This epic journey includes the major cultural highlights of northern India; takes us by boat down the holy River Ganges to the spiritual city of Varanasi; and provides a great insight into the varied wildlife, stunning mountains and unique culture of Nepal.
We start on a cultural note taking in the great sights of Old and New Delhi before heading for the 'Pink City' of Jaipur in the desert province of Rajasthan. Here we'll see the Observatory, the graceful Palace of the Winds and the beautiful City Palace. Stopping at the 'ghost town' of Fatehpur Sikri en route, we soon reach Agra, home to the world's most photographed building, the breathtaking Taj Mahal. Sailing the Eternal Ganges Travelling by train, we reach Mirzapur the starting point of our unique 3-day boat trip on the Ganges, that takes us to Varanasi. Sailing along the river offers the perfect point from which to observe life in rural India and we aim to stop at small villages and historic sites such as Chunar Fort. Floating in to India's holiest city is a tranquil and deeply moving experience as we pass the colourful ghats where the throngs come to worship and bathe in the holy waters. Chitwan and Kathmandu, Crossing the border at Sonauli we head for Chitwan National Park in Nepal's sub-tropical lowland region known as the Terai. We spend two days in this fascinating jungle reserve, which supports a variety of game. Known for its one horned rhino and Bengal tigers, there are also leopard, sloth bear, four kinds of deer and over 300 species of birds. Finally we drive up to the Kathmandu Valley and spend the last few days of the tour in Nepal's historic and bustling capital city; with plenty of time to see the many bazaars, temples and stupas which give it its unique charm. There is also the option of taking a flight across the Everest region.
* Name of Program : Jaipur with Sailing on Ganges to Kathmandu !!!
* Places to Visit : Delhi-Jodhpur-Jaipur-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra-Allahabad-Sailing on theGanges-Varanasi-Bairahawa-Chitwan National Park-Kathmandu-Nagarkot-Bhaktapur-
Kathmandu-Delhi departuer.
* Duration : 18 Nights
* Best Time : Oct-March.
Day 01: Arrival Delhi : Upon arrival at International meet our representative, drive to pre booked hotel at center Delhi. Rest of the time at hotel.
Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing-Jodhpur (overnight train) :
Morning visit Old Delhi, as Red Fort, Chadani Chowk, Shish Ganj Gurudwar, Jama Masjid & Gandhi Memorial. Post lunch visit New Delhi Government Building as India Gate, President House, Parliament House, Humayun's Tomb and Qutab Minar. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 3: Delhi-Jaipur (By surface 4-5 hrs drive) :
After an early breakfast drive to Jaipur, on arrival check in hotel, rest of the time visit Pink City. Jaipur is the largest city in Rajasthan and was built in the eighteenth century by Sawai Jai Singh as India's first planned city. Although Jaipur serves mainly as a stepping stone for travelers heading to the desert cities of Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, it is not without its own attractions, such as several massive Rajput forts. So, despite the chaos and dust, it is definitely worth pausing here for several days. Now Jaipur is growing fast and various development projects are being done by the government and private enterprises. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4: Jaipur Sightseeing :
Morning, after breakfast, we visit the Amber Fort in the Aravali Hills, which is a super example of Rajput (medieval Hindu) style Architecture. Afternoon - tour of City Palace and Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthan and Mughal architecture. The Palace of Winds – a five-storied structure of pink sandstone has semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was originally built to enable the ladies of the Royal household to watch everyday life. Observatory, between 1727 and 1734 Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur constructed five astronomical observatories in west central India. The observatories, or "Jantar Mantars" as they are commonly known, incorporate multiple buildings of unique form, each with a specialized function for astronomical measurement. These structures with their striking combinations of geometric forms at large scale, have captivated the attention of architects, artists, and art historians world wide, yet remain largely unknown to the general public. Overnight at the Hotel.
