Rajasthan – A Tribal Affair

Overnight at Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar (Superior Room)
Day 02: Delhi

After breakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of New Delhi, Visiting such sights as, Humayun’s Tomb (1586), the Qutab Minar 72 meters high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Continue with a drive through Embassy area, the Government buildings (1921-1930) and Connaught Place, the heart and main shopping district of the capital.

Later we cross the city and into the walled gates of the Old city with visits to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through the fabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates to Moonlight Square) where the throngs of shoppers and vendors meet in the oldest area of Delhi. Visit the Raj Ghat and nearby ghats where the founder of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.

The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle rickshaws. Now these are 3-wheel cycles with a sofa seat at the back. The Rickshawalla (Rickshaw driver) sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers on the sofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way to explore and picture the hustle and bustle as well as the colour of the narrow winding streets bursting with people and pavement shops selling wares of all description - including a laughing set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by peals of laughter both from the passengers as well as the onlookers.

Overnight at Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar (Superior Room)
Day 03: Delhi / Ahemdabad (6E 721 – 0825 / 0955 Hrs) Ahmedabad / Dasada (90 Kms)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Ahmedabad

Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Ahmedabad and drive 90 kms to Dasada

Upon arrival, check into The Rann Riders Resort. The resort is simply a magnificient tranquil oasis. Accommodations are in well appointed independent cottages spread throughout. The rooms are fairly spacious and are constructed with locally found materials to look like a traditional village. Built in the style of the Kooba houses of the Bajania community and the Bhunga houses of the Kutchi Rabaris, these thatch roof cottages are decorated with mirrors, mud plaster work and embroideries. Spread over 5 acres, you would love a wander through beautiful surroundings, apart from indulging in a very rewarding ornithological experience. A variety of birds are witnessed in the resort itself.

Overnight at Rann Riders (Deluxe Cottage)
Day 04: Dasada

Wake up to the sounds of the chirping birds and the fragrance of a variety of flowers that surround the cottages.

Following breakfast we proceed on an excursion back in time as we embark upon a village safari of the pastoral settlements and villages along the Rann of Kutch. We visit the rural Vadiara and Kharapat Rabari tribals of Dasada. The tribals here are known for their embroideries and silk-weaving. We would also visit the local villages of the Bharward shepherds and goatherds. The weaving cooperative at Bajana and other artisans’ workshops can also be included in the tours. Other societies near Dasada are Padhars (primarily fishing people), the Siddis and the semi-nomadic Mirs, Jaths (Muslim herders), Bajanias.

The idea of the safari is to bring to you the opportunity to experience distincvtive traditional lifestyle, colour and of course hospitality as manifested in the manner the natives deal with you.. Actually, during this tour, one can shop for embroidery directly from the Bharwad women of Ambala and the Rabari women of Dasada.

Afternoon, we proceed on a cross-desert safari across the Little Rann of Kutch, where the last of the Indian Wild Ass has been given protection in a dedicated sanctuary. The animal is not found elsewhere. The wild ass is a handsome chestnut brown member of the equus genus (horse family). Capable of reaching high speeds when galloping across the Rann, the wild ass is usually seen in small herds.

The Rann is a fascinating terrain – essentially the shallow bed of the sea that drains out in the dry months and gets flooded during the monsoon by the sea surging inland on the one hand and the seasonal streams in monsoon flood bringing in fresh water on the other. This mix of salt and sweet water provides ideal conditions for the prolific growth of crustaceans and other aquatic food for the flamingoes and other birds that breed and winter here in enormous numbers. Apart from the Wild Ass the Little Rann is also the home for a wide variety of species that include chinkara gazelle, nilgai,  and the blackbuck antelope,

The main carnivores of the Little Rann of Kutch are the endangered Indian wolf, desert fox, Indian fox, jackals, desert and jungle cats, and a few hyenas.

Smaller mammals like hares, gerbilles and hedgehogs, and reptiles like spiny tailed lizard, monitor, red and common sand boa, saw-scaled viper, cobra, dhaman (Indian rat snake), etc, could also be seen during the safaris in the Rann.

