| Home :: About Us :: Contact Us :: Reservation | |
     |
|
Travel Packages |
Home >> India Travel Packages >> India Luxury Holidays
India Luxury Holidays
Duration: 20 Days / 19 NightsDestinations: Delhi - Varanasi - Khajuraho - Agra - Ranthambhore - Jaipur - Jodhpur - Udaipur - Mumbai - Cochin - Alleppey
Day
01: Arrival at Delhi: Company representatives will receive you on arrival at the international airport in Delhi late in the evening. Transfer to your hotel. Relax.
DELHI, the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Overnight at Delhi.
Day 02: Delhi
Breakfast at Delhi. Proceed for a full day tour of Old & New Delhi.
OLD DELHI - A sightseeing tour of Old Delhi would entail visiting the Raj Ghat - the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated; Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India and the Red Fort - once the most opulent fort and palace of the Moghul Empire.
Cycle rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk.
NEW DELHI - An extensive sightseeing tour of New Delhi would include a visit to the Humayun's Tomb, the Qutub Minar, a drive along the ceremonial avenue - Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House, the President's Residence and would end with a drive through the Diplomatic Enclave.
Overnight at Delhi
Day 03: Delhi - Varanasi
By Flight: 9W723 Dep: 10:40 Arr: 1150
After breakfast transfer to airport for the flight to Varanasi.
On arrival check in the hotel. Afternoon Explored the Varanasi city with the Guide.
About Varanasi
Standing on the western bank of India's holiest river Ganges, Varanasi is the oldest surviving city of the world and the cultural capital of India. It is in the heart of this city that there stands in its fullest majesty the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in which is enshrined the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha.
Here gravitate the teeming millions of India to seek benediction and spiritual peace by the darshan of this Jyotirlinga which confers liberation from the bondages of maya and the inexorable entanglements of the world. A simple glimpse of the Jyotirlinga is a soul-cleansing experience that transforms life and puts it on the path of knowledge and bhakti. Vishweshwara jyotirlinga has a very special and unique significance in the spiritual history of India. Tradition has it that the merits earned by the darshan of other jyotirlinga scattered in various parts of India accrue to devotee by a single visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Deeply and intimately implanted in the Hindu mind, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has been a living embodiment of our timeless cultural traditions and highest spiritual values. The Temple has been visited by all great saints- Adi Shankaracharya, Ramkrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekanand, Goswami Tulsidas, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, Gurunanak and several other spiritual personalities. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts visitors not only from India but abroad as well and thereby symbolizes man's desire to live in peace and harmony with one another. Vishwanath being a supreme repository of this spiritual truth thus strengthens the bonds of universal brotherhood and fellow feeling at the national as well as global levels.
On January 28, 1983 the Temple was taken over by the Govt. of Uttar Pradesh and it's management ever since stands entrusted to a Trust with Dr. Vibhuti Narayan Singh. Former Kashi Naresh, as president and an Executive Committee with Divisional Commissioner as Chairman. The Temple in the present shape was built way back in 1780 by Late Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore. In the year 1785 a Naubatkhan was built up in front of the Temple by the then collector Mohd. Ibrahim Khan at the instance of Governor General Warren Hastings. In 1839, Two domes of the Temple were covered by gold donated by Punjab Kesari Maharaja Ranjeet Singh. Third dome but was remained uncovered, Ministry of cultures & Religious affairs of U.P. Govt. took keen interest for gold plating of third dome of Temple.
Ghats
Varanasi, Kashi or Banaras, is older than traditions. The divine grace of this city lies is unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. Ghats of Varanasi are natural supplement to the concept of divinity. It is a city which liberates soul from human body to ultimate. The much quoted Sanskrit Skloka Proclame ' Kasyam maranam mukti' (death in Kashi is Liberation). In fact the extension of this belief could be visualized in early concept of ' Pancha Trirtha'
Symbolically identified with the human body it is explicitly equated with the fire elements (Panch Tattva) of which body is composed interesting people
now
defining as all the Ghats are points on the divine cosmic road ( 12th Zodiacs
X 7chakras of body thus 98 ) represents its manifest transcendental dimension.
