India 50 Days
Duration : 49 Nights / 50 Days
Places to Visit :
.............................................
Day 01: Arrival
at Delhi
Company representatives will receive you on arrival at the international
airport in Delhi late in the evening. Transfer to hotel for overnight stay. DELHI,
the capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating
blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction to the composite
culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Day 02: Delhi
After breakfast, full day city tour of old &
modern capital of India. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built
by Shah Jahan, the construction was started in 1844 and was not completed until
1658 ; visit Red Fort ( from out side only, as it is not permitted to visit from
inside due to security reason ), which was also built by Shah Jehan. This massive
fort was built from 1638 to 1648 ; Chandni Chowk and Rajghat - the cremation
site of Mahatma Gandhi. Witness the India Gate, the Presidents House & the
Parliament . Visit Humayun's Tomb : built in mid 16th century this is an early
example of Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar.
Overnight stay at Delhi.
Day 03: Delhi
Breakfast at hotel. Full day explore the Indian
local market , the most interesting once are " Janpath" Rajasthani &
Tibetan Street Market and "Dilli Haat" the place that all the states
has their traditional shops and food paradise .
Overnight stay at Delhi.
Day 04: Delhi - Udaipur ( by Flight )
Breakfast at hotel. Later
on departure transfer Domestic Airport to fly Udaipur.
Flight No : 9W 3317
( Jet airways )
Departure at Delhi :11:25 AM
Arrival at Udaipur : 13 :
05 PM
On arrival, our representative will take you to hotel, Check Inn .
UDAIPUR : One of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is also
known as the city of lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and
the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage in the desert. The founder of
Udaipur, Maharana Udai Singh, was overcome by the misfortunes that his old
capital of Chittaurgarh had to face due to repeated attacks by the Mughal armies.
On the advice of a holy man, Udai Singh shifted his capital to the banks of Lake
Pichola- the city was named Udaipur after him. Afternoon Boat ride at Lake Pichola
and visit "Jag Mandir" . Evening free at leisure.
Overnight in stay
at Udaipur.
Day 05: Udaipur
Breakfast at Hotel . Morning
visit the City Palace, Jagdish Temple, drive around Sahelion ki Bari (queen's
resort for her friends), Fateh sagar Lake. We will try to organized your Lunch
at " Lake Palace " ( because that's the only way to visit inside the
Lake palace) Afternoon /Evening free at leisure.
Overnight stay at Udaipur.
Day 06 : Udaipur - Jodhpur ( by surface 240 KMs/ 6 hours drive)
Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Jodhpur via Ranakpur . Visit the world famous Jain
temple of Ranakpur. n the AD 1439. After lunch Continue drive to Jodhpur. Arrive
Jodhpur by late afternoon, Check Inn at hotel. Overnight stay at Jodhpur.
Jodhpur : Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur
echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital
of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore
clan of Rajput who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana.
The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill,
soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. A high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable
bastions encompasses the city.
Day 07 : Jodhpur
Breakfast
at hotel, proceed on sightseeing of Jodhpur- gateway to the desert beyond, home
of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp,
built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a long sentinel.
Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive rulers. In this palace
you would see different miniature paintings & cradle room. After this you
would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial. After lunch if you are interested we can show
you the some villages at "Pali District " famous for "Bishnoi"
People .
"Bishnoi Villages" : The Thar desert in India is
full of ironies-one of them being the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan. Here, peace
is maintained with aggression and robust health rubs shoulders with regular famine.
Here penniless women flaunt heavy gold jewelery and wild animals leave the supposed
security of jungles to stroll around village huts and farmlands. Not to mention
the fact that the Bishnois worship nature in all its manifestations. Not the ripe,
yielding nature of ancient pagan societies, but the ruthless and demanding desert
where a desolate horizon meets a blazing sky. Here, women suckle motherless deer,
die to save trees, go hungry to provide food for animals and live a strictly sattvic
(simple) life advocated by their guru Jambaji.
Day 08: Jodhpur - Pushkar
( by surface 230 Kms/ 5 hours drive)
Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Pushkar.
On arrival, check In at hotel.
PUSHKAR - Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan,
discover a unique gem - Pushkar. Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search
for his abode on earth, performed the supremely spiritual VEDIC YAGNA at Pushkar.
It is thus the site of the only Brahma Temple in the world. Blessed with cultural
blends, it is the venue for the famous Pushkar Fair, with people coming from all
over Asia to buy and sell cattle of breeds from across the world. The consecrated
mausoleum of Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti at Ajmer attracts pilgrims from all over
the world. A city of Pilgrimage from time immemorial with over 500 temples and
Ghats Pushkar begets a legacy of timeless architectural heritage. Pushkar radiates
an ambience of peace and spirituality that casts a lure to visit again and again.
The Pushkar fair is amongst the largest cattle fairs in the world and amongst
the oldest cities in India, with references in mythology and the Mahabharat. There
are 52 bathing Ghats, which are linked to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake.