The Little Rann of Kutch is a birdwatcher's paradise in winter. Houbara bustard, sandgrouse, desert chat, desert wheatear, nine species of larks, quails, gray francolin etc are seen in the saline desert wilderness. Eagles, vultures, harriers and falcons can be seen hunting in the Rann.

Overnight at Rann Riders (Deluxe Cottage)
Day 05: Dasada / Ahmedabad (90 Kms)

Following breakfast, we will drive to Ahmedabad. Upon arrival, check into Hotel Sarovar Portico

Afternoon, we proceed on a tour of the city. A major attraction here is the Jama Mosque. This congregational mosque was built in 1423 in yellow sandstone> the building combines the best of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, standing on 260 pillars supporting 15 domes at varying elevations, and, is described as the most beautiful mosque in India.

From here we continue our tour to visit the Adalaj step well built in 1499 A.D.. The designs on its walls and pillars include leaves, flowers, birds, fish and other breathtaking ornamental designs. The five-storied, step-well is a marvel of architecture. The intricately carved monument served religious and utilitarian purposes of the people around though its origin is marred by tragedy.

Another attraction of Ahmedabad is the Satyagraha Ashram, set-up in AD 1920 on the lull western banks of the Sabarmati River. This is the place associated with Mahatma Gandhi and was an important center of India’s freedom struggle.

Finally, we will also find time to explore some of the bustling bazaars and crafts of the city.

Overnight at Hotel Sarovar Portico (Superior Room)
Day 06: Ahmedabad / Dungarpur (150 Kms) (02 Hrs Drive)

After breakfast, we will drive to Dungarpur

Upon arrival check into the Udai Bilas Palace

The history of Udai Bilas Palace, Dungarpur, Rajasthan dates from the mid-19th century, when Maharawal Udai Singhji-II, a great patron of art and architecture built a wing of bluish grey local stone " Pareva" overlooking the lake and the " Ek Thambia Mahal," featuring intricate sculptured pillars and panels, ornate balconies, balustrades, bracketed windows, arches and frieze of marble carvings, a veritable marvel of Rajput architecture. The Udai Bilas Palace was enlarged in 1940 by Maharawal Laxman Singhji, who built three new wings around the “Ek Thambia Mahal" (Literally one- pillared Palace) and thus created the famous " courtyard of the palace. The result is an architectural expression exquisitely detailed. Still the royal residence, the Palace offers accommodation in the houseguest tradition with seventeen spacious and lavishly appointed bedrooms. No two rooms are alike; each room enchants with its own personality, spaciousness and modern comforts and offers a unique experience. The Furnishings are mostly from the 20th century art-deco style, marble bathrooms with English fixtures and running hot and cold water. Meals are served either in the banquet hall, which displays crystal chandeliers, or in the more intimate family dining room. Continental or Chinese dishes are also served.

Overnight at Udaibilas Palace - Heritage Hotel (Standard Room)

The district is the stronghold of Bheels, a tribe whose history of occupancy in the Aravalli Range is said to date back to 4000 B.C. They are one of the oldest and most primitive tribes of the world. This morning we will visit some of these unspoiled Bheel hamlets in and around the town. We will witness and photograph age-old tribal lifestyles and customs handed down over the centuries. You would have an opportunity to meet villagers who have never seen white people!! Say hello to people, allow them to get used to you and then, you may go ahead with your pictures. You would soon end up as the pied piper followed by scores of noisy and happy children!!!

We return to our hotel by mid morning to enjoy the destination at leisure. Udai Bilas Palace is a round-the-year paradise for bird watchers.

The cooler months from mid October to February are the best to see winter migratory birds when birds can be observed in attractive plumage. One can see from the Palace itself at remarkably close range egrets, night and pond herons, white necked and painted storks, coots and winter or resident ducks among others, depending on the season of your visit. Birds are also plentiful in the surrounding woodlands where one can hope to see the Grey Hornbill, Gray Partridge, Green Pigeon, Peafowl, Peacocks, Paradise flycatcher and the Golden backed woodpecker, to name a few representative species. You may proceed on a leisurely walk around the lake or heir boat for a special boat trip on the lake as well as a gentle trek through the forests so that the nature lover in you is able to enjoy the beauty of the place and are able to get a close look at the bird life.