That is how this frame shows a cosmic order and harmonic relationship between
macro cosmos (divine order) and micro cosmos (human order)through the interlink
of mesocosmos (the physical order of ghats). The Gahadvala inscriptions ( c.12th
cent) mention only five ghats . A mid 17th cent. Sarnath
LOCATION
Sarnath renowned for ancient remains of Bhuddhist stupas, monasteries and temples, is situated at a distance of 6 kms. to the north of Varanasi city which is well connected by road, rail & air.
HISTORY
Sarnath is one of the four most important Bhuddhist pilgrimage centres of India. Bhudda, the great sage, after. attaining enlightenment (Bhudda-hood) at Bodh gaya came to Sarnath and delivered his first sermon to five disciples (i.e. Kaundinya, Bashpa, Bhadrika, Mahanaman and Ashvajit) for redeeming humanity. It is this place where foundation of a new order of monks (Sangha) and a new order of religious doctrine (Dhamma) was laid. Sarnath is also sacred to the Jains because they look upon it as the site of asceticism and death of Shreyamshanath, the 11th Trithankara.
In ancient Bhuddhist literature the place finds mention as Rishipatna and Mrigdava or Mrigadaya. The place was called Rishipatna , as it was here the bodies of five hundred Pratyeka Bhuddhas or Rishis(Sages) fell after their attainment of nirvana (Salvation). According to the Jataka, in one of his previous births Bhudha as aleader of a herd of deer,for saving life of a doe, appeared before the king of Benaras who relished on the flesh of a deer everyday. On being moved by his sacrifical zeal the king made the place a free roaming ground, thus it was known as mrigadava (deerpark). The inscriptions of early medieval period found from Sarnath referred to this place as Dharamchakra or Sadhamacharka pravartana vihar. The mordern name Sarnath seems to be a contraction of Saranganath (Lord of deer) still borne by the Lord Shiva enshrined in a temple nearby.
Sarnath pased into oblivion in the 13th cent. and veil was lifted in 1798 when Mr. Duncan , the resident of Benaras gave an account of a casket of green marble inside a stone box exposed by the workmen of Jagat Singh, Dewan of Raja Chet Singh of Benaras while dismantling the Dharmaralika stupa in order to procure building materials. This discovery had created wide interest about Sarnath.
Later on excanvations were conducted at the site by Sir Alexander Cunningham (1835-36), Major Kittoe (1851-52), Mr.C. Horne (1865), Mr. F.O. Oertal (1904-5), Sir john Marshall (1907), Mr. H. Hargreaves(1914-15), and Mr. Daya Ram Sahni (1927-32).
Archaeological excavations have brought to light about a dozen carved railing pillars ascribable to the Shunga period (2nd -lst cent. B.C.). With the advent of the Kushana (1st -2nd cent. A.D.) in north India Bhuddhism witnessed a new phase of Religious and artistic activities. Trough Mathura was the centre of this renaissance, but sarnath also flourished and new monuments were raised. The colossal image of Bodhisattva imported form Mathura in the 3rd regnal year of Kanishka is now exhibited in the museum.
During the Gupta period (4th-6th century A.D.). Sarnath became a main centre of structural and artistic activities. Several structures including Mulgandhakuti, the chief shrine of the Buddha were erected during this period. The Dhamekh stupa is the best preserved and most impressive edifice at Sarnath. It is a cylindrical tower 28.50 mts. In diameter at base and 33.53 mts. In height. Fa-Hien the Chinese pilgrim visited Sarnath at the time of Chandragupta ll (376-414 A.D.) and saw here four stupas and two monastteries.
The reign stupas and Harshavardhan (606-47 A.D.) must have initiated fresh religious activity and restorations of the earlier building at Sarnath. Hiuen-Tsang visited Sarnath during the time and left a vivid descriptinued of its monuments.
This place continued to flourish during the reign of the pala kings. But the monuments of Sarnath experienced a reverse, when Benaras suffered under the spearhead of Mahmud Ghajni's invasion which is inferred from a record of the time of Mahilala, datable to 1026 A.D.