Each Ghat has its own miraculous qualities and powers of healing and this city
of temples has over 500 temples built over different eras with varied architectural
styles. The rose garden of Rajasthan - the essence of the famous Pushkar rose
is exported the world over. Pushkar has the most varied terrain in Rajasthan with
sand, rock, hills, and proximity to a number of heritage properties in the area
and a number of fairs and festivals - especially on the new and full moon days.
Overnight stay at Pushkar
Day 09: Pushkar - Jaipur (By surface, 140
km /3 hrs drive )
Breakfast at hotel. Sight seeing of Pushkar and straight
drive to Jaipur.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur
can be traced back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II
who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of
Rajputana. In-spite of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's
character and history - A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly
known as the Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink
plastered stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen
Victoria. Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces,
exquisite temples and lush gardens. Afternoon , proceed for sightseeing of the
city.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional
Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area
in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the
City Palace Museum.
JANTAR MANTAR - This is the largest and the
best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts
of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments
is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL - The ornamental facade of this "Palace
of Winds" is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. Its five-storey structure of
sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies.
The palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal
was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
Visit a rug factory and see the
ladies at the intricate work or a gem factory and see the gem cutting and polishing
process.
Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Day 10: Jaipur
Breakfast
at hotel.
Proceed for excursion to Amber Fort in the outskirts of Jaipur.
Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the
classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh
I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. It's forbidding
exterior
belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds
it's ultimate expression. Jaipur is considered as a shoppers paradise for Textile
& Jewelers. Afternoon, free time will be given for visiting local markets
.
Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Day 11: Jaipur - Agra ( by surface
/ 6 hours drive)
Breakfast at Hotel, drive to Jaipur en-route visiting
"Abhaneri" & "Fatehpur Sikri"
Abhaneri :
hardly any people knows ( including most of the travel agent from India too )
a place call " Abhaneri" situated between Agra & Jaipur. Is famuse
for 8th Centuary temple & a special 8th Centuary Monument called " Chand
Baouri" is about 100 feet deep open well with flights of steps on three side
, no body has been able to count the steps. One can see the royal toilets with
carved windows and Jhrokhas, which was used by the king & queen
Fatehpur
Sikri : abandoned Mughal city of built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, was the old
capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of
water. See the graceful buildings including the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti,
Panch Mahal & other Palaces which are still preserved in its original glory.
On arrival at Agra , Check inn at hotel . Overnight stay at Agra.
Day
12: Agra
After breakfast the highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal ( Please
note that Taj Mahal is closed on Friday), which was constructed by Shah Jahan
in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Contruction of the Taj began in 1631 and was
not completed until 1653. later on proceed for remaining sight seeing of Agra
, which include, Red fort, which was built by
Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions
were made up until the time of his grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall
of public and private audiences amongst many other beautiful structues; Itmad-ud-daulah,
which was contructed by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to
the tomb she constructed for her husband, Jehangir, near Lahore in Pakistan;
Day 13: Agra - Gwalior ( by surface / 3 hours drive)
Breakfast
at Hotel. Later on drive down to Gwalior, on arrival Check inn at Hotel. Later
on sight seeing of Gwalior. Overnight stay at Gwaliore. The city of Gwalior has
many monuments that were built by the erstwhile Tomar and Scindia rulers. The
majestic Gwalior fort is one of the largest and mightiest forts in India. There
are various chattris or cenotaphs commemorating the Scindia rulers who ruled the
region till India's independence. The Man Mandir Palace and the Gujari Mahal are
two other interesting sights in Gwalior. The Sas-Bahu Temples are 11th-century
temples of Lord Vishnu while Teli-ka-Mandir is a 300-metre-high Vishnu temple
of the 9th century.
Day 14: Gwalior - ( Via Orcha ) - Khajuraho (
by surface/ 6 hours drive)
Breakfast at Hotel later on drive down to Khajuraho
via Orcha . Sight seeing and lunch at Orcha.
Orcha: Was founded in
the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap. Orcha's grandeur
has been captured in stone, frozen in time; a rich legacy to the ages. For, on
this medieval city, the hand of time has rested lightly and the palaces and temple
built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries retain much of their
pristine perfection. Complementing the noble proportions of their exteriors are
interiors which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting.
In the Laxminarayan Temple, vibrant murals encompassing a variety of religious
and secular themes, bring the walls and ceiling to rich life. Continue drive to
Khajuraho , on arrival at Khajuraho check inn at hotel. Overnight stay at Khajuraho.
Day 15: Khajuraho
Breakfast at hotel, sight seeing of Khajuraho.
Khajuraho: The temple city of central India, is famous throughout the world
for its exquisitely carved temples in stones. Thousands of visitors and tourists
from all over the world flock together to envisage this immortal saga of Hindu
art and culture engraved in stone by shilpies (stone craftsmen) a millenia ago.
