Day 1: Australia - - Delhi - - Amritsar Depart Australia today on your flight to Delhi (please note, some flight may depart 1 day before). You will arrive at New Delhi International Airport, here transfer to your connecting flight to the holy city of Amritsar. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection please make your own way to the starting hotel. Amritsar, the Sikh holy city, is the second largest town in the state of Punjab and a premier tourist destination. It was founded in 1577 by Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs. The name Amritsar meaning 'Pool of Nectar' is named after the sacred pool around which the Golden Temple is built. The city is an important regional market centre for agricultural goods and the centre for India's border security. The city is characterized by some of the must visit religious, historical as well as contemporary sites of importance. The Golden Temple, where Sikhs from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification is the major landmark of the place. Day 2: Amritsar (B) This morning we head-out on a tour of Amritsar. Highlights include a visit to the Golden Temple, located in the heart of the city; it is the world-renowned sacred Sikh shrine. Characterized by its four entrance doors (called deoris) in all four directions and the tastefully decorated shrines, in terms of art and architecture, the Golden Temple welcomes everyone regardless of the religion or faith one follows. The stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy tank, flanked by spotlessly clean marble walkways and pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful. Continue to the Jallianwalah Bagh which is located at a distance of five minutes from the Golden temple, where the martyrs of the AD 1919 massacre are immortalized. A historical monument that tells the sad story of mass killing during the independence movement in India. Optional Tour: Heritage Walk in the bylanes - A guided walk showcases some of the richest architectural and traditional heritage from Amritsar’s layered past. The walk promises to take International Airfares Professional Webjet Tour Guide 21 nights Standard Accommodation Breakfast Daily, plus all meals in Ranthambore National Park In depth sightseeing Dedicated air-conditioned transportation 23 Day India’s Holy Amritsar & the Rajasthan kingdoms Essential Package 21 Sep 2017 19 Oct 2017 16 Nov 2017 15 Feb 2018 08 March 2018 29 March 2018 12 April 2018 20 Sep 2018 18 Oct 2018 22 Nov 2018 #1 Online Travel Company in Australia Webjet Approved Guides Webjet Crafted Itineraries Always Includes Flights No Fuss, Easy Booking (B) - Breakfast / (L) - Lunch / (D) - Dinner Flight Cruise Train
14
Embed
23 Day India’s Holy Amritsar & the Rajasthan kingdoms ... · Professional Webjet Tour Guide 21 nights Standard Accommodation Breakfast Daily, plus all meals in Ranthambore National
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Day 1: Australia - - Delhi - -Amritsar Depart Australia today on your flight to Delhi (please note, some flight may depart 1 day before). You will arrive at New Delhi International Airport, here transfer to your connecting flight to the holy city of Amritsar. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection please make your own way to the starting hotel. Amritsar, the Sikh holy city, is the second largest town in the state of Punjab and a premier tourist destination. It was founded in 1577 by Ram Das, the fourth guru of the Sikhs. The name Amritsar meaning 'Pool of Nectar' is named after the sacred pool around which the Golden Temple is built. The city is an important regional market centre for agricultural goods and the centre for India's border security. The city is characterized by some of the must visit religious, historical as well as contemporary sites of importance. The Golden Temple, where Sikhs from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification is the major landmark of the place. Day 2: Amritsar (B)
This morning we head-out on a tour of Amritsar. Highlights include a visit to the
Golden Temple, located in the heart of the city; it is the world-renowned sacred Sikh
shrine. Characterized by its four entrance doors (called deoris) in all four directions
and the tastefully decorated shrines, in terms of art and architecture, the Golden
Temple welcomes everyone regardless of the religion or faith one follows. The
stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy tank, flanked by spotlessly
clean marble walkways and pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful.
Continue to the Jallianwalah Bagh which is located at a distance of five minutes from
the Golden temple, where the martyrs of the AD 1919 massacre are immortalized. A
historical monument that tells the sad story of mass killing during the independence
movement in India.
