotel.

DAY 4, Sunday, October 29, 2023, NEW DELHI-AGRA (165 Kilometers or 103 miles in 2 hours):

After breakfast transfer to Agra on the Yamuna Expressway and visit the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah. This is the mausoleum built under supervision of Empress Nurjahan for her parents, Mirza Ghiaz Beg and Begum Asmat in 1628 CE almost 7 years after her father's death. Mirza Ghiaz Beg received the title of Itmad-ud-Daulah from Emperor from Emperor Jahangir. Many other people related to the Mirza Ghias Beg’s family are buried in the corner chambers of the mausoleum. Relish your lunch with views of Yamuna River and by clear skies even Taj Mahal while enjoying a delicious lunch at Hichkee Rooftop Restaurant in Hotel Alleviate. Check in the Oberoi Amar Vilas, each suite offers amazing views of the Taj Mahal, just 600 feet away. The Oberoi Amarvilas, designed in a blend of Moorish and Mughal architecture, received the Conde Nast Reader’s Choice Awards in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 with the Gold List 2018.

On the way to Agra Fort there will be demonstration of the largest collection of Zerdozy Embroidery Art in India. This embossed embroidery art is attributed to the Mughal Empress Nur Jahan. It uses silver, gold and colored silk thread embroidery on silk and velvet background and is one of the unique arts originating in Mughal period.

In the afternoon enjoy the sightseeing of Agra Fort. Emperor Akbar moved his capital to Agra from Delhi in 1558 but the construction of the Agra Fort started in 1565. It was built on the ruins of an earlier fort named Badalgarh. The first Mughal Emperor Babur had occupied this fort after his victory in the battle of Panipat in 1526 CE. His son, second Mughal Emperor Humayun was crowned in the old fort of Badalgarh in 1530. With about 4000 laborers and craftsmen toiling for 8 years the fort's construction was completed in 1573. The entire fort was built with narrow flat brick masonry work and laminated with red sandstone from the stone quarry at Sikri village west of Agra. According the Emperor Akbar's official biography written by his trusted friend, Abul Fazl, there were about 500 buildings in the fort. Some of these buildings were demolished to make way for white marble palaces of Emperor Shahjahan, facing the Yamuna River, on the eastern side of the fort. Most of the buildings in western side were converted in to soldier’s barracks by the British East India Company. The western part of the fort is still occupied by Indian military. Emperor Akbar's style was greatly influenced by the architecture of the states of Gujarat and Bengal. It is also very unique because it reflects Emperor Akbar's tolerant religious philosophy. The best of example of his architecture is visible in the palace popularly called Jahangiri Mahal. In 1666 the great Maratha warrior, Shivaji met with Emperor Aurangzeb but the Mughal Emperor broke his promise and arrested him. He managed to escape in a spectacular manner by hiding in fruit baskets for distribution to poor. The Jat and Maratha ruler occupied Agra Fort in later years. Finally in 1803 the British East India Company captured it and demolished most of its monuments, only about 30 monuments have survived in the south-eastern side of the fort. In 1983 the Agra Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Monument.

Later experience a heritage walk in Agra’s oldest “Kinari Bazaar” There are hundreds of whole sellers in the main bazaar and in the narrow alleys selling a wide range of products. Dinner will be in the Filmy Zayka Restaurant in Alleviate Hotel. Overnight will be in Oberoi Amar Vilas Hotel.

DAY 5, Monday, October 30, 2023, AGRA:

Rise early to wonder at the world famous Taj Mahal in the glow of the rising morning sun. It is India’s most enduring symbols and perhaps the world’s greatest architectural triumphs. This white marble mausoleum is arguably the finest example of Islamic architecture that combines many elements of Arab Islamic, Persian and Indian architectures. There will be ample time in the vast complex for photographing and viewing the intricate Pietra Dure (inlay of semi-precious stones in marble art work) used in the exterior and interior of the monument.

