Wild Adventure To India (trip)

Wild Adventure To India

  • International Airport Authority of India, Delhi
  • Culture & Nature
India, Asia

from $5,995* per person20 DaysFebruary
Luxury accommodations Exertion level: 3
Operator: Classic Escapes 24 people max
Aniruddha Mookerjee spent his childhood in small towns in the northern Indian state of
Rajasthan, growing up with a variety of pets that included tiger cubs, deer, and birds. He
started his career in print journalism in 1982 and went on to work in senior capacities with
national and international newspapers, including Reuters and Time. Jhampan has travelled
and reported extensively in India covering insurgencies, extreme left movements, riots and
elections, apart from ecology and conservation, which is his main interest. Television came
next in 1990 and then worked as an independent documentary film maker on such subjects
as global warming, renewable energy sources, traditional knowledge, sustainable
livelihoods, and man-animal conflicts.
In 1999, Jhampan joined the fledgling Wildlife Trust of India as Director of Programmes,
where he planned and started a number of pioneering projects that deal with diverse
problems of species and habitat conservation. He directed the now internationally-acclaimed
Whale Shark Campaign and the groundbreaking research on Shahtoosh workers in Kashmir.
He has travelled extensively in the wilds of India with a focus on the mountains especially
Ladakh, Tibet and the western Himalayas. With a broad interest in birds, mammals, and natural history, he is also interested
in Indian regional and international cuisine having co-authored books on cookery and written on food for newspapers.
Aniruddha is currently Senior Director Programmes and COO of Wildlife Trust of India, and also heads Earth Camps, a
company promoting responsible wildlife tourism and providing experiential learning opportunities for the young in the
wild.

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Locations visited/nearby

India, Asia

0 testimonials about this trip.

3 testimonials about the provider, Classic Escapes:

  • Reviewer: Ron Magill located in Miami MetroZoo
    Stacy Fiorentinos is a traveler's dream. As the Goodwill Ambassador for one of the top zoos in the country, I have had the privilege of leading groups on wildlife adventures planned and coordinated by Stacy for over a decade. She demands only the best for her clients and provides nothing less. Through her extensive experiences visiting properties and her personal relationships with the people who live and work in the exotic destinations that she services, she is able to create itineraries that are unforgettable and will inspire feelings that words alone cannot describe. Her attention to detail is second to none and her determination to ensure that you experience the trip of a lifetime is truly unparalleled. As a small child, I would constantly dream of exploring far away lands and wild places. Thanks to Stacy, I, as well as my fellow travelers, have been able to live those dreams over and over again! When taking the type of trip that Classic Escapes provides, the most important thing to have is "peace of mind." With Stacy, you will have that and so much more.
  • Reviewer: Rick Barongi, Director, located in Houston Zoo
    I have led over 20 trips to Africa with several different tour operators. Stacy Fiorentinos is one of the best in the business. I recommend her without reservation. She is knowledgeable, experienced, flexible and above all professional. Her knowledge of Africa and other eco-tour destinations is exceptional. I have entrusted her with some very special VIP's and have never been disappointed.
  • Reviewer: Patti Glover located in LA Zoo
    Stacy Fiorentinos is very detail-oriented, well-informed, and provides wonderful customer service.  Stacy is extremely knowledgeable in her field, and always goes above and beyond what I request of her.  This knowledge helped to make my job easier in planning and implementing numerous trips for my company.   From the planning stages of a trip until the end, I knew I could always call Stacy with questions and she would provide a thorough response in a very timely manner.   Her timeliness provided a sense of security for me and all the travelers in the group.  It was simply a pleasure working with Stacy.

