12 DAYS HIGHLIGHTS OF INDIA : DELHI, AGRA, RAJASTHAN & MUMBAI

Explore Old Delhi, also known as The Walled City, this morning. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, this area served as the capital of Muslim India. Drive through the spectacular Red Fort, a permanent representation of Shah Jehan's power and taste, one of Old Delhi's primary draws, and the commanding Jama Masjid, the city's largest mosque with an onion-shaped dome and Mughal-style architecture.

Take a spin through Chandni Chowk on a bicycle rickshaw. It still has its famed, vibrant bazaars and a variety of winding lanes, the most renowned of which is Chandni Chowk, with its never-ending but always intriguing pandemonium.

You'll note this afternoon a clear contrast between the architecture of Old Delhi and "Lutyen's Delhi," which was built in a fusion of British and Indian styles and opened only in 1931. The entire area of Delhi is also incredibly well-planned. The War Memorial Arch, also known as India Gate, is a monument to the 90,000 Indians who lost their lives in World War I and is located at one end of the Rajpath (formerly known as the "King's Way") boulevard. The Rashtrapati Bhavan, one of the biggest and most opulent Raj structures erected initially for the British Viceroy and now serving as the official house of the Indian President, is situated at the other end. Visit the majestic red sandstone structure known as Humayun's Tomb, where Emperor Humayun, the father of Emperor Akbar, is interred. The building's design and construction were overseen by Haji Begum, Humayun's first wife and the mother of Emperor Akbar. Admire the Qutab Minar, the tallest stone structure in India. Some people believe that the "Tower of Victory," which stands 234 feet tall, is the most ideal example of tower construction in existence. This structure is a mathematical marvel that has stood for nine centuries.

*Breakfast on the menu

You will leave this morning for Agra, the Mughals' 16th and 17th-century capital. Agra was founded considerably earlier and has connections to the Mahabharat period in 1000 BC, even though its history is most commonly associated with the Mughal Empire. However, this city's Golden Age began with the Mughals, who called it Akbarabad. One of the most vibrant dynasties in the mediaeval world has three generations here, each of which contributed in a unique way to its creation. The Taj is without a doubt the most well-known piece of Mughal architecture in India, which can be found in Agra. While the magnificence of these structures will wow you, experiencing Agra is enhanced when you are aware of the tragic history that took place on these sites.

You will tour the majestic Agra Fort this afternoon. Over the course of 1565–1703, Emperor Akbar constructed it as his stronghold. It dominates the city's centre with massive gates, red sandstone walls, and a moat. Shah Jehan was imprisoned by Aurangzeb at the luxurious Agra Fort, which was a light sentence. A marble balcony in a tower with a stunning view of the Taj Mahal is where legend has it that Shah Jehan passed away.

Proceed to the Taj Mahal at dusk to take in its magnificence and beauty as the sun is setting. Before visiting the Taj Mahal's interiors, visitors are instructed to take off their shoes. It took more than 20,000 workers 22 years to construct this otherworldly monument. Shah Jehan, the Mughal emperor, erected it in honour of Mumtaz Mahal, his beloved wife who passed away at the age of 39 after giving birth to her fourteenth child. You get a breathtaking first impression as you pass through the arch of the entrance gateway because of its distinct beauty and impeccably meticulous workmanship.

*Breakfast on the menu

*Length 1 Night

You'll travel by car to Jaipur this morning, stopping on the way to see Fatehpur Sikri, also known as "The City of Victory," which is the location of Emperor Akbar's abandoned city. Due to the city's water supply drying out, the enormous, imperial metropolis with its 500 magnificent buildings was abandoned after only fourteen years.

Welcome to Jaipur, a city where the past is always close at hand. The city of victory, Jaipur, rules over the interesting desert state and its inhabitants. Surrounded by rocky hills, each of which is topped by a powerful fort, Jaipur is also home to stunning palaces, houses, and gardens.

The palaces and forts of the past, which were the scene of regal processions and majesty, are now living monuments that have been assimilated seamlessly into the way of life of the inhabitants of the "pink city."