Prince Khurram (later Emperor Shahjahan) and his father Prince Salim met their favorite future queens in a mock market called Meena Bazaar to celebrate the Persian new year festival of Nowroz in Agra Fort. Prince Salim wanted to marry Mehr un Nissa Begum, the daughter of Mirza Ghiaz Beg but Emperor Akbar did not want Shiya influence in the royal family so he asked Mirza Ghiaz Beg to marry his daughter to an Afghan commander and had him posted in Bihar. Prince Khurram was third eldest and not initially in direct line of succession. He was betrothed to Arjumand Bano Begum on April 5, 1607 but Prince Salim delayed his marriage. After death of Emperor Akbar, Prince Salim ascended the throne with the title of Emperor Jahangir and it was only in May 1610 that Mehr un Nissa, the widow of the Afghan commander finally agreed to marry him. He honored her with the title of Nurjahan (light of the world) after his marriage. One year later on May 10, 1612, Prince Khurram was finally allowed to marry his beloved Arjumand Bano Begum, who was the niece of Mehr un Nissa (her brother, Asaf Khan’s daughter and granddaughter of Mirza Ghiaz Beg). She received the title of Begum Mumtaj Mahal after her marriage with the Mughal prince. Begum Mumtaj Mahal was 19 years when they married. She was his constant companion and most trusted advisor. During their 19 years of marriage she gave birth to 14 children of which only 3 daughters and 4 sons survived. The third eldest son, Aurangzeb fought a war of succession against his elder brothers. One after the other he won against all of them, had all the brothers killed and then put his father, Emperor Shahjahan, under arrest in his own palaces in Agra Fort.

Queen Mumtaj Mahal died on June 17, 1631 in while delivering her 14th child, a daughter, Gauhar Ara Begum, who survived and lived in Shahjahanabad to a ripe age of 75 years. The body of the empress Mumtaj Mahal was temporarily interred in Zainabad, a Mughal pleasure garden in Burhanpur from where it was later transferred to Agra under supervision of her son, Prince Shah Shuja.

The site of the Taj Mahal mausoleum was a palace of the Maharaja of Amber, Mirza Raja Jai Singh. The Emperor asked him to give the palace back to him and gave him other properties in lieu. Mumtaj Mahal’s body was interred in Agra in the north-west corner of the Char-Bagh garden of the Taj Mahal. One can still see the enclosure with red sandstone walls where she lay until her final burial below the decorative grave stones that general public is now allowed to see. The Taj Mahal mausoleum was completed in 1648 according to an inscription on its main gate.

The tomb was built exclusively for Queen Mumtaj Mahal, so her grave stone is in the center of the grave chamber. Emperor Shahjahan died on January 16, 1666 in Mussamam Burj Palace in Agra Fort. He was buried by the queen’s side and his grave stone is one of only few architectural features in this mausoleum that is not symmetrical. Taj Mahal, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After breakfast enjoy a demonstration of the art of Pietra Dure (inlay of semi-precious stones on marble surface) at Agra's oldest emporium where the not for sale section has some artifacts with inlay work much finer than the most intricate art work in the Taj Mahal itself and perhaps the world's best.

Subsequently visit Sikandara, the tomb of Emperor Akbar. Emperor Akbar started the construction of his mausoleum in his own lifetime in 1604. The emperor's friend, Abul Fazl, describes it in Akbarnama, the official and historical chronicle of Emperor Akbar's rule variously as Behistan and Behistabad or the abode in paradise. The construction continued for a very long time even after Emperor Akbar's demise. Emperor Jahangir was displeased with the slow construction and personally intervened to expedite it. Between 1612 and 1614, with the addition of its main gate that is more impressive than the simple mausoleum, the construction finally completed. The motifs and decoration on the main gate suggest a Persian influence and Empress Nur Jahan may have had a hand in its architecture.

After lunch at the Café G Holiday Inn restaurant, drive to the Dayalbagh Temple which is actually a memorial of the first Guru (Teacher) of the Radha Swami religious organization. Sir Shiv Dayal Sahab established this group in 1861. Its basic tenets are unity of God and its philosophy blends elements of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and Islam. The construction of Dayalbagh Memorial started in 1905 and was finally completed in 2018. It is now open to public. It has some of the finest sculptural elements in white and colored marble as well as very special Pietra Dure art work.