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Itinerary

DAY 1~THURSDAY~FEBRUARY 23
LOS ANGELES/EN ROUTE
Your journey begins this morning as you board your flight in Los Angeles for your overnight flight to Delhi via Chicago.
(Meals Aloft)

DAY 2~FRIDAY~FEBRUARY 24
DELHI
This evening you arrive in Delhi where you are met and escorted to your home for the next two nights, the Grand New
Delhi. The majestic low rise architecture spreads across 10 acres of beautifully landscaped lawns and is an exceptional
blend of a resort-like setting equipped with modern design and contemporary comfort. Centrally located, the Grand is
within the major business and entertainment venues. Exuding elegance and grandeur, all 390 well-appointed rooms offer
a wide choice of luxurious accommodation for both leisure and business travelers. From the swimming pool, to the Oasis
Spa with its purifying therapies that help you to relax, invigorate and rediscover your inner self, and the five restaurants
and bars, you’ll appreciate this welcoming gateway to your Indian adventure.
Overnight at the GRAND NEW DELHLI. (Meals aloft) http://www.thegrandnewdelhi.com/index.html

DAY 3~SATURDAY~FEBRUARY 25
DELHI
Spend today acclimating yourself to your new time zone and exploring
one of the most fascinating cities in the world. India’s capital and political
hub is an ancient city that has something for everyone. Settled seven times
over the centuries, the city has grown in a way that reflects its past, while
retaining its cosmopolitan flavor. Delhi is India’s showcase, be it
architecture, religion, shopping, culture – everything is available here
waiting to be discovered.
Venture off to Old Delhi for a visit to Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque,
with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. Built in 1644, it was
the last in the series of architectural indulgences of Shah Jahan, the Mughal
emperor who also built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. The highly
decorative mosque has three great gateways, four towers and two 135-ft
high minarets constructed of strips of red sandstone and white marble.
Visitors should dress respectfully (no shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops etc).
Next, visit the Red Fort, once the most opulent fort and palace of the
Mughal Empire. The main entrance to the fort is the Lahore Gate, named
so for facing towards Lahore in Pakistan. Delhi Gate is similar to Lahore
but grander in design and the gate was used by the emperor every Friday
for ceremonial processions to the Jama Masjid. Upon entering through the
Lahore Gate, you reach the Covered Bazaar also known as Chandni
Chowk, one of the first covered bazaars of the 17th century where items
sold included silks, jewelry, gems, silverware and other artistic objects.
Today the bazaar carries various souvenirs and food items.
An extensive tour through New Delhi will also delight. Visit Humayun’s Tomb,
built in the mid-16th century by the senior wife of the second Mughal emperor –
the first significant example of Mughal architecture in India, and one of the most
beautiful buildings in the city. The elements of its design are echoed in the later
Taj Mahal. It comprises a squat building with high arched entrances topped by a
bulbous dome and surrounded by formal gardens. Found at the gardens are the
red-and-white sandstone and black-and-yellow marble tomb of Humayun's
wife and, somewhat surprisingly, the tomb of Humayun's barber.
Qutub Minar is another interesting visit, whose superb buildings date from the
onset of Islamic rule in India. The Qutub Minar itself is a soaring 240-ft high
tower of victory that was started in 1193, immediately after the defeat of the last
Hindu kingdom in Delhi. At its base is Quwwat-ul-Islam Masjid (Might of Islam
Mosque), India's first. An inscription over the mosque's eastern gate
provocatively informs that it was built with material obtained from demolishing
27 “idolatrous” (read Hindu) temples. A 23-ft high iron pillar stands in the
courtyard of the mosque and it's said that if you can encircle it with your hands
while standing with your back to it, your wish will be unfulfilled; however, the
pillar is now protected by a fence. Continue on your drive along the ceremonial
avenue, Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate, Parliament House and the
President’s residence before arriving back at your hotel.
Tonight’s welcome dinner will offer you an introduction to the astounding richness of Indian cuisine.
Overnight at the GRAND NEW DELHI. (B,L,D)