Meal Plan: Breakfast; Length of Stay: 2 Nights

You will travel through Jaipur's streets in the morning to the Amber Fort, which is perched above a rocky mountaintop and offers views of Lake Moata. Sandstone in both white and red colors was used to build the fort. The Fort is distinctive in that its interior, an elaborate, luxurious space influenced by both Hindu and Muslim decoration styles, is very different from its outside, with an intimidating and rugged military construction.

You will tour the city this afternoon, stopping first to see and take pictures at the Palace of Winds. The Palace, which was finished in 1799, was first constructed to give the court ladies isolated views of the city's lively activity.

Because of the facade's perforated screen that allows for a pleasant wind, or Hawa, it is also known as the Hawa Mahal.

Continually conjure the majesty of a bygone age by paying a visit to the City Palace complex. The City Palace is a stunning showcase of Hindu and Mughal architecture, offering an endless stream of delights from its imposing entryway to the dancing of beautiful fountains. Jantar Mantar, which means "Calculation Instrument" in English, is located next to the city palace.

Maharaja Jai Singh constructed Jantar Mantar between 1728 and 1734, and it was a spectacular construction that was well ahead of its time.

Because of the facade's perforated screen that allows for a pleasant wind, or Hawa, it is also known as the Hawa Mahal.

Continually conjure the majesty of a bygone age by paying a visit to the City Palace complex. The City Palace is a stunning showcase of Hindu and Mughal architecture, offering an endless stream of delights from its imposing entryway to the dancing of beautiful fountains. Jantar Mantar, which means "Calculation Instrument" in English, is located next to the city palace. Maharaja Jai Singh constructed Jantar Mantar between 1728 and 1734, and it was a spectacular construction that was well ahead of its time. This was designed after the one that was erected in Delhi, the former capital of the Mughals.

In terms of textiles, there are brocades, tie-dyes, block prints, and the renowned "mirror work" embroidery, which is also utilized in tablecloths, throw pillows, and ready-to-wear clothing.

*Breakfast on the menu

You will travel by car to Jodhpur, commonly known as the Blue City of India, this morning. It is the second-largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur and is situated on the edge of the Thar Desert. Jodhpur is one of the most distinctive of Rajasthan's numerous royal enclaves. The center of the Rathore Rajputs' festivities was this 500-year-old village. The old Jodhpur City is encircled by a six-mile wall, with eight gates functioning as entrances.

Meal Plan: Breakfast;

Length of Stay: 2 Nights

Drive to the adjacent Bishnoi Villages this morning and take a jeep safari through the community. the sight of desert animals such as partridges, blue bulls, chinkaras, desert foxes, and hares. From September through March, tourists can see thousands of migratory demoiselle cranes. Additionally, there is a chance to observe farmers, shepherds, and craftspeople at work.

Explore the city and the Meherangarh Fort this afternoon. This magnificent fort, one of the biggest in India, was built by Rao Jodha in 1459. It is located around 4 miles from Jodhpur and sits on a hill that is 125 meters high. A sizable museum with various unique objects is also located inside the fort.

You will pass past Jaswant Thada, an architectural monument made of white marble and constructed by Sardar Singh in 1899 in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, as you descend. There are two other tombs within this cenotaph. A common place for Jodhpur kings to be cremated is the Jaswant Thada. Additionally, there are exquisitely carved gazebos, a lovely multi-tiered garden, and a small lake on the property.

*Meal Plan Breakfast

You will leave for Udaipur this morning, stopping along the way to see the exquisite Ranakpur Jain temple complex. This magnificent temple, which measures around 60 by 62 metres, was built with light-coloured marble. The temple is supported by around 1444 marble pillars that have been meticulously sculpted. No two pillars are alike since they are all uniquely carved. Another claim is that there are too many pillars to count and that every statue faces another statue. One pillar, in particular, has been twisted on purpose. See if you can find it by casting your gaze across the confusing maze of intricately carved pillars. Because only God can make something faultless, although this lovely structure was built by human mortals, it is crooked.