Late afternoon we visit the ancient fortified ruins of the Old Fort. Besides fine panoramic view of the ancient town of Dungarpur the fort has well preserved examples of natural colour paintings and incredible art and architecture.

Overnight at Udaibilas Palace - Heritage Hotel (Standard Room)
Day 08: Dungarpur / Udaipur (120 Kms) (02 ½ Hrs drive)

Following breakfast we will drive to Udaipur Welcome to Udaipur, the famed “City of sunrise” Founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, from the lineage of the legendary Sisodias of Mewar - the decedents of the sun God. A city where the sun truly never set, where tradition and a strict code of heroism were happily united with a love of fine living. A city that has come to be an oasis of romance in the warrior state of Rajasthan

Upon arrival, check into Kankarwa Haveli

Afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this amazingly beautiful city. We suggest independent walks along the tranquil lake or a visit to the bustling bazaar of the old city. Udaipur has wares on offer that can convert the most unwilling of shoppers into avid buyers. The better known items include folk toys, brightly colored garments, hand printed textiles, batiks, dyed saris, metal images, silver jewelry, and the Pichwal wall hangings.

Evening we enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola. The island palace on the Lake called Jagmandir Palace is quite fascinating. The Palace provided inspirations and ideas to the builder of the Taj Mahal. The banks of the lake provide interesting glimpses of the daily bathing and the laundry that takes place here. Looking across the lake, with the city and its great palace rising up behind the island palace, is a scene of rare beauty.

Overnight at Kankarwa Haveli (Deluxe Suite)
Day 09: Udaipur

Following breakfast, we proceed on a tour of this "Lake City". Udaipur is a cool oasis in the dry heart of Rajasthan. It is probably the most romantic city in a state where every city has some romantic or exotic tale to tell. The huge city palace towering over the Lake Pichola is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Though it is a conglomeration of buildings built by successive rulers, it manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design and affords very fine view of the lake and the city from the upper terraces. The Jagadish temple next to the city palace enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu and his vehicle- a mighty bird called garuda - in a brass image. The temple is a very fine example of Indo-Aryan Art.

Rest of the day, we explore the bustling bylanes of Udaipur which have artisans practicing their traditional crafts handed down to them by their elders. Khari printers do decorative floral patterns in gold and silver on plain or printed fabric. Block printers print various designs and patterns in different colours with the help of wooden blocks. You’ll also find artisans carving furniture, making puppets and traditional wooden toys. Along with engraving and embossing on brass, silver, jewellery, copper and even pottery, Meenakari is a specialty of this region. Udaipur also specializes in stone carving, especially in marble and sandstone, with artisans working hard at chiseling their finest filigree work. Colour as usual plays an important role in the life of Udaipur as in Rajasthan. It is wonderfully evident in ghagharas (long flowing skirts), cholis (blouses), and odhnis (long scarves) of the women as well as the turbans of the men.

Overnight at Kankarwa Haveli (Deluxe Suite)
Day 10: Udaipur / Ranakpur / Kumbalgarh (98 Kms) (02 Hrs drive)

Following breakfast we ride out to Kumbalgarh. Enroute we visit Ranakpur.

The Ranakpur Jain Temple was built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. The basement is of 48, 000 sq. feet area that covers the whole complex. There are four subsidiary shrines, twenty-four pillared halls and eligibly domes supported by over four hundred columns. The total number of columns is 1,444 all of which are intricately carved with no two being alike. The artistically carved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures at a height of 45 feet are an engrossing sight. In the assembly hall, there are two big bells weighing 108 kg whose sound echoes in the entire complex. The main temple is of Chaumukh or four-faces temple dedicated to Adinath.

After the tour of Ranakpur Jain Temples we continue our ride to Kumbalgarh. We would have photo stop several times as we walk through the countryside as well as interact with primitive tribals.

