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

ARRIVE IN DELHI

MEALS INCLUDED: NONE

DAY 01: Arrive Delhi by flight from onwards destination On arrival at Indira Gandhi International airport terminal, a BreathtakersTours 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 stay at hotel in Delhi.

SIGHTSEEING OF DELHI

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 02: 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 have existed 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 theMughals, created by Shah Jehan after moving his Capital from Agra in 1638AD 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 welldesigned 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 hiddendelights is the picturesque Lodi Gardens set around Mughal tombs. As the Country’s cultural Centre, it is home to a number of museums including the national Museum, the Museum of Modern art, the Museum of Natural History and the creative Arts and Crafts Museum where artisans can be seen at work.

Today start the sightseeing of Delhi and fill your day with following activities:

• Visit to Old Delhi with a rickshaw Ride in Chandni Chowk market.
• Visit Colonial Delhi.
• Visit Humayun's Tomb.
• End the day with visit to Bangla Sahib Gurudwara.

Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

DELHI – VARANASI

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 03: Today you will be transferred to Delhi airport for flight to Varanasi.Upon arrival at Varanasi airport, you will met by Breathtakers Tours representative and thereafter continue with sightseeing of Varanasi. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India, the city draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters and perform funeral rites. Along the city's winding streets are some 2,000 temples, including Kashi Vishwanath, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. At the confluence of two tributaries of the Ganges River, Varanasi, is a city of many names, bearing a history of over 3000 years, and had reached its zenith as a center of religion and learning in the 7th century BC. A city steeped in spiritual sanctity and knowledge, which three great world religions – Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism, acknowledge as a place of homage. Afternoon visit Sarnath – located on the outskirts of the city where The Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after achievingenlightenment. After sightseeing you will be transferred to the hotel. Evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi.

VARANASI

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 04: Early morning head to river to board the boat.You will be in the perfect spot to watch the colorful Ghats slowly cometo life, as pilgrims begin to bathe themselves in the holy river. Walkthrough the narrow lanes of Varanasi to see life around the riverside.Return to hotel for breakfast.Later continue with sightseeing of Varanasi city.Afternoon take walk in the narrow lanes and market of Varanasi.Evening, witness the “Aarti” ceremony on the banks of river Ganges.Overnight stay at hotel in Varanasi.

VARANASI - AGRA

MEALS INCLUDED:BREAKFAST

DAY 05: After a leisurely morning, you will be transferred to airport for flight to Agra. Upon arrival at Agra airport, you will met by Breathtakers Tours representative and will be transferred to the hotel.Agra was the capital of the Mughal court during the 16th and 17th centuries and its sublime monuments date from that era. The emperors Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jehan governed their vast empires from here and as prolific builders; artisans from Persia, Central Asia and other parts of India were attracted by their patronage. The resulting luxurious palaces, tombs, forts and gardens dot the picturesque riverine region along the Yamuna River; three of which, the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatepur Sikri have been declared World Heritage Sites. Agra is renowned for its delicate Pietra Dura work; a Florentine technique imported by Jahangir of arranging minute pieces of precious and semi-precious stones in complex, stylized floral and geometric designs into a marble base.

Afternoon start the sightseeing of Agra and fill your day with following activities:

•  Visit Agra Fort.
• Towards sunset visit Mehtab Bagh Gardens to see Taj Mahal from opposite side of Yamuna River.
• Overnight stay at hotel in Agra.

AGRA – JAIPUR

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 06: Sunrise proceed for the visit of Taj Mahal Today commence your drive to Jaipur (Approx. 4.5 hours) and upon arrival check-in at your hotel. Late afternoon explore the markets of Pink city. Evening is at your leisure. Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

JAIPUR

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 07: 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.

Today start the sightseeing of Jaipur and visit the following monuments:

• Amer Fort.
• City Palace
• Jantar Mantar (Observatory)
• Hawa Mahal Palace

Overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

JAIPUR – UDAIPUR

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST, LUNCH

DAY 08: Today you will be transferred to Udaipur by road. Enroute lunch at Bijayniwas Palace Regarded by many as the most romantic city in India, Udaipur is an enchanting image of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes and green hills. It is an oasis of colour in a stark and arid region. The city is dominated by the massive City Palace overlooking Lake Pichola with its white island palaces. Picturesque havelis, ghats and temples along the lake front, lively bazaars of the old city and a relaxing atmosphere make Udaipur perfect for wandering around and a visit is considered one of India’s greatest highlights. Afternoon explore the markets of Old city. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

UDAIPUR

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 09: Today start the sightseeing of Udaipur and visit the following monuments:

• City Palace
• Saheliyon-ki-Bari

Later enjoy an exclusive boat ride on Lake Pichola. Overnight stay at hotel in Udaipur.

UDAIPUR - DELHI – ONWARDSDESTINATION

MEALS INCLUDED: BREAKFAST

DAY 10: Today you will be transferred to Udaipur airport to board your flight for Delhi.

On arrival you can connect with for your flight to onwards destination.

*** END OF BREATHTAKERS TOURS 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.