ASIAN ODYSSEYS PRESENTS:
“INCREDIBLE INDIA”
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DELHI – VARANASI – AGRA – SAMODE – JAIPUR – CHHATRASAGAR – JODHPUR – MUMBAI
India’s history begins as early as 2500 BC when an advanced culture existed in the Indus Valley. After its decline, myriad kingdoms ruled and fought; some even establishing powerful regimes. Dynasties invaded the country – among whom were the Turks, Afghans and Mughals – and following that India was colonized by the Europeans – the French, Dutch and Portuguese, who sought to explore the riches of the land – and finally the British. The British were forced to leave after reigning for nearly 200 years, on August 15, 1947, celebrated as India’s Independence Day.
Modern India is an independent and dynamic nation, vibrant and chaotic yet existing in synchrony; a seamless blend of rapid urban developments and the inherent traditions that are a part of every day life, reflected in festivals and rituals that have adapted to current times yet hold true to their history.
For travellers, India presents an expanse of opportunity; a land of incredible contrasts and paradoxes; an assault on the senses.
Come with us, as we peel back the different layers of India for you. Wherever you are from, you will find something that touches your heart in India.
India’s history begins as early as 2500 BC when an advanced culture existed in the Indus Valley. After its decline, myriad kingdoms ruled and fought; some even establishing powerful regimes. Dynasties invaded the country – among whom were the Turks, Afghans and Mughals – and following that India was colonized by the Europeans – the French, Dutch and Portuguese, who sought to explore the riches of the land – and finally the British. The British were forced to leave after reigning for nearly 200 years, on August 15, 1947, celebrated as India’s Independence Day.
Modern India is an independent and dynamic nation, vibrant and chaotic yet existing in synchrony; a seamless blend of rapid urban developments and the inherent traditions that are a part of every day life, reflected in festivals and rituals that have adapted to current times yet hold true to their history.
For travellers, India presents an expanse of opportunity; a land of incredible contrasts and paradoxes; an assault on the senses.
Come with us, as we peel back the different layers of India for you. Wherever you are from, you will find something that touches your heart in India.
TRIP AT A GLANCE
LOCATION HOTEL NO.OF NIGHTS
DELHI The Imperial 03 nights
VARANASI Taj Gateway 02 nights
AGRA ITC Mughal 02 nights
SAMODE Samode Palace 01 night
JAIPUR Taj Jaimahal Palace / SAMODE HAVALI 03 nights
CHHATRASAGAR Chhatrasagar Camp 02 nights
JODHPUR Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace 02 nights
MUMBAI The Oberoi 03 nights
LOCATION HOTEL NO.OF NIGHTS
DELHI The Imperial 03 nights
VARANASI Taj Gateway 02 nights
AGRA ITC Mughal 02 nights
SAMODE Samode Palace 01 night
JAIPUR Taj Jaimahal Palace / SAMODE HAVALI 03 nights
CHHATRASAGAR Chhatrasagar Camp 02 nights
JODHPUR Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace 02 nights
MUMBAI The Oberoi 03 nights
ITINERARY DETAILS:
DAY 1 ARRIVAL DELHI
Welcome to Delhi!
On arrival at the International Airport you will be met by a Travel Scope representative and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 2 DELHI (B)
This morning drive through Lutyen’s Delhi with photo stops at India Gate and Parliament Buildings. This would be followed by a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum.
In the afternoon visit Humayuns Tomb or Qutab Minar or Hauz Khas Village or option of Private Art Viewing.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 3 DELHI (B)
Begin your day with a visit to Old Delhi to the 17th century Jama Masjid or Friday Mosque. Thereafter take an exhilarating rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid through the narrow lanes of the old city, Chandni Chowk (closed on Sundays) terminating at the ramparts of the Red Fort.
