Highlights

Arrive at New Delhi’s International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building after which you would be transferred to your 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. The first impressions for any visitor traveling in from the airport are of a specious, garden city, tree-lined with a number of beautiful parks.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

COST PROPOSAL

Our Nett applicable rates Per Person on Twin / Double sharing (IN USD)

Rates valid from 01 April - 30 September 2019 and 01 April 2019 - 31 April 2019

Rates are based on current rate of exchange of 1 USD = 77.50 INR

The final price will be calculated on the prevailing ROE on date of booking.

There will be supplement for X – Mas and New Year Eve dinner which will be mandatory during the stay on 24^th Dec and 31^st Dec in any of the city. Will advise you the cost once fianlised by the hotel.

Detailed Day Wise Itinerary

DAY 01 : ARRIVE AT DELHI

Arrive at New Delhi’s International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our representative will meet you as you exit the arrival terminal building after which you would be transferred to your 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 spiralling skyscrapers the remnants of a bygone time in the form of its many monuments stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy. The first impressions for any visitor traveling in from the airport are of a specious, garden city, tree-lined with a number of beautiful parks.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 02 : DELHI

Morning proceed for full day sightseeing of Old & New Delhi. Introduction to Delhi starts with a heritage walk to Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad) visiting Red Fort, Jama Mosque, Chandni Chowk and Raj Ghat . In the 17th century, the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, made his capital in Shahjahanabad, the area that broadly covers present-day Old Delhi, also called the walled city.

Jama Masjid is the largest and most well-known mosque in India. It is flanked by Red fort on one side and old city Chandni Chowk on another side. Built by Shah Jahan in 17th century, Jama Masjid is one of the most crowded destinations in Delhi for pilgrims and tourists.

Also have an outer glimpse of The Red Fort .

The Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century that took around 9 years to complete this magnificent structure and around 10 million rupees to build the fort. The Red Fort is a masterpiece of architecture and is one of the most visited spots in old Delhi. The Red Fort, the last fort built in Delhi, has witnessed the vicissitudes of fate, the Mughals, the British, and finally the first light of Indian Independence.

The romance of the bazaars of Delhi can be experienced at its best in and around Chandni Chowk and it’s by lanes. Today, the walled city is one of the metropolis’ most crowded, chaotic and captivating areas, with a bamboozling orchestra of sights, and sounds. According to legend, Chandni Chowk market was established during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The legend also says that Chandni Chowk market was designed by Jahanara-Emperor Shah Jahan's favourite daughter.

Following walk enjoy Rickshaw ride in the by lanes of Chandni Chowk.

Later visit Raj Ghat , resting place of Mahatma Gandhi's. Raj Ghat remembers the man who is known as the Father of the Nation for his tireless and pacifist work to reclaim India's independence.

Following visit of Raj Ghat, proceed for Lutyen’s Delhi covering a photo stop at India Gate followed by orientation tour of Raj path, Parliament House and President House.

Late afternoon visits to Humayun’s Tomb .

Humayun’s the second Mughal Emperor of India died in 1556, and his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. Humayun’s Tomb is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture.

Later you will visit to Qutab Minar . Qutab Minar is amongst the tallest and the most famous monuments in the world. This beautiful minaret is 234 feet high and is regarded as the tallest individual tower in the world. The Qutab Minar is one of the many masterpieces that depicted the sheer brilliance of the Mughal architects. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 for the use of the mu'azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first storey, to which were added three more storeys by his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36).

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 03 : DELHI TO VARANASI (BY AIR)

Morning transfer to New Delhi airport to board flight for Varanasi

Flight Number : Jet Airways / 9W 2423

New Delhi Departure : 1045 Hrs

Varanasi Arrival : 1210 Hrs

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

The antiquity of Varanasi is veiled in immortal times and has been the center of religion, learning and civilization since ages. It has an endearing universal mystique, which has to be experienced to be understood. The city gets its inherent charm from the location as it’s situated on west side of the Holy Ganges. The principal attraction being the bathing Ghats, that are always bustling with life at any given time of the day.

Evening walk around the Ghat of river Ganga and witness Aarti procession.

Dashaswamedh Ghat is the prime attraction in Varanasi. It is the oldest and holiest Ghat in Varanasi. The Ghat is the venue for renowned evening Ganga Aarti . The aarti is performed daily by a group of young pundits (saints). Blowing of conch shell, waving of incense sticks, circular movement of lamps by the saints makes it a highly choreographed ceremony.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 04 : VARANASI

Early morning experience Boat Ride on River Ganga .

