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Cultural Discovery Tour of Delhi and Rajasthan
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Treasures of the Maharajas: Cultures, Temples and Traditions
in the Land of Raj
March 14- 31 Main Tour with Varanasi/ Sacred River Extension March 31- April 3, 2016
DELHI – AGRA – BHARATPUR – SAWAI MADHOPUR – RANTHAMBORE – SAMODE – JAIPUR – AJMER – PUSHKAR – JODHPUR – OSIAN – UDAIPUR – DELHI
EXTENSION: DELHI- VARANASI- DELHI
$3890* Main Tour $690* Varanasi/ Sacred River Extension DAY 01: Mar 14, 2016 / Mon: DEPART CHICAGO BY (OPTIONAL)
FLIGHT # AI 126 AT 1:50 PM (Suggested air routing. International
airfare is not included in the tour price)
DAY 02: Mar 15, 2016 / Tue: Arrive Delhi AT 3:10 PM [D]
Arrive at INDIRA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL Airport in Delhi. On
completion of Immigration & Customs Clearances and baggage collection,
transfer to the hotel. Relax until Dinner. Evening at leisure.
New Delhi, the capital and the third largest city
of India is a fusion of the ancient and the modern. Standing along the West End of Gangetic Plain,
the capital city, Delhi, unwinds a picture rich with
culture, architecture and human diversity, deep in history, monuments, museums, galleries, gardens
and exotic shows. Comprising of two contrasting
yet harmonious parts, the Old Delhi and New Delhi, the city is the travel hub of Northern India.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 03: Mar 16, 2016 / Wed: Delhi [BLD]
After breakfast, morning is free to rest or join some of us who will stroll the
neighborhood around the hotel absorbing the first sights and sounds of this
fascinating city.
Over lunch, meet your tour leader and tour escort-guide for orientation and briefing about tour program. Later,
proceed for half day sightseeing of New
Delhi. Visit the mausoleum of emperor Humayun–a forerunner of the Mughal
style of architecture. Humayun’s Tomb
- built by the order of Humayun's widow, Hamida Banu Begum, starting
in 1562-1570 AD. It was the first
garden tomb built in India. The stunning
structure is built with red sandstone, with white and black marble used largely in the borders.
Next we visit the interfaith Bahai Temple, also called Lotus Temple, as it is
built in the shape of a lotus flower and is the last of seven Major Bahai's Temples built
around the world. Set among the lush
landscaped gardens, Bahai Temple was completed in 1986. The structure is made
up of pure white marble. The Iranian
architect Furiburz Sabha chose the lotus as
the symbol common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Adherents
of any faith are free to visit the temple and
pray or meditate. Lotus Temple is one of the remarkable monuments of Bahai Faith
and has been nominated a UNESCO World
Heritage site.
Continue to the 12th century Qutab Minar, gracefully hand-carved for its
entire height of 234ft. The iron pillar has withstood the
ravages of time and without rust after 1500 years. This is
another significant UNESCO Site.
Next we see the India Gate (war memorial dedicated to
the lives of laid down by the Indian soldiers), the President's Residence–formerly the Viceroy's Palace,
Parliament House and the Secretariat buildings–an
interesting blend of the Victorian and 20th century
architecture. From India Gate we will walk on the Rajpath flanked by ponds and gardens.
Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant (The Hiatus or similar).
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 04: Mar 17, 2016 / Thu: Old Delhi [BLD]
After breakfast, we walk to the Metro Station at Central Secretariat to
catch the Train to Chawri Bazar Metro Station and from there walk through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk market area to savor the
ambience of an oriental bazaar. This was once the shopping avenue for
Mughal royalty and is the oldest marketplace of the city. We then visit
Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India which was built between the years 1644-1658 AD, during the reign of Emperor Shahjahan.
