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Indian Potpourri - 10 Days
Explore the vibrant and exotic state of India, Rajasthan, where tradition and royal splendour unite in a riot of colours against the vast backdrop of sand and desert. Rajasthan - the land endowed with invincible forts, magnificent palace havelies, rich culture and heritage, beauty and natural resources. The Indian Potpourri will unravel a land rich in music, dance, art and craft.
Day 01: Arrive Delhi
On arrival you will be welcomed by our Tour Manager at the airport lounge with TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS signboard. Transfer to hotel where you will receive a traditional welcome with Garland and Tilak while hotel formalities are completed. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Delhi.
Day 02: Delhi
Delhi the capital of India bears a rich cultural heritage and the monuments, forts and gardens are a testimony of it. The historical sites majestically speak of the city being ruled by rulers of various dynasties. A city of dramatic contrasts where tradition and modernity exist side by side. Rich history and culture, old monuments, colonial charm and modern marvels have all contributed to making the city truly amazing. The scattered citadels of erstwhile dynasties co-exist with high rise residential localities and crowded commercial complexes, form the picturesque backdrop for the haunting melodies. Enjoy city tour of Old and New Delhi and visit Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Chandini Chowk, Jama Masjid, India Gate, President House, Rajpath and Qutab Minar. Evening at leisure with overnight stay at Delhi. (B,D)
Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 03: Delhi Mandawa (Driving Time: Approx 6 hours)
Travel to Mandawa and enjoy afternoon city tour of Shekhawati region visiting painted havelis (houses built in palace style). This region came into prominence in the 14th century when a number of Muslim clans moved into the area and the towns of this region developed into important trading posts on the caravan routes emanating from the ports of Gujarat.This small beautiful town gives the impression of a bygone era where one can find several magnificent havelis and stunning castles all throughout the place. Each haveli is unique and no two rooms have the same design. Intricate craftsmanship, stunning beautiful arches, antique murals and beautiful paintings are featured on these havelis. Mandawa is said to have the largest concentration of household frescoes in the world, inspired by religion, folklore and great social events, such as mans first fight. Stay overnight at Mandawa. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 04: Mandawa Kuchaman (Driving Time: Approx 3 hours)
Travel to Kuchaman to witness rural part of Rajasthan, well known for its Shekhawati style Havelis that have been well preserved and still display the same artwork today. The place offers some of the most amazing frieze and murals. The fresco painting are not limited to a particular God or subject and express a wide range of topics ranging from nature to human conquests and behavior. Day is free to walk around this small village which gives plenty of time to interact and experience the life of locals, who have made conscious efforts to maintain their culture and preserve the heritage passed on by their predecessors, making it possible for visitors to observe old Rajasthan along with full colours and zest. Untouched by the forces of commercialization, Kuchaman exists in a state of blissful ignorance. Stay overnight at The Kuchaman Fort. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 05: Kuchaman Khimsar (Driving Time: Approx 6 hours)
After leisurely breakfast travel to Khimsar. This quaint little village was once a small kingdom established by a scion of the house of Jodhpur. The old city of Khimsar harbours several mosques, one of which was commissioned by Emperor Akbar. Evening free to explore the surrounding villages which offer an interesting insight into the rural life of the desert people, enjoy Jeep safari to Sand dunes and witness sunset. The culture here is in sync with the rest of Rajasthan. The folk musicians are in their element with their songs singing paeans to the valour of the Rajputs along with the tragedies they faced. The place is expectedly a Rajput bastion. Optionally take short camel ride before concluding your day with overnight stat at Khimsar Fort. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 06: Khimsar