Today, apart from the temples, Khajuraho is a small village but a thousand years
ago it was a large city of the Chandelas, medieval Rajput kings who ruled over
Central India. Khajuraho is 595 km (370 miles) south-east of Delhi and can be
visited by air, rail or road. The visitor to Khajuraho cannot but be attracted
to the vivid erotic sculptures on the temples walls. The sculptures are mithunas
i.e. couple in various erotic poses. There have been many interpretations of their
existence and some have criticized them severely. According to one authority,
a man and woman in erotic embrace typify the ultimate union of the soul such erotic
figures save the temple from beings struck by the lightening. The reason given
for this is that Indra, Lord of rainand thunder bolt who himself is a great connoisseur
of Kama, will not damage anything pertaining to that. Evening light and sound
show will be organized ( this show will give you an idea about the history of
this place).
Day 16: Khajuraho - Varanasi ( Flight)
Breakfast
at Hotel. Later on departure transfer to Airport to fly Varanasi.
Flight No
: 9W 724 ( Jet airways )
Departure at Khajuraho :13:30 PM
Arrival at Varanasi
: 14 : 10 PM
On arrival at Varanasi , our reperesentative will take you to
hotel, Check Inn . Later in the evening visit the Ganga river Ghat to see"
Arti " Puja.
Overnight stay at Varanasi.
Day 17: Varanasi
Morning boat ride tour at river Gangas, return to hotel for breakfast. Later on
Proceed for full day sight seeing and overnight stay at Varanasi. Varanasi is
an important and sacred pilgrimage center for Hindus and a major tourist attraction.
It is situated on the banks of river Ganga. The word Varanasi has been derived
from an ancient name meaning the city between two rivers - the Varuna and Asi,
which flow in the north and south of the city. Varanasi is also known as Kashi
and Benares. Varanasi, one of the ancient seats of learning in India, is a center
of learning even to this date. Glorified by myth and legend and sanctified by
religion, it has always attracted a large number of
pilgrims and worshippers
from times immemorial.
Ghats: Pilgrims gather at the Ghats to have
a ritual bath and worship the rising sun. The most famous ghat is the Dasashvamedh
Ghat, others being Asi, Panchganga, Barnasangam and Manikarnika, Ghats.
Sarnath:
12 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon
and revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace,and
elightenment. Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi
and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has skillfully been restored as the
actual temple was destroyed by Mughuls
Day 18: Varanasi ( overnight
train )
Breakfast at hotel , later on transfer to railway station to catch
the train to Bhusawal.
Train No. : 1094 ( Mahanagari Express) Overnight train.
Departure Varanasi at : 11:30 AM
Arrival Bhusawal at: 06:05 AM ( next day)
**** We will provide Packed food for this journey. ( please note that there is
no direct flight for this sector)
Day 19: Bhuswal - Aurangabad
On arrival at Bhuswal, our representative will pick you up and transfer to a local
hotel for wash & change . After breakfast drive to Aurangabad . On the way
visit " Ajanta Cave" On arrival at Aurangabad , check inn at hotel.
Overnight stay at Aurangabad.
Ajanta Caves - The world heritage site,
Ajanta caves has 30 Caves dating back from 200 BC to 250 AD. Cut out from volcanic
rocks of Deccan India, they are located in the forest ravines of the Sahyadri
Hills. Two basic types of monastic Buddhist architecture that can be seen Ajanta
are the Chaityas (rayer halls) and Viharas (monasteries). While Mahayana sex related
edifices have religious imagery, Hinayana sect have theirs plain and stark.
Day 20: Aurangabad
After breakfast , tour of Ellora Caves .
Ellora Caves: Impressive in their own right is the rock-hewn temples and
monasteries of Ellora that lie just 30 km away from Aurangabad city. In all, there
are 34 cave temples, 12 Mahayana Buddhist caves (550-750 AD), 17 Hindu caves (600-875
AD) and 5 caves of the Jain faith (800- 1000 AD) 22 more caves, dedicated to Lord
Shiva, were recently discovered. Kailash Temple (cave16), the central attraction
at Ellora, is the most remarkable. Afternoon free at leisure. Overnight stay at
Aurangabad.
Day 21: Aurangabad - Mumbai ( by flight )
Early
breakfast at Hotel. Later on Departure Transfer to Airport to fly Mumbai.
Flight No. : 9W 3104 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Aurangabad : 08:45 AM
Arrival Mumbai at : 09:45 AM
On arrival at Mumbai , our representative will
transfer you to Hotel, Check Inn . Afternoon Mumbai City tour.
Mumbai :
This city, a union of seven islands, was named by its natives after the goddess
Mumbadevi. After the Portuguese occupied the islands in 1534, they renamed it
Bom Bahia, for the natural harbour, which served as a safe place for its ships.
The religious and business pursuits pulled people to Mumbai from all over the
country. When the Portuguese left the land the city started developing into a
metropolitan city and an industrial center. Today, the city is the country's financial
and cultural centre and also owns a thriving film industry. This is the city of
dreams where people come to strike their luck Overnight stay at Mumbai.
Day 22 : Mumbai
Breakfast at Hotel. Proceed for an excursion to the Elephanta
Caves. Rest of the day free for Shopping .
Overnight stay at Mumbai .
