Introduction

Majestic, mystic and mesmerizing – This journey of the Northern part of our country will give you a trip of a lifetime. It envelops your hearts with memorable experiences, offering you an opportunity to enjoy divine creativity in different forms. Soak the diversity of this region, from delicious cuisine to amazing culture - this place has been calling you to explore more and more.

Journey Highlights

• Sight of Qutub Minar - the tallest stone tower in India
• An exciting camel ride on the sandy terrain of Jaisalmer
• Visit to magnificent Mehrangarh Fort – still run by Maharaja of Jodhpur
• Enjoy a speciality Thaali lunch - Indian style platter in Udaipur
• Viewing of living Palace of Maharaja of Jaipur
• Visit to iconic Monument of Love – TAJ MAHAL
• Stunning display of fine sculptures and exceptional architectural skill – Khajuraho temples

  Arrive at Delhi

You will arrive at New Delhi International Airport. Following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, our Holiday Freakers representative will meet you at the exit of the arrival hall and you will be escorted to your hotel.
India's capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis which successfully combines in its folds- the ancient with the modern. Amidst the fast spiralling skyscrapers, the remnants of a bygone time, in the form of its many monuments, stand as silent reminders to the region's ancient legacy. Delhi is a food-lovers haven and has something to please every palate. There is an unlimited variety available across cuisines, across price-brackets and across experiences - from street food of North India to International cuisine and from road-side dhabas to fine dining- Delhi has it all.

  Delhi

Today we head out on a full day to explore Delhi. Begin your day with a guided tour of the Old City of ‘Shahjahanabad'. Your introduction to the city will start with a visit to Raj Ghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, drive past the Red Fort –the magical monument in red sandstone built at the pinnacle of the Mughal Empire. From here proceed by bicycle rickshaws through the bustling streets of Old Delhi to Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in Asia built by Shah Jahan.
After lunch, proceed to visit Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India built to establish the might of Islam and onset of Muslim rule in India. Later in the day we visit Humayun's tomb, the first great example of a new distinctive style which developed and become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty. We also drive past the imposing India Gate (War Memorial Arch), the Parliament buildings and the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the President's residence) before viewing one of Delhi's most incredible Sikh Temples.

  Delhi - Mandawa (By road - approx. 250 Kms/6 hrs)

After breakfast, we drive to Mandawa.
In the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is the small but beautiful town of Mandawa, known throughout the state for its forts and havelis. The structures of this city are a reminder of the cultural and social hotspot this place used to be in the bygone era.
This afternoon we explore the magnificent Frescoes Havelis. The charming havelis, painted predominantly in vibrant colours, have exquisite paintings that adorn their walls in this semi-desert region.

  Mandawa - Bikaner (By road - approx. 200 Kms/4 hrs)

After breakfast, you will be driven to Bikaner.
On arrival we head out for a sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Lying in the north of the desert state of Rajasthan, the city of Bikaner is dotted with many sand dunes. More popularly called the camel country, the city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. Bikaner's forts, palaces and temples are magnificent creations in red and yellow sandstone and are living manifestations of its rich historical and architectural legacy.
We visit one of the most interesting forts in Rajasthan, with its sumptuously decorated interiors, Junagarh Fort, built in 1588 by Raja Rai Singh. It is unusual, in the sense, that it was one of the few major forts of Rajasthan that was not built on a hilltop. Instead, it was built on the desert plains; its rugged sandstone bastions, graceful pavilions and balconies are silhouetted against the sky. After visiting Junagarh Fort, we go for a walk around the local bazaars of Bikaner and learn about the local trades and handicrafts.

  Bikaner - Jaisalmer (By road - approx. 330 Kms/6 hrs)

After breakfast we begin our drive to Jaisalmer.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the city of Jaisalmer founded by Rao Jaisal. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with all its awesome splendour, dominating the amber hued city. The name Jaisalmer evokes a vivid picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. It is famous for the Jaisalmer Fort, sand dunes, and ideal for camel rides and safaris.
The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.