Proceed to the magnificent Red Fort–a marvel in red sandstone, built on the banks of River Yamuna by the
Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in
1648 AD when he shifted his capital here from Agra. India's history is
also closely linked with this Fort. It
was here that the British deposed the
last Mughal Ruler, Bahadur Shah Zafar II, marking the end of the
three century Mughal Rule. Later,
we visit Mahatma Gandhi's Memorial at Raj Ghat where the “Father of the Nation” was cremated.
Lunch will be at a local restaurant (Lazeez Affair or similar). We return to our hotel. The rest of the afternoon will be at leisure, but you will want to join
Steve and Claudia for an optional tour to Akshardham Temple.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
~ OPTIONAL TOUR TO AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE ~
At around 3 pm we leave to visit the Akshardham Temple. The main
building at the center of the complex
is a 141ft high monument to
Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Designed according to ancient Vedic
texts known as the Sthapatya-
Shastra, it features a blend of
architectural styles from across India.
Within the monument, under the
central dome, there is an 11ft high,
gilded image of Bhagwan
Swaminarayan. He is surrounded by
the gurus of the sect. The building
itself is constructed entirely from
Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian
Carrara marble, and features no steel
or concrete. Its height and location on the banks of the Yamuna make its
presence felt from afar, and carved details of flora, fauna, dancers, musicians
and deities covering its surfaces from top to bottom, leave most visitors in
awe. Enjoy the exhibition show followed by boat ride.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Leather Belts and Belt Pouches, Leather Bags,
Leather Pouches, Cell Phones and Cameras are not allowed inside the Temple.
DAY 05: Mar 18, 2016 / Fri: Delhi – Agra (204 Kms / Approx. drive 4
hours) [BLD]
After an early breakfast, check-out will be at 8 am, we drive to Agra – a
magical place where successive Mughal Emperors have left their
architectural imprints culminating with the magnificent Taj Mahal, and creating one of ancient India’s greatest centers of art and culture.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
The medieval city, Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River was founded by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1506 AD. It was the Mughal reign
that marked the beginning of the golden age in Agra. It remained the capital
of the Mughal Empire under Emperors Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. Shah Jahan later shifted his capital to Shahjahanabad in 1649 AD.
On arrival in Agra, we visit the Agra Fort, stretching almost 2.5 km alongside the Yamuna River. The Fort’s colossal double walls rise 20m in
height and measure 2.5 km in circumference and are surrounded by a moat.
The lofty battlements of the Agra Fort cast its protective shadow over the
far stretching mansions of nobles and princes built along the riverfront.
Agra Fort: The Fort was built by Akbar in 1565 AD and further
developed by successive generations. This well-preserved fortress built of red-sandstone dominates at the bend of the River Yamuna and provides a
magnificent view of the Taj Mahal. We will view the vineyards and the rose
garden, from where the perfumed rose water was pumped directly to the emperor’s chambers! It is said that Akbar enjoyed playing chess here. This
well-preserved fortress is a reminder of the glorious yet sorrowful reign of
the Mogul Emperors. The interior boasts of many grand buildings which
include the Royal Pavilions, the Diwan-e-Am [hall of public audience] and Diwan-e-khas [hall of private audience] reserved for other Kings and
Dignitaries.
After lunch at local restaurant (Pinch of Spice or similar) we will check-in at
the hotel.
Later we enjoy the Mughal Heritage Kachhpura Village walk with high tea. A narrow bridle path through agricultural fields near Mehtab Bagh takes us
into the ancient village of Kachhpura and Humayun’s Mosque. Learn
about the paintings on the walls (sanji art) done by community girls under the youth program.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
Humayun’s Mosque is an unusual monument inside the village. It differs
from other mosques built by Mughals, with its deep narrow, great central riser or compartment entered through a high arch and domed in the center
with one recess in its weak wall. At each side of this central compartment the
building is lower and divided into the smaller chambers.
The central courtyard of the village is a major attraction of Kachhpura. The courtyard was redesigned to allow a variety of activities to take place in and
around the information center: For instance, there is street theater and
henna tattoo making. One can also visit the village school situated near the courtyard. Our walk ends in Mehtab Bagh where we will have a marvelous
view of the Taj Mahal as the sun sets.