Day 23 : Mumbai - Goa ( By Flight )
Breakfast at Hotel. Later
on Departure Transfer to Airport to fly Goa.
Flight No. : 9W 475 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Mumbai : 12:00 AM
Arrival Kochi at : 13:00 PM
On arrival
at Goa, welcome, assistance and transfer to hotel, check Inn . Rest of the afternoon
free to relax near the beach .
Overnight stay at Goa.
About Goa :
Colourful festivals. Warm and gracious people. Superb cuisine. Goa is one of India's
most laid back, yet sophisticated and exciting , destinations. From miles and
miles of sunny beaches, to the splendors of its quaint cities, towns and cobbled
alleyways, Goa is more than just beaches and sunshine. and abundant wildlife topped
with the legendary warmth and hospitality of the Goan people. And away from the
beaten track , travelers discover a romantic and other-century goa in its medieval
small towns, and beautiful villagers, with rich flora and fauna. There is so much
to see and yet at the end of it all you feel there's too little time. A truly
exhilarating out of this world experience that only Goa can provide. Whether it's
fun adventure , sunshine, spirituality or just plain relaxation, you don't need
to look beyond the magical land of Goa.
Day 24 : Goa
Breakfast
at hotel. you will move ahead for full day Sight seeing over Goa : Visit Old Goa,
the most important Cathedrals and Churches : Se - Cathedral, Church of St. Francis
Xavier, St. Catherine's Church, Arch of Vice Roy of Goa.
Se-Cathedral Church
: The Portuguese Viceroy Redondo commissioned the Se, or St. Catherine's'
Cathedral, southwest of St. Cajetan's, to be "a grandiose church worthy of
the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the seas from the Atlantic
to the Pacific". Today it stands larger than any church in Portugal, although
it was beset by problems, not least a lack of funds and Portugal's temporary loss
of independence to Spain. It took eighty years to build and was not consecrated
until 1640. The Church of St. Francis Xavier : It is built of laterite plastered
with lime mortar, with tiled roof supported by wooden rafters is a plain chapel
with only one altar. Architecturally, it is of the Doric order. The Chapel was
within the enclosure of the College of St. Paul and was dedicated either to St.
Anthony or to St. Jerome. As the chapel was used by St. Francis Xavier, it was
re-dedicated to him after his canonization in 1622. The original chapel was in
existence in 1545. With the outbreak of the epidemic and the consequent abandoning
of the college of St. Paul in 1570, the chapel fell into ruins and the present
chapel was built in 1884.
Location : Old Goa, Panjim, Goa.
The
Chapel Of St. Catherine : Further to the west of the Church of St. Francis of
Assisi is the chapel of St. Catherine. Built of laterite blocks it has a tower
on either side of the façade. The chapel in the interior, having only one
altar is plain .
Day 25 : Goa
Breakfast at Hotel. Full the
free time for your own activities. If you want car will be with you for disposal.
Overnight stay at Goa.
Day 26 : Goa -- Banglore. ( by Flight )
Breakfast at Hotel. Later on Departure Transfer to Airport to fly Bangalore.
Flight No. : 9W 522 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Goa : 15:30 AM
Arrival
Bangalore at : 16:30 PM
On arrival at Bangalore, welcome, assistance and transfer
to hotel, check Inn . Rest of the evening free to relax or you can visit some
ultra modern pubs in the city !!
Overnight stay at Bangalore.
Day
27 : Banglore.
Breakfast at Hotel, full day sight seeing tour of Tippu
Palace, lai Garh Botanical Garden, Technological Museum & Banglore palace.
Overnight stay at Bangalore.
Day 28 : Banglore - Maysore ( by surface
/ 4 hours drive)
After breakfast drive to Mysore. Enroute visit the Ranganathitoo
Bird Sanctuary & Srirangapatnam, the ruins of the capital of Tipu Sultan,
one of the great warriors of the South. On Arrival at Mysore, check inn at Hotel.
Afternoon visit Mysore palace. Overnight stay at Mysore.
Mysore :140
Kms from Bangalore lies the abode of untold grandeur and glory. Mysore,the capital
city of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm,rich
heritage, magnificent palaces,beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings,broad
shady avenues and sacred temples. There's an old world charm about the city that
reaches out and leaves no one untouched. Mysore,or Mahishur as it was called then,
traces its history back to the mythical past,when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi
Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mysore Dasara is the
celebration of this victory of good over evil. Mysore also has associations with
the Mahabharata and King Ashoka of the 3rd century B.C. During the Wodeyar rule
Mysore reached the Zenith of its glory as a fabled centre of oriental splendour.
Mysore is one of the major cities of Karnataka. Today, Mysore is a vibrant city
teeming with tourists and visitors. It is known the world over for its exotic
sandalwood and rich silks.Its grand and imposing palaces,majestic temples,gardens
leave an ever-lasting impression on the visitor. Situated 770m above sea level,Mysore
has a warm and cool climate throughout the year. Mysore Palace :The Maharaja's
Palace is one of the important sights in Mysore. Built in Indo- Saracenic style
with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades,the Palace is a treasure house of exquisite
carvings and works of art from all over the world. Intricately carved doors open
on to luxuriously furnished rooms. The majestic Durbar Hall has an ornate ceiling
and many sculpted pillars. The magnificent jewel studded golden throne of the
Wodeyars is displayed here during the Dasera festival. Illuminated on Sundays
and public holidays ,the palace presents a spectacle of breathtaking.