Dinner will be at Bon Appetite Restaurant in Taj Resorts Hotel

After sightseeing return to hotel. Rest of afternoon is free to relax. Overnight will be in the Oberoi Amar Vilas Hotel.

DAY 6, Tuesday, October 31, 2023, AGRA-FATEHPUR SIKRI-JAIPUR (232 Kilometers or 144 miles in 5 hours):

After breakfast drive one hour to Fatehpur Sikri for sightseeing of Mughal Emperor Akbar’s deserted capital and the tomb of Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chistie in the courtyard of the grand mosque.

Emperor Akbar did not have a male heir to his throne for a long time. He came to the Sikri village to seek the blessings of the Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chistie, who prophesied that Emperor Akbar would have three sons. The emperor moved with his Hindu queen, Jodha Bai, to Sikri village to live with the saint and started building an alternative capital at the site which was earlier a query for red sandstone. The entire capital was built with red sandstone from the ridge on which it is located. The first born son was named Salim after the Sufi saint. The second son was named Murad or the longed one. The third son was named Daniel, probably influenced by the Jesuit priests from Goa who were invited by the Emperor to teach him about Christianity. Emperor Akbar developed the philosophy of “Sulah Qul” – living in harmony with all religions. Later he developed his own religion, Din-i-Ilahi or faith of God. His dear friend and official biographer, Abul Fazl, was among the first to convert to the new religion which he described in “Akbar Nama”.

Visit the grand Friday “Jama Masjid” and the mausoleum of Sheikh Salim Chistie, which was renovated using the white marble by later Mughal Emperors. After Emperor Akbar moved away from this capital, living there only 14 years, the capital was deserted for more than 400 years until Lord Curzon, British Viceroy of India ordered the Archaeological Survey of India to restore this fascinating capital and this renovation work is still going on. The palaces were all covered with wild forest and wild animals lived in the palaces. The “Dargah” or mausoleum of the saint was never deserted and people from Agra and nearby villages have been coming there to seek the saint’s blessings for centuries. In 1986 Fatehpur Sikri was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On arrival in Jaipur relish your lunch with 360º view of historic, Pink City and the new Jaipur city outside its walls. Later drive a short distance to check in to the Trident Hotel nestled below the hilltop Nahargarh Fort on the shore Jal Mahal Palace Lake. Today you will explore the Jantar Mantar astronomical observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh in 1727. All but one of it 17 instruments are still functional. The Samrat Yantra (large sundial) here has an accuracy of 2 minutes. This is the largest and best maintained of the five astronomical observatories that Sawai Jai Singh built in Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura, Varanasi and Ujjain. Only the smaller observatory in Ujjain and this one in Jaipur are functional. The observatory on the roof of Man Mahal Palace in Varanasi has the measuring scales etched on stone surfaces but because of higher buildings in the west it is not functional in late afternoon.

Jaipur City was designed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and his principal architectural and city planning advisor, Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya. On July 6, 2019 the entire walled and painted pink city has been declared a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. After our visit of Jantar Mantar observatory, we will be enjoying a bicycle rickshaw ride within the historic walled city. Dinner will be in Handi Restaurant on M.I. Road.

Overnight will be in Trident Hotel. Trident Hotels has been ranked the ‘Best First Class Hotel Brand’ at the Galileo Express TravelWorld Awards 2008. This is the fourth successive year that Trident Hotels has been awarded in this category. The Trident brand combines a number of elements to deliver a memorable experience for the guests – from excellent amenities to warm and friendly service. Everything comes together to deliver an experience that is larger than the sum of its parts. The Trident brand stands for dependability and care. The guests at Trident Hotel can be assured of a memorable and enjoyable stay.

DAY 8, Wednesday, November 1, 2023, AMBER - JAIPUR:

After breakfast in hotel full day sightseeing of Hawa Mahal, which is mere facade with about 3 feet deep balconies behind latticed screens where royal family women used to sit to watch the royal processions on the street. Climb on to Wind View Café on the opposite site of Hawa Mahal to view and photograph the landmark architectural structure in historic Jaipur city.