Kumardevi, wife of Givindchandra (1114-1154 A.D.) of the Gahadavala dynasty built a large monastery at Sarnath which is probably the last impressive monuments raised here and after which the architectural and artistic activitivs came to a halt. The glorious heritage remained hidden for a larger period and waite for the archaeological spade to uncover it.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 04: Varanasi - Khajuraho
Flight: 9W-723 Dep: 1220 Arr: 1300
Excursion of Sarnath, the place where first prayer of Lord Buddha took place, in the evening. Pilgrims flock the Ghats to have a ritual bath and perform puja to the rising sun, following centuries old tradition. The Dasashvamedh Ghat offers a splendid view of the river front. This is the ghat of the 10 (Das) horses (shiva) sacrificed (medh). Legend has it that it was performed by Brahma to pave way for Shiva's return to Varanasi after a spell of banishment. A sight that has remained unchanged and unspoilt-by time, wars or even man himself. Other special ghats are the Asi, Barnasangam, Panchganga and Manikarnika, Ghats.
Afternoon our company representative will give you the transfer to airport for the flight to Khajuraho.
Reach and our company Representative will meet at the Airport and give you the Transfer to the Hotel.
Khajurhao
Situated in the heart of Central India, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a fascinating village with a quaint rural ambience and a rich cultural heritage. The fascinating temples of Khajuraho, India's unique gift of love to the world, represent the expression of a highly matured civilization.
History of Temples:
Khajuraho temples were constructed between 950 and 1050 A.D. during the reign of Chandel Empire. Khajuraho derives its name from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area. These temples are considered the "high point" of Indian architectural genius in the Medieval period.
Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. The amazingly short span of 100 years, from 950 AD - 1050 AD, saw the completion of all the temples, in an inspired burst of creativity. With the wane of the Chandela empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly deserve. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being. They not only testify to the mastery of the craftsman, but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign, these temples were constructed. Their style of architecture was also rather peculiar to their times. Each structure stands on a high masonry platform with a distinct upward direction to their build, further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of an overall lightness. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western, eastern and southern.
The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon. The legend that describes the origin of this great dynasty is a fascinating one : Hemavati, the beautiful young daughter of a Brahmin priest was seduced by the moon god while bathing in the Rati one evening. The child born of this union between a mortal and a god was a son, Chandravarman. Harassed by society, the unwed mother sought refuge in the dense forest of Central India where she was both mother and guru to her young son. The boy grew up to found the great Chandela dynasty. When he was established as a ruler, he had a dream-visitation from his mother, who implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. Chandravarman began the construction of the first of the temples, successive rulers added to the fast growing complex.
Yet another theory is that the erotica of Khajuraho, and indeed of other temples, had a specific purpose. In those days when boys lived in hermitages, following the Hindu law of being "brahmacharis" until they attained manhood, the only way they could prepare themselves for the worldly role of 'householder' was through the study of these sculptures and the earthly passions they depicted.
If the temples of Khajuraho can be said to have a theme, it is woman. A celebration of woman and her myriad moods and facets- Writing letters, applying kohl to her eyes, brushing her hair, dancing with joyous abandon playing with her child. Woman - innocent, coquettish, smiling - infinitely seductive, infinitely beautiful.
Depicted
in a wealth of detail, sharply etched, sculpted with consummate artistry. The
philosophy of the age dictated the enjoyment of the delights of arth (material
wealth) and kama (sensual pleasures) while performing one's dharma (duty) as
the accepted way of life for the grihastha (householder). Hence, the powerful
combination of the visual and sensual pleasures combined with the duty attributed
to the worship of the Dieties brings about a powerful transformation of the
body and the soul. To include all of these aspects of life in one's early years
makes it easier to renounce them without regret or attachment as one moves on
to one's next stages of life toward moksha (liberation). Location of Khajaraho Temples:
Situated in the heart of Central India, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a fascinating village with a quaint rural ambience and a rich cultural heritage. The fascinating temples of Khajuraho, India's unique gift of love to the world, represent the expression of a highly matured civilization. It is one of the top tourist places of India. An Airport has been built in this small village. Tourists with fat pockets but less time can fly Delhi-Agra-Khajuraho-Delhi in a day! There are a lot of hotels in the area to stay. A few are run by foreginers. The shops in Khujaraho sell a lot of handicrafts and some of them are really good and reasonably priced. Khajuraho Today:
The temples are a world heritage site and belong not just to India but to the world. The Archeological Survey of India's dedicated efforts towards their conservation rank them against the best preserved monuments of this antiquity. Most of the temples are built of sandstone in varying shades of buff, pink or pale yellow. They each belong to a different sect, the Shiva, Vaishnava or Jaina Sects, but are often indistingushable from one another to the untrained eye. The temples are lofty with ample walking space separating them. The interior rooms are inter connected and placed in an East/West line. Each contains an entrance, a hall, a vestibule and a sanctum. Windows were added to the larger temples to add a feeling of space and light.