Day 29 : Maysore
Breakfast at Hotel, visit Chamundi Hills famous for
the Nandi Bull. Carved out of solid rock, it is five meters high and one of the
largest statues in India. Evening visit Brindavan Gardens.
Overnight stay
at Mysore.
Chamundi Hills :A well known 335 metres high landmark,Chamundi
Hill can be reached by a 13 km road or by climbing up the 1,000 steps laid out
by the Mysore Maharaja in the 17th century.Half-way up along the stone steps is
Nandi, Lord Shiva's Bull, a majestic 4.8 metre monolith.At the top is the 12th
century temple of Chamundeshwari, the patron goddess of the Wodeyars.Close to
the temple is the gigantic statue of the demon Mahishasura. The summit offers
a panoramic view of Mysore's lakes, parks and palaces. Brindavan Gardens :Located
at the KR Sagar Dam [Kannambadi], Brindavan Gardens is one of the best gardens
in South India. Spread over 150 acres, Brindavan Gardens has since the 1960s provided
the backdrop for many Indian films. Special attractions include the 'Dancing Fountains'.
In Dec 2004 the entire garden was revamped with new fountains and lights.
Day 30 : Maysore - ( Belur & Halebid ) - Hassan
Drive to Belur
& Halebid to visit the Hoysala temples. The Hoysala temples are one of the
most intricately carved temples in the South. The carvings depict the everyday
life of the people. The temples were built around 1110 AD. Belur is known for
it exquisite temples. A good example is the Chennakeshava Temples which took 103
years to complete and the façade of the temple is covered with intricate
sculputers and frescos. Halebid has a wealth of sculptural detail, the walls covered
with gods, goddesses, animals and dancing girls. No two facets of the temple are
alike. Guarded by a Nandi Bull, it was never completed despite 86 years of work.
Continue drive to Hassan. On arrival check inn at Hotel.
Overnight stay at
Hassan.
Day 31 : Hassan - Banglore ( fly to Chennai)
Return
to Bangalore via Sravanabelagola, one of the oldest and most important Jain pilgrimage
centres in India. The main attraction is the huge statue of Lord Gomteshvara (17m
high). It is the world's tallest monolithic statue (carved out of a single piece
of rock). It's simplicity is in complete contrast to the complexity of the Hoysala
temples. On arrival at Banglore transfer to Air port tocatch the flight to Chennai.
Flight No. : 9W 486 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Bangalore : 19:55 PM
Arrival
Chennai at : 20:40 PM
On arrival at Chennai, welcome, assistance and transfer
to hotel, check Inn .
Overnight stay at Chennai.
Day 32 : Chennai
After breakfast , sight seeing of Fort St. George was built in the 1640 A.D.,
the first bastion of British power of India, the fort has undergone much alteration.
The fort is now used by the Tamilnadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat
office. The 46m high flagstaff at the front is actually a mast salvaged from a
17th century shipwreck. The Fort Museum has a collection of objects from the tenure
of the East India Company in Chennai including letters from Robert Clive. There
are many contemporary paintings too. The Valluvar Kottam, on the corner of Kodambakkam
High Rd and Village Rd, honours the acclaimed Tamil Poet, Thiruvalluvar, whose
classic work - one thousand three hundred and thirty kurals (couplets) - are reputed
to be about 2000 years old. Established in 1976, Valluvar Kottam replicates ancient
Tamil architecture with the 1330 verse Kural inscribed on panels. The outer structure
in stone is a replica of the temple car of Thiruvarur in Tamilnadu. Government
Museum , worth visiting, is on Pantheon Rd, between Egmore and Anna Salai. The
buildings originally belonged to a group of eminent British citizens, known as
the Pantheon Committee, who were charged with improving the social life of the
British in Chennai. The main building has a fine archaeological section representing
all the major south Indian periods including Chola, Vijayanagar, Hoysala and Chalukya.
It also houses a good ethnology collection. The bronze gallery has a superb collection
of Chola art. One of the most impressive is the bronze of Ardhanariswara, the
androgynous incarnation of Shiva.
Overnight stay at Chennai.
Day
33 : Chennai ( full day excursion )
After breakfast full day excursion
of Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram ( city of thousand temples) is a temple city and its
many gopurams can be seen from a long way away. Of the original 1000 temples,
there are still about 125 left spread out across the city. Many of them are the
work of the later Cholas and of the Vijayanagar kings. Kanchi is also famous for
its hand-woven silk fabrics. This industry originated in Pallava times, when the
weavers were employed to produce clothing and fabrics for the kings .Other than
the temples, Kanchipuram is a dusty and fairly nondescript town and there's precious
little to see or do except when the temple car festivals take place. Return Back
to Chennai , overnight stay at Chennai.