Upon arrival we check into the fine Aodhi Lodge - a property of the Royal family of Udaipur.

Afternoon, we explore the beautifully preserved and one of the most majestic forts of India. 13 mountain peaks surround the impregnable fortress of Kumbalgarh (54 Kms) at a height of 3281 ft. Seven towering gateways pierce the massive walls of this prominent fortress of Mewar. The young Udai Singh founder of Udaipur took shelter here from his treacherous uncles. These impregnable walls dotted with cannonballs defeated Emperor Akbar.

Overnight at Aodhi Lodge (Deluxe Room)
Day 11: Kumbhalgarh / Sardargarh (130 Kms) (02 ½ Hrs Drive)

After breakfast we will drive to Sardargarh

Upon arrival in Sardargarh, check in to Sardargarh heritage hotel, one of the magnificent forts of Rajasthan. It is an extravagant creation by men of a bygone era Situated amidst the mountains and deep forests of Chuppun, the 250 year old fortress can be seen from far as it dominates the landscape.

The Mahal (Palace) of the Ravala (Fort) with 21 suites, are today part of the Sardargarh Heritage Hotel. Each suite here has its own ethnic decor. Though all modern comforts that discerning western tourists seek are provided, but, as far as possible, the authentic elements of the Fort have been retained in the Hotel, thus recreating the romance and nostalgia of the era when the powers of the maharaja were at its zenith.

SUGGESTED OPTIONAL ACTIVITY
Evening, Night Safari at Sardargarh

Overnight at Sardargarh Fort (Suite)
Day 12: Sardargarh (Primitive Train Ride through Fascinating Villages in Sardargarh)

Optional Yoga classes are available under trained instructors. This can be booked directly at the resort the previous day. The class would be for 1 hour and conducted on the terrace of the Fort’s ramparts with great views overlooking for miles the primitive countryside. Popular asanas (Yogic positions) would be taught.

Following breakfast we embark upon a unique experience – a 44 km train ride between two villages. We will go native today, and travel with the villagers through exceedingly fascinating countryside and landscapes.

The track passes through a breath taking scenery of Ravli Sanctuary, with 100 feet high bridges, two long tunnels, waterfalls, thick jungle, and above all an unchanged ambience of a bygone era. The track is cut on a cliff side and one comes down by almost one thousand feet. All along one can only appreciate the Herculean effort by the engineers in 1928.

The safety devices are most amusing. At one place the driver has to get down physically to change the track (when gong down).

We ride on a meter gauge local train, having wooden sleepers, accompanying villagers traveling to Marwar. One travels through a ghat section and descends 1200 feet to Phulad Railway Station. Enroute we stop at GoramGhat flag station where monkeys descend from nabouring scrub jungle to feed on articles given by the villages. Your car awaits you at Phulad 19 Km away that brings you back to Sardargarh.

SUGGESTED OPTIONAL ACTIVITY
Evening, village safari at Sardargarh

Overnight at Sardargarh Fort (Suite)
Day 13: Sardargarh / Rohet (155 Kms) (03 Hrs Drive)

After breakfast we will drive to Rohet.

Upon arrival check in to the Rohetgarh Fort

At Rohet, one is transported in to a world of the past, a world of honour and of chivalry, of glory and of pride; a world of vibrant colours and spectacular magnificence. Past centuries come to life at the historic boundary walls of Rohet- the 16th century fortified deserted home of a Rajput clan. Within the precincts of these time weathered walls is our hotel, the impressive Rohetgarh Fort- a bastion of proud Rajput traditions bathed in the ambience of unmistakable Rajasthani culture where one can, even today experience the famed warm and courteous Rajput hospitality. Frescoes on the tall gateway, brightly painted in the traditional style, using traditional motifs and colour schemes herald your entry to this charmed world the bygone era. The gateway leads to a compound where a profusion of flowers frame the archways in welcome. The portico is a warm and informal place decorated with the artifacts and trophies of many years. Exquisitely carved furniture, delicate hand block prints, original paintings and photographs decorate your rooms, which though redolent with the romance of a bygone era, provide all the modern amenities. Antique hunting riffles, shields & spearheads, daggers and original paintings form the backdrop of the dinning room. The swimming pool here is in beautiful settings and is an oasis in a dessert.