Optional Tour: Heritage Walk in the bylanes - A guided walk showcases some of the richest
architectural and traditional heritage from Amritsar’s layered past. The walk promises to take
International Airfares
Professional Webjet Tour
Guide
21 nights Standard
Accommodation
Breakfast Daily, plus all
meals in Ranthambore
National Park
In depth sightseeing
Dedicated air-conditioned
transportation
23 Day India’s Holy Amritsar & the
Rajasthan kingdoms
Essential Package
21 Sep 2017 19 Oct 2017 16 Nov 2017 15 Feb 2018 08 March 2018 29 March 2018 12 April 2018 20 Sep 2018 18 Oct 2018 22 Nov 2018
#1 Online Travel
Company in Australia
Webjet Approved Guides
Webjet Crafted Itineraries
Always Includes Flights
No Fuss, Easy Booking
(B) - Breakfast / (L) - Lunch / (D) - Dinner
Flight
Cruise
Train
you back in time as you witness traditional trades and crafts being practised in the same place and in
the same manner, as have been done for centuries. The tour commences from the historic Town Hall
built by the British in 1866, and is today the centre of Amritsar’s local administration. It goes past
the Gurudwara Saragarhi, dedicated to the heroism of the twenty-one soldiers of the 36 Sikhs
Battalion who lost their lives bravely defending their posts. Weaving its way through Qila
Ahluwalia–a fort replete with colonial-style architectural features–the walk brings you to the
Jalebiwala Chowk (Square). The chowk is home to a world famous jalebi (type of Indian sweet) shop
that has been in operation since decades and is renowned for creating one of the best melt-in-your-
mouth treats
Optional Meal: Enjoy a traditional lunch with local delicacies
Later, proceed for an excursion to Wagah Border, located on Indo-Pakistan border. A good
number of visitors come to this place to witness the “Change of the Guard” ceremony and
the flag hoisting and lowering activities, carried out with great skill and precision by the
border security forces of both countries, a sight you cannot afford to miss.
Day 3: Amritsar – Dharamshala (B)
After breakfast, we make our way to Dharamshala (200 km / 6hrs approx.). Set against the
backdrop of the dramatic Dhaula Dhar Mountains, Dharamsala is one of the principle
towns of the Kangra valley. With dense pine and deodar forests, numerous streams, cool
healthy air, attractive surroundings and the nearby snowline, Dharamsala has everything
for a perfect holiday. It is a charming town with elegant bungalows nestling in thick conifer
forests. Today Dharamsala has become synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile. It
is the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, spiritual head of the Buddhists, who is now
quartered at McLeodganj.
Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 4: Dharamsala (B)
After breakfast, we enjoy a visit to Mcleodganj, a charming Tibetan settlement with
bustling bazaars. Also visit the Namgyal Monastery, the Dalai Lama's temple, ensconcing
the Centre of Tibetan Studies. It houses giant stucco statues of the Buddha,
Avalokiteshwara and Padmasambhava; Gangchen Kyishong, the offices of the Tibetan
government-in-exile and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. Continue on to
Norbulingka Institure, dedicated to the vibrant Tibetan culture – its artistic and literary
forms.
Optional meal: Lunch at a local restaurant
Optional Tour: Visit Kangra Fort & Museum - This fort was constructed by the royal family of
Rajputs who belonged to Kangra and were the disciples of the Katoch Dynasty. The family goes to
trace its roots to the early Trigarta Empire. It is also talked about in the Epic Mahabharata. It is
considered to be the oldest and the largest fort in the Himalayan region in India as per the historical
records.
Day 5: Dharamshala – Shimla (B)
In the morning, you will be driven to the queen of hill stations, Shimla (270 km / 8 hrs
approx). The drive is hilly and spectacular. Resting at the foothills of the majestic
Himalayas is Shimla, the queen of hill stations and once the summer capital of the British
Raj. Shimla was the most important British hill resort, prior to India's independence. It is
named after its patron goddess, Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. Shimla, located at an
altitude of 7,267 feet, is inhabited around a crescent - shaped ridge, which is blessed with
perennially cool air and amazing views. It provides superb panoramic sights of the valleys,
and the lofty peaks of the great Himalayan range, on both sides. On arrival, check in to
your hotel where the rest of afternoon is at leisure.
Day 6: Shimla (B)
Today, enjoy a half day tour exploring the main attractions of Shimla including the The
Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge, a busy shopping area with
old colonial buildings and Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows.
Your sightseeing tour also includes a visit to Viceregal Lodge, most historically significant
and architectural impressive building. The Viceregal Lodge Shimla is commonly known as
the Rashtrapati Nilayam (the President’s House) and the reference is to the era between
independence to the mid 1960’s when Indian Presidents used the lodge as their summer
retreat. The Viceroy Lodge may have been used by modern India presidents but it was
conceived at the height of the British raj and their absolute control over the whole of India.
Optional Meal: Lunch at a local restaurant
The afternoon is then free at leisure.
