Romantic India with Darjeeling

Arrive at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. As guests exit, you will be met and transferred from airport to hotel.                                                

  “I asked my soul what is Delhi?   It replied the world is the body; Delhi is its soul….. is how a 19th century poet described this city that has ever been so many things to so many different people. To the weary travelers on the ancient silk route it was the first plain after having crossed the Himalayan Mountains with the promise of shelter, food and business opportunities. To the Afghan, Turk, Greek, Arab and Roman kings it was a vast and inexhaustible source of treasures of all kinds ­ to the Chinese travelers it was the land of knowledge and wisdom. Its ageless face saw the advent of Islam. ­It saw empires being built and destroyed or even merely dismantled to make way for the new ­ and Delhi lived on….   The British created their own Delhi ­ with large well planned avenues and planted 10000 trees with a 112 kms of hedges that it would be green round the year ­ abundant with flowers ­ a botanical paradise. The seat of the British Empire ­ Delhi of 1911 was planned to resemble ‘an Englishman dressed for the climate’. Its planners and main architects decided that it would be neither Hindu, nor Muslim, nor Buddhist, nor English nor Roman but IMPERIAL a house for the Viceroy that resembled ‘a giant Indian bungalow, embattled Rajput fortress and Mughal tomb ­ with shades of Buckingham Palace ­ with English country house comforts. Delhi is perhaps the only city in the world that fuses its past present and evokes its future without losing an iota of its identity. ­ 1300 monuments speak of her antiquity ­ of the ambitions of men who thought they could hold on to her ­but history proved otherwise. A popular superstition is that it is also known as the ‘graveyard of dynasties’ with every one of its cities built there heralding the death the dynasty that built it.    Thus, Delhi is a Melting Pot of cultures, politics and religions of India’s colorful past in its monuments, its palaces, and in the faces of its people that they narrate the story of their glorious past.

Delhi Car

India Temple

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The Manor

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Start your day with Old Delhi Walks. Founded by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in 1639, Old Delhi is a happy marriage between historic structures and present-day socio-cultural traditions. Our experience gives you a rare glimpse of serenity in the labyrinthine alleys of the Walled City, which are at their most accommodating during this time of the day. Gaze at spectacular Havelis and discover the latent charm of Shahjahanabad right before the bustle sets in. Visit Jama Masjid the largest practicing mosque in India. During the walk, guests will cover the main streets of Chandni Chowk, Dariba Kalan, Kinari Bazaar, Paranthe Wali Gali [Lane of stuffed bread] & Ballimaran, Khari Baoli [Spice Market]. Visit the mighty Red Fort (Closed on Monday) followed by “cycle rickshaws” through the lanes of “Chandni Chowk” or Silver Street, experiencing the sights and sounds of this very busy avenue. after that head towards Humayun’s Tomb, the magnificent structure in red sandstone and white marble – one of the finest examples of the garden tomb and a precursor to the Taj Mahal.

Delhi Gate

Fort Deli

India monument

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The Manor

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Check out from the hotel & drive to Agra, Check into your hotel in Agra and then visit to the Agra Fort. The Agra Fort’s construction was started by Emperor Akbar in 1565 when he was just 23 years of age. Within the fort are several fascinating buildings – the Pearl Mosque built of marble, the Hall of Public Audiences, the Hall of Private Audiences where the famous "peacock throne" was kept, the Octagonal Tower, the Jehangir Palace built by Akbar for his son Jehangir and the Khas Mahal, a beautiful white marble structure used as a private palace and then go for a guided walking tour of Agra this tour will showcase not just heritage monuments but also the city's culture, cuisine, craft, and life of the local people. The journey winds its way through the narrow lanes of Agra, where people can see the grand old haveli’s, the oriental markets of Kinari Bazaar, Lohar Gali, and spice's street of Rawat Para. You get to see Dara Shikoh's library, Mirza Ghalib's birthplace, the headquarters of the Radhasoami faith, the ancient Manka Meshwar temple, the Jama Masjid, and churches of different Christian sects, and the Akbar Church. On the way, the only street of Ayurvedic doctors, the paan and the pethamandi, and the food street of Seth Gali.