Day 34 : Chennai --- Trichy
Morning after breakfast departure transfer to Railway station to catch the train
to Trichy.
Train No. : 2635
Departure Chennai at : 12:25 PM
Arrival
Bhusawal at: 17:20 PM ( next day)
On arrival transfer to Hotel. Relax evening
. Overnight stay at Trichy.
Trichy : the most famous landmark of this
bustling town is the Rock Fort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a massive
rocky outcrop which rises abruptly from the plain to tower over the old city.
It is reached by a flight of steep steps cut into the rock and from its summit
you get a fantastic view of the town plus its other main landmark. Trichy itself
has a long going back to the centuries before Christian era when it was a Chola
citadel. The town and its fort as it stands today, was built by the Nayaks of
Madurai. It was one of the main centres around which the wars of the Carnatic
were fought in the 18th century during the British-French struggle for supremacy
in India. The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. This temple is one of the largest and
most interesting temple complexes in India, built on an island in the middle of
the Cauvery River and covering a staggering 2.5 sq km.
Day 35 : Trichy
Breakfast at Hotel, full day free time to see the spectacular Rock Fort Temple,
built by the Nayaksof Madurai, and also visit two other temples worth visiting
are the 10th-century Sri Ranganathaswamy and Sri Jambukeshwara temples. This interesting
city has a long history and in the first millennium A.D. was initially part of
the Chola Empire - before the Vijayanagar Emperors of Hampi ruled until the 16th
century. The Deccan sultans then reigned until the 18th century, when the French
and British clashed in a quest for power in India. Next day we make the short
day trip to Tanjore (Thanjavur), the ancient capital of the Chola kings where
we will visit Brihadishwara Temple and Fort, built in 1010 by Raja Raja, and the
Thanjavur Palace and museums.
St. John's Church :Trichy also has some
interesting Raj-era monuments. Built in1812, St. John's Church has louved side
doors which can be opened to turn the church into an airy pavilion. Rouse the
doorkeeper to let you in. The surrounding cemetery is also interesting.Please
note that Though admission into the temples is usually restricted to Hindus only,
they are still a thoroughly impressive sight from the outside.
Day
36 : Trichy -- Madurai ( 3 hours : 30 minutes drive)
After breakfast leave
Trichy for Madurai, in southern Tamil Nadu, which is one of South India's oldest
cities and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries. During
our stay we will have the option to explore the colourful Madurai Markets and
the Sri Meenakshi Temple complex. The history of this stunning temple dates back
almost 2,000 years. The city is teaming with life and is jammed packed with bullock
carts, beggars, pilgrims, tradesmen and rickshaws of every description. If you
are keen on photography you'll love this colourful and vibrant city.
Overnight
stay at Madurai.
Day 37 & Day 38 : Periyar (4 hours drive)
After so many days of restless travel, I want to give you a relax and enjoy one
of the best part of Kerala , the natural beauty and famous wildlife sanctuary
"Pariyar". !!! Drive to Pariyar ( Thekkady) from Madurai and stay there
for 02 nights. Thekkady on the edge of one of India's most popular wildlife reserves.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds an artificial lake built by the British in
1895 and is home to bison, wild boar, sambar, monkeys, wild elephant, antelopes
and a wide variety of birds. An early morning optional cruise on the lake is a
great way to start the day. The rest of the day is free to explore the area and
perhaps take the option of a jungle walk with a local guide.
Day
39 : Periyar - ( Kumarakom ) - Alleppy (3 hours drive + overnight house boat)
After breakfast drive to the small town of Kumarakom. Here we board our houseboat,
converted from a Kettavallum or traditional rice barge, and sail the beautiful
backwaters of Kerala. This large aquatic area is a vast network of lagoons, lakes,
rivers and canals, and the people who live in this region have created their own
distinct lifestyles. From our comfortable houseboats we witness the peaceful way
of life on these amazing waterways and our overnight stay on board will be a real
highlight of our holiday. Next morning we dock at Alleppy. ( all meals will be
provided at House boat )
Houseboat : No trip to Kerala is complete
without a backwater cruise on a houseboat. In Earlier times Kettuvalloms were
the crafts used in the houseboats and Modern houseboats are a tribute to traditional
design, ingenuity, aesthetic values and commitment to the environment. Many of
them are equipped with solar lighting, chemical toilets and outboard engines for
when you want to skim the waters. The best way to cruise the backwaters of Kerala
however, is in a leisurely laidback manner with your weathe beaten poleman gently
gliding the boat across the waters, leaving you time to take in the sights. And
the sights are there for the taking.
Day 40 : Alleppy - Kochi ( by
surface / 3hours drive )
Our Car will pick you up from House boat ( at
Alleppy) and drive down to kochi. Kochi (Cochin), the Queen of the Arabian Sea
and the Queen of the Adriatic, It is also referred to as the Gateway of South
India. It is situated on the west coast of India in the beautiful state of Kerala.