Afternoon at leisure for shopping at Khan market or OPTION to visit the Bangla Sahib Gurudawara. It would include a visit to the community kitchen where volunteers work and feed thousands of devotees daily - the food is offered free to one and all.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 4 DELHI / VARANASI (B)
(Jet Airways Flight 9W2423 Dep 10.45 Arr 12.05 PM)
After breakfast this morning transfer with assistance to the Airport to board your flight for Varanasi. On arrival you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
In the afternoon drive to Sarnath, located on the outskirts of the city where The Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. It’s here that he preached his first five disciples on the four noble truths who then carried his message to the rest of the country.
In the evening visit the riverside to witness the Aarti Ceremony, the evening ritual performed on the steps of the Dasashwamedha Ghat.
Overnight in Varanasi.
DAY 5 VARANASI (B)
Rise early and head to the river to board your small boat at dawn. You will be in the perfect spot to watch the colorful Ghat slowly come to life, as pilgrims begin to bathe themselves in the holy river. Observe colorful sadhus meditating on the banks of the river and the elderly Hindu ladies bathing in their saris, this is an iconic experience of real India.
Return to the hotel for breakfast.
Later proceed for behind-the-scenes Craft and Spice walk (starts at 1500 hours and finish at 1900 hours) through the narrow, colorful lanes of Varanasi. This experience will highlight the multi-hued arts and crafts of the city. You will visit the flower market and wholesale sari market to observe the influence the local culture and religion has had on the life and work of the craftsmen.
Overnight in Varanasi.
DAY 6 VARANASI / AGRA (B)
(Air India Flight AI 406 Dep 12.20 PM ARR 1.05 PM)
Today transfer to the airport in time to board your flight for Agra. On arrival in Agra you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
This evening visit the Taj at sunset. Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Overnight in Agra
DAY 1 ARRIVAL DELHI
Welcome to Delhi!
On arrival at the International Airport you will be met by a Travel Scope representative and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 2 DELHI (B)
This morning drive through Lutyen’s Delhi with photo stops at India Gate and Parliament Buildings. This would be followed by a visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum.
In the afternoon visit Humayuns Tomb or Qutab Minar or Hauz Khas Village or option of Private Art Viewing.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 3 DELHI (B)
Begin your day with a visit to Old Delhi to the 17th century Jama Masjid or Friday Mosque. Thereafter take an exhilarating rickshaw ride from Jama Masjid through the narrow lanes of the old city, Chandni Chowk (closed on Sundays) terminating at the ramparts of the Red Fort.
Afternoon at leisure for shopping at Khan market or OPTION to visit the Bangla Sahib Gurudawara. It would include a visit to the community kitchen where volunteers work and feed thousands of devotees daily - the food is offered free to one and all.
Overnight in Delhi
DAY 4 DELHI / VARANASI (B)
(Jet Airways Flight 9W2423 Dep 10.45 Arr 12.05 PM)
After breakfast this morning transfer with assistance to the Airport to board your flight for Varanasi. On arrival you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
In the afternoon drive to Sarnath, located on the outskirts of the city where The Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. It’s here that he preached his first five disciples on the four noble truths who then carried his message to the rest of the country.
In the evening visit the riverside to witness the Aarti Ceremony, the evening ritual performed on the steps of the Dasashwamedha Ghat.
Overnight in Varanasi.
DAY 5 VARANASI (B)
Rise early and head to the river to board your small boat at dawn. You will be in the perfect spot to watch the colorful Ghat slowly come to life, as pilgrims begin to bathe themselves in the holy river. Observe colorful sadhus meditating on the banks of the river and the elderly Hindu ladies bathing in their saris, this is an iconic experience of real India.
Return to the hotel for breakfast.
Later proceed for behind-the-scenes Craft and Spice walk (starts at 1500 hours and finish at 1900 hours) through the narrow, colorful lanes of Varanasi. This experience will highlight the multi-hued arts and crafts of the city. You will visit the flower market and wholesale sari market to observe the influence the local culture and religion has had on the life and work of the craftsmen.