Later in morning enjoy city tour of Varanasi including visit Banaras Hindu University, New Vishwanath Temple , and Goddess Durga Temple . Banaras Hindu University (BHU) was founded by Pundit Madan Mohan Malviya in 1917 and is one of the oldest educational centers for the study of Sanskrit, Indian art, culture and music. It is spread over 1,300 acres and is one of the largest residential universities of Asia.

New Vishwanath Temple also known as Birla Temple is located inside the premises of Banaras Hindu University. The temple was constructed by famous industrialists of India – The Birla’s. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is the replica of original Kashi Vishwanath Temple that was destroyed by Aurangzeb.

Goddess Durga Temple is one of the most popular temples in Varanasi and was built in 18th century by a Bengali Maharani. Legends say that the statue of Goddess Durga appeared of its own and is nor manmade. The structure of temple is magnificent and offers incredible spiritual atmosphere.

Later in afternoon, proceed for an excursion to Sarnath . Sarnath is a major Buddhist center in the world. After achieving enlightenment at Bodhgaya, Buddha, the 'Awakened One', delivered his first sermon here. It was sixth century then, when he also set in motion the wheel of law, the Dharma chakra. This dwelling place of the rishis, it was also known as 'Rishipatana' (the place of the Rishis or sages).

Buddha gave his first sermon in the Deer Park where he initiated his first five disciples into Buddhist monkshood. Buddhism found its roots in Sarnath, the birthplace of this way of life.

After excursion, return to Varanasi and evening is at leisure or free to stroll around local market on your own.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 05 : VARANASI TO KHAJURAHO (BY AIR)

Morning transfer to Varanasi airport to board flight for Khajuraho

Flight Number : Jet Airways / 9W 2423

Varanasi Departure : 1240 Hrs

Khajuraho Arrival : 1335 Hrs

Upon arrival at Khajuraho, transfer to hotel for check-in.

Khajuraho , the temple city of central India, is famous throughout the world for its exquisitely carved temples in stones. The historic city widely acclaimed for its lovely temples is located in the woody planes of Bundelkhand region. Architectural grandeur and delicacy of Khajuraho temples, has provided it with the prestigious status of a world heritage site by UNESCO. The centuries old temples are ornamented with most striking, erotic and aesthetic sculptures that expose the philosophy in the Hindu religion.

In evening experience light and sound show.

This fascinating light & sound spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th Century to the present day - narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachan – the Bollywood legend. The 50 minutes sound and light show is conducted in the garden of western group of temples. The show runs in Hindi and English every evening.

Stay overnight at hotel

DAY 06 : KHAJURAHO TO ORCHHA (175 KMS / 03 HRS)

Morning enjoy half day guided sightseeing tour includes visit to Eastern and Western Group of Temples .

Khajuraho has the largest cluster of Hindu and Jain Temples, famous for erotic sculptures. Khajuraho is a living example that proves that Kama Sutra originated in India.

The main temples are in the Western group , which features the magnificent Kandariya Mahadev Temple. It is the most beautiful and largest temple in Khajuraho. The tower of the temple is about 100 ft. high. The western group of temples is well known for their amazing elegance and wonderful framework.

The Eastern Group contains a number of exquisitely sculptured Jain temples. Parsvanath is the longest of Jain temples in the eastern group. The sculptures in this temple are non-erotic.

After sightseeing of Khajuraho, travel straight to Orchha by Surface.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Orchha is a city having its origin during the medieval times of 16th Century built by Bundela rulers and has many old timed palaces and temples reflecting grand old beauty, which existed in those times. The City was built by a Rajput leader Rudra Pratap Singh. He chose Orchha city as the capital, because it was on the Banks of Betwa River.

Stay overnight at hotel

DAY 07 : ORCHHA TO DATIA TO GWALIOR (140 KMS/03 HRS)

Morning proceed for the sightseeing of Orchha includes Orchha fort complex, Chaturbhuj Temple and Cenotaphs of Orchha . Orchha Fort is situated on the island on Betwa River. The scenic location apart, the fort has more to offer. It houses many palaces and temples. The three most important palaces seen here are Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal and the famous Rai Parveen Mahal . The Chhatries/Cenotaphs in Orchha bears relics to the royal glory and grandeur of the place during the bygone era. Situated besides the mighty River Betwa, the Chhatries are prominent travel attractions in Orchha. The beautifully constructed Chhatries in Orchha were constructed to symbolize the immense contribution of each ruler of the dynasty of Bundelkhand of the ancient times.

