~ India Exploration Itinerary Details ~
Day 1:
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the Imperial Hotel. Tour the Old City, built by Shah Jehan in the 17th century, which stands today as an epitome of the whole history of Indo-Islamic architecture. Drive through fabled Chandani Chowk, visit the Jama Mosque and the Red Fort. Beautifully laid out New Delhi is a mixture of east and west; the public buildings in red sandstone are in the Moghal style. Visit Humayun's Tomb, aptly called the predecessor of the Taj Mahal and the Qutab Minar, 72 meters high and one of the perfect towers of the Persian world.
Day 2:
In the early morning fly to Nagpur and drive to Krishna Jungle Lodge, near Kanha National Park (5 hours). Afternoon game drive by jeep in the park.
Days 3 and 4:
Early morning and afternoon game drives through the jungle and open plains. You will see sambar deer, chital, barking deer and the rare swamp deer or Barasingha. Langurs often alert one to the presence of tiger or leopard. The spectacular bird life includes various species of eagle, peacocks and red jungle fowl. If a tiger is spotted near the road you can sometimes ride in on elephant back for a closer look.
Day 5:
After viewing game in the morning, drive to Jabalpur (3 hours) and take the overnight train to Agra.
Day 6:
Arrive in Agra and transfer to the hotel to freshen up before breakfast. Morning sightseeing of the Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved consort Mumtaz Mahal, this beautiful mausoleum is pure white marble and an architectural marvel. Nearby is Agra Fort, built by Emperor Akbar. The maze of courtyards, mosque and private chambers echo the story of the Mughal Empire. Drive to Bharatpur and after settling into your hotel, visit the Bharatpur bird sanctuary. Here you will see water birds of all sorts; darters, cormorants, ducks and egrets, while spectacular sarus cranes greet you with their wild, whooping calls. The many walks to follow around the shallow lakes were once a Maharajah’s playground.
Day 7:
An early morning visit to the bird sanctuary is particularly special as the veil of mist is lifting. After breakfast, drive to Jaipur (4 hours) and the splendid Raj Palace Hotel.
Day 8:
Tour of Jaipur, the rose pink capital of Rajasthan, which is surrounded by rugged hills crowned with forts. The Maharajah’s palace stands in the centre of the city amidst lovely gardens. Its museum contains rare manuscripts, paintings, antique clothing and an armory. You will also visit the imposing 17th century palace of Amber, which one approaches on elephant back.
Day 9:
After an early breakfast drive to Nimaj (5 hours) and the Nimaj Palace which is located in the centre of the village and has recently been converted to a Heritage Hotel. After lunch and a short rest, set off on a village jeep safari. You will see ancient temples, villages, and the homes of shepherds and people of different communities. You might also come across nilgai, the largest antelope of India. Just before sunset, enjoy high tea on a small hill overlooking a huge lake with interesting birdlife.
Day 10:
Drive to Khimsar (3 hours), an oasis in the Thar Desert, and transfer to Khimsar Fort. The afternoon is spent on a jeep safari in the desert looking for chinkara gazelle and the rare blackbuck antelope. Tea is served on top of a huge sand dune as you watch the sunset. A short camel ride can also be arranged. In the evening Rajasthani folk dancers will entertain you at dinner.
Day 11:
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Jodhpur (2 hours) and transfer to the lovely Bal Samand Palace at the edge of the town. Later, visit the majestic Meharangarah Fort and other sights of this booming desert town.
Day 12:
Morning at leisure to rest and enjoy the beautiful gardens of the Bal Samand Palace. In the afternoon fly to Delhi and transfer to the international airport in time for your departing flight.