Overnight in Varanasi.
DAY 6 VARANASI / AGRA (B)
(Air India Flight AI 406 Dep 12.20 PM ARR 1.05 PM)
Today transfer to the airport in time to board your flight for Agra. On arrival in Agra you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
This evening visit the Taj at sunset. Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art in India, the Taj was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Overnight in Agra
DAY 7 AGRA (B)
Early morning visit of the Taj. Return to the hotel for Breakfast.
Visit Agra Fort, built in 1565 by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar and developed later by his successors, followed by a visit to the Itmad-ud-daulah tomb.
Return to your hotel and overnight.
09 NOV (Monday) AGRA / FATEHPUR SIKRI (1 HOUR DRIVE)
FATEHPUR SIKRI/BHARATPUR (30 MINUTE DRIVE
BHARATPUR / SAMODE (3 HOUR DRIVE)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning drive to Samode with en route stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the 16th century capital of the Mughal rulers abandoned due to water scarcity in the area. The great Mughal Emperor Akbar had a dream to build a beautiful capital city that the world would remember. The result was Fatehpur Sikri, built entirely of red sandstone about 40 km from Agra. It was Akbar’s capital for 15 years, abandoned after his death in 1585.
Lunch at Bharatpur. Continue your drive to Samode and on arrival check into your hotel.
Overnight in Samode
10 NOV (Tuesday) SAMODE / JAIPUR (I HOUR DRIVE) (B)
The day will commence with a Jeep safari through the farms and villages around Samode.
Around noon drive to Jaipur and on arrival check into your hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure or option to explore the colorful, chaotic bazaars of the city.
Jaipur is a city of vibrant colors and the colorful bazaars offer great opportunity for shopping. It is known for its handicrafts, textiles, leather ware, antiques, gems and jewelry. Jaipur is one of the largest ornament making centers in India and its ‘enamel’ and ‘inlay’ work with gems are the two traditional techniques for which it is most famous.
Overnight in Jaipur.
DAY 8 JAIPUR (Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner )
Begin your day with a visit to the sprawling hilltop, Amber Fort with its royal apartments, halls and dramtic views.It is superbly located and protected by wild Aravali Hills on all sides. The citadel was established in 1592 by Raja Mansingh 1 on the remains of an old 11th century Fort.
Afternoon at leisure.
This evening join in the Diwali celebrations also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair. On Diwali evening people light lamps and candles inside and outside the home, participate in family ‘puja’ to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. This is followed by fireworks and a family feast (venue for the evening to be decided closer to date subject to availability).
Overnight in Jaipur
DAY 9 JAIPUR (B)
Today visit the Astronomical Observatory built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II is amongst the most accurate and well-kept and the nearby Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a delightfully idiosyncratic five-tier composition of arches and balconies.
This would be followed by the City Palace which was an integral part of Raja Sawai Jai Singh’s new city of Jaipur. Today it’s a museum that displays some of the finest collection of paintings, costumes, carpets and armory of that period.
Afternoon at leisure for own activities or OPTIONAL visit to Sanganer Village (45 minute drive)
Jaipur is a major centre for textiles and fashion production for designers, both Indian and International. Sanganer village is located on the edge of Jaipur and has long been the home of Rajasthani block-printing, a craft that dates back to the 1700s and originally developed under the patronage of the Royal family.
Today accompanied by your guide drive to Sanganer and Bagru to visit block printing textile workshops mainly using traditional vegetable dyes - the color blue is often derived from indigo and yellows from the root of turmeric. The blocks are made by traditional wood carvers who have been doing this work for many generations.
To offset the stark and barren desert surrounding them, the Rajasthanis show a distinct preference for color. This is reflected in their clothes, turbans and jewelry. Textile printing is practiced in many areas of the state, varying in colors, design and technique.