Mehtab Bagh, is a Garden complex, situated on the East Bank of the Yamuna River (the opposite bank from the Taj Mahal). It is known as “The Moonlight
Garden”. This park was originally built by Emperor Babur as the last in a
series of 11 parks long before the Taj was conceived. It fell into disrepair and
became little more than a mound of sand. To protect the Taj from the erosive effects of sand blown across the river, the park was reconstructed and is now
one the best places from which to view this most famous mausoleum. The
gardens in the Taj are perfectly aligned with the ones here, and the view of the Taj from the fountain directly in front of the entrance gate is very special.
DAY 06: Mar 19, 2016 / Sat: Agra – Bharatpur (60 Kms / Approx.
drive 2 hours) [BLD]
Early morning, at around 6 am, we will visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, resplendently gilded as it is bathed in the first rays of the sun: The colors
change constantly, with the sun’s position on the horizon. Taj is
mesmerizing! Taj Mahal is situated on the banks of the River Yamuna at the northern end of formal gardens. The white marble came from Makrana
in Rajasthan and the red sandstone from Fatehpur Sikri. Precious stones
like jade, crystal, turquoise, lapis lazuli, sapphire, jade, coral and diamonds were brought from far-flung places in Tibet, China, Sri Lanka, Persia and
Afghanistan. It is believed that a fleet of a thousand elephants was used to
transport the material.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
The world famous Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in 1560 in memory
of his queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains. This architectural marvel is a perfectly
proportioned masterpiece fashioned
from white marble that stands
testimony to the skill of 20,000 craftsmen brought together from Persia,
Turkey, France and Italy and who took
17 years to complete this 'Love Poem in Marble'.
After having an unforgettable experience of the beautiful Taj Mahal,
we will be back to the hotel for a
leisurely breakfast before driving on to
Bharatpur. En route we will visit Fatehpur.
We continue to visit adjoining Fatehpur—famous for its Buland Darwaza
(Towering Gate) and Sheikh Salim Chisti
Dargah—the holy tomb of a famous Sufi
saint who blessed Akbar with his only offspring, who later became the Mughal
Emperor Jehangir.
Our luxurious hotel for the night will be in Bharatpur.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 07: Mar 20, 2016 / Sun: Bharatpur – Sawaimadhopur (by Train)
& Sawai Madhopur – Ranthambore (10 Kms / Approx. drive 15 minutes) [BLD]
After breakfast visit the Bird Sanctuary by cycle rickshaw. Keoladeo
Ghana National Park occupies an area of 29sq km. was initially created by the Maharaja of Bharatpur in the 19th century as he desired to save his
town from calamitous floods. The dam he built created Bharatpur Lake. The
Forrest and Lake area served as a hunting preserve for the Maharaja before it became a National Park in 1982.
This Park is considered one of the best places in the world to view 350 species of birds, including the highly
endangered migrating Siberian Cranes.
These cranes are known to migrate to just
two destinations in winters: Iran and Bharatpur. They arrive in December and
stay until early March.
Other visiting species of special interest
include Pelicans,
Geese, Ducks, Ibises, Egrets, Eagles, Hawks, Warblers, Wheatears,
Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails
and Pipits.
After lunch we transfer to Baratpur Railway Station to board the train for
Sawai Madhopur.
Depart Bharatpur: at 1550 Hrs. (3:50 PM) by Jan Shatabdi
Express Train
Arrive Sawai Madhopur: at 1800 Hrs. (6:00 PM)
Note: The group can travel by Train with hand baggage only, the
main luggage will be transported by bus.
From Sawai Madhopur Railway Station, we will have a 10km-15 min drive
to our hotel at Ranthambore National Park.