On the way to Amber Fort stop for photography at the Jal Mahal Island Palace. Amber Fort was originally constructed by the Raja Alan Singh of Chanda Dynasty of Meena tribal folk in 967 CE. The present structure of the fort was built by Maharaja Man Singh I (21 December 1550 – 6 July 1614) who was a trusted courtier, Navratna (nine jewels of Emperor’s court and a commander of the Mughal Army.

Drive further north through pink city to Amber Fort where you will enjoy a royal elephant ride to the hilltop palaces of Sawai Jai Singh, Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Mirza Raja Man Singh (December 21, 1550– July 6, 1614). He was one of nine jewels of Emperor Akbar’s cabinet of nobles. His palaces are still there in the southern part of the palace.

His later descendent, Mirza Raja Jai Singh I added the entrance courtyard with Diwan-i-Am, hall of public audience and Ganesh Pol, massive entrance gate to his palaces, the Sheesh Mahal, the palace decorated with convex mirrors, Jai Mandir, and also the Sukh Niwas where a humid environment is created by air that blows over water channels within the wall and a water waterfall within the royal palace. Amber Fort is connected with the Jai Garh Fort perched on “Cheel ka Tila” or the eagle hill by an underground tunnel that is now open for public. The entire complex along with four other hilltop forts of Rajasthan were declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. Lunch will be in the “1135 AD” restaurant in Amber Fort.

Sawai Jai Singh II (21 December 1550 – 6 July 1614) moved from Amer to Suraj Mahal on the northern end of Jai Niwas Gardens. He had a dream that his palace should become the temple of Govind Devji. Following his belief he built the Chandra Mahal palace for himself on the southern end of Jai Niwas Gardens Suraj Mahal for the temple of Govind Devji. His massive construction endeavor including the Chandra Mahal, the astronomical observatory and the entire walled city, India’s first city planned in grid style with roads north to south and from east to west were done around 1727.

The palace in the southern courtyard of City Palace is Mubarak Mahal that was originally a reception building for foreign dignitaries but is now used as a museum of royal textiles and garments on its ground floor and for armaments and a library on its first floor. The Diwan-i-Am (hall of public audience) houses the portraits the Jaipur royal family. The Diwan-i-Khas(hall of private audience) has been traditionally used for celebrations and religious festivities, the courtyard called “Mor Chowk” has four very beautiful gateways, one of which is decorated with Peacock statues. North of this courtyard is the Chandra Mahal, which has served as the official residence of Jaipur rulers. We will be visiting all these areas along with part of the interior of Chandra Mahal that is normally not available for general visitors. Dinner and overnight will be in Trident Hotel.

DAY 8, Thursday, November 2, 2023, JAIPUR-BIKANER:

After breakfast there will be free time to relax. Around 11 am transfer to Jaipur airport to board AI91-9830 departing at 1.15 pm and arrive in Bikaner at 2.15 pm. Transfer from Bikaner airport to Gallops Restaurant for lunch. After lunch visit the 15th century Bhandasar Jain Temple that is dedicated to 5th Tirthakar (teacher) and Rampuria Group of Havelis. Dinner and overnight in Narendra Bhawan Palace.

DAY 9, Friday, November 3, 2023, BIKANER:

Bikaner city was established by a Rathore Prince Rao Bikaji in 1488 CE. After breakfast in hotel visit the famous Karni Mata Temple that is famous for its rats.

Later visit the Junagarh Fort that was built by the sixth ruler of Bikaner, Raja Rai Singh, who ruled between 1571 and 1611 CE. The fort was constructed between 1588 and 1593 CE. The fort is protected by a series of massive walls and moats. There are many palaces, temples and a museum showcasing jewelry, carpets, weapons, portraits, textiles, rare manuscripts, costumes, textiles, ‘Farmans’ (royal decrees), decorative objects and treaties belonging to the royal family. Lunch will be at Sky Bytes Rooftop Restaurant. In the afternoon visit the Lalgarh Palace and Museum and Devi Kund Royal memorials. Dinner and overnight will be in Narendra Bhawan Palace.