Overnight in Jaipur
DAY 10 JAIPUR / CHHATRASAGAR (5 hour drive)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today after breakfast drive to Chhatrasagar and on arrival check into your Deluxe Tented accommodation.
Afternoon at your leisure. Optional bird walking around Chhatrasagar.
This evening soak in some fresh air, sit around the bonfire and listen to old folklore. Enjoy some truly delicious Indian and traditional Rajasthani meal cooked with farm fresh vegetables.
Overnight in Chhatrasagar
DAY 11 CHHATRASAGAR
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning proceed on a village safari accompanied by one of the members of the Chhatrasagar family. Guests can walk in the farms growing Chilli, Ani Seed, Cummin Seed, mustard and wheat. Walk within the settlement which offers great photo opportunities.
At sunset hike up to the nearby hillock for sundowners and 360 degree of the countryside.
Overnight in Chhatrasagar.
DAY 12 CHHATRASAGAR / JODHPUR (2 hour drive) (B)
This morning after breakfast drive to Jodhpur and on arrival check into your hotel.
In the afternoon, explore Jodhpur with a Heritage walk starting from Mehrangarh Fort through the blue city back to the Raas Haveli. Continue exploring the colorful bazaars of Jodhpur - well known for glass bangles, ornamental swords, rugged leather slippers and printed fabrics.
Overnight in Jodhpur.In the afternoon proceed for the Desert drive experience into the wilderness of western Rajasthan which take you to through the homes and see the lives of various tribal communities. These are villages or hamlets, completely off the beaten path where the simple folk still in the live in complete harmony with nature. All along the route one can encounter wildlife like black buck, blue bull, chinkara etc.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
DAY 13 JODHPUR (B)
After breakfast visit the Mehrangarh Fort.
Perhaps the most majestic of Rajasthan’s forts, described by Rudyard Kipling as “the creation of angels, fairies and giants” Mehrangarh’s forbidding ramparts are in sharp contrast to the flamboyantly decorated palaces within. Founded in 1459, the sandstone fort was added to by later rulers between 17th and 19th centuries.
The royal apartments within the fort now form part of an outstanding museum. Its rich and varied collection includes a golden throne, fine miniature paintings, traditional costumes and fascinating weapons. Particularly magnificent are the restored royal chambers, which present a vivid picture of princely life and culture in Rajasthan.
In the afternoon proceed for the Desert drive experience into the wilderness of western Rajasthan which take you to through the homes and see the lives of various tribal communities. These are villages or hamlets, completely off the beaten path where the simple folk still in the live in complete harmony with nature. All along the route one can encounter wildlife like black buck, blue bull, chinkara etc.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
Early morning visit of the Taj. Return to the hotel for Breakfast.
Visit Agra Fort, built in 1565 by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar and developed later by his successors, followed by a visit to the Itmad-ud-daulah tomb.
Return to your hotel and overnight.
09 NOV (Monday) AGRA / FATEHPUR SIKRI (1 HOUR DRIVE)
FATEHPUR SIKRI/BHARATPUR (30 MINUTE DRIVE
BHARATPUR / SAMODE (3 HOUR DRIVE)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning drive to Samode with en route stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the 16th century capital of the Mughal rulers abandoned due to water scarcity in the area. The great Mughal Emperor Akbar had a dream to build a beautiful capital city that the world would remember. The result was Fatehpur Sikri, built entirely of red sandstone about 40 km from Agra. It was Akbar’s capital for 15 years, abandoned after his death in 1585.
Lunch at Bharatpur. Continue your drive to Samode and on arrival check into your hotel.
Overnight in Samode
10 NOV (Tuesday) SAMODE / JAIPUR (I HOUR DRIVE) (B)
The day will commence with a Jeep safari through the farms and villages around Samode.
Around noon drive to Jaipur and on arrival check into your hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure or option to explore the colorful, chaotic bazaars of the city.