After sightseeing, travel to Gwalior by surface, enroute visit Datia

Datia lies on the track from Gwalior to Orchha. Town founded by the Bundela chief Raj Bir Singh Deo. He supported Prince Salim (later Emperor Jahangir) when he rebelled against his father, the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The palace at Datia is the best surviving examples of a style of architecture that arose in the late 16th and early 17th centuries in the Bundelkhand area under the reign of the Bundela Rajputs.

Later continue travel to Gwalior.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Gwalior , the formerly princely state of Madhya Pradesh was ruled by Scindia dynasty of the Marathas. The city is famed for its outstanding palaces, sacred temples and glorious monuments. With embracing structures like sandstone mosque, rock temples and fabulous statues, Gwalior city upkeeps its glorious tradition of the past. The majestic fort situated atop a hill, overlooking the entire city is an architectural gem. Situated on a prime location, Gwalior was a once dream city for many dynasties.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 08 : GWALIOR

Morning proceed for the sightseeing of Gwalior, visiting Gwalior Fort, Gujari Mahal, Jai Vilas Palace Museum and Tansen Tomb .

The magnificent Gwalior Fort

stands on an isolated rock, overlooking the Gwalior town. The fort contains a number of historic buildings. It is one of the biggest forts in India and a postage stamp has been issued by the Indian Postal Service to commemorate the importance of this fort. From historical records, it is established that it was built in the 8th century and the foundation was laid by Raja Suraj Sen. Both the fortress and the city have been integral to the history of the kingdoms of North India.

Gujari Mahal lies within the Gwalior Fort, it is considered as a marvel of medieval architecture. The Mahal reflects the love of Raja Man Singh Tomar for his Gujar Queen, Mrignani. The Mahal now serves as a museum and houses an extensive collection of stone carvings.

The Jai Vilas Palace was constructed by Maharaja Jayaji Rao Scindia in 1874 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1876. It is one of the finest examples of Europian architecture, designed and built by Sir Michael Filose. The architecture of Jai Vilas Palace has a strong Baroque influence, with long colonnades, pigmented windows, sweeping carriageways and axial views. The Scindia Museum, Jai Vilas Palace Gwalior is a living legacy and synonymous to excellence in perseverance of art and culture.

Tansen Tomb is a pillar of Hindustani Classical music. Tansen, the great Indian musician was the gem at the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Tansen was conferred the title of Miyan, by Emperor Akbar and since came to be known as Miyan Tansen. He wrote two important documents on music namely Sangeeta Sara and Rajmala.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 09 : GWALIOR TO BHOPAL (BY TRAIN)

Morning transfer to Gwalior railway station to board train for Bhopal.

Train Name : Bhopal Shatabdi

Departure Time : 0928 Hrs

Arrival Time : 1400 Hrs

Upon arrival at Bhopal railway station, transfer to hotel for check-in.

Later enjoy city tour would cover a visit to the Upper and Lower Lake, Bharat Bhawan, Taj-Ud-Masjid and Laxmi Narayan Temple . Lower Lake in Bhopal is situated in the serene surroundings of majestic hills and the massive upper lake. Also known as the Chota Talaab, the Lower Lake is separated from the Upper Lake by an over-bridge. On the other hand, Upper Lake

also called the Bada Talab is the oldest man-made lake in India. It is a massive earthen bund constructed across the Kolans River.

Museum of Mankind also called the Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya is located on the Shamla Hills. The museum is a truly a replica of tribal life. It has a vivid collection of pre-historic painted rock shelters. An open-air exhibition of contemporary tribal cultures and actual-size dwellings of typical tribal villages of Indian states are recreated that gives a true picture of a tribal habitat.

Taj-Ud-Masjid meaning ‘The Crown of Mosques’ is one of the largest and most elegant mosques. It provides a miraculous charm in its pink façade and the huge white-domed minarets. The three huge bulbous domes, an impressive main hallway with attractive pillars, marble flooring and a spacious courtyard are very conspicuous and add to the charm.

Laxmi Narayan Temple situated atop the Arera Hills is dedicated to goddess Lakshmi. The temple commands a panoramic view of the picture perfect city. The temple also houses a beautiful shrine of Lord Shiva, with his wife Parvathi along Laxmi with Vishnu.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 10 : BHOPAL

Morning proceed for full day excursion to Sanchi, Bhim Betka Caves and Bhojpur .

Buddhist pilgrimage site – Sanchi, is one of the most ancient and popular Buddhist monuments in the country.