DAYS 4 /5~SUNDAY/MONDAY~FEBRUARY 26/27
NAGPUR/PENCH NATIONAL PARK
Wake up early this morning for your flight to Nagpur and proceed on a drive to Pench
National Park (56 miles-2 hours drive). Nestled in the lower southern reaches of the Satpura
hills, it is named after Pench River which flows from north to south through the park. The
terrain is filled with mainly gentle slopes criss-crossed by streams and nullahs. Most of
these, of course, are seasonal, as is the Pench River which dries up by April, but a number of
water pools locally known as 'dohs' are found, serving as waterholes for animals. A few
perennial springs also exist. Recently a number of earthen ponds and shallow wells have
been developed leading to well distributed sources of water all around the reserve.
The landscape supports a mosaic of
vegetation ranging from moist,
sheltered valleys to open, dry
deciduous forest. Over 1,200 species of
plants have been recorded in the area including several rare and
endangered plants. As a result, Pench has the highest density of
herbivores in India (90.3 animals per sq km). The area is especially
famous for large herds of gaur, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, wild dog and
pig. The key predator is the tiger followed by leopard, Wild dog and
wolf. Other animals include Sloth bear, chousingha, chinkara,
Barking deer, jackal, fox, Palm and Indian civet, hyena and
porcupine. In addition, there are over 285 species of resident and
migratory birds including the Malabar-pied hornbill, Indian pitta, osprey, Grey-headed fishing eagle, and White-eyed
buzzard. In winter months, thousands of migratory waterfowl including Brahmini duck, pochard, Barheaded goose, and
coot visit the park.
Located in the buffer zone of Pench Tiger Reserve, about 10 minutes
drive from the park gate, Tuli Tiger Corridor consists of 8 luxury tented
rooms and 15 cottages built around a lake. Ethnically designed in
keeping with the native culture, the Corridor showcases a pastoral
jungle theme making it a unique holiday getaway. All cottages are
adorned with classy finishes and lavish features that create a warm and
cozy ambience. The lodge has a large swimming pool and a spa for
relaxing after game drives, and the restaurant serves both Indian and
continental meals.
Overnights at the TULI TIGER CORRIDOR in COTTAGES. (B,L,D Daily)

DAYS 6/7~TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY~FEBRUARY 28/29
KANHA NATIONAL PARK
Proceed on a drive to Kanha National Park (131 miles-4 hours) and its lush sal and bamboo forests, grassy meadows and
ravines, which provided inspiration to Rudyard Kipling’s famous novel “The Jungle Book.” The largest wildlife sanctuary
in Asia, Kanha National Park was one of the first Project Tiger reserves in
India. It is, in many ways, Project Tiger’s biggest success story, with the tiger
population having doubled since 1976. Over 740 sq-miles of bamboo
thickets, extensive grasslands and dense sal forests make up Kanha – a
series of plateaus which stretch across the eastern segment of the Satpura
Ranges in Madhya Pradesh. This is the land of the tiger, the leopard, and
wolf. Porcupine, jackal, sloth bear, jungle cat, macaque, dhole (wild dog),
bison and a stunning spectrum of birds also inhabit Kanha, and make a trip
to the sanctuary a must for any wildlife enthusiast. It is a truly thrilling
experience, made more so by sightings of the tiger, gaur, or even the tiny
mouse deer (muntjac) or the rare hardground barasingha, found only in
Kanha. Go birdwatching on a misty winter morning, and you’re likely to see
beauties like the Racquet-tailed Drongo, Crimson-Breasted Barbet, Crested
Hawk Eagle and Golden Oriole.
Activities over the next two days will mainly consist of jungle safaris,
conducted either by elephant back or in 4 x 4 vehicles, which are open from
all sides to give you a panoramic unobstructed view of the landscape and
every bird or animal that may just sneak into the grasses, and allowing you
to listen to the sounds of nature, whether it be mating calls, alarm calls,
distress calls or just a casual roar. In addition to drives and elephant back
tiger viewing, nature walks can also be arranged as well as visits to the local
villages.
Singinawa Jungle Lodge is located about seven miles from Mukki, the main entry point to the Kanha National Park. The
Lodge is managed by Nanda and Latika Rana. Nanda is from the Royal Rana family of Nepal but has spent over twenty
years studying tigers in the forests of Madhya Pradesh. His expertise attracted the attention of National Geographic and
he was appointed as a special consultant for their projects on the tiger for the year of the tiger in 1998.
Singinawa is a Sherpa word which means “Protectors of the Sacred Forest” and is the philosophy which guides Latika
and Nanda. Located on 55 acres of land, in the tiger heartland of the world, Singinawa Jungle Lodge offers a unique
experience of the jungles of central India with all the comforts of a world class lodge. The lodge offers the chance to not
only learn about the tiger and its habitat but to also experience ecologically responsible tourism and see conservation at
work benefitting local communities and the Tiger Reserve.
Singinawa Jungle Lodge offers twelve accommodation units designed
as comfortable and spacious cottages. Tastefully furnished and
appointed with various facilities including air conditioner and charger
for electronic equipment of 220volt, the attached bathrooms are fitted
with modern amenities. The dining area at Singinawa Jungle Lodge is a
special feature. The bar is well stocked and serves scintillating drinks.
For the recreation of the guests, there is a swimming pool, souvenir
shop and a library of books and videos. Other facilities and services
include 24 hour generator backup, first aid kits, communication centre,
in-house naturalists, travel desk, and emergency medical evacuation
facilities.
Overnights at SINGINAWA JUNGLE LODGE. (B,L,D Daily)