It is the second most important city (after Mumbai) on the western coastof India
.Kochi can be regarded as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. Kerala
is one
of the most prosperous state of India, flanked by the Arabian Sea on
the western side and the Western Ghats on the eastern side. Roughly speaking Kochi
is 10º North and 76º East. Afternoon sight seeing .Overnight stay at
Kochi.
Day 41 : Kochi
Breakfast at Hotel. Full day explore
/ sight seing Kochi ( one of the interesting part is to visit those huge Chinese
Fishing nets ) . Reach and spend the day shopping. In the evening proceed for
KATHAKALI DANCE PRESENTATION. Overnight at Cochin. Kathakali, literally meaning
`story-play', is a dance-drama originated in the 17th century inKerala, one of
the smallest states in India lying on the west coast of the Indian peninsula.However,
its roots could be tracked back even to the earlier times. Koodiyattom, the only
surviving form of Sanskrit theater in India has been preserved in Kerala for centuries,
now, by asmall community called Chakyar as a part of their hereditary temple service.
Krishnanattom, another form of dance-drama considered fore runner to Kathakali
in its origin, is performed even today at the famous Sree Krishna temple in Guruvayoor
as an offering to the Lord. Besides these two forms, elements from martial, ritualistic,
socio-religious arts have also influenced in the making of Kathakali. Though Kathakali
is only 300 years old, a great deal of enrichment and refinement has taken place
in every aspect of its technique during this short period. Scholars are of opinion
that Kathakali is the result of a fusion between all Indian theater tradition
represented by Koodiyattom and the indigenous tradition of folk dance forms.
Day 42 : Kochi - Colombo ( by Flight )
Breakfast at hotel, later
on transfer to International Airport to fly Colombo. Flight timing will be given
as per the booking Meet on arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport in
Katunayake, 30 km north of Colombo. A warm welcome by our representative, and
then we drive you along the road of the Negombo scenery to your hotel selected.
Stay overnight.
Day 43 : Nogombo - Trincomale
After breakfast,
you will hit the road to Trincomale - is the eastern trip of Sri Lanka, where
has one of the word's finest harbors with its long clean beaches, great surf,
colorful town and shrubby park teeming with wildlife. Stay overnight at Trincomale
Day 44 : Trincomale
After breakfast, rest of the day is at your
own leisure on the beach and then you will be transited to alternative hotel.
Dinner and stay overnight at hotel.
Day 45: Trincomale -- Anuradhapura
After breakfast, we travel overland to Anuradhapura. Lunch will be provided at
Miridiya Hotel. Visit Anuradhapura - it was the first capital and undoubtedly
the grandest city of the ancient Sri Lanka. It is the home of two World Heritage
sites. Many places of historical and archaeological interest could be visited.
Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bo-Tree) was brought as a sapling of the tree under which
prince Siddhartha attained to enlightenment and it is over 2,200 years old and
is theoldest historically documented tree in the world. At Brazen Palace (2nd
century B.C), the 1600 stone columns you see are all that is left of a magnificent
multi-storied residence for monks. Ruwanweliseya (2nd century B.C) is the most
famous of all the Dagobas. It originally depicted the perfect 'bubble shape"
that modern restoration has not been able to accurately reproduce. 'Samadhi' Buddha
statue (4th century AD) is one of the most famous statues, depicting the Buddha
in a state of 'Samadhi' or deep meditation. Thuparama Dagoba (3rd century B.C)
is the oldest Dagoba in the island, which enshrines the right collarbone of the
Buddha. You will be transferred to Giritale in the late afternoon.
Overnight
stay at Anuradhapura.
Day 46 : Anuradhapura - Ponnaruwa - Sigiriya
After breakfast, sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa, which was the 2nd capital city
of Sri Lanka, built in the 11th and 12th centuries AD, and which is a world heritage
site. Here you can see the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya -where
4 splendid statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary`' and 'Recumbent' postures
carved out of rock, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, King Parakramabahu's statue,
and the Parakrama Samudraya Lake built by King Parakramabahu the great. There
are also monuments of famous places of worship such as the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake,
the Watadage, the Galpotha, the Kiri Vehera and the remains of a former Temple
of the Tooth Relic. Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya. Lunch will be served
at hotel. We will proceed to Sigiriya in the afternoon; climb the 5th century
Sigiriya rock fortress which is a world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa
(477-495 AD). The 'Lion Rock' is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 metres
from the scrub jungle. The rock was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare
fortified town. A moat, rampart, and extensive gardens including the renowned
water gardens ring the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of
the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock
approached by a spiral stairway. These frescoes are painted in earth pigments
on plaster. Overnight at Sigiriya.