The openings face East with lavishly carved archways. The interior ceilings are carved with geometrical and floral designs. The roofs are a series of graded peaks that resemble a mountain range and in all probability, represent the possibility of higher levels of spiritual attainment. Erotic scenes represent a relatively small part of the carvings but sensuous eroticism prevails throughout all of the sculptures. In general, lower indulgences appear lower on the temple while the dieties appear near the top. Most of the statues are about a meter high. The goddesses and gods represent the many manifestations of the divine Shakti and Shiva, the female and male principles, the Yin and the Yang.
The divine sculptures in these temples, are a tribute to Life itself, embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it.. Popularly known as the 10th century temples, they represent a time frame when Khajuraho art was at its zenith. Visit to Khajuraho is a unique experience and is exciting for conservationists, students, environmentalists, culture lovers or simply those in search of an exotic destination with multiple attractions.
Laurence Rogerson a tourist from UK says the statues and carvings cover every inch of every ceiling and wall. The erotic carvings on the temples at Khajuraho give the place it's fame. Erotic or not the level of detail is quite magnificent as these pictures clearly do show. Another tourist from Australia says "these temples depict scenes from elephant fights, mythical lions, gods, and erotic couples. In a frieze that seemed to be an exception a sodomistic scene was depicted where onlookers hold their hands in front of their eyes in disgust. The erotic scenes are sort of a 3-D rendering of the Kama Sutra book, a graphical instruction manual."
One of the Jain temples to the east of the village has a statue and pictures of a nude man. According to the locals some of the Jain Pilgrims celebrate there without even a leaf on them. Pieces of the statues from the temples can be seen embedded in the houses of the village. Statues were used as cheap building material for building the roads too.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 05: Khajurhao
After breakfast explore the Khajurhao Temple with our Guide and he will explain about the Temple and the History.
The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions : western, eastern and southern.
Western Group
The Western
group is certainly the best known, because it is to this group that the largest
and most typical Khajuraho temple belongs : the Kandariya Mahadev. Perfectly
symmetrical, it soars 31 km high. Kandariya Mahadeo: This is the largest, and most typical Khajuraho temple. There are abput 900 statues. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it soars 31 m high. The sanctum enshrines a lingam, while the main shrine is ornately carved and depicts various gods, goddesses, apsaras (heavenly maidens) in elaborate detail. The entrance arch, the massive pillars and ceilings are adorned with exquisite carvings, that leave the visitor spellbound. Beyond the archway of the Kandariya Mahadev, lie the six interior compartments; the portico, main hall, transept, vestibule, sanctum and ambulatory. The ceilings are particularly noteworthy and the pillars supporting them have intricately carved capitals. The transept's outer walls have three horizontal panels showing deities of the Hindu pantheon, and groups of lovers, a pageant of sensuousness, vibrantly alive.
Chaunsat Yogini: The oldest surviving temple in the group (900 A.D.), this is the sole granite temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Only 35 of the original 65 cells remain and no image of Kali has survived : not surprisingly, since this is the earliest surviving shrine of the group dated to 900 AD. Another Kali temple, which was originally dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is the Devi Jagdambe temple.
Chitragupta Temple: Dedicated to the sun-god, Surya, this temple faces eastwards to the rising sun. The inner sanctum boasts of an impressive image of the presiding deity - the majestic sun-god looming 5 feet high, and driving a chariot. The other group scenes depict royal processions, group dances and other scenes of sheer luxury, typical of the Chandela court-life.
Vishwanath Temple: The temple enshrines a three-headed image of Lord Brahma. Lions guard the northern entrance to the structure, while elephants flank the southern flight of steps that lead upto it. The exteriors are profusely carved, and facing the shrine is a Nandi Temple with a massive, 6 ft high Nandi bull.