The Shanti Stupa was built by the Ashoka is a specimen of Buddhist art and architecture right from the early Mauryan period. It was also known as Kakanaya, Kakanava, Kakanadabota and Bota-Sriparvata in ancient times. The construction of Sanchi Stupa is considered to an engineering marvel. The stupa is known for the intricate carvings, which provide an insight into the life of Lord Buddha. The place is famous for stupas, monolithic Ashoka pillar, temples, monasteries and sculptural wealth.

Bhim Betka Caves located 46 km from Bhopal, it owes its name to the characters of the longest epic in the world, the Mahabharata. It is believed that when the five brothers, called Pandavas, were banished from their kingdom, they came here and stayed in these caves, the massive rocks seating the gigantic frame of Bhima, the second Pandava. The caves of Bhimbetka were discovered in 1957-58 by one of the great accidents of history. Bhimbetka is a natural art gallery and an archaeological treasure.

Bhojpur Temple or the Bhojeshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The main attraction is the massive lingam which is 2.3 meters high and 5.3 meters in circumference.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 11 : BHOPAL TO INDORE (250 KMS/05 HRS)

Morning, travel to Indore by surface, enroute visit Ujjain.

In Ujjain, visit the Mahakaleshwar temple . The Mahakaleshwar temple at Ujjain is an important pilgrimage place for Hindus as it's said to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingams (most sacred abodes of Shiva). Mahakaleshwar is a name for the God Shiva, and means the god of Time or Death. The temple is a five-storied massive structure and its carved motives displays the Rajput style of architecture while screens and pavilions combined with marble colonnades reminds the influence of Mughal style. Bhasm Aarti, one of the important ritual of this temple is a symbolic representation of Death and Life. Once in 12 years, the mammoth Kumbh Mela festival is held here.

After temple visit, continue travel for Indore. Upon arrival at Indore, check-in at hotel.

Indore is the largest city in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the River Khan and Sarawati. The two rivulets unite at the center of the city where a small temple of Sangamnath or Indreshwar exists. Indore is known for its architectural splendor. The tales of the glorious past are narrated by these splendid historical monuments and cast a magical spell on the visitors. Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar was a great architectural patron and spent a lot of money on the construction of many temples across the nation. The queen is taken in great regard by the people and as a tribute; her statue was built in the center of the city, near Rajwada. Apart from being a historical city, Indore is also the commercial capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 12 : INDORE

Morning proceed for full day sightseeing tour visiting Central Museum/Indore Museum, Chhatris, Laal Bagh Palace, Kanch Mandir, and Rajwada . Laal Bagh Palace is one of the most spectacular buildings in Indore. It stands on the outskirts of the town, towards the southwest. It is a three story building on the bank of the River Khan. The palace was built by Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar during 1886-1921.

Central Museum also known as the Indore Museum is one of the most interesting buildings in Indore. It is a treat for the people who are genuinely fascinated by the history of India and the rich civilization that flourished here in the pre historic age.

Chhatris - The Maratha Rulers were skilled in the field of architecture. An exquisite example of their architectural style comprise of the Chhatris of Indore. These chhattris are the cenotaphs built in the memory of the Holkar rulers. The memorials are built in stone and have stood the test of time.

Kanch Mandir , as the name suggests, is a temple which is entirely made up of glass and mirrors. It is also known as the Seth Hukamchand Temple, as it was built by the "Cotton King" Sir Hukamchand Seth in the early 20th century. It is primarily a Jain temple and is a wonder in glass.

Rajwada is the historical palace of the Holkars. It was built about two centuries ago and is located near the Chhatris in the main square. It is a seven storied structure, which serves as the living example of the grandeur of the Holkars. Rajwada stands in the center of the city.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 13 : INDORE TO MAHESHWAR (140 KMS/03 HRS)

Morning, travel to Maheshwar by surface.

Maheshwar was a glorious city at the dawn of Indian civilization when it was Mahishmati, capital of king Kartivarjun. This temple town on the banks of the river Narmada finds mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Revived to its ancient position of importance by the Holkar queen Rani Ahilyabai of Indore, Maheshwar's temples and mighty fort-complex stand in quiet beauty, mirrored in the river below.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Stay overnight at Ahilya Fort.

DAY 14 : MAHESHWAR

Whole day is at leisure or you have choice to enjoy optional activities organized by hotel.

Stay overnight at the Ahilya Fort.