DAY 10, Saturday, November 4, 2023, BIKANER – GAJNER – JAISALMER:

After breakfast in hotel drive about 22 miles to Gajner Palace and Wild Life Sanctuary. After lunch drive about 4.5 hours to Jaisalmer.

After traveling through mostly flat sands of Thar Desert, the Fort on Trikuta hill emerges. Looking like a scene from The Thousand and One Nights, the massive fort rises from the flat desert, it is visible from about 19 miles away, it is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan and one of the largest in the world. In 1156 CE, Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of the Yadav clan and a Bhatti Rajput, is said to have abandoned his fort at Lodurva, about 11 miles away and on the advice of a local hermit, founded the new fort and capital of Jaisalmer. An entire community lives within its walls – residential quarters, temples, hotels, restaurants and markets exist cheek by jowl in an unlikely mosaic. An estimated 5,000 people reside inside the fort. Thousands of others visit the fort annually as tourists. There is an interesting palace of the former rulers of Jaisalmer kingdom as well as several ornate Jain temples. The city is located in the heart of sandy wasteland of the Thar Desert and huge sand dunes rising up to 150 feet in height. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check-in to Jaisalkot Hotel on arrival.

Later enjoy a camel ride at Sam sand dunes. Dinner and overnight will be in Jaisalkot Hotel.

DAY 11, Sunday, November 5, 2023, JAISALMER:

After breakfast in hotel begin your exploration of the Jaisalmer Fort. The fort covers the entire top of Trikuta Hill, it is 1500 feet long and 750 feet wide and stands at 250 feet high above the surrounding desert planes. The Jaisalmer Fort also goes by the name Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) as it rises from the desert itself and seems to become one with the golden hues of the sand. The setting sun adds its own magic and shrouds the fort with mystique. This fort is a world heritage site and forms an important plot point in one of the world famous Bengali film director, Satyajit Ray’s famous Feluda stories and corresponding movie, Sonar Kila (The Golden Fortress).

Visit the Raj Mahal Palace, the former residence of the Maharawal of Jaisalmer, inside the fort. It has ornate stone carvings done by local Muslim sculptors. The next attraction in the fort are the seven Jain Temples that date back to the 12th and 15th centuries. The temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji, Shambhavdevji and other Tirthankars (teachers) of Jain religion. Like most buildings in Jaisalmer they are sculpted with local yellow sandstone and are decorated with colorful frescos.

Later we will visit the “Patwon ki Haveli”, by Guman Chand Patwa, a gold and silver merchant for his 5 sons in 1805 CE. It houses a museum that is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. A three minute walk from the Patwon ki Haveli is the Nathmal Ki Haveli that was built for Mohata Nathmal in 1885. Two brothers started working on the opposite sides of the building which lead to a similar but non identical left and right side. Apart from its extraordinary external carvings, this haveli is known for its beautiful interiors filled with paintings and equipped with modern facilities. An amalgamation of Islamic and Rajputana architecture, Nathmal Ki Haveli is well justified as being one of the most beautiful havelis in Jaisalmer. The Salim Singh ki Haveli was built in 1815 by the Prime Minister of the kingdom after whom it is named. Later visit the Chattries or cenotaphs built to honor the site of cremation of former rulers and the Gaddi Sagar Lake. Dinner and overnight will be in Jaisalkot Hotel.

DAY 12, Monday, November 6, 2023, JAISALMER – JODHPUR:

After breakfast drive to Jodhpur for sightseeing of the Mehrengarh Fort & Jaswant Thada in the afternoon. Jodhpur was the capital of the princely state of Marwar that was founded in 1459 CE by Suryavanshi Maharaja Rao Jodha. The city is situated on the ancient Silk Route and the traders of the city contributed to its affluence. It served as the capital of the princely state of Jodhpur, it reached the zenith of its power under the ruler Rao Maldeo (1532–69), and gave allegiance to the Mughals after the invasion of the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1561. In 1818 Jodhpur came under British paramountcy. It was the largest princely state in the Rajputana Agency—the British governing entity in the region—occupying much of the central and southwestern portions of what is now Rajasthan state. It joined Rajasthan in 1949. Mehrangarh Fort, which contains the maharaja’s palace and a historical museum, is built on an isolated rock eminence that dominates the city. The 4th-century ruins of Mandor, the ancient capital of Marwar, lie immediately to the north. In addition to the fort, Jodhpur’s other notable buildings include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the home of the Jodhpur royal family and also a luxury hotel, and the white marble Jaswant Thada, a memorial to the 19th-century ruler Jaswant Singh II. On arrival in Jodhpur lunch will be at Wilburys Café & Restaurant. Later enjoy sightseeing of Mehrengarh Fort, Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. Dinner and overnight will be in Radisson Hotel, Jodhpur.

DAY 13, Tuesday, November 7, 2023, JODHPUR – RANAKPUR – UDAIPUR:

After breakfast drive to Ranakpur for lunch at Kings Abode. In the afternoon visit the Chowmukha Jain Temple that was built between 1437 and 1458, dedicated to the1st. Tirthankar of Jain religion, Adinath Bhagwan. This Jain temple is one of the finest in India in its design and sculptures. Drive further to Udaipur for a leisurely boat ride on Pichola Lake and visit the Jag Mandir Island Palace. Dinner in Charcoal by Carlsson Barbeque Restaurant.

Overnight will be in Oberoi Udaivilas Hotel. In the heart of Rajasthan, a city renowned for its majestic palaces, beautiful lakes and emerald Aravali mountains, the Oberoi Udaivilas’ location on the brink of stunning Lake Pichola elegantly captures the best of the city. Built to emulate a traditional Indian palace, the Oberoi Udaivilas has been ranked by Travel and Leisure’s reader’s poll as the 4th best hotel in the world. The ultimate in service: a 24-hour personal butler is a standard luxury at the Oberoi Udaivilas

DAY 14, Wednesday, November 8, 2023, UDAIPUR – MUMBAI:

After breakfast start today’s exploration with City Palace of the Maharanas of Mewar. This is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The Maharanas of Mewar had their original capital in the present day pilgrimage town of Nagda, 30 kilometers or 19 miles north of Udaipur. It was established by the 1st. Maharana, Guhil, in 568 CE. In the 8th. century CE the capital was moved to Chittor, where the successive Maharanas built the largest Fort and city in contemporary India. Already before the sacking of Chittorgarh by Mughal Emperor Akbar, in February 1568 after a long siege that began in October 1567, the plans for a new capital were under way.

The construction of the Mewar Dynasty’s City Palace in Udaipur started in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh and continued by his successors over a period of about 300 years. Today the visitors see the Mardana (male section) and Zanana (female section) of the museum part of the palace. Apart from this two other sections of the palace are converted in to hotels: “The Shiv Niwas Palace” and “The Fateh Prakash Palace” are now managed by the famous Taj Group of Hotel, who already managed the historic “Lake Palace Hotel. The descendants of the Maharanas of Mewar still reside in one section of the palace. Later walk in front of the City Palace through the Tripolia (3-arched royal entrance) to Jagdish Temple, built by Maharana Jagat Singhiji in 1651 CE. Lunch will be served in the Ambrai Restaurant on the northern shore of Pichola Lake with stunning views of the lake, palaces and mountains. Subsequently visit Saheliyon ki Bari fountain garden. Before transfer to airport enjoy an afternoon snack at the The Rising Hotel on Airport Road. Transfer to airport to board the Jet Airways flight 9W-974 departing at 7.30 pm and arrive in Mumbai at 9.15 pm.

Transfer to Taj Mahal Palace and Towers Hotel for overnight. With its landmark location and heritage second to none Taj Mahal Palace & Towers Hotel has the iconic stature of being one of the original grand hotels of the world. Built in 1903, the hotel is an architectural marvel and brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering sweeping views of the Arabian Sea, the Gateway of India and panoramic views of the Mumbai city; it showcases contemporary Indian influences along with beautiful vaulted alabaster ceilings, onyx columns, graceful archways, hand-woven silk carpets, crystal chandeliers, a magnificent art collection, an eclectic collection of furniture and a dramatic cantilevered stairway. This palatial grande-dame complex, the Taj Mahal Palace, is easily the most iconic building in the bustling city. A residence fit for royalty, it’s played host to kings, queens, heads of state and celebrities. You will have an unforgettable experience in this palace.