Enjoy your leisurely breakfast as the say is free to relax at the poolside of your beautiful heritage hotel. The fort was constructed around the beginning of the 16th century and was mainly a military structure to protect the Royal family. A Zenanakhana or ladies residence was constructed in the mid-18th century after which the Royal family moved its residence to the fort. The fort was subsequently turned into a heritage hotel, but part of it is still occupied by the Royal family. Ramble along the pathways which lead to the turrets, ruins, stable, guns and cannons that transport you to an illustrious past. Within the fort walls, visit and scrutinize the 9th century Jain God and Goddesses carved in sandstone and pillars erected in memory of war heroes and of Sati (when courageous Rajput women burn themselves alive on the funeral pyre of their husbands). Alternatively, take a walk in the village. Stay overnight at Khimsar Fort. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 07: Khimsar Narlai (Driving Time: Approx 5 hours)
Following breakfast, travel to Narlai another beautiful destination to enjoy insight of rural Rajasthan. It is surrounded by the Aravalli hills and situated in an ancient dwelling at the foot hill, dotted with caves and temples. It is also known as Rawal Narlai. Rawals are essentially homes of the village chiefs. En-route visit Bishnoi villages and discover extra ordinary culture of tribal people, known for their unconditional love for nature and wild life. The Bishnoi tribe over centuries, have made a unique blend of ecological sense and religious sensibility their faiths cornerstone. They worship nature in all its manifestations and follow an edict dating from 1485 whose 29 principles are still rigorously followed today. Here penniless women flaunt heavy gold jewellery and wild animals leave the supposed security of jungles and stroll around village huts and farmlands. A walk around the village, where you will come across giggling women in colourful clothes, sturdy men in their traditional white dhoti-kurta zooming around on their motorbikes and sparkling clean mud houses. Stay overnight at another heritage hotel Rawal Narlai. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 08: Narlai
Have a leisurely breakfast and walk around the village to explore lifestyle of the locals. Rawal Narlai is full of surprises; it is situated in the heart of a typical Rajasthani village bustling with activity and bursting with colours, but inside the Rawal (fortress) there is only serenity and the stupendous view of a gigantic 350 ft single rock of granite dotted with caves and temples and crowned by a statue of a white elephant proud guardian to the open desert on one side and the crumbling Aravalli hills on the other. The peace and calm of the gentle rustling leaves, the sun bathed courtyards and the star lit nights add an air of romanticism to this wonderful fortress. Alternatively one can take an adventurous trek along the Aravalli trails and explore ancient caves and interesting sculptures that dot the hillside. Enjoy hospitality of the royal era and stay overnight at hotel Rawal Narlai. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 09: Narlai Udaipur departure (Driving Time: Approx 3 hours)
Travel to Udaipur, a kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls that carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomising valour and chivalry. Their reflection in the placid waters of the Lake Pichhola is an enticing sight. The city was the most prominent jewel in the crown of the Mewar kingdom that was ruled by the Sisodia dynasty for as long as 1200 years. Packed with princeliness and passion, Udaipur is raw Rajput dreaming, with palaces, havelis and temples at every turn. Visit City Palace on Lake Pichola and Jagdish temple followed by Sahelion-Ki-Bari, the "ladies garden" and folk art museum the Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir. Optionally take sunset cruise in Lake Pichola before concluding your evening with dinner and overnight stay at Udaipur. (B,D) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Day 10: Udaipur Departure
After breakfast your tour will finish with transfer to the airport where you can fly to Mumbai or Delhi to board your onwards flight. (B) Included Meals Indication: B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, E=Evening Tea, D=Dinner
Private Car Guided Tour
Starts in: Delhi
Ends in: Udaipur
Grade: Easy Paced Tour
End of Tour
Price includes
- Accommodation with private facility
- Private Air-condition vehicle with Chauffeur
- Meals as specified (B=Breakfast, D=Dinner)
- Private English speaking guide
- Entry fee/Monument charges
- Jeep Safari Khimsar and Bishnoi Village
- Sunset cruise at Lake Pichola
- Assistance and transfers
Fact File
- Departs daily
- Jama Masid is closed on Friday
- Overland travel by private car
- Itinerary can be customised to suit your requirements
- Order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions
- Ask for pre and post accommodation
For Comfort, Deluxe and Luxury option, up to date pricing and bookings please contact TOTAL HOLIDAY OPTIONS or ask your travel agent. Please refer to our Booking Conditions for further information.
Not included:
- Any meals other than specified, drinks, laundry, Mineral water, telephone calls or other expenses of a personal nature.
- Camera fees (Video or still) at the monuments
- Tips/gratuity
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