Rest of the evening is at leisure.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 08: Mar 21, 2016 / Mon: In Ranthambore [BLD]
Early Morning at 7 AM and in the Afternoon at 2 PM we will go on safari
to explore the wildlife. We will travel by open
cantor wagon accompanied by a park
naturalist guide. Ranthambore National Park spans an area of about 400 sq km. The
Tigers are easier to spot in Ranthambore
than in other National Parks in India. However sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Ranthambore reserve does support a large number of Royal Bengal Tigers, India's National Animal. Other wild species seen in the park include:
leopards, jungle cat, hyena, jackal, porcupine, wild boar, sloth bear, marsh
crocodile, langur, Indian gazelle, spotted deer, sambar (Asiatic stag) and
nilgai [blue bull]. The langur is the only primate found in Ranthambore National Park and is abundant. Ranthambore is also home a large number
of migratory birds. Some of the most popular are the great Indian horned
owl, eagles, parakeets, spoonbills, kingfishers, partridge, quail, storks, owls, geese and ducks. But the most common bird in Ranthambore is the peacock
which is a National Bird of India.
DAY 09: Mar 22, 2016 / Tue: Ranthambore – Samode (209 Kms. /
Approx. drive 5 hours) [BLD]
After breakfast we check-out at 8 am for country drive to Samode. On arrival
check-in at the hotel. Afternoon, visit the Samode Palace.
Samode is located 40 km from the historic city of Jaipur in the western Indian state of Rajasthan in the hills of the Aravalli Range.
“It is the beginning of many journeys. It welcomes you into a legacy of quiet
magnificence, an elegant and
regal way of life, into the warmth of a family and people renowned
for their refined hospitality. As
history weaves itself around you, the community comes alive. A
vivid natural and aesthetic beauty
silently greets you at every turn, while you continue to be
pampered in a delightful mix of
old-world courtesies, sophisticated style and international facilities. You will
believe that you are naturally born to this and believe you are at home.”
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
The royal family has caringly
restored the ancestral properties and these are now exclusive
hotels and resorts. While the
world visits Samode, Samode
continues to live its own life right outside the gates of Samode
Palace, in Samode Village, in the
countryside and in other villages and fields near Samode. There is
a quiet simplicity in the stark landscape with its slim paths winding between
fields of cauliflower and golden mustard, a few hardy trees, an endless clear view that leads up to the fortressed hills and clear sky.
The magnificence of the imposing Samode Palace, the lavish green
extravaganza of Samode Bagh, and the buzzing, noisy, colorful city of Jaipur
where Samode Haveli resides, lie in mesmerizing contrast to the desert setting. Exclusive and discreet,
Samode Palace has been host to
celebrities, royalty, artists, and the discriminating traveler. A splendid
example of regal Indo-Saracenic
architecture, the Palace combines the best of Indian and Mughal styles. The
475-year-old palace is a celebration
of the senses, underlined at all times
by contemporary luxury and the signature service of Samode hotels - a magical hospitality and rare courtesy.
Samode Palace will work its magic on you.
We will let all these impressions steep and go on a camel ride this evening.
DAY 10: Mar 23, 2016 / Wed: Samode – Jaipur (45 Kms / Approx. drive 1 hour) [BLD]
Morning drive to Jaipur en-route visiting the magnificent Amber Fort. We
will ascend up the hill "Maharaja-like" on Elephant back.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
Amber is a classic, romantic Rajasthani Fort- Palace. The rugged, time-ravaged walls of the Fort may look more stark than beautiful from the
outside, but the interior is a virtual
paradise. Miniatures painted on the
walls depict hunting and war scenes, apart from festivals.
Precious stones and mirrors are
embedded into the plaster. Inside the Fort visit the Jag Mandir or the
Hall of Victory. Inside the Jag
Mandir is the famed Sheesh Mahal - a room with all the four walls and
ceiling completely embedded with
glittering mirror pieces, which were
specially imported from Belgium during that period. En–route to Amber Fort, we will have a photo stop at Hawa Mahal–(Palace of Winds).
Continue drive to Jaipur, check-in followed by lunch at the hotel.
