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Day 06: November 6: Khajuraho –
Jhansi Via Orchha - Agra
This morning we will Drive to Orchha – Orchha was the capital
of the Bundela Rajputs between 1531 and 1783. The palaces and temples
built by them retain much of their pristine perfection. Some of
the palaces were decorated with painted murals, which represent
the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting. Places to
visit are Jehangir Mahal-within the fort complex, built in the 17th
century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir. Ram Raja Temple
– with soaring spires, an unusual temple that was once a palace.
Here Lord Rama is worshiped as a king. Chaturbhuj Temple –
built on a massive stone platform, the temple is reached by a steep
flight of stairs. Laxmi Narayan Temple – the interiors contain
the most exquisite of Orchha’s wall paintings. Cenotaphs –
fourteen memorials to Orchha rulers by the banks of the Betwa river.
Rai Praveen Mahal – set in landscaped gardens, a brick palace
for the poetess and musician Raj Praveen, who captivated Raja Indramani
in the 17th century. After our visit we will drive to Jhansi railway
station. We will travel late this afternoon by train to Agra. Overnight:
at Agra.
Day 07: November 7: Agra
Today will be a full day of Agra that will include the massive
Agra Fort, which has been the seat of Mughal rulers. Overnight Agra.
Day 08: November 8: Agra –
Jaipur
This morning early we will head to the Taj Mahal to witness the
sun rise on the Taj Mahal. Voted one of the 7 wonders of the world,
this will be a day you will remember for ever! We then return to
our hotel for breakfast, check out and drive to Fatehpur-Sikri,
a city built in red sandstone by Emperor Akbar to commemorate the
birth of his son-now a deserted city. It is often called the Ghost
City. We will then continue our drive to Jaipur. Overnight Jaipur.
Day 09: November 9: Jaipur
Full day city tour of Jaipur including morning excursion to Amber
Fort. At Amber fort visit Sheesh Mahal, Ganesh Pol, Shila Devi Temple,
Kesar Kyari Bagh. Climb up the fort on elephant’s back like
the Maharajas and visit the Amber Palace of the Kuchchawa rulers.
Afternoon tour to the Pink City which includes Hawa Mahal: the Palace
of Winds, Jantar Mantar: the observatory of stone and the City Palace
& the Museum which contains the original collection of the Maharajas
of Jaipur. Overnight Jaipur.
Day 10: November 10: Jaipur-Pushkar
After breakfast early check out from hotel and drive to Pushkar.
Upon arrival in Pushkar check into your 5 star Tents. The PushKar
Fair only lasts 8 days a year. National Grographic listed the Puskar
Fair as one of the 10 things you should do before you die. We have
timed our tour to India specifically around the Pushkar Fair. It
is predominantly a very large gathering of camels, cattle and horses
for trade & sale, with added attractions of games. We will enjoy
a camel cart ride to explore the fair before watching a cultural
show on the sand dunes at sunset. Overnight Pushkar.
Day 11: November 11: Pushkar-Samode
(190 kms / 3.5 hrs.)
Morning free to enjoy Pushkar and all of it’s atmosphere.
This afternoon we will drive to Samode where we will be staying
in a Palace. The beautiful Samode Palace has to be reserved 2 years
in advance to get into it. This afternoon will be spent explore
this wonderful palace. Overnight Samode Palace.
Day 12: November 12: Samode
Today We will then take Camels to the Samode Bagh (a private Garden
owned by the Samode Palace, for a leisurely swim at the beautiful
swimming pool. Today will be another highlight you will never forget,
especially our exclusive dinner planned at the Palace. Overnight
Samode Palace.
Day 13: November 13: Samode
– Delhi
Free morning to enjoy your Palace and village before departing this
afternoon to Delhi. Overnight Delhi.
Day 14: November 14: Delhi
(Departure)
Your hotel will be one of the finest hotels found anywhere in the
world. This evening you fly home. You will have a free day to enjoy
this wonderful hotel or further explore Delhi. Late evening departure
back to Chicago.
Day 15: November 15: Mid day arrival into Chicago and the connection to your flight
back home.
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