DAYS 8/9/10~THURSDAY/FRIDAY/SATURDAY~MARCH 1/2/3
BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK
Your long, but culturally enriching drive, takes you to Bandhavgarh, a wildlife retreat where history and nature meet. Set
amidst the Vindhyan Mountain Range in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is home to the famous white
tigers of Rewa. The prominent ones captured in the park include the legendary white tiger called Mohan, who
supposedly fathered several offspring found in zoos the world over. Bandhavgarh's history goes back 2,000 years and the
earliest signs of habitation can be seen in the caves excavated from the cliffs to the north of the fort. Brahmi inscription
here dates back to the 1st century BC, a hunting reserve of the royal family of Rewa in more recent times, where an
alarming number of tigers were hunted down in pre-independence India. Bandhavgarh was mercifully declared a
national park in 1968 and the tigers are now protected. The landscape is a unique mixture of steep and rocky hills, with
flat tops and level grasslands in the valleys below. The vegetation found within the park is moist deciduous forest with
fine sal trees and stretches of bamboo. Today, the sanctuary is one of the best places to witness the tiger in action with the
highest density of tiger population for any wildlife park in the country. Prominent among other wild animals are nilgai,
chital, chinkara, gaur, sloth bear and
wild boar along with some 250 species
of birds.
Like Kanha, jungle safaris are
conducted by jeep and elephant back.
It is advisable to go on every possible
safari, because a tiger sighting is never guaranteed and no sighting is the same. In addition, Bandhavgarh is famous for
the archaeological remains of the Kalchuri period that have been found here. Baghela Museum houses the private
collection of the Maharajah of Rewa and the stuffed body of Mohan, the first tiger found in the park in 1951. In addition,
there is a unique collection of military weapons and other hunting materials on display. On one of the days, you’ll also
climb up to the Bandhavgarh fort for a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the Park and there is also a small population of
black buck that lives here, protected from the predators below.
Your home for the next three nights is situated in
Rancha village only a stone’s throw from the coveted
wildlife reserve. Kings Lodge is set amidst 12 acres of sal
forest and it has four cottage rooms and eight stilt
rooms. Each stilt unit has a wooden lofted balcony. All
rooms are well appointed and decorated with tribal art,
giving the lodge a jungle feel. The hotel also has a
library, infinity swimming pool and watchtower as well
as a massage deck. The lodge has been built to blend
with the surrounding landscape and has eco-sensitive
policies. As darkness falls, in the peace and tranquility
of the night and under the wonderful canopy of stars,
one can hear various animals call – including the alarm
call of the deer, the howling of jackals, or the occasional
roar of a tiger.
Overnights at KINGS LODGE. (B,L,D Daily)