Continue on to Udaipur, which has a long royal history and a lovely environment that will thrill the eye. It is bathed with romanticism and is also known as the City of Sunrise and the City of Lakes. It displays a beautiful scene of shimmering blue lakes, green hills, and grand white marble buildings, in stark contrast to its desert neighbours. It offers a rainbow of colours in contrast to the bleak surroundings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast; Length of Stay: 2 Nights

The City Royal, Rajasthan's biggest palace complex, is the first stop on your morning tour of the city. It is a magnificent complex with frescoed galleries and decorative mirror works. Continue on to the Jagdish Temple, one of Udaipur's well-known temples. This temple was built in the Indo-Aryan architectural style and is a part of the City Palace complex in Udaipur. Maharana Jagat Singh, who ruled Udaipur from 1628 to 1653, constructed the Jagdish temple in 1651. The universe's protector, Lord Vishnu (Laxmi Narayan), is the subject of the shrine. The fact that it is the biggest temple in Udaipur is a source of pride.

Visit Sahelion ki Bari Gardens, which Maharana Sangram Singh created in the middle of the 18th century, as you continue your journey.
The phrase "The Garden of the Maidens," when translated literally, conjures up vivid images of the opulent lifestyle of the ladies of the court. According to legend, the garden was created for the 48 girls who made up the Maharana's dowry.

A boat trip on Lake Pichola's calm waters marks the conclusion of your journey. Maharana Udai Singh expanded the lovely Lake Pichola after he established the city. Along the lake's east bank, the city palace stretches out over a considerable area. In the heart of the Rajasthani desert, the city of Udaipur stands majestically above the lake, and you can see it from the boat. The Dhobi (laundry) ghats will be visible to you.

It's free time in the afternoon.

*Breakfast on the menu

Go to the airport this morning early for your journey to Bombay, which was renamed Mumbai in 1995. In the 500 years after the Portuguese claimed to have "discovered" Mumbai, it expanded from its original seven islands. Since then, a number of reclamations have connected these islands, which were once home to fishing colonial towns. Currently a huge metropolis with a population of over 10 million and India's financial centre.

You will move on to tour the city after breakfast at your accommodation.

The Gateway to India is where your tour starts. The landmark of Bombay, which up until the invention of air travel was the only doorway to India, is the Gateway of India. It was constructed as a monument honouring King George and Queen Mary's 1911 trip to India. The seafront Boulevard known as Marine Drive will subsequently be used to transport you. The breeze from the Arabian Sea blows over Marine Drive in the evening, and as the streetlights on this U-shaped road light up, the view from south Bombay's skyscrapers or from the exclusive neighbourhood resembles a Queen's Necklace. This is why it is also known as the Queen's Necklace. You will go to the marble Jain temples honouring the first Jain Tirthankara. From the temples, you will be taken to Malabar Hill via the Hanging Gardens, which are constructed over Bombay's reservoir, and the Tower of Silence, a circular stone structure where Parsis bury their dead to be eaten by vultures.

One can have a wide-angle vista of scenic Marine Drive from this location. After that, you will be taken to the Dhobi Ghats, a sizable open-air laundry that is fascinating to see.

You'll pass a spectacular train station on the road. The Victoria Terminus was constructed in the year of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee and was modelled after St. Pancras Station in London. In design James Cameron, a journalist referred to it as "Victorian-Gothic-Saracenic-Italianate-Oriental-St. Pancras-Baroque," it is an unusual collection of domes, spires, Corinthian columns, and minarets. In 1853, the first train in India departed from this station, and more than 500,000 commuters utilise it every day today.

The Father of the Nation's residence during his early trips to the city is Mani Bhawan (Gandhi Memorial), where you will pay a visit to cap off your tour. The space where Gandhi stayed has been preserved in its original form, and the scenes from Gandhi's life captured in photos and models are particularly fascinating.

*Breakfast Plan* 2-Night Minimum

Head to the jetty this morning to catch a sail to the tranquil and heavily forested Elephanta Island, where the caverns reside. Although their beginnings are unclear, the rock-cut architecture of the caverns has been dated to between the 5th and 8th centuries. The caves are carved out of solid basalt rock and were once decorated, but only vestiges now survive.

There are no classes in the afternoon. *Meal Plan Breakfast

Head to the airport to catch a flight to another country.

*Meal Plan Breakfast