  Jaisalmer

After breakfast, proceed on a tour of Jaisalmer including a visit to Jaisalmer Fort. Built in 1156, the fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert. Located on the top of the Trikuta Hill, the ramparts, bastions and the long-stretching walls of the fort dazzle gloriously during early morning and at sunset.
Enjoy a visit to the Fort Palace Museum. The Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum and Heritage Centre was an erstwhile royal residence, which was later converted. The museum houses a great collection of artefacts depicting the rich culture and heritage of Jaisalmer. It's visit is a must for history buffs and those keen on learning about the heritage of Rajasthan.
After lunch, continue on to Gadsisar Lake, a rain water lake, adorned with an arched gateway. Many small shrines and temples are festooned all around the lake. Also visit some of the most exquisitely carved havelis of Jaisalmar. Built in the 19th Century by wealthy merchants, these havelis (or mansions) are intricately carved in yellow sandstone. The entrances of the havelis are raised high above the street to prevent sand from blowing into rooms; jharokhas (projecting balconies), jalis (latticed stone screens) and the inner courtyards, which were protected places for the children to play and women to go about their chores, are some of the characteristic features of these mansions.
Later in the afternoon, drive to the outskirts to view the sunset on the picturesque sand dunes. The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes, creating an enchanting mirage, surely are a delight. An exciting camel ride on the sandy terrain will allow you to get the real feel of the desert.

  Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (By road - approx. 275 Kms/6 hrs)

In the morning, you will be driven to the city of Jodhpur.
Jodhpur, also called the 'Blue City', located on the edge of the Thar Desert.  It was once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha and is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Flanked on its western side by the Mehrangarh Fort, and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone Palace of Umaid Bhawan; the monuments temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur.
On arrival, we will begin with an in depth tour of Jodhpur starting at the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, one of Rajasthan's finest forts, which looks down protectively over the city from the hilltop. Still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur, this 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. There are seven gates that lead into the fort. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. The palace apartments with marvellously carved panels, latticed windows have evocative names such as Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), the Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) and the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). These palaces house a fabulous collection of the trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant howdahs (used when the Maharajas rode their elephants in processions), miniature paintings, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.
We continue to Jaswant Thada, which is located a short distance from the fort, just off the fort road and is a white marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The cenotaph built in 1899, was followed by the construction of the royal crematorium and three other cenotaphs that stand nearby. There are some beautiful marble jali (lattice) work and fine views from the terrace in front of the cenotaphs. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.

  Jodhpur - Ranakpur - Udaipur (By road - approx. 250 Kms/5 hrs)

This morning after breakfast, you will be driven to the 'City of Lakes’ Udaipur en route visit the beautiful Ranakpur Jain Temples. Deep in the forest, tucked away in a remote and quiet valley of the Aravalli Range, about 90 km from Udaipur, is Ranakpur. It boasts of some of the most exquisite Jain temples in the country famous for their intricate friezes and sculptures. The main shrine of Adinath, with its 1444 exquisitely carved columns is the largest and most complex Jain temple in the country. Two Jain temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little distance away are also noteworthy.
Udaipur or the 'City of Lakes’ is the capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, one of the oldest surviving dynasties in the world and was established around 1567 A.D. The chequered history of Mewar is showcased in the city of Udaipur, which is akin to an oasis in the desert state of Rajasthan. It is a rich and beguiling tapestry of lakeside palaces, forts, temples, havelis and gardens, reflecting the varied influences of the centuries.

  Udaipur

This morning we head out to explore Udaipur. Built in 1567, the City Palace stands on a hill on the banks of Lake Pichola and is surrounded by crenulated walls. City Palace is an intriguing mixture of Rajput and military architecture and Mughal-style ornamental techniques. Its firm, fortress-like facade, topped by a plethora of graceful balconies, cupolas and turrets, has been justly described as a massive plain cake topped with fabulous icing. Continue to Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the maids of honour), a small ornamental garden which was a popular relaxing spot where royal ladies came for a stroll and hence the name. Also, visit the Jagdish Temple, which was built by Maharana Jagat Singh. Located north of City Palace's main gate, this 17th-century temple has an enormous black stone image of lord Vishnu in its profusely carved main shrine. A bronze image of Garuda (the mythical bird who is Vishnu's vehicle) stands in front of the temple and stone elephants flank the entrance steps.
Enjoy a speciality Thaali lunch, which is Indian style platter made up of a selection of various dishes.
This afternoon, enjoy a walk around the bazaars in the colourful and bustling markets of the old town. Browse through the shops selling embroidered and block printed fabrics, jewellery, paintings and carved wood artefacts. Continue for a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Lake Pichola derives its name from Pichol village, has the City Palace extending along its eastern bank and the Jag Niwas Island and the Jag Mandir enclosed in its vast expanse. Maharana Udai Singh enlarged the lake after he founded the city of Udaipur. The lake is surrounded by hills and its panoramic beauty is best viewed against the backdrop of the setting sun.

