Compare Classic Rajasthan by Breathtakers Tours vs Inspirational India, a Wander Women Journey, Summer 2022 by Insight Vacations

DAY 1 ARRIVE IN DELHI

Flight detail – To Be Advised

Meals Included – None

Welcome to Delhi!

On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met on arrival at Indira Gandhi International airport terminal, our representative will receive you at the visitor’s lounge, with a paging sign bearing your name. You will then be escorted to your hotel in a private vehicle. Overnight at Delhi.

DAY 2 DELHI

Meals Included – Breakfast

Delhi, the vibrant capital city of India lying along the River Yamuna, is a teaming metropolis of 14 million people and nowhere in the Country is the contrast between old and new more obvious. Seven cities haveexisted here since the 10th century, ruled over by a succession of Rajputs, Turks, Afghans, Mughals and the British. Delhi is two cities in one; the Old Delhi of the Mughals, created by Shah Jehan after moving his Capital from Agra in 1638 AD is still a medieval district of narrow lanes, forts, mosques and bazaars. The second, New Delhi, built by the British during 1911-1931 and characterized by Sir Edwin Lutyens architecture, is a spacious and well-designed metropolis of broad avenues, grand imperial buildings and landscaped gardens. New Delhi is a surprisingly green city with its tree lined avenues, parks and natural forest and one of the City’s hidden delights is the picturesque Lodi Gardens set around Mughal tombs. Today start the drive along with Rajpath, a two mile long avenue originally the focal point of British India and now used for parades; lined with ornamental canals the views in both directions are imposing. Drive past India Gate, built to commemorate the Indian and British soldiers who died in World War 1, Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Standing at the crest of Raisina Hill, Lutyen’s 20th Century architectural masterpiece was built for the viceroy during British rule and is now the President’s residence. Thereafter visit to Old Delhi previously known as Shahjahanabad. Visit by rickshaw ride the chaotic, noisy and bustling markets of Chandni Chowk, where trading continues in the maze of shops as it has done over the Centuries. Stop at the magnificent Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India and the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jehan. Afternoon visit one of the most inspirational monuments of Delhi, Humayun’s Tomb. The earliest great example of a Mughal garden tomb and the forerunner to the ornate Mughal style of architecture later perfected in the Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1565 by a Persian architect. Surrounded by well maintained gardens it is a wonderfully atmospheric place to visit. End the day with visit to the majestic Bangla Sahib Gurudwara. A holy place for Sikhs across the world, the holy waters of its pond are believed to have healing properties. The Gurudwara grounds include a community temple, a community kitchen, a school, a library and an art gallery. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

DAY 3 DELHI – NAWALGARH

Journey Time: Approx .5 hour drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today you will commence your drive to Nawalgarh Fondly known as "the land of Havelis" or "open air art gallery", this miniature town of Nawalgarh is located around 30 kms away from the town of Jhunjhunu and does absolute justice to the name given to it. It is said that the Marwaris who were off to cosmo cities like Bombay and Calcutta in search of work, used to send their hard earned money back to their homes in Nawalgarh. When their businesses started to flourish, they sent back artists to Nawalgarh in order to build plush palaces and show off their wealth. This lead to the rich architecture of this little town in Rajasthan. On arrival check- in at Hotel. Afternoon proceed for the city tour of Havelis and palaces around the place. Overnight stay at hotel in Nawalgarh.

DAY 4

NAWALGARH – BIKANER

Journey Time – Approx. 5.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today commence your drive to Bikaner and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Located in the midst of Thar Desert, Bikaner is a "cultural paradise and a traveller's haven". The city will mesmerize you with the camels sauntering its beautiful sand dunes and captivate you with its ancient palaces and forts. Rightly called as one of the three great desert kingdoms of Rajasthan, the dazzling city boasts of old-world charm, opulent havelis and depicts a pleasing bygone era of the Rajputs. Best known as the "camel country" for breeding some best-known riding camels, Bikaner also happens to house one of the only two models of the biplane used by the British in World War Afternoon start the sightseeing of Bikaner with visit to Junagarh Fort - An impregnable bastion that holds the distinction of having never been captured. It was constructed in 1588 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of Emperor Akbar’s most distinguished generals. The fort complex houses some magnificent palaces constructed in red sandstone and marble and visitors can feast their eyes on an attractive assortment of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows. Later visit Lallgarh Palace and Museum. Maharaja Ganga Singh commissioned the construction of this majestic palace. This architectural marvel is made entirely of red sandstone and was built in 1902 to commemorate his father, Maharaja Lal Singh. The design was conceptualised by Sir Swinton Jacob, who created this oriental fantasy by blending Rajputana, Islamic and European architecture. End the day with a visit to Jain Temple. Overnight stay at hotel in Bikaner.