DAY 15, Thursday, November 9, 2023, MUMBAI – NEW DELHI:

After breakfast in hotel, enjoy a 25 minutes speedboat ride to Elephanta Caves on the Gharapuri island in Arabian Sea. The rock-cut Elephanta Caves were constructed about the mid-5th to 6th centuries AD. The most important of these caves is the number 1 cave, which measures 128 feet from front of the cave. 23 feet high idol of Sadashiva dominates this cave entrance and represents three aspects of Shiva: the Creator, the Preserver, and the Destroyer, identified, respectively, with Aghora or Bhairava (left half), Taptapurusha or Mahadeva (central full face), and Vamadeva or Uma (right half). Representations of Nataraja, Yogishvara, Andhakasuravadha, Ardhanarishwara, Kalyanasundaramurti, Gangadharamurti, and Ravanaanugrahamurti are also noteworthy for their forms, dimensions, themes, representations, content, alignment and execution. These caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch enjoy an architecture tour of Mumbai starting at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, also known by its former name Victoria Terminus, is a historic terminal train station and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India; Flora Fountain, at the Hutatma Chowk (Martyr's Square), is an ornamentally and exquisitely sculpted architectural heritage monument located at the southern end of the historic Dadabhai Naoroji Road, called the Mile Long Road, at the Fort business district in the heart of South Mumbai, Mumbai, India. Flora Fountain, built in 1864, is a fusion of water, architecture and sculpture, and depicts the Roman goddess Flora; The Gateway of India is an arch monument that was erected to commemorate the landing of King-Emperor George V and Queen-Empress Mary at Apollo Bunder on their visit to India in 1911. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, the foundation stone for the Gateway of India was laid on 31 March 1911. The structure is an arch made of basalt, 26 metres (85 feet) high. The final design of George Wittet was sanctioned in 1914 and the construction of the monument was completed in 1924. The Gateway was later used as a symbolic ceremonial entrance to India for Viceroys and the new Governors of Bombay. It served to allow entry and access to India; one of Mumbai's landmarks, the Rajabai Clock Tower was completed in the 1870s and houses the University of Mumbai's library. Sir George Gilbert Scott modeled the Rajabai Clock Tower on the clock tower of the Palace of Westminster in London. Local businessman Premchand Roychand contributed to the cost of construction and named the tower in memory of his mother, Rajabai. The tower is 85 m (280 ft) tall and has five floors. At a height of 9.1 m (30 ft) from the ground, there are eight statues representing the Indian castes; Dhobi Ghat (Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat) is an open air laundromat in Mumbai, India. The washers, known as dhobis, work in the open to clean clothes and linens from Mumbai's private people, hotels and hospitals. It was constructed in 1890; Mani Bhavan was Gandhi's Mumbai headquarters for about 17 years, from 1917 to 1934. The mansion belonged to Revashankar Jagjeevan Jhaveri, Gandhi's friend and host in Mumbai during this period. It was from Mani Bhavan that Gandhi initiated the Non-Cooperation, Satyagraha, Swadeshi, Khadi and Khilafat Movements. Gandhi's association with the charkha began in 1917, while he was staying at Mani Bhavan. In his November 2010 visit, Barack Obama became the first high-profile international visitor to visit the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya in the last 50 years. Before him, only Martin Luther King Jr. had visited Mani Bhavan in the 1950s; the Hanging Gardens, in Mumbai, also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, are terraced gardens perched at the top of Malabar Hill, on its western side, just opposite the Kamala Nehru Park. They provide sunset views over the Arabian Sea and feature numerous hedges carved into the shapes of animals;

Marine Drive: overview of art Deco buildings from sunset point near National Center for Performing Arts – the art-deco buildings of Marine Drive have been declared the UNESCO World Heritage Site; Dakhma or Tower of Silence, Malabar Hill, Mumbai is the religious funeral place of Zoroastrians.