Lakshamana Temple: The lintel over the entrance of this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, shows the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with Goddess Lakshmi, Vishnu's consort. The sanctum is adorned with a three-headed idol of Vishnu's incarnations, Narasimha and Varaha. The latter, the boar incarnation also appears as a nine-feet high statue at the Varaha Temple.
Matangeshwara Temple: This temple, which happens to be outside the precincts of the western group, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It boasts of an eight feet high lingam. It is still a place of worship. South of this temple is the open air Archaeological Museum, which has a beautiful displayed collection of statues and friezes collected from the area : the remains of long vanished temples
Eastern Group
Parsavanatha Temple: The largest in the group of three Jain temples, the Parsavanath image in this temple, was installed in 1860. The sculptures on the northern wall depict everyday activity, in awesome detail. A woman sits bent pensively on a letter, a lovely young girl removes a thorn from her foot, the master craftsmen of Khajuraho display here their deep understanding of the trifles that make up a human life. Within the temple, a throne faces the bull emblem of first tirthankara, Adinath.
Ghantai Temple: This Jain temple has a frieze depicting the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother, and a multi-armed Jain goddess perched on a winged Garuda.
Adinatha Temple: The last of the Jain temples, is dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinatha, and is gorgeously adorned with sculptures of yakshis among others.
The three Hindu temples in this group are the Brahma temple, which has a four-faced lingam, The Vamana temple which is embellished with images of ravishing apsaras at their alluring best; and finally the Javari temple, with its ornate gateway and lavish carvings. A variety of sensuous attitudes : languid, provocative, mischievously inviting, give credibility to the theory that Khajuraho's erotica were meant to test the devotees who came to worship their gods at the temples.
Overnight at Hotel
Day 06: Khajuraho - Jhansi - Agra
Train No: 2001 Bhopal Jan Shtabdi Exp:
Dep: 18:10 Arr: 20:35
After breakfast drive to Jhansi to catch the Train to Agra, en-route visit the Orcha, now a small hamlet in the state of Madhya Pradesh
but
once the capital of the formidable Bundela kings in medieval times. Attractions
include Raj Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Rai Parveen Mahal, Ram Raja Temple, Chaturbhuj
Temple, and Laxmi Narayan Temple. On arrival at Agra Our company representative
will meet you at the Railway station and Give you the Transfer to the Hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 07: Agra - Fatehpursikri - Ranthmbore
By Road: 270 Kms/5 hr
After breakfast you can go for the sightseeing and explore the Agra City. AGRA: Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the little village of Agra into a befitting second capital of the Mughal Empire - giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat {seat of the Emperor}. Today a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously. A walk down the narrow bustling streets of the city will introduce the visitor to the wafting aroma of Mughlai cuisine.
Check in at hotel and proceed for sightseeing.
Enjoy battery van ride to the Taj.
TAJ MAHAL: Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from it's stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen. Proceed for sightseeing to the AGRA FORT - Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction.
After visiting the Taj Mahal and red fort drive to Ranthambore National park.
Stop at Fatehpur Sikri. The deserted, red Sandstone City, Emperor Akbar built that as his capital and palace in the late 16th century is an exhilarating experience. It a veritable fairytale city and its "ruins" are in pristine condition ... it's not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of it's grandeur. Also visit the Bulund Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world.
Reach and transfer to the resort. Evening free at the resort and you can relax or watch some slides on the tiger.
Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas, is a unique example of natural and historical richness, standing out conspicuously in the vast, arid and denuded tract of eastern Rajasthan, barely 14 kilometers from Sawai Madhopur. Get in tune with nature for a luxury holiday in the heart of the jungle. Ranthambhore - perhaps the best place in the world to sight a tiger in the wild. The Ranthambhore National Park has had more Tiger sightings than any other National Park in the country. It has come to be known as "The land of the Tiger", where most of the documented footage of this majestic beast has been recorded.
It spreads over a highly undulating topography varying from gentle to steep slopes; from flat topped hills of the Vindhyas to the conical hillocks and sharp ridges of the Aravalis, from wide and flat valleys to narrow rocky gorges. An important geological feature the 'Great Boundary Fault' where the Vindhya plateaus meet the Aravali hill ranges, meanders through the Reserve. The National Park is bound by the rivers Chambal in the south and Banas in the north.