DAY 5 BIKANER – JAISALMER

Journey Time – Approx. 5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast & Dinner

Today commence your drive to Jaisalmer and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading center and a princely state in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the "Golden City," it's distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture. Dominating the skyline is Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel buttressed by 99 bastions. Behind its massive walls stand the ornate Maharaja's Palace and intricately carved Jain temples. Evening is at your leisure. Dinner at resort Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer.

DAY 6 JAISALMER

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today start the sightseeing of Jaisalmer with a visit to Jaisalmer Fort locally known as Sonar Quila. It is one of the largest forts in the world located in Jaisalmer City. It was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal, from where it originates its name. The fort is standing proudly in the middle of the unending golden sands of Thar Desert. Thereafter visit The Patwon Ji ki Haveli, it is an interesting piece of Architecture and is the most important among the havelis in Jaisalmer. This is precisely because of two things, first that it was the first haveli erected in Jaisalmer and second, that it is not a single haveli but a cluster of 5 small havelis. Afterwards visit Jain Temples, the marvelous treasures of the desert city. Having archaeological value as well as religious sentiments associated with it. Dating back to the 12th and 15th century, these temples have intricate designs on it. Later afternoon enjoy the Camel ride on Sand dunes. Dinner will be at hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaisalmer.

DAY 7 JAISALMER – JODHPUR

Journey Time – 5 hours drive

Included – Breakfast

Today you will be commence your drive to Jodhpur. On arrival check-in at Hotel. Evening at Leisure Overnight stay at hotel in Jodhpur.

DAY 8 JODHPUR - UDAIPUR

Journey Time – 5.5 hours drive

Included – Breakfast

Post breakfast proceed for the sightseeing of Mehrangarh Fort. Epitomizing the romance and feudal splendor of Rajasthan with the majestic Mehrangarh Fort towering over it, the city of Jodhpur was once a flourishing trade center for opium, silk and copper. Painted a brilliant shade of blue, Jodhpur is the last bastion of fort ramparts, colorful bazaars, animated people with their storytelling traditions before the desert sands and dunes stretch away towards the horizon. After sightseeing commence your drive to Udaipur and en-route stop at Ranakpur Jain Temples (Temple opens at 12 noon). Set in a secluded wooded valley of the Aravali Hills, the 15th century Ranakpur Temple complex is one of the five great holy places of the Jain faith. The grand scale and the sheer architectural complexity of the white marble temple along with its exquisite sculptural ornamentation makes it the single most impressive example of Indian temple architecture - it is a hymn in marble. Each of the temple’s pillars is carved with different patterns of floral motifs and the play of light and shadow on the pillars as the sun moves is one of the glories of this monument. After sightseeing continue drive to Udaipur and on arrival check in at your hotel. Udaipur is an oasis nestled in the lap of the Aravalli Mountain range and has a tranquil serenity that belies its tumultuous past. Udaipur, originally a thriving caravanserai later became a capital of local, royal clans. Udaipur’s serene lakes, beautiful gardens and magnificent palaces lend it a nostalgia that has often earned it the acclaim of being one of the most romantic places in the world. Apart from a place in history, Udaipur has been immortalized in contemporary culture in iconic films from Jewel in the Crown, James Bond’s Octopussy to Gandhi. On arrival check-in at Hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

DAY 9 UDAIPUR

Included – Breakfast

Begin your day with visit to the City Palace. City Palace is blend of stern Rajput military architecture and lavish Mughal-inspired decorative art. This is the largest palace in Rajasthan sprawled out over an area of 5 acres, built between the 16th and 20th centuries. From here continue on towards the Jagdish Temple, a three-storied wonder of architecture comprising of an intricately sculpted spire, beautifully carved pillars, decorated ceilings and painted walls dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sustainer in Hindu mythology. Afternoon visit Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. Initially, the temple was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. Since that time, Eklingji has been the ruling deity of Mewar rulers. In the later years, it was repaired and modified by various Kings, to clean the remnants of obliteration made by the attacks of Mohammedans. After temple visit return to Udaipur and enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the Lake Pichola. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

DAY 10 UDAIPUR – JAIPUR

Drive –Approx. 6 hours

Meals Included – Breakfast & Lunch

Post breakfast drive to Jaipur enroute Lunch at Bijayniwas Palace. On arrival at Jaipur check-in at Hotel. Jaipur, or the City of Victory, was founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and is a well-planned city of magnificent palaces and building. Built from rose-colored terra cotta, it has given it the name 'Pink City'. Nowadays the Capital of Rajasthan with a population of over 1 million, it is a city full of contrasts with bazaars teeming with turbaned elders and jean clad youngsters to camels, horses and a multitude of vehicles. Jaipur’s focal point is the magnificent Hawa Mahal, otherwise known as the Palace of the Winds. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