DAY 11~SUNDAY~MARCH 4
KHAJURAHO
Begin another long drive to Khajuraho, situated in the northernmost part of Madhya Pradesh. The name Khajuraho is
derived from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree), which is grown abundantly in the region. Upon arrival, check into your
hotel and then embark on a tour of the Eastern group of Temples. Khajuraho is famous for its enchanting temples,
considered the "high point" of Indian architectural genius in the medieval period. Originally there were 85 temples, of
which only 22 still exist. The amazingly short span of 100 years, from 950 AD - 1050 AD, saw the completion of all the
temples, in an inspired burst of creativity. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay
neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of nature. It was only in this past century that they were rediscovered, restored
and granted the recognition that they justly
deserve.
The temples are now a world heritage site and
belong not just to India but to the world and
are some of the best preserved monuments of
this antiquity. Most of the temples are built of
sandstone in varying shades of buff, pink or
pale yellow, and each belongs to a different
sect – the Shiva, Vaishnava or Jaina Sects, but
are often indistinguishable from one another
to the untrained eye. The roofs are a series of
graded peaks that resemble a mountain range
and in all probability, represent the possibility
of higher levels of spiritual attainment. Erotic
scenes represent a relatively small part of the
carvings but sensuous eroticism prevails
throughout all of the sculptures. In general,
lower indulgences appear lower on the
temple while the deities appear near the top. The goddesses and gods represent the many manifestations of the divine
Shakti and Shiva, the female and male principles, the Yin and the Yang. The divine sculptures in these temples are a
tribute to life itself, embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it. Popularly known as the 10th century
temples, they represent a time frame when Khajuraho art was at its zenith.
The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho – just 657 feet from the renowned Western group of temples making it the closest to the
temples. Surrounded by lush gardens, beautiful surroundings and temples dating back to ninth century, The Lalit Temple
View Khajuraho has been re-commissioned in 2007. This boutique hotel has 48 rooms and suites offering five star deluxe
facilities and services with a modern hi tech spa, swimming pool, conference facilities, restaurant and bar.
Overnight at the LALIT TEMPLE VIEW KHAJURAHO in DELUXE ROOMS. (B,L,D)

DAYS 12/13~MONDAY/TUESDAY~MARCH 5/6
KHAJURAHO/VARANASI
Sometime at leisure in Khajuraho this morning
before your flight to Varanasi, also known as
Kashi and Benares, nestled on the north bank of
the Ganges River in the state of Uttar Pradesh in
North India. It is one of the oldest living cities in
the world, dating back about 3,500 years. For the
pious Hindus, the city has always been the
ultimate pilgrimage spot. These few lines by Mark
Twain say it all: "Benaras is older than history, older
than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice
as old as all of them put together". Hindus believe
that one who is graced to die on the land of
Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom
from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord
Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet
unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have
the power to wash away the sins of mortals. With
Sarnath just a short distance away, the place where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment, Varanasi has
been a symbol of Hindu renaissance. Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts have all
flourished here for centuries.
Your afternoon tour involves Sarnath, a small Buddhist town that is home to the Archeological Museum and the
Mahabodhi Buddha Temple. Make sure to take a stroll in the deer park, where Buddha himself often meditated. In the
evening, be part of a service on the banks of the
river and take a ride through the chaotic roads of
Varanasi…this is one sight, which is nowhere else to
be seen this way.
The Gateway Hotel in Varanasi is strategically
situated on the Raja Bazar Road at Nadesar Palace
Ground. All of the 130 guest rooms are elegantly
appointed with central air conditioning, direct dial
telephone, color satellite television and more. There
is an international restaurant called ‘Chowk’ that
serves a variety of cuisine. There is also an Indian
specialty restaurant ‘Varuna’. The hotel also has a
swimming pool, tennis court as well a colonial
themed bar.
Overnights at THE GATEWAY HOTEL GANGES.
(B,L,D Daily)

DAY 14~WEDNESDAY~MARCH 7
VARANASI/DELHI
Take an early morning boat cruise on the holy river Ganges to witness the cremation site, as well as the morning ritual of
avowed Hindus washing their sins in the river. Return to the hotel for breakfast, and then enjoy a half day city tour of
Varanasi which includes a visit to some of the most important temples in the city including the Bharat Mata Mandir and
the Durga Temple. Drive past the beautiful Tulsi Manas temple and take a walk down Vishwanathji Ki Gali – the ancient
alley which is home to some beautiful temples. Here you will find shops that sell every conceivable item required in a
temple.
Continue to the airport to board your flight to Delhi where a day room awaits you at the GRAND NEW DELHI. The
balance of your day is at leisure before you are whisked away for your farewell dinner and then transferred to the airport
for your flight home. (B,L,D)
DAY 15~THURSDAY~MARCH 8
DELHI/LOS ANGELES
This morning finds you in Chicago where you connect with your flight to Los Angeles with incredible memories of
roaring tigers, ancient ruins and amazing people. (Meals Aloft)

OPTIONAL POST-EXTENSION TO JAIPUR & AGRA
A minimum of 6 passengers is required for this extension.