Ranthambhore forest is of tropical dry deciduous type, further classified as Dhok climax forest because of the predominance of Dhok (Anogeissus pendulla) found nearly everywhere. Dhok is an extremely hardy tree, capable of withstanding prolonged droughts. The leaves of this tree are good fodder and they are browsed by herbivores, and form a significant part of their diet. Even the dry, fallen leaves, eaten by them, are rich source of nutrition. Palas or Cheela or the Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperms) blooms magnificently around mid-April. During the period, Kachida and Anatpura provide an amazing view, like a forest on fire. Around Kamaldhar massive Gum trees (Sterculia urens) with smooth white trunk stand out conspicuously. Similarly, Gurjan (Lannea coromandelica) with greyish trunks at the banks of the lakes and soft wood Salar (Boswellia serrata) dotted atop hills are noticeable.
Fruits of Ber (Zizyphus spp.) and 'crocodile bark' Tendu (Diospuyros melanoxylon) are highly relished by Sloth Bears.
The
lakes abound with aquatic vegetation including duck weeds, lilies and lotus.
A haven for a multitude of wild animals, the Park boasts of playing host to
tigers, leopards, the elusive caracals, hyenas, sloth bears, wild boars, crocodiles
and so on. Besides, there are over 300 species of birds, from the majestic Crested
Serpent Eagle to the exotic Golden Oriole. Tiger, at the apex of the food chain, lord over the kingdom in a subtle way. Solitary by nature, it operates in stealth. Therefore tiger sightings, frequent as they are, are always a matter of chance. However, even evidences of tiger's activities are very exciting.
The other kinds of cats found in Ranthambhore are Leopard (Panthera pardus), Caracal (Felis caracal), Leopard Cat (Felis bengalensis), Fishing Cat (Felis viverrina) and the Jungle Cat (Felis chaus). Besides the big cats, the other large predators found in Ranthambhore include Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Wolf, Wild dog (or Dhole), Jackal, Indian Fox, Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Common Indian Mongoose, Small Indian Mongoose, Ratel (or Honey Badger), Marsh Crocodile and the Indian Python. There are two species of Antlers, namely the Spotted Deer (or Chital) and the Sambhar Deer, and, two kinds of Antelopes, namely the Indian Gazelle (or Chinkara) and the Bluebull (or Neelgai). Black Buck (another kind of antelope), which is rarely found in the National Park is common in Devpura area, in the outskirts of the park.
Overnight at resort.
Day 08 Ranthambore
A full day game viewing inside the jungle. (Two safaris)
Overnight at the resort.
Day 09: Ranthambore - Jaipur
By Road: 180 Kms/3 hr
After breakfast drive to beautiful Pink City - Jaipur.
Reach and check in at hotel.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite temples and lush gardens.
Overnight at Jaipur.
Day 10: Jaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for excursion to Amber Fort in the outskirts of Jaipur. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. It's forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds it's ultimate expression.
Proceed for sightseeing of the city.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Its five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Visit a rug factory and see the ladies at the intricate work or a gem factory and see the gem cutting and polishing process.
Overnight at Jaipur.
Day 11: Jaipur - Jodhpur
By road: 275 Km 5 Hrs.
After breakfast drive to Jodhpur, en-route visit the Village life and feel the old culture and tradition. Visit chattarsagar and have a Hot Lunch there.
Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. Reach in the Late Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jodhpur - gateway to the desert beyond, home of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp, built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a long sentinel. Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive rulers. In this palace you would see different miniature paintings & cradle room. After this you would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial. Overnight at Jodhpur.
Day 12: Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur
By Road: 270 Km 5 Hrs
After breakfast drive to Udaipur.
En-route, visit the RANAKPUR TEMPLES, dating back to the 15th century. 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The Temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits to two more Jain temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures.
Reach and check in at hotel.
The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the ARAVALLIS. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls, carry the flavor of a heroic past, epitomizing valor and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the LAKE PICHOLA is an enticing sight.
Udaipur is the jewel of MEWAR -a kingdom ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for 1200 Years. Relax in the evening. Overnight at Udaipur.
Day 13: Udaipur
Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing tour of Udaipur, stopping first at City Palace. Here you will marvel at rooms with mirrored walls and ivory doors, colored glass windows and inlaid marble balconies and the Peacock Courtyard.
Also visit the lovely Sahelion-ki-Bari Gardens, the Jagdish Temple and the local folk Museum.