DAY 11 JAIPUR

Meals Included – Breakfast

Begin your day with a visit to Amber Fort, the ancient capital of the region prior to Jaipur, and located 11 km north of the City. Now a deserted complex crowning the crest of a hill with panoramic views, Amber Fort is extremely well preserved and a fascinating place to explore. The forts majestic ramparts follow the natural contours of the ridge and the palace is full of hidden gems – the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of mirrors), Jas Mandir with its latticed windows and glass inlay work and Zenana. Thereafter visit the opulent Maharaja's City Palace which occupies the heart of Jai Singh II’s city and has been home to the City’s rulers for 200 years. A superb blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the interiors of the Palace are lavishly furnished and decorated and the Museum houses a fabulous collection of textiles, art and crafts and arms. Afterwards visit Jantar Mantar or Observatory was built by Jai Singh II, a keen astronomer, in 1728. End the day with visit to Hawa Mahal Palace also known as Palace of Winds. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

DAY 12 JAIPUR – AGRA

Journey Time – Approx. 5.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today commence your drive to Agra and en-route stop at Chand Baori (Step well) at Abhaneri village. Chand Baori is the oldest surviving step well in Rajasthan and probably India. It was built by the King named Chanda or Chandra of the Nikhumbha dynasty. The time of the stepwell is 8-9th CE making it 1200-1300 years old After sightseeing commence your drive to Agra and on arrival check-in at your hotel, Agra, a city whose origins can be traced back to the days of the Mahabharata (the epic poem of Great India). Agra, part of the Delhi Sultanate was captured by a Persian-Turkic emperor, made into a capital and later gained prominence under Mughal emperors like Akbar, Jehangir and Shahjahan. Evening visit Mehtab Bagh Gardens to see Taj Mahal from opposite side of Yamuna River. Mehtab Bagh garden – which legend claims was to be site of a Black Taj that the emperor Shah Jahan wished to build for himself, facing the monument he’d built for his love. Instead the Mehtab Bagh is a four garden layout, typical of Mughal constructions worldwide – with beautiful flowering plants, pools and fountains. Overnight stay at hotel in Agra.

DAY 13 AGRA – DELHI

Journey Time – Approx. 4.5 hours drive

Meals Included – Breakfast

Early morning visit Taj Mahal for during sunrise. Taj Mahal – the magnificent mausoleum, which the emperor Shahjahan had built for his queen, Mumtaz and India’s own jewel in the list of 7 Wonders of the Modern World. Let our storyteller guide weave tales of Agra and the mausoleum, as also the romance between Shahjahan and Mumtaz. Return to hotel for breakfast. Morning start the sightseeing of Agra with a visit to Agra Fort – one of the most important and robustly built stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with a number of richly decorated buildings – the Agra Fort. Let our guide tell you the rich, evocative Mughal history of Agra Fort, where emperors like Babar, Humayun, Akbar, among other historic characters take centrestage. Thereafter visit Itimad-Ud-Daulah - Follow the road less traveled with Itmad-ud-Daulah, a marble tomb built for the grandfather of Mumtaz (the queen interred at the Taj Mahal) also known as Baby Taj, is said to have inspired the Taj Mahal. After sightseeing commence your drive to Delhi and on arrival check-in at your hotel. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

DAY 14 DELHI - ONWARDS DESTINATION

Flight: To be advised

Meals Included – Breakfast

Today you will be transferred to airport for flight to onwards destination.

*** End of the services***

Day 1: Welcome to Delhi

After your arrival at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport, you are greeted with the traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow female travellers for a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: The hustle and bustle of Old Delhi Relaxed Start

Dive into Old Delhi’s symphony of sounds, smells, tastes and colours as you wander down beautiful narrow lanes and taste authentic Delhi street food. Visit an elegant haveli, an old private mansion and enjoy a delicious lunch with a local family.This afternoon, visit the Sikh temple Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and take a walk through their community kitchen where you witness the practice of langar: serving food free of charge to anyone who is hungry. This beautiful act promoting equality also involves the Sikh women who help with the preparation of the meals.

Day 3: Exploring New Delhi

Today explore New Delhi, largely built by the British in the early 20th century. Drive along the Rajpath to see the war memorial India Gate and the colonnaded Parliament House. Visit the 16th century Tomb of Emperor Humayun. This marvelous example of Mughal architecture went on to inspire the design of the Taj Mahal. Continue your exploration of Delhi with Insight Choice. Choose to get creative and hands on as you take part in a jewelery making class. Alternatively, enjoy abhyangam, an Aryuveda massage practice whereby oil is applied to your body by two skilled therapists.