Jaipur is a city of vibrant colors and the colorful bazaars offer great opportunity for shopping. It is known for its handicrafts, textiles, leather ware, antiques, gems and jewelry. Jaipur is one of the largest ornament making centers in India and its ‘enamel’ and ‘inlay’ work with gems are the two traditional techniques for which it is most famous.
Overnight in Jaipur.
DAY 8 JAIPUR (Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner )
Begin your day with a visit to the sprawling hilltop, Amber Fort with its royal apartments, halls and dramtic views.It is superbly located and protected by wild Aravali Hills on all sides. The citadel was established in 1592 by Raja Mansingh 1 on the remains of an old 11th century Fort.
Afternoon at leisure.
This evening join in the Diwali celebrations also known as the ‘Festival of Lights’. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair. On Diwali evening people light lamps and candles inside and outside the home, participate in family ‘puja’ to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. This is followed by fireworks and a family feast (venue for the evening to be decided closer to date subject to availability).
Overnight in Jaipur
DAY 9 JAIPUR (B)
Today visit the Astronomical Observatory built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II is amongst the most accurate and well-kept and the nearby Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a delightfully idiosyncratic five-tier composition of arches and balconies.
This would be followed by the City Palace which was an integral part of Raja Sawai Jai Singh’s new city of Jaipur. Today it’s a museum that displays some of the finest collection of paintings, costumes, carpets and armory of that period.
Afternoon at leisure for own activities or OPTIONAL visit to Sanganer Village (45 minute drive)
Jaipur is a major centre for textiles and fashion production for designers, both Indian and International. Sanganer village is located on the edge of Jaipur and has long been the home of Rajasthani block-printing, a craft that dates back to the 1700s and originally developed under the patronage of the Royal family.
Today accompanied by your guide drive to Sanganer and Bagru to visit block printing textile workshops mainly using traditional vegetable dyes - the color blue is often derived from indigo and yellows from the root of turmeric. The blocks are made by traditional wood carvers who have been doing this work for many generations.
To offset the stark and barren desert surrounding them, the Rajasthanis show a distinct preference for color. This is reflected in their clothes, turbans and jewelry. Textile printing is practiced in many areas of the state, varying in colors, design and technique.
Overnight in Jaipur
DAY 10 JAIPUR / CHHATRASAGAR (5 hour drive)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today after breakfast drive to Chhatrasagar and on arrival check into your Deluxe Tented accommodation.
Afternoon at your leisure. Optional bird walking around Chhatrasagar.
This evening soak in some fresh air, sit around the bonfire and listen to old folklore. Enjoy some truly delicious Indian and traditional Rajasthani meal cooked with farm fresh vegetables.
Overnight in Chhatrasagar
DAY 11 CHHATRASAGAR
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning proceed on a village safari accompanied by one of the members of the Chhatrasagar family. Guests can walk in the farms growing Chilli, Ani Seed, Cummin Seed, mustard and wheat. Walk within the settlement which offers great photo opportunities.
At sunset hike up to the nearby hillock for sundowners and 360 degree of the countryside.
Overnight in Chhatrasagar.
DAY 12 CHHATRASAGAR / JODHPUR (2 hour drive) (B)
This morning after breakfast drive to Jodhpur and on arrival check into your hotel.
In the afternoon, explore Jodhpur with a Heritage walk starting from Mehrangarh Fort through the blue city back to the Raas Haveli. Continue exploring the colorful bazaars of Jodhpur - well known for glass bangles, ornamental swords, rugged leather slippers and printed fabrics.
Overnight in Jodhpur.In the afternoon proceed for the Desert drive experience into the wilderness of western Rajasthan which take you to through the homes and see the lives of various tribal communities. These are villages or hamlets, completely off the beaten path where the simple folk still in the live in complete harmony with nature. All along the route one can encounter wildlife like black buck, blue bull, chinkara etc.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
DAY 13 JODHPUR (B)
After breakfast visit the Mehrangarh Fort.