DAY 15~THURSDAY~MARCH 8
DELHI/JAIPUR
After having breakfast at your hotel you begin your drive to Jaipur, the
administrative and commercial capital of what was known as
Rajputana. Begun in 1727 and completed in just eight years, Jaipur
was the first city in India to enjoy rigorous town planning according to
the principles laid down in "Shilpa Shastra," an ancient Indian article
on architecture. The city is protected by high walls, with wide, straight
avenues that divide it into nine sectors (apparently reflecting the nine
divisions of the universe, resembling the Indian horoscope), each
named after the commodity and caste that lived and practiced their
specific skills here – the order and space was at the time a total
revolution in Indian cities. Upon arrival, you are escorted to your hotel
where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Your home for the next two nights is Hotel Rajputana Sheraton one of
the best hotels in the Pink City. One can find aristocracy and the
nobility of royal Rajasthan in Rajputana Sheraton. Built on 7-acres of
land with lush green environment the hotel offers beautiful views of
the city. The Sheraton's 216 rooms, exterior design and gardens all
reflect the spirit of Rajasthan and its royalty. In addition, the Sheraton
is well equipped to offer guests the best in modern facilities and
services. The four onsite restaurants serve international and exotic
cuisine for you to feast on. Offering beautiful views of the swimming
pool, the Sheeshmahal Bar is an ideal place to unwind with a fine
drink.
Overnight at the ITC RAJPUTANA SHERATON HOTEL. (B)

DAY 16~FRIDAY~MARCH 9
JAIPUR
Jaipur is known as the Pink City, a rather idealized
description of the terra-cotta-colored lime plaster that
coats the old part of the city's walls, buildings, and
temples. The reasons for painting the town pink are
unknown, but various theories have been tossed about,
from using pink to cut down glare, to the city’s founder
Jai Singh II's apparent devotion to Lord Shiva (whose
favorite color is reputedly terra cotta). Others believe
Singh wanted to imitate the color of the sandstone used
in the forts and palaces of his Mughal emperor-friends.
The most popular reason is that pink is the traditional
color of hospitality, and the city was freshly painted
and paved with pink gravel to warmly welcome
Edward VII for his visit here in 1876. The city is painted
pink once every 10 years by the Municipal Corporation,
and in 2000 the painting was timed for a state visit, this
time by former U.S. president Bill Clinton.
The history and times of Jaipur are deeply entwined with the stories of royal princes and princesses, with grand Mughals
and later with visiting dignitaries from the British Royal family or 20th century royalty like the U.S. Presidential families.
Modern Jaipur plays host to all of them and to many
thousands who come here enchanted by all that the
city has to offer. Jaipur is undoubtedly a city of kings
and queens and its distinctive architecture clearly
emphasizes this. Even so it has a timeless appeal, since
many of the traditional crafts patronized by the 18th
century rulers are still thriving. So, you have streets
that are famous for jewelry, tie-and-dye, pottery,
‘meenakari’, leatherwork and stone carvings.
Visit one of the major attractions at Jaipur, the Amber
fort. The breathtakingly beautiful complex of the
Amber Fort comprises of palaces, halls, pavilions,
gardens and temples. It is astounding that it took
more than two centuries for its construction. The
elegance exuded by the fort is simply awesome. You
may either walk or ride an elephant to unfold the magic of the fort. The ride of the majestic animal is an experience in
itself. On your way back stop at the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds located at the main street of the old city, the fivestory
building is a pink splendor with carved trelliswork. The structure meant to be a window for the royal ladies to view
the activities on the street including the daily life and the processions. You will relish each moment of the royal retreat.
Another landmark worth visiting is the former residence of the royal family, the City palace. The charming palace reveals
a combination of the Rajasthan and Mughal styles of architecture.
One of the major attractions is the Armory
Museum housing an impressive array of
weaponry. Visit the out door observatory
built by the astronomer/ruler of Jaipur –
Jantar Mantar, which is the largest stone and
marble crafted observatory in the world. The
observatory has 17 large instruments, many
of them still in working condition.
This evening, after a short relaxation at the
hotel, you are taken to a blue pottery
workshop. ‘Blue Pottery’, features the use of
blue glaze on pottery made from Fuller's
Earth. This art came to Rajasthan from
Kashmir and has been accepted and
flourished ever since in this desert state.
Overnight at the ITC RAJPUTANA
SHERATON HOTEL. (B,L,D)