Day 4: Delhi to Agra

Journey to Agra and visit its historical fort complex resembling a walled city. The Agra fort is made up of a series of impressive buildings including the Sheesh Mahal or “glass palace” and the The Muthamman Burj. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Sheroes Café and meet the inspiring women behind it who are survivors of acid attacks. Be encouraged by their resilience and enjoy this opportunity to chat to them about their stories and support their cause in raising awareness.

Day 5: The unmatched beauty of the Taj Mahal

Put on a traditional saree in preparation for your visit to the Taj Mahal, a true highlight of your journey. Following the death of his wife, Emperor Shahjahan vowed to honor her with a memorial of unmatched beauty. He commissioned the world's best craftsmen and 20,000 workers to build this mausoleum. You can’t help but be awestruck by this delicately carved white marble jewel. Later, enjoy lunch on your way to Jaipur, the stunning capital city of Rajasthan state. In the evening visit the local market and shop for a traditional Indian dress for the upcoming Diwali celebrations.

Day 6: Jaipur through the locals’ eyes

On your city tour see the Hawa Maha, the Palace of the Winds. Its stunning lace-like facadehas 953 windows. Visit the Jantar Mantar Royal Observatory, and the neighbouring City Palace, housing a fabulous collection of Rajasthani and Mughal art.  Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet the ladies of the Pink City Rickshaw Company, dedicated to empowering women from low-income households. Continue your exploration of Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to take part in a demonstration of the art of Mehndi, the traditional henna body painting. Alternatively, learn a few new moves at an energetic Bollywood dance class.  Tonight, join a local family to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Get involved in the preparations for Lakshmi Puja by lighting oil lamps around the house, to invite the goddess Lakshmi to come home. Learn how to prepare traditional meals by watching a cooking demonstration before feasting on a delicious dinner.

Day 7: The Pink City

Start your day with a yoga session led by a female guru and explore the deeper meaning of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and the importance of harmony between body, mind and spirit. Explore Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to go on a walking tour in the bazaars where you will meet the colourful characters involved in gem-polishing, tie die or bangle-making as well as the world-renowned pickle makers. Alternatively, visit a Blue Pottery workshop and see how this characteristic local pottery is made. In the late afternoon, ascend the hilltop Amber Fort by jeep and experience India’s spiritual majesty with a special Hindu blessing ceremony. Feel like royalty as you dine at the opulent 1135 AD Restaurant and savour mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine accompanied by impeccable service.

Day 8: Chandelao and the Blue City of Jodhpur

Meet the female artisans of the Sunder Rang Arts and Crafts Project in Chandelao village, producing traditional Rajasthani textiles and handicrafts. The workshop enables and empowers women to earn a fair living through developing their craft skills and providing a sustainable income. After your lunch, continue to the Blue City of Johdpur and tonight take a stroll through the Ghanta Ghar, the clock tower market. Perhaps pick up some Mathania chilis or flavoured teas and try some lassi.

Day 9: Exploring Jodhpur

This morning, venture to a nearby village and meet the Bishnoi people, who for 500 years have protected nature to ensure the survival of endangered species like the majestic black buck antelope. On your return to Jodhpur, visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and see the marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada. In the afternoon, meet an astrologer and learn about the importance of the influence of planets. Indulge in a Highlight Dinner at Khaas Bagh, a worthy tribute to the legendary lifestyle of princely India surrounded by handpicked memorabilia of the Raj Period that include a fleet of dazzling vintage cars.

Day 10: Ranakpur And Udaipur

Travel to Ranakpur to explore the elaborate carvings and classic architecture of the Jain Temples before meeting a priest and attending a special prayer ceremony. Enjoy an al fresco lunch served under a 300-year-old banyan tree at Mountbatten Lodge, a unique boutique hotel in the wilderness. Continue to Udaipur. Founded in the 16th century, the city is set around a series of artificial lakes and surrounded by the ridges of the Aravalli Hills.

Day 11: Explore Udaipur Relaxed Start

Explore the City Palace complex, visit the Jagdish Temple and explore the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Seva Mandir Organization, working to empower women by building stronger and more ethical communities. Wander through the bazaars to see the spice and textile markets and later cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Tonight, experience Bedla hospitality at your Celebration Dinner. The Bedla Family had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Hear their fascinating stories and enjoy excellent entertainment while dining on superb culinary delights and toasting to your journey in incredible India.

Day 12: Fly to Delhi

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you fly to Delhi and your journey comes to an end. For your onward travels please schedule your flight after 21:00 from Delhi.