Day 7: Shimla – Chandigarh (B)
After breakfast we begin the drive to Chandigarh (121 kms / 4 hrs approx.)
Optional Tour: Toy Train from Shimla to Solan (5 hours). Enjoy a train ride for a portion of your
journey to Chandigarh. The journey is through the hills on the unique Toy Train, winding up
through the mountains, thickly forested with pines, spruce and cedars catching a glimpse of the
routine activity at the charming wayside stations enroute. From Solan, you will be picked up by
your vehicle for a drive to Chandigarh.
The city of Chandigarh, which spans 56 square kilometres in area, is the first planned city
of India and is the capital of Punjab and Haryana. However, the city does not belong to
either and is a Union Territory, administered by the Government of India. The city has well
-laid roads, which are lined with endless rows of trees, shrubs and boulevards and the
buildings have been brilliantly planned against the backdrop of the mountains. The white
domed temple of Goddess Chandi Devi that stands on the slope of a hill, situated in the
northeast of Chandigarh, on the edge of the Shivalik hills, is from where the city obtained
its name Chandigarh. On arrival, the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 8: Chandigarh - - Delhi (B)
This morning, explore the architectural splendour and grandeur of the best-planned city in
India. Visit some of the epitome of architectural beauty in the city. Explore the Le Corbusier
Centre, which displays the life and works of Le Corbusier, the renowned Swiss-French
architect and the mastermind behind the planning of this city. The centre emphasizes on
preservation, interpretation, research, display of the works and legacy of Le Corbusier who
made an outstanding contribution to the Modern Movement; and encourages tourists and
future generations to acquaint themselves with the rich cultural heritage of the city.
Continue to the Government Museum and Art Gallery. The museum is designed to
provide architectural harmony in its interior by the use of colour as well as by means of
structure with spaces flowing into one another, allowing long and deep uninterrupted
views. Witness the collection of art objects, paintings, sculptures and decorative arts
especially the rich collection of Gandharan sculptures, Pahari and Rajasthani miniature
paintings. Also, visit the Rock Garden is a surreal fantasy land fashioned from fragments
of shattered plates, neon strip lights, pots, pebbles, broken bangles and assorted urban-
industrial junk.
Later you will be assisted with transfer to railway station for your train to Delhi (3 hrs
approx.). You can safely forget media images of overcrowded suburban trains with people
sitting on the roof. On a long distance train in an air-conditioned carriage all seats are
reserved and it’s a safe, civilised & comfortable way to get around India.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel.
India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling
metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds – the ancient with the modern. Amidst
the fast spiraling skyscrapers, the remnants of a bygone time, in the form of its many
monuments, stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy. Delhi is a food-lovers
haven and has something to please every palate. There is an unlimited variety available
across cuisines, across price-brackets and across experiences – from street food of North
India to International cuisine and from road-side dhabas to fine-dining – Delhi has it all.
Day 9: Delhi (B)
Today we head out on a full day to explore Delhi. Begin your day with a guided tour of the
Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad’. Your introduction to the city will start with a visit to Raj Ghat
- the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive past the Red Fort—the magical monument in
red sandstone built at the pinnacle of the Mughal Empire. After, continue on to Jama
Masjid, the largest mosque in Asia built by Shahjahan. Later, enjoy a guided walk through
the bustling streets of Old Delhi.
Optional Tour: Rickshaw Ride - Enjoy a traditional Rickshaw ride through the narrow streets of Old
Delhi and immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals which has remained unchanged for centuries.
Ride through the narrow streets, past the glittery shops selling wedding ceremony items in Chandni
Chowk
Optional Meal: Lunch at Chor Bizarre – A restaurant that completes the eating out experience -
great décor, distinct ambience enhanced superlative food and charming 'old world' service.
Continue on a guided tour of New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind.
Enjoy a photo stop at the imposing India Gate (War Memorial Arch), drive past the
Parliament buildings and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the President’s residence). Stop for a
visit to Agrasen ki Baoli, a 60-meter long and 15-meter wide ancient step well. Then,
proceed to the holy shrine of Sikhs, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Originally, a bungalow
owned by Raja Jai Singh, this huge complex features a devotion centre, a large pond for a
holy dip, a missionary school, an art gallery, a charitable hospital and the free kitchen –
called Langar. Later, visit the museum dedicated to the life of Mahatma Gandhi.
Optional Tour: Guided visit to Humayun’s Tomb - Proceed to Humayun’s tomb, the tomb of the
Mughal Emperor Humayun and today a World Heritage Site. It was the first great example of a new
distinctive style, which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty
Optional Tour: Guided visit to Qutab Minar - Visit Qutab Minar, the tallest stone tower in India
built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India.