  Udaipur - Jaipur (By road - approx. 395 Kms/7 hrs)

In the morning, we drive to the pink city of Jaipur.
Jaipur, one of the most enticing places in India, is nestled between mighty forts and the rugged Aravalli Hills. It is known as the 'Pink City' as its prominent buildings are painted in this colour. Founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727, Jaipur is steeped in Rajput history and is characterised by sites such as the City Palace with its astronomical Observatory, Hawa Mahal, and the beautiful Amber Fort. Jaipur is a bustling capital city and a business centre with all the trappings of a modern metropolis yet flavoured strongly with an age-old charm that never fails to surprise a traveller.

  Jaipur

An exciting day awaits you as begin your sightseeing tour with a photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhangingwindows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Continue your tour as we drive to the ancientcapital of Amer to see the fabulous Amber Fort situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur city,surrounded by fortified battlements. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar's most successfulGeneral, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century. Before the City Palace wasconstructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlementsand overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawlingcrenelated walls lattice the surrounding area.
Enjoy a guided tour of the fabulous Amber Fort. Crowning the crest of a hill, Amber fort offers aview of Maota Lake and the historic old town located at the base ofthe hill, which formed the earlyseat of the Amber kings before the fort was made their capital. Tour the chambers and hallways ofthe palace, famous for the excellence of its design and decoration. Within the complex is Ganesh Pol, an imposing gateway painted with the images of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh. The merging ofRajput and Mughal architectural styles is captured in the Sukh Niwas and Jas Mandir apartments,and the Charbagh garden with its perfectly proportioned landscaping. Pierced screen windows offerviews from different vantage points and shimmering mirrors encrust the walls of Sheesh Mahal.
This afternoon, enjoy a tour of the Pink City, an "Abode of Rajahs" on a guided heritage walk beforeentering one of the highlights of Jaipur, the City Palace Museum. Then is a visit to the City Palace Museum, which has a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of Mughals and Rajputs, including swords of different shapes and sizes with chiselled handles. Many antiques and artefacts belongingto the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. It also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rareastronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit.
Continue for a guided tour of Jantar Mantar. An expert will take you through the awe-inspiringJantar Mantar Observatory, a stone astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja JaiSingh in the 18" century. Located adjacent to the City Palace, Jantar Mantar is an impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed architectural-astronomical observatory. It consists of some 20 major geometric devices for measuring time, tracking stars in their orbits, ascertaining the declination of płanets, accurately determining the celestial altitudes and predicting the occurrence of eclipses.

  Jaipur - Abhaneri - Agra (By road - approx. 260 Kms/6 hrs)

After breakfast, we head to the Mughal city of Agra en-route visiting the famous Abheneri Step Well.
Abhaneri was originally named Abha Nagri, which means "City of Brightness" but due to mispronunciation, the name was changed. The city is now in ruins, but it attracts touristsfrom across the globe. Abhaneri is prominent for Baoris', step wells which were invented by thenatives to harvest rain water. These tanks were used as cool places of retreat and as water reservoirs during parched times of the year.
Chand Baori is the most popular of the wells in theregion, and it is one of India's deepest and largest. There are three ways to reach the water using thesteps, which are divided into storey. This colossal, delicately carved well is located in front of theHarshat Mata Temple.
On arrival in Agra, we check in to the hotel.
Agra - famous as the home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World –Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces in Agra are a vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal Empire. Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by artisans who are hereditary craft artisan. The city is also famous for its carpets & gold thread embroidery.
This afternoon explore the Agra Fort, anoutstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empireunder successive generations. Shah Jahan, the Taj's creator, spent the last years of his life imprisoned at the fort by his son Aurangzeb. It was built in the late 1560's by their predecessor,Akbar, with later embellishments by Jehangir, his son, and Shah Jahan, his grandson.