Jaipur is the state capital of Rajasthan and popularly known as the Pink
City. It is steeped in history and culture. Here, the past comes alive in ornate temples, broad avenues, gardens, Magnificent Forts and Palaces are
blushed pink, and Maharajas once lived there.
Our afternoon city tour begins with a visit of the Maharaja's City Palace,
the former Royal Residence. Part of it is now converted to a museum, but
a portion is still used by the Royal Family of Jaipur. Built in the style of a fortified campus, the Palace covers almost one-seventh of the city. One of
the major attractions is the Armoury Museum with an impressive array of
weaponry: pistols, blunderbusses, flintlocks, swords, rifles and daggers. The Royal Families of Jaipur once used most of these weapons. Later we will visit
the Jantar Mantar, near the gate of city palace. It is the world’s largest
observatory crafted from sandstone and marble. Many of the 17 large
instruments are still in working condition.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
This evening, we will visit the Chokhi Dhani. This typical Rajasthani
Theme Village will give you a complete Rajasthani experience. It will introduce you to
traditional life, cuisine and culture. We will
enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at the
village while we enjoy Folk Music and Rajasthani Dances. [Note: It is a vegetarian
meal that is served on a platter (Thali) family
style. As is the tradition, the guests will be seated on a ground.]
DAY 11: Mar 24, 2016 / Thu: In Jaipur [BLD]
Enjoy the colorful festival of HOLI at the home of a local family
including a home hosted traditional meal. HOLI celebrates the coming of spring. During this Hindu festival, people throw color on each other and
celebrate the brotherhood of mankind.
Evening, you can explore the city on your own and visit colorful bazaars.
The fabulous bazaars of Jaipur are famous for jewelry, printed silks and
cotton and shoes and are surely a treasure-trove for shoppers. BL & Dinner with local family in their home in Jaipur.
DAY 12: Mar 25, 2016 / Fri: Jaipur – Ajmer – Pushkar (146 Kms. /
Approx. drive 2 ½ hours) [BLD]
After breakfast we check-out at 9 am and drive up the Aravalli Mountains
to Ajmer which is India's most important pilgrimage center for people from many faiths. The shrine is second only to Mecca or “Madenah” for the
Muslims of south Asia. Akbar used to make a pilgrimage to the Dargah from
Agra once a year. It is a pilgrimage center for the shrine of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti and is also the base for visiting Pushkar (11
km), an ancient Hindu pilgrimage city, famous for the temple of
Brahma.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
We will visit the mausoleum of Moinuddin Chishti (1141 - 1236) – also
known as Gharīb Nawāz (Benefactor of the Poor). He was an Imam,
Islamic scholar and philosopher.
After the visit, drive to Pushkar.
Pushkar, situated 14 km northwest of Ajmer at an average elevation of 510
m, is one of the five sacred Dhams for devout Hindus. Pushkar is one of the
oldest cities of India. The date of its actual founding is not known, but legend associates Lord Brahma with its creation. It has more than 400 temples
including the only temple in India dedicated to the Hindu God Lord
Brahma, the Creator of the Universe. We will Visit Pushkar Lake and the only Brahma temple anywhere.
Buffet Lunch at local restaurant in Pushkar
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 13: Mar 26, 2016 / Sati: Pushakr – Jodhpur (186 Kms. / Approx.
drive 3 ½ hours) [BLD]
After breakfast, check-out and drive to Jodhpur, popularly known as “Blue
City”. On arrival, check-in at the hotel.
JODHPUR – The bustling desert city is the second largest city in Rajasthan.
It is dominated by the massive Mehrangarh Fort on top of a sheer rock
ridge. Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore Clan, founded the city in 1459 AD and it is
named after him. It was formerly the seat of
a Princely State, known as Marwar. Rajasthan is steeped in history and culture.
Here, the past come alive in magnificent
Fortresses and Palaces, where Maharajas
lived.
In the evening, we will visit clock Tower
market followed by a `tuk-tuk’ ride through
the local markets.