Day 10: Delhi – Agra – Dholpur (B)
After breakfast you will be driven to the Mughal city of Agra (a journey of 202 km/ 4 ½ hrs
drive approximately). Known to the world as the city of the ‘Taj Mahal’, Agra is still
associated with the Mughals, who besides being great rulers were also great builders. The
architectural splendour of the mausoleums, forts and palaces is a vivid reminder of the
opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. From the Taj Mahal to the massive Agra Fort;
Agra is amongst the most remarkable city of the world and a must visit.
On arrival we proceed to possibly India’s most incredible sight, the Taj Mahal!
The Taj Mahal, celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. Emperor
Shah Jahan built this exquisite white marble mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz
Mahal.
The monument was commissioned in 1631 and took 20,000 artisans, 22 years to complete.
Once here, there is plenty of time to explore the grounds of the Taj or enter the tomb to see
the wonder up close.
Optional Tour: Guided visit to Agra Fort - Explore the Agra Fort, an outstanding example of
Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. Shah Jahan, the Taj's creator, spent the last years of his life imprisoned at the fort by his
son Aurangzeb. It was built in the late 1560`s by their predecessor, Akbar, with later embellishments
by Jahangir, his son, and Shah Jahan, his grandson.
Optional Meal: Peshawari Lunch – Enjoy north-western Indian cuisine at a Peshawari restaurant.
After, we continue on to Dholpur (a journey of 60 km/ 1.5 hrs approx). Upon arrival,
proceed for check-in at your hotel.
Day 11: Dholpur (B)
This morning, enjoy half day sightseeing tour of Dholpur Old Town. About 4kms from
Dholpur lies Muchchhkund, an ancient sacred place and is named after Raja
Muchchhkund, who is said to have reigned nineteen generations before Lord Rama.
Muchchhkund is surrounded by a series of temples of different deities, Machkund temple
is an ancient place having reference in Puranas and Shri Madbhagwat. It is believed that
after visiting to all Theerth Sthaan (pilgrimage) one need to take a holy dip in Machkund
then only the pilgrimage is complete.
Optional Tour: Boat Safari on Chambal River - The best way to experience the Chambal
Sanctuary is to take a boat safari in Chambal river, experiencing the magnificent Ravines on
one side of the bank and happening wildlife on the expanse of the river, the other side.
Your boat escort takes you quite far in to the river bed to experience the natural habitat of
Ghariyals, Crocodile, turtles and close to 300 species of resident and migratory birds.
Continue to visit the Gharial Breeding Farm where Gharials (a kind of alligator) which was
developed for protection of gharials and their habitat, involving further research on
ecology. After, we return to the hotel.
Day 12: Dholpur – Ranthambore (B,L,D)
Today, we make our way to Ranthambhore (a journey of 220 km / 5.5 hrs approx).
Nestling at the foot of the Aravalli Hills is Ranthambore National Park, a famous tiger
reserve and an outstanding example of Project Tiger's efforts at conservation in the
country.
The forests around the Ranthambore Fort were once the private hunting grounds of the
Maharajas of Jaipur. One of the most popular parks with tiger sightings at its best, a
photographers dream come true, dotted with lakes and ponds around which the wildlife
abounds, predators and prey enact their day to day drama. Ranthambore, hailed as one of
India's finest wildlife locations, is also categorized as a heritage site because of the
picturesque ruins of the fort that dot the park.
Our lunch today is included at the hotel. After, we explore off the beaten track, stopping at
the local village. Enjoy interacting with the locals witnessing their daily lifestyles before
visiting Dastkar centre – a noble craft’s community project for income generation,
especially for the women in the villages surrounding the Ranthambore National Park. See
the skills being practiced here by local women including block printing, patchwork,
pottery, leatherwork amongst others.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 13: Ranthambhore (B,L,D)
Wake up early today to undertake an experience you’ll never forget, a thrilling jungle safari
in open top jeeps through Ranthambhore National Park. The experience is likened to an
African safari. Drive to the dense jungle of Ranthambore for tiger tracking and bird
watching accompanied by a naturalist. The scrub woodlands of Ranthambore were the
erstwhile hunting reserve of Maharajas of Jaipur, and royal hunting parties were hosted in
the Park. Today, it is a sanctuary for India’s exotic wildlife, and famous for spotting the
majestic predator – the tiger. The park is also home to a large variety of other animals,