Proceed for Evening Motor launch cruise on the placid waters of Lake Pichola. From he 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 at Udaipur.
Day 14: Udaipur - Mumbai
Flight: 9W-3401 Dep: 0840 Arr: 10:20
Company representatives will Give you the Transfer to the Domestic airport for flight to Mumbai. Reach and relax.
Check in and relax for the evening.
MUMBAI'S SKYLINE IS RECOGNISABLE IN ADVERTISEMENTS AND PICTORIAL DEPICTIONS STATING THE COUNTRY'S TECHNOLOGICAL AND FINANCIAL HUB. IT'S AN IMPOSING SKYLINE. THE CONTOURS ARE HAZY BUT THE RESIDENTS DON'T SEEM TO MIND. THEY LOVE THIS PLACE AND THIS ALL-ENCOMPASSING LOVE IS INFECTIOUS.
WHAT ARE THE FEW NAIL-ON-THE-HEAD CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CITY? A WALK ON MARINE DRIVE, THE GATEWAY OF INDIA, WARDEN ROAD, UNIVERSITY BUILDINGS, FORT, TOWNHALL, MUMBAI HIGH COURT TO NAME A FEW. THE WAVES SPLASHING AGAINST THE EMBANKMENT ESTABLISH AN ESSENCE OF MUMBAI TOO, MUCH IN THE SAME GENRE AS THE SKYLINE. THE PUB AND BAR SCENARIO HERE IS QUITE STATE OF THE ART AND RANGES FROM THE SOPHISTICATED ONES IN THE FIVE STARS TO THE HIP AND TRENDY ONES IN COLABA AND THE SUBURBS. MUMBAI IS ALSO KNOWN AS THE HOLLYWOOD OF INDIA OR BOLLYWOOD (FROM THE NAMES BOMBAY AND HOLYWOOD) AND IS THE BIGGEST FILM INDUSTRY OF THE WORLD.
Overnight will be at Mumbai.
After lunch proceed for:
Mumbai - Elephanta Island excursion
By Ferry Ship from Appollo Bunder
The Elephanta island was so named by the Portuguese, after the statue of an elephant near the landing area of the island. These rock cut temples dedicated to Shiva Mahadeva are rich in sculptural content. Motorboats take passengers from Appollo Bunder near the Gateway of India.
This rock cut temples were created by carving out rock, and creating the columns, the internal spaces and the images. The entire temple is akin to a huge sculpture, through whose corridors and chambers one can walk. The entire complex was created through a process of rock removal. Some of the rock surfaces are highly finished while some are untreated bare rock.
The entire cave temple complex covers an area of about 60000 squrare feet and it consists a main chamber and two lateral ones , courtyards and several subsidIary shrines. Above the temple is the mass of natural rock.
There are three entrances to this temple. The ones on the east and the west marking the axis of the temple. A 20 pillared hall lines the axis, and on its western end is the cella in shich is enshrined a Shivalingam. The pillars consist of fluted columns standing on square bases, and are crowned with fluted cushion capitals.
The enigmatic image of Trimurthi Sadasiva: The Sadasiva manifestation of Shiva is carved in relief at the end of the north south axis. This collossal 20 feet high image of the three headed Shiva, Trimurthy is a magnificient one, considered to be a masterpiece of Indian art. This colossal image represents Panchamukha Shiva, only three faces of whom are carved into the wall and it demands immediate attention upon entering the temple through the northern entrance.
Also on the southern wall are grand sculptured images of Kalyanasundara, Gangadhara, Ardhanariswara and Uma Maheswara. To the west of the northern entrance are sculptured images of Nataraja and Andhakaasuravadamoorthy, and to its east are images of Yogiswara and Ravanaanugrahamurthy.
Thus in the Elephanta caves, Shiva is portrayed in the non anthropomorphic Shivalingam form, as well as in his quintessential being emanating from the Shivalingam in the colossal image, and in 8 manifest forms.
To the east of the main temple is a courtyard, flanked by the secondary shrine. This temple contains six pillars at its entrance, four of which are free standing and two engaged. The entrance leads to a hall decorated with sculptured panels depicting legends from the Shiva Purana.