Around 5 pm transfer to Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport to board the Air India flight to arrive in Indira Gandhi International Airport.

DAY 16, Friday, November 10, 2023, DELHI – SAN FRANCISCO:

Board the early morning Air India direct flight to arrive in San Francisco around 6 am. Please call or email us for flights from other airports.

The Price of US $ 6,895.00 includes following:

• • Direct non-stop international flight from San Francisco to New Delhi, return domestic flight from Mumbai to New Delhi and direct non-stop return flight from New Delhi to San Francisco.
• • 13 overnights - accommodations in the mentioned 5-star hotels or similar hotels inclusive of taxes on double or twin room occupancy basis
• • Daily buffet breakfast at your hotels.
• • Lunch and dinner as mentioned in the program.
• • City sightseeing and intercity travel by air-conditioned coach with 2 bottles of water daily.
• • English speaking local guides at each city as per program
• • Assistance at each city by our company representative.
• • Domestic flight from Jaipur to Bikaner and from Udaipur to Mumbai
• • Escort by Brijesh Sharma
• • Rickshaw ride at Jama Mosque in Delhi as well as a rickshaw ride in historic, pink-city, Jaipur
• • Elephant ride at Amber Fort in Jaipur.
• • Boat ride at Lake Pichola Udaipur
• • Camel ride on sand dunes at sunset at Sam village
• • Boat ride in Arabian Sea to the island of Elephanta Caves.
• • All taxes, parking fees, interstate taxes, state taxes, driver’s allowance etc.

Not included in the above mentioned price:

• • Single room occupancy in hotels supplement of US$ 2,510.00 per room
• • Cost of travel insurance, many plans are available online.
• • US citizens require their passports to be valid for six months after return date from India i.e. July 14, 2020. Visa for travel to India can be applied online at: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration
• • All drinks in hotels & restaurants etc.
• • Still and video camera Fees at monuments
• • Tips to drivers, guides and porters as well as any item not included in the above (included) list
• • All expenses of personal nature like telephone calls / laundry / room service charges in hotels etc.

PAYMENT :

An advance payment of US $1750 is required to be paid with registration. We will send you the registration form. The balance amount is due 90 days before the departure date from USA. Payments can be made by personal check in favor of INDIA TRAVELLER or by PAYPAL.

YOUR 5-STAR HOTELS AND RESTAURANTS IN EACH CITY:

DATE	CITY	HOTEL	LUNCH	DINNER
10-26-2023
10-27-2023	Delhi	Jaypee Vasant Cont.	Not included	Not included
10-28-2023	Delhi	Jaypee Vasant Cont.	Gulati Restaurant	Paatra in hotel
10-29-2023	Agra	Oberoi Amar Vilas	Hichkee Rooftop	Filmy Zayka
10-30-2023	Agra	Oberoi Amar Vilas	CafeG Holiday Inn	Bon Apetite Taj Resort
10-31-2023	Jaipur	The Trident	OM Revolving Rest.	Handi Restaurant
11-01-2023	Jaipur	The Trident	1135 AD Amber Fort	The Trident
11-02-2023	Bikaner	Narendra Bhawan	Gallops Restaurant	Narendra Bhawan
11-03-2023	Bikaner	Narendra Bhawan	Sky Bytes Rooftop	Narendra Bhawan
11-04-2023	Jaisalmer	Jaisalkot	Gajner Palace	Jaisalkot
11-05-2023	Jaisalmer	Jaisalkot		Jaisalkot
11-06-2023	Jodhpur	Radisson	Wilburys Café & Rest.	Radisson
11-07-2023	Ranakpur-Udaipur	Oberoi Udaivilas Hotel	Kings Abode	Charcoal by Carlsson
11-08-2023	Udaipur/Mumbai	Taj Palace and Tower Hotel	Ambrai Restaurant	The Rising Hotel (snacks)
11-09-2023	Mumbai		Restaurant in Mumbai

YOUR 5-STAR LUXURY HOTELS IN SPLENDORS OF INDIA :