  Agra - Orchha (By road - approx. 260 Kms/6 hrs)

This morning we head out for the big one. The Taj Mahal, for a spectacle not to be missed--a sunrise visit to the legendary Taj Mahal, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a mausoleumfor his wife Mumtaz Mahal, a masterpiece in marble and one of the world's most famous landmarks. As dawn breaks, a chaste and serene image of the Taj starts to emerge from the darkness.  The sun cast a very soft lightilluminating the contours of this enchanting monument in marble. Referred to as one of the wondersof the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra, is the epitome of tourism in India and is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty. There is plenty of time to explore the grounds of the Taj Mahal gardens before returning to the hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast we make our wayto Orchha.
This historic village on the banks of the boulder-strewn Betwa River showcases a supreme display ofMughal architecture, some of which is similar to that of nearby Khajuraho with much granderpalaces and cenotaphs dotting the pastoral landscape as well. The atmosphere in Orchha, though, isfar more laid-back and hassle-free, which makes for a relaxing stay.

  Khajuraho (By road - approx. 175 Kms/4 hrs)

This morning we explore Orchha village.
The medieval city of Orchha seems to have frozen in time,its palaces and temples stll retaining their original grandeur. Orchha had the distinction of being thecapital of one of the largest and most powerful kingdoms of Central India. The Bundela Rajputchieftain, Rudra Pratap, founded the city, located by the side of the beautiful Betwa River, in the 16th century.
Visit the Orchha Palace & Cenotaphs. The palace has three storey with 136 chambers. It has 3 typesof balconies, 4 types of arches, 5 types of domes & 6 types of ceilings. A procession of stone carved elephants attracts the visitors instantaneously. The inner & the outer walls of the palaces are decorated with cobalt & turquoise blue tiles. All the chambers were painted with murals,  the remains of which are still visible. The riverside cenotaphs belong to the Bundela kings and members of their clan. Most of the structures had three storey. All the chambers on the four corners have dome shapedtops surrounded by small cenotaphs resting on columns. Though most of them are in a dilapidated condition, a few are well preserved including a marble statue of Madhukar Shah.
We then continue our journey to Khajuraho.
The temples at Khajuraho were built between 950 and 1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty. Eighty-five temples were built, of which about twenty two have survived. The temples are spread amongst three geographical groups, namely, the Western, Eastern and Southern. Architecturally the temples have some unique features. They stand on high platforms and do not have customary enclosures. Each temple has a large number of spires in ascending order representing man’s aspirations towards spiritual goals. The sculptures describe the moments of truth, amazement and bliss in which one forgets everything and surrenders completely to spiritual emotions and this wonder is sparked by the elusive theme of the temples at Khajuraho.
In the afternoon we explore Khajuraho's Eastern Groupof temples. This group comprises of two historic Jain temples -the Adinath Temple lavishlyembellished with sculpted figures, and the Parsvanath Temple, the largest Jain temple, sculpted withcharming detail. There are other shrines such as the Vamana Temple with apsaras in sensuousposes, and the Javari Temple that has a richly carved doorway.
Continue to the Western Group of temples which are entirely Hindu, and constitute some of thefinest examples of Chandela art at its peak. The largest being the Kandhariya Mahadev dedicated toLord Shiva, followed by a granite temple -Chaunsath Yogini. The Chitragupta Temple is dedicated tothe Sun God, while the Vishwanath Temple sports a three-headed image of Brahma - the Creator ofthe Universe. The Lakshmana Temple is superbly decorated, while the Devi Jagdambi Temple isdedicated to Goddess Kali. Other temples in the Western Group include the Varaha Temple with anine-foot high boar-incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the Matangeshwara Temple with an eight-foot highlingam, and the Brahma Temple.

  Khajuraho - Allahabad (By road - approx. 275 Kms/7 hrs)

After breakfast we leave Khajuraho behind us and continue our journey east to Allahabad.
Allahabad is among the largest and holiest cities in Uttar Pradesh. It stands at the confluence of two of India's holiest rivers, the Ganges and the Yamuna. Sangam, as the confluence is called, is thevenue of many sacred fairs and rituals and attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year. Thisnumber swells to millions during the world famous Kumbha Mela. A third mythical river, the Saraswati, believed to flow underground towards the Sangam, gives the confluence its other name 'Triveni'.
On arrival, for the rest of the afternoon you are free to explore this holy city at your own pace.