DAY 17~SATURDAY~MARCH 10
JAIPUR/AGRA
After a leisurely breakfast continue with your drive to Agra and en route visit the magnificent ghost city of Fatehpur
Sikri, the short-lived capitol of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585 during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Although
brilliant and unusual from an architectural point of view, Akbar’s city was erected in an area that suffered from water
shortages and it was abandoned shortly after Akbar’s death. The well-preserved palace and still used mosque are the
main points of interest but you can wander around the ruins that are scattered behind the mosque.
Perhaps no other historical monument has evoked as much awareness and admiration from tourists and travelers alike
as the magnificent Taj Mahal - fondly considered the ultimate requiem of love, from a great Mughal Emperor to his
beloved wife. So overwhelming is the exquisite beauty and presence of this marble mausoleum that centuries later today,
even the very land where it has been located has been immortalized as the City of the Taj.
Though the heritage of Agra is
linked with the Mughal dynasty,
numerous other rulers also
contributed to the rich past of this
city. Modern Agra was founded
by Sikandar Lodhi (Lodhi
Dynasty) in the 16th century.
Babur (founder of the Mughal
dynasty) also stayed for sometime
in Agra and introduced the
concept of square Persian-styled
gardens here. Emperor Akbar, his
grandson, built the Agra Fort and
the city of Fatehpur Sikri in
gratitude for the appearance of an
heir after his wife bore him a son.
Agra came to its own when
Shahjahan ascended to the throne
of the Empire. He marked the
zenith of Mughal architecture
when he built the Taj Mahal in
memory of his beloved wife, whom he affectionately named Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace). In his later years,
Shahjahan shifted his capital to the new city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi and ruled from there. Shahjahan was dethroned in
1658 by his son, Aurangzeb who imprisoned him in the Agra Fort. Aurangzeb shifted the capital back to Agra till his
death. After the death of Aurangzeb, the Mughal Empire could not touch its peak and many regional kingdoms emerged.
The post-Mughal era of Agra saw the rule of the Jats, Marathas and finally the British taking over the city.
Gloriously stretching over 35 acres of vibrant courtyards and
situated in the heart of the city, the Mughal Sheraton offers 285
luxuriously furnished rooms and suites. All guest rooms are
decorated with a touch of old-world splendor, and many offer a
view of the Taj Mahal, located just over a mile away. You can
dine in any of the on-site restaurants, serving authentic flavors
of the North West Frontier, Continental or gourmet dishes.
Overnight at the ITC MUGHAL HOTEL. (B,L,D)

DAY 18~SUNDAY~MARCH 11
AGRA
Early this morning, enjoy a sunrise visit to Taj Mahal. This visit
unlike the day before will allow you a glimpse of this monument
with the changing backdrop of the morning sky. Watch the monument go from a dull grey to a shimmering white in the
span of your visit. Return to hotel for breakfast.
It doesn’t take much for the wandering eye to discover that there's more to Agra than just the fabled Taj Mahal. The city is
a virtual gateway to a world of discovery…a freeze-frame from a resplendent era that's long since gone by. Spend the rest
of your day discovering this imposing city and its fabled past as you explore the monuments, the majesty of the buildings
and the exquisite arts and crafts… all cherished as priceless legacies of a nostalgic past.
Overnight at the ITC MUGHAL HOTEL. (B,L,D)

DAY 19~MONDAY~MARCH 12
AGRA/DELHI
After an early breakfast you will drive back to Delhi. Here, check into your day room at the GRAND NEW DELHI. The
balance of the day is at leisure before you transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B,L)

DAY 20~TUESDAY~MARCH 13
LOS ANGELES
This morning finds you in Chicago, where you connect with your flight to Los Angeles with wonderful memories of
roaring tigers, ancient ruins, amazing people, and lovely scenery. (Meals Aloft)

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