Jodhpur is famous for cotton `durees’ (rugs). Stop by Rawat Sweets a
local shop famous for `lassi’ (butter milk) & `payaz ki kachauri’ (big
nugget, deep fried & filled with finely cut onions & spices & herbs).
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 14: Mar 27, 2016 / Sun: In Jodhpur [BLD]
After breakfast, proceed for full day city tour visiting the 5-km long
Meherangarh Fort situated on a 125-mt high hill. This is one of the most
impressive and formidable structures in Rajasthan. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with meticulously carved panels, latticed windows or
"Jarokha’s" with evocative names. The chambers of Moti Mahal, Phool
Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana are noteworthy for the splendor and glamour of a bygone era. Later, visit the
Jaswant Thada - a cluster of royal cenotaphs in the white marble built in
1899 AD in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.
The tour culminates with a visit to the Museum housed in the majestic
Umaid Bhawan Palace perched high above the desert capital of Jodhpur,
probably the last of the great
palaces of India and one of the
largest residences in the world – set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens.
Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh,
grandfather of the present Maharaja of Jodhpur, this golden-yellow sandstone
monument was conceived on the
grandest possible scale, in the fashionable Art Deco style of that time.
After 15 years in construction, the 347-
room palace was finally completed
in 1943 – and has served as the principal residence of the Jodhpur
Royal Family since. It also houses a Palace hotel.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 15: Mar 28, 2016 / Mon: Jodhpur – Osian (66 Kms / Approx.
drive 1 ½ hours) [BLD]
After breakfast morning free. Post lunch at the hotel, drive to Osian, on
arrival check-in at The Camel Camp.
Osian Camp: http://www.camelcamposian.com/
With expansive views of the vast desert on one side and the intricate temples
of Osian on the other, this camp, the first of its kind in India, offers easy
access to the local desert villages. Venturing out on camel one can meet the proud local tribes, the Bishnois and Bhils, potters and weavers and
shepherds in their natural surroundings, not to mention the desert wildlife
such as blue bulls, gazelles, foxes, peacocks and partridges. The camp nestled in the dunes is owned by Reggie Singh, grandson of Maharaj Ratan
Singh of Jodhpur. Enjoy your evening with folk entertainment and a semi-
formal candle lit dinner.
DAY 16: Mar 29, 2016 / Tue: Osiyan – Udaipur (350 Kms / Approx.
drive 7 hours) [BLD]
Early breakfast and check-out at 8 am to get us on the road to
Kumbhalgarh Fort and the Ranakpur Temples.
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli
Hills, in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan. It is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site included in Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Built during the 15th century by Rana Kumbha and
enlarged through the 19th century,
Kumbhalgarh is also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great king
and warrior of Mewar. Occupied until
the late 19th century, the fort is now
open to the public.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
The Fort has the second largest wall
in the world after the Great Wall of
China and is the second largest fort in
Rajasthan after Chittorgarh Fort.
Ranakpur is situated in the lovely valley of the Aravali Hills, built in the 15th
century. Its surroundings are peaceful and picturesque. The main temple in
the complex is the Chaumukha
(four-faced) temple, built in 1439. Its 29 halls are supported by 1444
pillars, no two of which are alike.
We will also visit the Surya temple and other Jain temples a little
distance away.
Lunch in Ranakpur then continue the drive to Udaipur. On arrival check-in at
the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Udaipur is a city built around shimmering, clear blue-water lakes that reflect
the green of the surrounding Aravalli Hills. The fabled Lake Palace seems
to emerge from the peaceful Lake Pichola and shares whispered
memories of tradition and glory. It
was built in 1567 AD by Maharana Udai Singh, who
claimed to be a descendent of Sri
Ram, hero of the ‘Ramayana’. The
city of Udaipur is gathered around three Lakes – Pichola, Fateh
Sagar and Udai Sagar. It was the
last capital of autonomous Mewar and remained so, until the state
was merged with the Republic of
India in 1947.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 17: Mar 30, 2016 / Wed: In Udaipur [BLD]
After breakfast, at 8:30am, our guided tour will take us to the CITY
PALACE built in 1725 AD. It is one of the largest, most beautiful palaces in
the state of Rajasthan, and now a
museum, royal residence and
luxury hotel. This intricately
designed monument is an
architectural wonder in granite and
marble; JAGDISH TEMPLE built in
1651 by Maharaja Jagat Singh, is
dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is
located in the center of the old city.