The food at Rohetgarh is special; each recipe is both traditional and typical, handed down the generations and jealously guarded to retain its pristine flavours. You savour only the very best of Rajasthani cuisine’s, food favoured by the Royalty. The 16th century descendants of the Rathore ruling family still live here and host the guests. The members of the Royal family interact with the guests and interesting stories and anecdotes are narrated.

As evening descends upon our hotel, the darkness of the night is lit up by the flickering flames of fire around which the rhythmic movements of the folk dancers assumes shape in brilliant colours; truly an electrifying experience.

Overnight at Rohetgarh - Heritage Property (Super Deluxe Room)
Day 14: Rohet / Hacra Dhani (121 Kms) (02 ½ Hrs Drive)

Following breakfast, we enjoy jeep safaris to visit the heart of Rajasthan villages where tradition centuries old still permeate life styles. One can witness the ‘opium ceremony’ - a ritual by which guests are welcomed. Gaily attired men and women carry on their chores and one can catch a glimpse of their norms and customs. The smoothened mud floors of the village huts remind one of the simple and traditional living here.

Later, we will drive to Hacra Dhani Village, a small village where we will be living like the villagers in their small huts - a real Indian experience; that one should not miss upon. There are no swimming pools, air-conditioning or room service here; rather, there is a sense of belonging, of being a part of the local community and, being at one with the landscape, as well as the people who make their home in this remarkable desert region. Enjoy every moment of your stay; spending time with village families helps you to know more about their culture, norms, and, way of living. That’s not all; you can experience a Camel ride through the countryside, villages and, fields where you will witness how fruits are grown using traditional techniques. Also, there would be a western style community washroom (not attached to the rooms) with running water. The toilet would be clean, and well maintained.

Later, we undertake a Camel Safari/Ride (2 hours):

Hail to the ship of the desert - CAMEL, without it you cannot expect life in this part of the world. It has been a medium of transport for centuries in the Great Thar. A complete flavor of the region combined with the traditions, and color of earth. Later, enjoy your Dinner.

Overnight At Hacra Dhani (Village Style Hut)
Day 15: Hacra Dhani / Jodhpur (85 Kms) (01 ½ Hrs Drive)

Mornings, following breakfast go for a nature and community walk – one of the striking element of this part of the Rajasthan landscape is the amount of wildlife one can witness while simply driving around - the most common animals are chinkara (Indian gazelle) and nilgai (a large antelope also known as the blue bull), jackals, vultures, peacocks, and countless camels. Also, one can observe a number of diverse plant species, and different colorful communities along the way. A glimpse into the cultural life of these villagers can definitely be a value addition to your walk.

Following the tour, we will drive to Jodhpur

Upon arrival, check into hotel Ratan Vilas. Built in 1920, by Maharaj Ratan Singhji of Raoti who was a keen horse lover and one of the greatest polo players of his time, Ratan Vilas with its imposing but delicately carved exterior and simple yet comfortable interiors, is a genuine heritage edifice in a sylvan setting.

Evening, we would ride horse carriages to the Clock Tower Bazaar. This is one of India’s largest and most colourful wholesale markets especially with respect to clothes, fabrics, spices, vegetables etc. It is a fantastic experience to walk through the place observing and photographing this incredible spectacle of vibrant lifestyles and incredible colours.

Overnight at Ratan Vilas (Superior Room)
Day 16: Jodhpur

After breakfast, proceed on a guided tour of Jodhpur. Our tour includes the massive fort. In olden days this must have been impregnable since its rocky base is scraped straight down making it nearly impossible to ascend. Once inside, royal palaces abound with fascinating history and priceless jewels, on to the armoury and Jaswant Tara - the Royal Crematorium.

Rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities. Jodhpur is a veritable shopper's paradise with entire streets and localities in the walled city devoted to single commodities. The city is famous for bandhani and lahariya, block printed textiles, silver jewellery, antique furniture, wood and metal handicrafts. Carpets and durries can be found on the Umaid Bhawan Palace road. Jodhpur is home to many talented and skilled craftsmen like textile dyers, metal engravers and die-makers and probably the last of the tailors of the classic Jodhpur breeches.

Overnight at Ratan Vilas (Superior Room)
Day 17: Jodhpur / Jaipur (320 Kms) (06 Hrs Drive)

After breakfast, we will drive to Jaipur

Upon arrival in Jaipur, check into Shahpura House. The Traditional Rajput architect, a mixture of Mughal and Indian, a facade with domes and frescoes. The House is a very fine example of Shekhawati frescos and architecture. Conceived as a traditional Indian palace, The Shahpura House showcases the rich heritage of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan with its rambling courtyards, gentle rippling fountains, reflecting pools and gardens. Interiors embellished with decorative domes, hand painted frescoes, intricate mirror work and beautifully crafted artifacts create an ambience of regal splendour. The family portraits, which add to the charm of this family hotel where tradition still runs strong.

After rest and relaxation, we will explore the unending shopping options of Jaipur along with our Guide. An essential starting point for Rajasthan craftwork is block making and block printing and we will be exploring the process from start to finish in some of the popular stores here. The opportunity also exists here to tailor make outfits to your design and size.

We also explore one of the chief attractions of Jaipur - its jewelry, which offers a variety that ranges from chunky tribal jewelry to enameled gold to modern diamond jewelry. Kundan (art of stone setting) and enamel jewelry has been a specialty of Rajasthan, particularly that of Jaipur. The stones are embossed into decorative shapes & patterns and embellished with delicate enamel ornamentation in the champeve (raised field) technique. Jaipur is well known for its gold and silver enameling. Colorful bangles made of lac and set with semiprecious stones make an inexpensive buy. The craftsmen take great pains to embed the hundreds of stones into the lac. The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur carve enchanting little animals and birds from rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz and amethyst. Intaglio beads & buttons and crystal scent bottles are also available.

Overnight at Shahpura House (Suite Room)
Day 18: Jaipur

Morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenellated walls lattice the surrounding hills.

We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their former royal residents.

We shall visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.

Later in the afternoon, we proceed on a tour Of the City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The centre of the palace is a seven-storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine vies over the gardens and the city. The palace lies in the heart of the city and occupies the whole central grid. The fortified wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles, which surrounded the wall that time. Next, we visit the Solar Observatory - an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that give accurate predictions till date.

Overnight at Shahpura House (Suite Room)
Day 19: Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra (245 Kms) (05 Hrs Drive)

After breakfast, we drive to Agra, stopping at deserted Capital City of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings. From here we continue our ride to Agra.

Upon arrival check into Hotel Radisson

Evening, we will visit to Mehtab Bagh. The Moonlight Garden was an extension of the Taj Mahal Garden - on the other side of the river. In 1652 Aurangzeb wrote to his father telling of a visit to 'the blessed tomb' and commenting that 'the Mahtab Garden was completely inundated and has lost its charm, but soon it will regain its verdancy. The octagonal pool and the pavilion around it are in splendid condition.' The Mahtab Bagh was lost under the mud but re-excavated in the 1990s. Originally, the garden was planted with fragrant flowers and used in the cool of the night as a place from which to view the Taj Mahal reflected in the octagonal pool and in the river.

Overnight at Hotel Radisson (Superior Room)
Day 20: Agra / Delhi (205 Kms) (04 Hrs Drive) (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays) Delhi / Departure

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sunrise we visit one of the greatest sights of one’s lifetime - Taj Mahal. A dawn visit to the fabled Taj Mahal to witness the magical effects caused by the reflections of the changing colours of the rising Sun on this brilliant white marble building. Later we return back to our hotel for breakfast.

After a leisurely breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the story of the Mughal Empire

Later, we will drive to Delhi along one of the India’s finest freeways

Upon arrival, transfer to the International airport to board your onward flight

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