Perhaps the most majestic of Rajasthan’s forts, described by Rudyard Kipling as “the creation of angels, fairies and giants” Mehrangarh’s forbidding ramparts are in sharp contrast to the flamboyantly decorated palaces within. Founded in 1459, the sandstone fort was added to by later rulers between 17th and 19th centuries.
The royal apartments within the fort now form part of an outstanding museum. Its rich and varied collection includes a golden throne, fine miniature paintings, traditional costumes and fascinating weapons. Particularly magnificent are the restored royal chambers, which present a vivid picture of princely life and culture in Rajasthan.
In the afternoon proceed for the Desert drive experience into the wilderness of western Rajasthan which take you to through the homes and see the lives of various tribal communities. These are villages or hamlets, completely off the beaten path where the simple folk still in the live in complete harmony with nature. All along the route one can encounter wildlife like black buck, blue bull, chinkara etc.
Overnight in Jodhpur.
DAY 14 JODHPUR / MUMBAI (Jetairways flt 9W316 Dep 1.55 Arr 3.35 PM) (B)
Morning at leisure to explore the beautiful surroundings of the Palace.
Transfer with assistance to the airport in time to board your flight for Mumbai.
On arrival in Mumbai you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Overnight in Mumbai.
DAY 15 MUMBAI (B)
After breakfast you will be escorted on a city tour of Mumbai, covering Indo-Saracenic buildings (Victoria station, Mumbai University). Drive through Marine Drive, Malabar Hills and Hanging Gardens. Visit the ‘Dhobi Ghat’ a huge open-air laundry and back to Churchgate in time to see the unusual sight of Mumbai’s ‘Dhabawallas’ at work.
Thereafter drive to Mumbai’s most famous landmark, the Gateway of India, the first sight to greet travelers to Indian shores during the British Raj. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911.
From here board the ferry for a visit to the forest island of Elephanta. Located on an island off Mumbai’s eastern shore, the 6th century cave temples chiseled into a rocky cliff and dedicated to Lord Shiva contain some great masterpieces of Indian sculpture.
Return to Mumbai and overnight.
DAY 16 MUMBAI (B)
Begin your day with a Mumbai by Dawn tour.
Witness Mumbai; come to life at dawn with this unique tour that offers a sneak peek into the underbelly of the city. From observing the newspaper vendor distribution network to a memorable walk down Sassoon Dock and taking part in a one-of-its-kind fish auction, you can also witness the men and women bargain at wholesale markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and even flowers.
The markets are a carnival of color and sound, imbibing the spirit of Mumbai. The tour ends with sampling fresh, revitalizing coconut water specially driven down from Kerala. It all comes at a price though, waking up at 5 am for one!
Return back to the hotel for breakfast.
Thereafter option to visit some famous Synagogues of Mumbai (Magen David, Gate of Mercy and the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogues) or Museums (Prince of Wales and Dr Bhau Daji Lad).
End the day with a walk through the sprawling, colorful and historic Crawford Market.
Overnight in Mumbai.
DAY 17 DEPARTURE MUMBAI (B)
Transfer with assistance to the airport board your international flight back home.
INCLUSIONS
· Airport transfers with assistance of an agency representative at all stations.
· All sightseeing, excursions and surface travel as per itinerary by Air-conditioned Tempo Traveller (Mini Van or Mini Coach)
· Accommodation in Hotels as per list given below.
· Services of English Speaking Guide at each location for sightseeing as per itinerary. Accompanying guide from Agra to Jodhpur.
· Entrance fees to all monuments being visited.
EXCLUSIONS
· International Airfare.
· Domestic Air Fares. (Advised as separate supplement)
· Personal expenses like drinks, telephone calls, laundry etc.
· Meals, other than the ones included in the pricing.
· All costs related to insurance, medical repatriation.
· Tips of any kind & Movie Camera.