Day 5 Jaipur-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra (By road 4-5 hrs drive):
Morning after breakfast proceed to Agra, en route visit Fatehpur Sikri, An Epic on Red Stone - the Fatehpur Sikri was built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar. Left almost deserted for about 400 years, Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory) was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only some 10 years. The complex of monuments and temples, all in a uniform architectural style, includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid. Conitinue drive to Agra 1 hrs more, on arrival check in hotel, later visit Agra Fort, This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal, was constructed by Mughal emperor Akbar in the 16th century, when he shifted his capital from Lahore. Interestingly, Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan all contributed to the construction of this magnificent fort. Therefore, you must visit this massive complex for its impressive architectural styles, a rare amalgamation of the aesthetic sensibilities of three different Mughal kings over the sleeves of time.
The Fort, though appearing impregnable from outside and as fulfilling its military purpose, was more like a city on the inside, with many buildings, streets and shops. Its colossal double walls rise 69 ft in height and measure 2.5 km in circumference, encircled by a moat and contain an intrinsic matrix of buildings, splendid mosques and ambrosial palaces. Walk through the pultritudinous gateways that marks the history to reach the sprawling Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate). Walk straight to reach the Jehangiri Mahal, situated north of the gate at the end of a spacious lawn. Built by Akbar as a residence for his son Jehangir, the palace is the largest private residence in the fort, a su[perb blend of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Don't miss the profuse carvings on stone, heavy brackets exquisitely carved with animal and floral motifs, piers and cross beams with remnants of the rich gilded decorations that adorn the walls. Wander around the Nagina Mahal, built as a harem for the royal ladies, the Zeena Meena Bazaar where the queens shopped and the elegant Diwan-i-Khas, where the emperor dealt with his dignitaries. Don't miss the exquisite Persian inscription carved out of a single block of sandstone, that records Jehangir's marriage to Mehrunissa (Nur Jahan).
Walk through the Anguri Bagh to reach the famous Diwan-i-Khass, the Hall of Private Audience where secret 'Darbars' (meetings) with the close kinsmen were held. Walk to the right of Diwan-i-khas and you will be at the Hammam-i-Shahi or the Shah Burj. It is an airy apartment, attached to the residential quarters which was used as a summer retreat. To see an exquisite lattice work, enter the most famed Diwan-i-Am or 'The Hall of Public Audiences'. Once the royal women could watch the court without being seen by others from the pavilion through jali (lattice) screens. Today, you can only see the erstwhile glory floating on its ramparts.
Day 06 Agra-Allahabad : (Overnight Train):
Very early in the morning visit Taj Mahal, Probably for every visitor to India is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal. The monument was build by a Sultan for his wife, who died during the birth of her 14th child. The construction took several years with thousands of workers and brought the Sultan and the state to bankrupcy. This palace was built by the emperor Shah Jahan ( 1592-1666 ) in honor of his favourite wife named Arjumand Banu Bagam who died at 38 years old.The construction of the Taj Mahal was fifteen years long and required 20 000 people and more than 40 000 elephants.In 1658, Shah Jahan is discharged by his son. He is accused to have ruined the city with the construction of this mausoleum.We can still admire the magnificence of the Taj Mahal in Agra. However the pollution caused by the industry strongly alters the brightness of the marble and could also destroy this luxurious palace.Later drive back to hotel for breakfast, rest of the time visit local market. After Dinner board train to Allababad. Overnight at train.
Day 07: Allahabad - Lakhiya (Sailing 6-7 hrs):
Early in the mornign arrive Allahabad, short visit of Allahabad, Anand Bhavan etc. and transfer to the hotel for wash / change and breakfast. After breakfast drive down to Lakhiya Ghat.Set sail eastward to Varanasi and strat sailing on the Ganges.Reach Lakhiya and set the camp on the bank / island in the river for overnight stay.
Day 08: Lakhiya-Usmanpur (Sailining 6-7 hrs):
After breakfast set sail to reach Usmanpur by covering approx 25 kms in 6-7 Hrs by river. This adds thrill to the sailing. Reach Usmanpur in the evening. Camp on the river bank / island for overnight stay.