DAY 15 : MAHESHWAR

Morning enjoy an interesting excursion to the Shiva Temples at Omkareshwar and the boat ride on the Narmada river . Omkareshwar is a Hindu temple dedicated to God Shiva. It is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is on an island called Mandhata or Shivapuri in the Narmada river.

Stay overnight at the Ahilya Fort.

DAY 16 : MAHESHWAR TO DHAR (90 KMS/02 HRS)

Morning by surface travel to Dhar, en-route visit Mandu . Mandavgarh is situated at a distance of about 90 kms from the Indore city of Madhya Pradesh. Popularly known as Mandu, the town is located amidst the Vindhya Ranges, at a elevation of 2000 feet abovethe sea level. It was originally founded in the 10th century by the Parmar rulers who made it their fort capital. Later, it was conquered by the Delhi Sultans, who named it a Shadiabad, meaning the “ City of Joy”. There are a host of historical monuments here which are constructed on the fusion of Hindu & Afghan style of architecture.

Continue to drive for Dhar.

Upon arrival at the hotel, proceed for check-in.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 17 : DHAR TO INDORE (80 KMS/02 HRS) TO MUMBAI (BY AIR)

Morning by surface travel to Indore airport, to board flight for Mumbai.

Flight Number : Jet Airways / 9W 2388

Indore Departure : 1555 Hrs

Mumbai Arrival : 1710 Hrs

Upon arrival at Mumbai, transfer to hotel for check-in.

Mumbai , the city that never sleeps, is the country’s financial powerhouse and its vogue centre of fashion, film and night life. With a little over 400 years of history behind it, this bustling metropolis, home to India’s thriving movie industry and the birthplace of Indian cricket, has many colours and faces. Rags to riches stories predominate in India’s most populous city, home to almost 17 million people, as Mumbai offers umpteen opportunities to those willing to run the extra mile to realize their dreams and make their fortune.

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 18 : MUMBAI

Morning proceed for an excursion to Elephanta Caves .

Enjoy a boat ride to Elephanta Island, where the 8th-century shrine was cut from the hillside and houses the "Maheshmurti," or Hindu Trinity, representing the three aspects of Shiva the Creator, the Preserver and the Destroyer. These caves provide an exciting glimpse of Indian sculpture dating from about 600 A.D.

Later proceed for sightseeing tour of Mumbai covering Gateway of India, Hanging Gardens, Prince of Whales Museum , and Mani Bhawan . The Gateway to India is an elegant 26 mtrs stone archway, hastily erected as a symbol of welcome to Queen Mary and King George V of England on their visit to India in 1911. In the years following, artisans added decorative carvings and lovely Jharokha work (window carvings) and completed it in 1923.

Later continue to the hanging gardens perched above Malabar Hill. These terraced gardens provide a beautiful panoramic view of the Arabian Sea were laid out in the early 1880s covering Bombay’s main reservoir. Visit to the < Prince of Whales Museum , and Mani Bhawan .

Mumbai’s biggest and best museum – The Prince of Whales Museum displays a mix of exhibits from all over India. Designed especially as a museum, construction commenced in 1905 with the laying of the first stone by the then Prince of Wales. The architectural style is known as Indo-Saracenic -- a mishmash of Moorish Spain, Islamic domes, and Victorian towers. The Museum was opened to the public in 1922. Its collection has grown to include ancient items excavated from the Indus valley, Hindu and Buddhist sculpture, miniature paintings, weaponry, and natural history (including a variety of stuffed animals).

Mani Bhavan is Mahatma Gandhi’s home and Museum. This charming, 3 storied Gujarati house, painted brown and yellow, in a lovely Parsi neighbourhood on Malabar Hill, was the home of Mahatma Gandhi from 1917-1934. Now overseen and maintained by the Gandhi Institute, it houses a library and a small museum about Gandhi’s life and birth.

In evening drive past through the famous Marine Drive .

Stay overnight at hotel.

DAY 19 : MUMBAI DEPARTURE

Morning, transfer to Mumbai Airport to board your return/onward flight.

Inclusions

• 18 Nights stay at accommodation on twin sharing
• Pick up and drop from Manali bus stand.
• Welcome drink on arrival
• 18 Breakfast at Hotel

Exclusions

• Meals unless specified.
• Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone / fax calls, alcoholic beverages, camera / video camera fees at monuments, medical expenses, airport departure taxes, etc.
• Meals other than those specified above
• Any insurance
• Any air-fare
• Any Visa fee
• Any other services not mentioned in the inclusion
• Optional tours are on direct payment.
• 18% GST is applicable on total billing