FATEH SAGAR LAKE was originally
built in 1678 by Maharana Jai
Singh. The lake was rebuilt by Maharana Fateh Singh after the rains
destroyed the dam. We will also visit the Sahelion-ki- Bari (the Garden for
the Maids of Honor), an ornamental pleasure garden with fountains and
marble kiosks. The garden island in the middle of the lake is called Nehru
Park and has a great cafe.
Lunch at local restaurant (1559 AD or Upre Restaurant)
In the evening, we will take a boat ride on 4 km long and 3 km wide Lake
Pichola. It is fringed with hills, palaces, havelis, ghats, embankments and
temples and offers spectacular views of the city. We will land on Jag Mandir Island to visit the exquisite Gul Mahal Pavilion.
Dinner at local restaurant at Bagore Ki Haveli.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 18: Mar 31, 2016 / Thu: Udaipur – Delhi – Varanasi by Flight [B]
After an extremely early breakfast, we check-out at 5:30 am and transfer
to Udaipur Airport to board the flight for Delhi.
Depart Udaipur: at 0745 Hrs by Flight # 9W 2634 (Jet Airways) Arrive Delhi: at 0925 Hrs.
You will have a day room at Holiday Inn Airport until 10 pm
10 pm Transfer to Airport for (Optional) international flight.
VARANASI POST TOUR OPTION
DAY 18: Mar 31, 2016 / Thu: Udaipur – Delhi – Varanasi by Flight [BLD]
After our extremely early breakfast, we check-out at 5:30 am and transfer
to Udaipur Airport to board the flight for Delhi.
Considering the early morning flight schedules, hotel will serve a cold
breakfast of Fruits / Boiled Eggs / morning Bakery and Tea / Coffee at the coffee shop between 5-6 am.
Depart Udaipur: at 0745 Hrs by Flight # 9W 2634 (Jet Airways)
Arrive Delhi: at 0925 Hrs.
CONNECTION
Depart Delhi: at 1045 Hrs by Flight # 9W 2423 (Jet Airways) Arrive Varanasi: at 1210 Hrs.
Upon arrival at Varanasi Airport, we will be met by our local guide and
transferred to our hotel.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
Varanasi also known as Benares or Kashi is a place on the holy River Ganga. It is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Varanasi is also known as the favorite city of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. The
culture of Varanasi is closely associated with the Ganges. The city has been a
cultural center of North India for thousands of years, and predates most of the major world religions. The water of Ganga originates in the mountains of
Nepal and flows towards the large plains of north-east. In the plains of
Allahabad water of Yamuna blends with the Ganga. Here at this sacred confluence “Triveni Sangam” invisible Saraswati joins her force with the
two mighty Rivers. For this reason, multitudes of pilgrims pay homage to
the combined sacred waters in Varanasi before they flow towards the mouth of Bay of Bengal.
Lunch at the hotel and afternoon at leisure.
In the evening around sunset, we will enjoy a rickshaw ride in the old part
of the city followed by boat ride on the River Ganges to have a panoramic
view as we witness the “Ganga Aarti” [Aarti Ceremony] at one of the Ghats
(Steps) on the banks of River Ganges.
You will hear the singing of hymns, see
the votive lighting and experience the
deep religious fervor that’s created by
the divine atmosphere.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 19: Apr 01, 2016 / Fri: In Varanasi [BLD]
Early this morning around 6am, at sunrise, we will re-visit the Ghats
(Steps) and experience another boat ride to witness devout Hindus beginning
their day by offering prayers to the holy river and the sun.
