SPLENDIFEROUS INDIA TOUR

17 Nights / 18 Days

See the sights that make India such a splendiferous place: Tigers in Ranthambore National Park, the grandest of monuments - the Taj, Kamasutra carvings on the Jain temples of Khajuraho, Mughal Dynasty architecture, desert palaces, the Pink City, lake palaces, Rajasthani Forts, and the Thar Desert.

Itinerary Route: Delhi - Khajuraho - Agra - Ranthambore National Park - Jaipur - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Udaipur – Mumbai

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

You will be greeted at the airport by a Tour Packages India Representative and escorted to your hotel where you'll spend the next two nights.

Day 2: Delhi

After breakfast, embark on a day of sightseeing around Delhi. (See "Local Attractions" for a detailed list of Delhi highlights.) Delhi is said to be one of the oldest existing cities in the world, along with Damascus and Varanasi. Legend estimates it to be over 5,000 years old - it is said to have been built and destroyed 11 times throughout its history. In spite of its rich historical heritage represented by it's innumerable monuments, Delhi's population is reputed for having little awareness of or pride in the city's history due to the simple reason that few Delhi residents actually belong to Delhi. The population of Delhi is a heterogeneous mix of people originating from every corner of India. Undoubtedly, this will become obvious during your tour through the city. Delhi is by far the most cosmopolitan city in India and a true traveler's delight.

Day 3: Delhi to Khajuraho via Jhansi (via Train/Car)

Catch the super fast Shatabdi Express train to Jhansi and enjoy breakfast onboard. , less than a 3-hour ride to the south. Travel to Khajuraho via Orchha to visit ancient temples. Time permitting, stroll the gardens surrounding the Jain temples...best seen in early morning and evening.(See "Local Attractions" for more info on the temples.)

Day 4: Khajuraho

The Jain temples of Khajuraho are known for the erotic content of the carvings as well as for their intricacy. The central complex which borders the edge of town occupies beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere. Stroll, relax, gaze in awe at these unforgettable examples of Jain architecture from the 9th century.

Day 5: Khajuraho to Agra (via Car/Train)

Take a drive back to the Jhansi Railway Station and board the train for Agra where you'll spend the next two nights. Spend the evening in Agra as you wish. If time permits, early evening is the best time to view the Taj.

Day 6: Agra

Most visitors start their day at the Taj Mahal - sometimes traveling by Horse Cart to the entrance. The rising sun reflecting on the Taj during the coolest period of the day makes it a favorite time to visit. It opens at 6:00 a.m. so breakfast usually takes place after your visit. Later, visit the Agra Fort. See "Local Attractions" for a more detailed list of things to do in Agra. Dine out as you like and spend the night.

Day 7: Agra to Ranthambore National Park (265 km / 6 hour drive)

On the way to Ranthambore, stop off at Fatehpur Sikri - an old deserted town of the Mughal Dynasty, built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to water scarcity. Arrive in Ramthambore late in the afternoon, check-in, relax.

Day 8: Ranthambore to Jaipur (130 km / 3 hour drive)

Take a morning Jeep Jungle Safari through the Tiger Reserve and National Park where, hopefully, you'll spot the endangered Bengal Tiger - don't forget binoculars! Later in the day, drive to Jaipur where you'll spend the next two nights.

Day 9: Jaipur

Spend the day sightseeing. Jaipur has many points of interest. Please visit "Local Attractions" to see a comprehensive list of activities. No doubt, you'll have no problem filling your day.

Day 10: Jaipur to Bikaner (320 km / 7 hour drive)

Leave after breakfast for the drive to Bikaner. After arrival, explore the Junagarh Fort built in 1593 AD by Raja Rai Singh, a General in the army of Emperor Akbar. This Fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat with beautiful palaces constructed of red sandstone and marble. Marvel at these structures dotted with the picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows. Also, take a side trip to the Camel Breeding Farm in the late afternoon. Spend the night.

Day 11: Bikaner to Jaisalmer (335 km / 7 hour drive)

Spend the day driving through the Thar Desert region of Rajasthan. Arrive in Jaisalmer in later afternoon and check-in to your hotel where you'll spend the next two nights. Take the evening to relax and stroll about.

Day 12: Jaisalmer

Enjoy the day touring the city. The city surrounding the Jaisalmer Fort is just as amazing and unique as the fort itself. Get lost in the time in the narrow winding streets lined with decorated lattice work and floral paintings and the intricate artwork on the havelis all the while weaving your way up to the fort. In the late afternoon take a trip to the Sand Dunes, ride camels in the dunes while watching the sunset. Return to Jaisalmer for some tasty Rajasthani tandoori.

Day 13: Jaisalmer to Jodhpur (290 km / 7 hour drive)

Spend the morning driving to Jodhpur. Tour the city after checking in to your hotel. Ascend to the Mehrangarh Fort for a bird's eye view of the city.

Day 14: Jodhpur to Udaipur via Ranakpur (270 km / 6 hour drive)

On the way to Udaipur, stop off at Ranakpur to visit the beautiful Jain temples of the foothills of Kumbhalgarh National Park. Continue the drive to Udaipur where you'll spend the night - a beautiful city of lakes surrounded by mountains.

Day 15: Udaipur

Spend the day sightseeing. (See "Local Attractions" for a comprehensive list of activities and places of interest).

Day 16: Udaipur to Mumbai (via Flight)

Take a late morning tour of Chittaurgarh Fort. Later, drive to the airport to catch a flight to Mumbai where you'll spend the next two nights.

Day 17: Mumbai

Spend the day sightseeing - Prince of Wales Museum, Gateway to India, Gandhi Museum. See "Local Attractions" for a more detailed list of Mumbai points of interest.

Day 17: Mumbai Departure

Transfer to your point of departure after morning check-out.

Extend or Customize Your Tour: We would be happy to assist with additional travel and hotel arrangements. Changes to this tour can be added as an inclusive part of the package.

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