Day 47 : Sigiriya -- Kandy
After breakfast, we keep moving to Kandy via Dambulla. Visit the Dambulla Rock
Temple. Climb up to the temple, which was donated by king Walagambahu in the 1st
century BC to Buddhist monks. Dambulla is a World Heritage site and is the most
impressive of Sri Lanka's cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000
sq. metres of painted walls and the ceiling is the largest area of paintings found
in the world. These caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest
is the colossal figure of the Buddha carved out of rock spanning 14 metres. Transfer
from Dambulla to Matale, we will visit a spice garden iMatale to see the different
spices, which Sri Lanka is famous for. You will be introduced to different spices
and shown how some of these spices are grown and processed. Transfer from Matale
to Kandy. Lunch will be provided at Senani Restaurant. Start the afternoon visit
with city tour of Kandy, was the last capital of the Sri Lankan, which is one
of the World Heritage site. The name Kandy conjures visions of splendor and magnificence.Many
of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. Drive around
the KandyLake built by the last Sinhala King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798.
Visit the Kandy town and Bazaar, the arts & crafts enter and a gem museum
and a lapidary. The last stop is the Temple of the Tooth Relic andthereafter you
will be witnessed a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dancing. Overnight
stay at Kandy.
Day 48 : Kandy -- Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast,
we proceed to Nuwara Eliya with en route visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
This botanical garden was first built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala king and
was expanded by the British. It is 147 acres in extent and provides an amazing
variety of trees, plants and flowers. Thereafter transfer from Peradeniya to Colombo.
We serve you a lunch at Ramboda Falls Inn. You are free in the afternoon or enjoy
yourself to explore the scenic surroundings of the hill station.*Nuwara Eliya
- The 'Little England' of Sri Lanka, is set against beautiful backdrops of Mountains,
Valleys, Waterfalls and Tea Plantations. It is supposed to be one of the coldest
places on the island, but is really just like an England spring day although the
temperature does drop atnight. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of
the British influence. Houses are like country cottages or Queen Ann style mansions.
Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya.
Day 49 : Nuwara Eliya - Colombo
After breakfast, we continue driving to Colombo via Kitulgala. En route view scenic
water falls. Lunch will be served at Plantation hotel. We commence the afternoon
visit of Colombo city tour. Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries
is fast changing its face. Almostovernight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings
once stood. Yet in some parts,the OldWorld charm is retained. As an example there
is a 100 year old clock tower and several Britishbuilt colonial buildings. Other
places of interest are the PettahBazaar where one can shop for abargain, the old
Parliament in Fort, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas where youfind
the stately homes of the affluentand the Bandaranaike Memorial International ConferenceHall
- BMICH, an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China.Before
upcoming sunset, we take you tovisit Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple; BuddhistTemple
traditionally believed to be the site visited by the Buddha 2500 years ago. According
tothe Mahavamsa, the unusual "paddy-heap" shaped dagoba at Kelaniya
marks the spot where the Buddha, on the request of a Naga King, sat on a "gem-studded
throne" to preach the Dharma to his subjects and convert them. It is ascribed
to King Yatala Tissa of the 03rd Century. Enjoy your dinner at a local Chinese
Restaurant. Overnight stay at Colombo.
Day 50 : Depart Colombo - (
to Singapore )
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Bandaranaike
International Airport in Katunayake, to connect your next departure flight to
Singapore..
| Place | Hotel | Web Site |
| Delhi | The cannaught | www.connaughthoteldelhi.com |
| Udaipur | Rangniwas Palace | http://www.rangniwaspalace.com/ |
| Jodhpur | Ajit Bhawan | http://ajitbhawan.com/ |
| Pushkar | Pushkar Place | http://www.hotelpushkarpalace.com/ |
| Jaipur | Alsisar Haveli | www.alsisar.com |
| Agra | Jaypee Palace | www.jaypeehotels.com |
| Guwalior | Usha Kiran Palace | www.tajhotels.com |
| Khajuarho | Holiday Inn | http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/ |
| Varanasi | Hindustan Internation | http://www.hindusthan.com/ |
| Aurangabad | Ambassador Ajanta | www.ambassadorindia.com |
| Mumbai | Q.I. Parla International | www.choicehotels.com |
| Goa | Varca Palms Beach Resort | http://ushashriramhotels.com/varca-palmsbeach-resort.html |
| Banglore | Villa Potipatti | http://www.neemranahotels.com |
| Mysore | Hotel Ramanashre | http://www.ramanashree.com/hardinge/about.htm |
| Hassan | Southern Star Hassan | http://ushashriramhotels.com |
| Chennai | CI Marina Tower | www.choicehotels.com |
| Trichy | Hotel Sangam | http://www.hotelsangam.com/home.html |
| Madurai | BW Germanus | http://www.bestwesterngermanus.com/ |
| Periyar | Cardamom County | http://www.cardamomcounty.com/ |
| Kochi | Gokulam Park Inn | www.sarovarparkplaza.com |
| Nogombo | Royal Oceanic Hotel | 4 star |
| Trincomale | Club
Oceanic | 3 Star |
| Anuradhapura | Sudu Araliya Resort | 3
star |
| Sigiriya | Sigiriya Hotel | 3 star |
| Kandy | Hotel Suisse | 3 star |
| Nuwara Eliya | St.Andrew's
Hotel | 3 star |
| Colombo | Taj Samudra Hotel | 5
star, www.tajhotels.com |
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