The riverfront seen from a boat, early in the morning, is a spiritually uplifting
experience. The hushed murmuring ancient Sanskrit Shlokas [hymns] are
raised in one voice, to a crescendo of unparalleled piety & joy. This
religious city is crowded with
temples. The labyrinth of streets with throngs of people is exciting
and enticing. At dawn, the Ghats
are abuzz with activity of the
devotees performing their ablutions in the river or offering prayers to
the rising sun and performing other
religious rituals. A boat ride along the Ghats gives you excellent views of these activities.
Your soul will remember sunrise on the Ganges!
We return to hotel for breakfast.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
After breakfast, we tour Varanasi with our local guide. We will see Kashi
Vishwanath Temple (one of the names of Lord Shiva) from the outside since Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter the temple premises of this
temple.
The Kashi-Vishwanath Temple, the most sacred of the shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, patron deity of Varanasi, was originally constructed by Rani
Ahillya Bai Holkar in 1776 AD. The temple was rebuilt in the 18th century; its gold plating on the
"shikharas" was a gift from a Sikh King,
Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Proceed to the
Durga Temple, another important temple, dedicated to the Goddess Durga. It was
built in the 18th century, in the Nagara style
of architecture. It has five Shikharas (spires), which commences from the
bottom and converges to the top. Locally,
the temple is known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the large number of
monkeys in the vicinity. Continue on to
Tulsi Manas Mandir, built in 1964,
devoted to Lord Rama and is believed to have been built on the site where the saint-
poet Tulsi Das resided and wrote the epic
Ram Charit Manas. The text is engraved on the walls of the temple.
Next, visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother
India. It houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble; drive past the Benares Hindu University, the largest residential university in Asia,
covering an area of approximately 2,000 acres. It was a gifted by the
former Maharaja of Varanasi, who was a scholar of Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy. The institution attracts students from India and abroad, as it is
a center of Sanskrit, Indian art, culture and music.
After lunch, we will travel to Sarnath. This is the fabled place that bears testimony to its great past. This is where Lord Buddha delivered his first
sermon to his disciples, expounding the principles of Buddhism. The remains date back to the 3rd Century BC when
Emperor Ashoka founded various institutions,
stupas, monasteries and pillar Edicts. We will
visit the art collection at the Archaeological Museum. The main attraction is the superb
Capital from Ashokan Pillar. The Ashokan
symbol of four back-to-back Lions has been adopted as the state symbol Independent India.
We will then visit the Mahabodhi Buddha temple
and walk in the Deer Park.
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. Treasures of the Maharajas
DAY 20: Apr 02, 2016 / Sat: Varanasi – Delhi - Flight # AI 405: 4:45
PM / 6:05 PM [BLD]
After breakfast, day at leisure. Check-out at 12:00 Noon and have lunch at
hotel. Post lunch, assist with Departure Transfer to Varanasi Airport to
board the Flight to Delhi.
Depart Varanasi: at 1645 Hrs by Flight # AI 405 (Air India) Arrive Delhi: at 1805 Hrs.
Upon arrival at Delhi Airport, we will transfer to hotel for day use and dinner before return transfer to airport for international flight. (Rooms for
Day use purpose from 6:00pm to 10:00 pm only)
DAY 21: Apr 03, 2016 / Sun: FINAL DEPARTURE DELHI BY FLIGHT # AI 127 AT 2:00 AM
In time transfer to airport to connect to (optional) Flight to Chicago for your
destination in USA.
* Price based per person/ double occupancy for land arrangements and domestic air
based on 12 travelers group size. All meals included. International air optional. See Tour Conditions and Tour Registration for more features and information.
Call or email Steve Carr for more information:
Mexi-Mayan Academic Travel, Inc. 8 N. Loomis St. Naperville, IL 60450
Phone (630) 878-8594 Fax (630) 527-0192