Day 09: Usmanpur - Murdaghat (sailing 6-7 hrs) :
After breakfast set sail to reach Murdaghat covering approx. 20 Kms in 07 hrs by river. Reach camping spot by dusk for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 10: Murdaghat - Mirzapur: (Sailing 4-5 hrs):
Start sailing towards Mirzapur in the morning. After about 4 hrs, stop at Vindhyachal. Visit the temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. After the visit have your lunch on an Island nearby and sail further to reach camping spot in approx. 4 hrs.Set the camp here for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 11: Mirzapur - Varanasi (Sailing 4-5 hrs) :
Proceed for last leg of sailing to Varanasi. Enroute visit Chunar Fort of Medieval India and Ramnagar Fort which is a 17th century fort with interesting museum. finish sailing at first Ghat of Varanasi 'Lanka Ghat'. From Lanka Ghat drive to hotel in Varanasi. Varanasi-The city of Lord Shiva - A spiritual retreat and bustling bathing ghats on the bank of Holy River Ganges, Varanasi, the oldest city is also considered to be one of the holiest places of India. Popularly known as Banaras, the land is the meeting place between the physical boundaries and spiritual realms. Boat ride in a gloaming evening can be one of the most absorbing experiences for anyone.
Day 12: Varanasi :
After an early morning a boat cruise on river Ganga walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi visiting Kashi Vishwanatha or Golden temple. Afternoon proceed to visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.Later on back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 13: Varanasi-Bhairahawa {(Nepal) by surface 7-8 hrs drive} :
Early in the morning drive to Bhairahawa, Cross the Indo-Nepal border at Sonauli. After customs check in the border transfer to another bus for Bhairahawa. On arrival check in the hotel. Overngiht at hotel. Please note clients need multiple Indian Visa and 2 Passport size photos.
Day 14: Bairahawa-Chitwan (By surface 5-6 hrs drive):
Breakfast at the hotel. Morning drive to the Chitwan which is famous for the National Park – the oldest and world famous national park have dense forests and tall grass and home for Elephant, Tiger, One Horned Indian Rhino, Bears and many other wild birds and animals.Overnight stay in the Lodge.
Day 15 : Chitwan :
Breakfast in the lodge. Enjoy Elephant safari in the jungle which gives the best chances to view animals from real close. Also do here a nature walk with local naturists.Overnight in the lodge.
Day 16 : Chitwan - Kathmandu (By surface 5-6 hrs drive) :
Breakfast at the lodge. Start adventurous drive heading towards Kathmandu. Drive through forests, rivers and start climb through bumpy mountain roads. Reach Kathmandu.On arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 15 : Kathmandu :
Breakfast at the hotel. Start walking tour of Kathmandu city. Sightseeing of Pashupatinath Temple- the most sacred of the Hindu temples in Nepal dedicated to lord Shiva, built in 1696. Boudha Nath Temple- the worlds largest stupa; a sight of great reneration to the Buddhist., Swayambhunath temple - the oldest Buddhist shrine. Looking east from here, one can see the entire Kathmandu valley spread out below. and lunch break in Kathmandu durbar square. – the temple of the Living Goddess and the old Royal Palace . Finally, visit Kasthamandup – a temple built from a single tree from which the Kathmandu derives its name.And then transfer to Hotel.
Day 16 : Kathmandu-Nagarkot (By surface 3 hrs drive):
This is 32 km to the north-east of Katmandu and hour drive through the windy road situated at 2175 meter from the sea level, This is magnificent place to view the panorama of major peaks of eastern Himalayan ranges including Mt. Everest on clear days. It is also very spectacular to watch the sunrise and sunset over the Himalayan ranges. There are also number of luxury hotels and lodges available for accommodation to spend the night. Short day hiking can be done to explore the Tamang villages and other areas of interest for easy going trekkers. Overnight at hotel or resort.
Day 18 Nagarkot-Dhulikhel-Kathmandu (By surface 4-5 hrs drive) :
After breakfast drive to Kathmandu, via Dhulikhel, This is another country drive trip to the east 30 km on the side of the Arniko highway connecting to Tibet border. This is also equally nice place for panoramic viewing of snowy mountain ranges from Karyolung in the east to Himalchuli in the west. From the hilltop you can view colorful landscapes. There are number of luxury hotels and lodges available for spending the night. Day return hiking can be done to explore number of villages during the stay in Dhulikhel. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 19 Kathmandu-Delhi (By flight) :
Early morning take fight to Delhi, on arrival meet to assistace drive to hotel for rest of the day. Late evening after dinner drive to International airport to take onward flight back to home. |