  Allahabad - Varanasi (By road - approx. 125 Kms/3 hrs)

This morning enjoy a tour of Allahabad including a visit to the Fort, built from 1583 onwards byAkbar at the confluence of the two great Rivers Ganges and Jamuna. It is the largest of Akbar's forts,although most of its original form has been impaired by poor early restoration work. The fortconsists of a beautiful zenana palace with a fine baradari or pavilion with a central square hallcarved on 64 columns surrounded by a deep veranda of double columns with clusters of four in eachcorner. Continue to the Khusrau Bagh, once the pleasure garden of Jahangir, son of Akbar. It housesthe tomb of Prince Khusrau, elder son of Shah Jahan, who died in 1615. His tomb was completedseven years later and is a large domed structure in Mughal style. Built in the garden enclosure, the actual burial chamber is underground with enriched decorative plasterwork. The complex has two other tombs, one of Khusrau's sister and the other of his mother
We then continue on to one of India's holiest Meccas, Varanasi.
Located along the west bank of theholy River Ganges in the state of Uttar Pradesh, the city of Varanasi is one of the oldest sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, which enshrines the very essence of Hinduism-temples, shrinesand devotees, sunrise boat rides, flower ceremonies with traditional music and walks on the ghats. It is a city of colourful bazaars exquisite and bright silks, festivals all centring on the teeming ghats of the Holy Ganges.
This evening we board a boat on the River Ganges to witness the special Hindu Aarti ceremony performed. Every evening a magical Aarti is performed at Dashwamedha Ghat. Halt your boat right at the steps for the best view. The presiding priests stand on a wooden chauki in the water. To the chant of Sanskrit mantras, the clash of cymbals and drums, the riveris worshipped with flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor lampand then the many- flamed aarti lamps are raised high and then arched back to the water, the darkriver reflecting the golden flames as Ganga accepts the worship.

  Varanasi

Varanasi's principle attraction is the string of bathing ghats, which line the western ghats of RiverGanges. The spectacular four kilometre sweep of the Ghats is a unique sight, best viewed at dawn. This morning we take a boat cruise on the Ganges to soak in the vibrant colour and life of Varanasi(subject to water levels). An early morning boat ride presents an incredible scene as the multitudesof devotees come to the river to pay homage to the Sun God. Pass the bathing ghats wherethousands of pilgrims immerse themselves in the holy water of the Ganges River and the burningghats where cremations are conducted. On our return we visit the bazaars (local market) and take a glimpse of KashiVishwanath Temple -the most sacred of the shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. We then return to thehotel for breakfast where the morning is spent at your leisure.

Later we make a visit to Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon or inreligious language, set in motion the Wheel of Law (Maha-Dharmachakra-Pravartan) enshrining the principles of his teaching into laws. 200 years later, in the 3rd century BC, the Mauryan Emperor Ashokawho spread the Buddha's message of love and compassion throughout his vast empire, built massivestupas, viharas and monasteries making it the centre of the Buddhist world. Several Buddhiststructures were built at Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and 11th century AD and today it presentsthe most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail.

  Varanasi - Lucknow (By road - approx. 125 Kms/3 hrs)

This morning we leave Varanasi behind us and head to Lucknow.
For all its modernity, Lucknowremains true to its cultural past, impeccable manners, a courtly diction, and alove for the arts and all beautiful things. The capital city of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, the erstwhileAwadh or Oudh still preserves the spirit of the past era.  On arrival, the afternoon is free for you to exploreand enjoy this old World city.

  Lucknow

City tour of Hussainabad or the old city includes a visit to the Bara Imambara which contains one of the biggest vaulted halls in the world unsupported by any beams or pillars, its labyrinth corridors, its unique ventilation system and its amazing acoustics (the lighting of a match or a paper torn could be heard at the other end of the 163 ft. hall.) The Rumi Darwaza, which is almost an exact replica of the great gates of Istanbul. The Chota or Hussainabad Imambara, Shah Najaf Imambara, La Martiniere, Dilkusha palace and the several Baradaris all wait to be discovered. Lucknow tells its own story in the magnificent buildings of the Nawabs of Oudh, when beauty, rather than utility was the main concern.

  Lucknow - Delhi (By Flight)

After breakfast we have a leisurely morning before making our way to the airport to board the flight to Delhi. Onarrival you will be escorted to your hotel in Delhi.

  Delhi Departure

After breakfast, spend the day at your leisure. At the appropriate time, you will be escorted to the airport to boardyour flight back home.