Return to Hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Day 15: Mumbai - Cochin
By air: 9W-401 Dep:10:35 Arr:12:20
After breakfast our company representative will give you transfer to the Domestic airport for flight to Cochin.
You will be met and received by our representative and transferred to Hotel. Relax for few hours.
Kochi is one of India's larges ports and a major naval base. Formerly known as Cochin, it is a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas with a history so rich and a setting so perfect that it could make a vacation destination in itself. Famed for its natural harbour, one of the finest in the world, Kochi has earned the sobriquet "Queen of the Arabian Sea."
Evening enjoy the sunset harbour cruise visiting Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, St Francis Church, Chinese fishing nets and Bolgatty Palace.
Overnight in Cochin.
Day 16: Cochin - Alleppey -Kumarkom
By road 64 Km 2 Hrs.
Overnight House Boat Cruise.
After break fast drive to alleppey.
Alappuzha or Alleppey, with its network, of canals, bridges along silver beach, makes for an exhilarating holiday. Alleppey offers enjoyable boat rides to Kollam along the picturesque Vembanad Lake. The endless panorama of lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut trees, shimmering water and long canals around Alappuzha make an interesting setting for the town.
Alleppey is famous for its boat races, houseboats, coir products, fish and lakes. Alappuzha remains prominent on the tourist attractions of Kerela as one of the major centers for backwater cruises. An enchanting backwater destination, Alleppey offers visitors many other leisure options like - boating and fishing, very popular with the tourists. A picturesque world of backwaters, thatched houseboats, Cormorants, Chinese fishing nets and swaying palms - Alleppey is an ideal getaway.
Proceed to the backwaters of Alleppey where you will board the Traditional Houseboat, which is a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters for a memorable day & night cruise. The boat will take you through the virgin villages of Kuttanad - the only location in Kerala situated below sea level.
Cruise through the backwaters.
Lunch and dinner will be served on board.
Travelling through the backwaters of Kerala is a marvellous experience with the simple, unique pleasures it offers. Life on your houseboat will be interrupted by delightful surprises. Flocks of graceful ducks; small restaurants on the banks which offer delicious kapa (boiled tapioca) and fried karimeen (a kind of fresh water fish); women in little canoes selling tender coconuts; the song of the cuckoo; the heady fragrance of rich green paddy fields..... A journey with no traffic jam! An experience to breathe life back into your engine!
Fringing the coast of Kerala and winding far inland is a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals. These backwaters represent a unique geological formation and are the basis of a distinct lifestyle.
Travelling through the backwaters is one of the highlights of a visit to Kerala.
Overnight in House Boat.
Day 17: Kumarkom
After breakfast reach at Kumarakom is a sleepy little village tucked away from the din and bustle of the Kottayam Town, yet only 10 kms by road on the bank of the Vembanad Lake. An Enchanting Picnic spot and a fast developing backwater destination. It a perfect get away to unwind and enjoy the boundless beauty of God's own country in all her splendour. This tiny unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves intertwined with picturesque water ways and canals adorned with similing innocent lilies is lying calmly on the lap of Vembanadu Lake.
Reach and check in to the backwater resort by the Lake Side.
Day 18:Kumarkom - Cochin
By Road: 92 Km 2:30 Hrs.
After breakfast drive to cochin. Reach and do the sightseeing of Cochin.
During City tour visit the Jewish Synagogue - Built in 1568 the oldest synagogue in the common- wealth stands, adorned by hundreds of exquisite hand - painted Chinese tiles in blue & white. St. Francis church originally, built out of wood in 1503 and thus earning fame as the oldest European church in India. Vasco da Gama was buried there. Dutch Palace - As you climb its stone steps, you enter a different world of Palanquins and heraldry, jewels and rich murals. Roam about in the cobbled streets, you will love it.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 19: Cochin - Delhi
By Air: 9W-406 Dep:08:30 Arr:12:55
After breakfast our company representative will give you transfer to the Airport for the Flight to Delhi. Reach and Transfer to the Hotel. Reach and Relax.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 20: Delhi - Home
After breakfast explore the city your own.
Proceed for the DANCES OF INDIA SHOW in the evening at 1800 hr after checking out of the hotel. After the show you will have FAREWELL DINNER before reaching the airport for flight home with sweet memories of India.
India Luxury Holidays, Travel Packages Reservation Form
Error In Connection |
 |
