Pushkar Highlights…
Day 11 - 12. : Pushkar
The fair is initially devoted to the trade of camels, sheep, horses and cows. Their
owners, dressed in colorful attires use all their persuasive skills to sell them at most
competitive prices. The festival offers a perfect opportunity to the local people
specially the womenfolk to purchase the most exquisite jewelry items. The garment stall
selling various garments with attractive ties n die work, patchwork and tattoo shops add
to the colors of the festivals.
As the fair approaches a climax, its time for the merriment. The fair observes various
breathtakingly competitive events including camel races, musical chairs and beauty
contest. There are jugglers, fire dancers and a variety of swings that make this festival
an absolutely awesome event.
Overnight Swiss Tented Accommodation
Day 13. : Pushkar / Mandawa
Following breakfast, we check out of our hotel and ride into the heart of the Thar
Desert to Mandawa, which used to be a medieval Indian trade city and still has beautifully
preserved houses of medieval Indian traders in typical Rajput (Rajasthani) style.
Upon arrival, check into Castle Mandawa, which is a curious mixture of the old and the
new. Medieval turreted towers, palanquin-roofed balconies, blend with modern comforts in
old-world rooms. Family portraits, antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this
family-run resort where tradition still runs strong. Even time is measured by a different
clock... a huge brass gong struck by the resident timekeepers at the fort every hour.
Afternoon, we walk through the main (and the only) street of the town. We visit some of
the ancient and beautifully preserved 'havelis' (mansions). They would give us an idea of
how families lived in those days. The havelis have beautiful paintings depicting
mythological themes on the walls. Made from vegetable dyes these paintings have lasted
centuries and still are quite sharp. Today, the world comes to this storybook town to see
its colourful frescoes on every subject under the sun, that is, ranging from the religious
to the erotic; from copies of popular English prints to witty social satire, rendered in
the inimitable style of the local artist.
Overnight at Castle Mandawa.
Day 14. : Mandawa
After your introduction to the place & people yesterday, you could plan your safari
today at your own pace & select your own subjects & spots. A visit to the local
school would be interesting. The school is no more than a compartmentalized courtyard with
children sitting on coir mats. They wave at you frantically & shout at the top of
their voice deliriously as soon as we walk in. Sure enough, we have managed to create an
enjoyable pandemonium for some time. Walk into the bye-lanes, but watch out for the donkey
carts. The street corner barbers, the tea stall on the pavements, gypsy women in their
colorful dresses are all a small part of this greatly vibrant town.
Overnight at Castle Mandawa.
Day 15. : Mandawa / Jaipur
A leisurely breakfast and then drive to Jaipur .
In a land steeped with heritage, picturesque with exquisite architecture, in a state
vibrant with heroic memories and romance, lies the Dream City of Jaipur. The people are
dynamic, martial and, need we say it, colourful. Here every walk through the by lanes is a
walk through history. Indeed, Jaipur could be compared to a vast open-air museum. Pink
turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis' (ladies scarves). Camel's buggies and elephants are
as commonly found as motorcars and buses.
Upon arrival, check in to Hotel Alsisar Haveli - This is the flagship hotel in a
bouquet of heritage hotels. The Haveli lies tucked away in the heart of Pink City, Jaipur.
It brings back to life the grandeur of the old days and is a memorable regal Rajasthan
experience for the guests. Refurbished in 1982, the Haveli incorporates the finesse of
traditional Rajput architecture and a site to behold. The large elevated platform that
dominates the central area of the ground floor and once used for get-togethers by the
gents of the house is now open to guests who can witness puppet shows and folk dances
while enjoying their snacks or drinks. The spacious lobby which opens into the chowk
(inner courtyard), was a century ago used by the ladies of the house and is now open to
guests. You will treasure this experience of staying in an authentic Rajput home.
Evening, escorted walks along the lanes and bye-lanes of the old city. The city is
best-explored on foot and only the inquisitive visitor willing to go into the rastaas
(streets) and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of the city. Jaipur's colorful bazaars
tantalize the eye with enameled blue pottery, exquisite gem-studded jewelry, engraved
brass work traditional block-printed fabrics and brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together
with traditional crafts and miniature painting.
Overnight At Alsisar Haveli
Day 16.: Jaipur
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to
be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of
Jaipur. We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing
through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred
years.
For more on the tourist attractions of Jaipur, click here. Jaipur Tour
Overnight At Alsisar Haveli
Day 17. : Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
Following breakfast, drive to Agra. Our first stop will be at the ancient city of
Fatehpur Sikri (ghost capital) for a tour of the magnificent and world heritage buildings
still in a state of perfect reservation.
Continue riding to Agra. Upon arrival check into hotel The Trident, which presents a
unique and relaxed ambience and an ideal base from which to explore the Taj Mahal, a world
heritage site. This elegant low-rise hotel is situated in six acres of beautiful gardens.
The central courtyard and stonework at this hotel is reminiscent of the Mughal era.
Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world.
However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much
and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this
is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter
how high your expectations are, the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and
beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sun set we visit the
Taj Mahal to witness this spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in
every aspect of its construction, the inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in
pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable.
We would also have an opportunity to visit a marble showroom where we would be able to
witness the inlay work done on marble just as at the Taj Mahal
Overnight at Hotel Trident
Day 18. : Agra / Delhi
Following breakfast, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside
reflect an interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by
Emperor Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo
the story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid & other magnificent buildings reflect
the skill of the ancient Indian architects.
Afternoon free for independent activities. Later in the evening ride to Delhi, The
journey is through one of India's finest 4-lane dual carriageway. Also, your travel in
your luxury car would ensure the smoothest and the most comfortable journeys. Also, you
would have opportunities to stop at well appointed restaurants for refreshments and
washroom facilities.
Meeting and assistance upon arrival and transfer to hotel Connaught for an overnight
Overnight At The Connaught
Day 19. : Delhi/Departure
Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight.
END OF TOUR
We also offer customized tours to destinations in Rajasthan. We will be happy to
customize this tour for you to suit your interests and convenience. |