India Street

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ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Hotel Agra

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For centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colour and song. Since the 17th century, travellers have crossed continents to come and see this ultimate memorial to love, and few have been unmoved by its incomparable beauty. Taj Mahal stands in the city of Agra, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was built in the memory of the beautiful Arjumand Bano Begum, who won the heart of a Mughal prince. She was married at 21 to Emperor Jahangir's third son Prince Khurram and stayed loyally by his side through good times and bad: in the luxurious royal palaces of Agra as well as the transient tents of war camps. A labour of love ~ Work on the mausoleum began in 1633 and 20,000 workers laboured for 17 years to build it. The most skilled architects, inlay craftsmen, calligraphers, stone-carvers and masons came from all across India and lands as distant as Persia and Turkey. The master mason was from Baghdad, an expert in building the double dome from Persia, and an inlay specialist from Delhi. Intricacy in design ~ what is most amazing about the Taj Mahal is the fine detailing. The coloured inlay is never allowed to overwhelm the design, as carvings done in relief sensitively balance it. The ornate pietra dura and relief carvings are of floral, calligraphic and geometric designs. However, flowers remain the main decorative element as the tomb depicts a paradise garden. The skill of the inlay worker is so fine that it is impossible to find the joints, even when as many as 40 tiny pieces of semi-precious stones have been used in the petals of a single flower. Some of the best calligraphy of Koranic verses can be seen around the entrance arches and on the two headstones. The colours of the Taj ~ Taj Mahal changes its moods with the seasons and the different times of the day. At dawn, the marble has a delicate bloom in shell pink, by noon it glitters majestically white, turning to a soft pearly grey at dusk. Monsoon clouds give it a moody blue tint and it appears and disappears like a mirage in the drifting mists of winter. It can be solid and earthbound, fragile and ethereal, white, amber, grey and gold. The many faces of Taj Mahal display the seductive power of architecture at its best.

India Idol

India Palace

India

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ITC Mughal, A Luxury Collection Hotel Agra

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Check out from the hotel and drive to Jaipur, en route to visit the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. Fatehpur Sikri - this exquisite city built by Akbar the Great in 1569, in red sandstone, with its forts, palaces and mosques was abandoned 14 years after its creation due to political reasons.   It is a visual experience of an ancient city abandoned by its ruler and yet well preserved to this day. One can visualize the splendour and glory of a bygone era. Fatehpur Sikri radiates a true sense of faith and belief in oneself and God. Even today, people visit a shrine within the complex to pray for a better life.

Jaipur was one of the first examples in the world of city planning. The 250-year-old city is a startling blend of forts and palaces, teeming markets, shops and transport of every kind, from cars to camels! Jaipur today, is the capital of Rajasthan with a population of over 1 ½ million people. Jaipur is called the “Pink City”, for by law all the buildings in the old city must be painted a deep saffron pink. It is especially known for its arts and crafts: jewellery, enamel work, hand-painted fabrics and stone sculptures. Above everything, Jaipur is an extraordinarily colourful place. On its streets, you see women in their brilliant red and orange head coverings and sweeping skirts, and men in their equally vivid turbans and upturned moustaches. Jaipur is also a city of polo which is played on horseback, elephants and at times on bicycles!

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Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

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You'll have a private transfer to Amber (The Medieval Rajput Citadel) Amber, the former capital of Jaipur state is stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake which reflects its terraces and ramparts. Amber is a fortified complex of many splendid palaces evolved over a period of six centuries. Then you'll have Cooking Class with Dinner, Enjoy relaxed dining as well as insight into a traditional Rajasthani cooking session with the nobles of the erstwhile state of Jaipur, meet your hosts for the day. Over a cup of tea, get the basic insight into Rajasthani cuisine after which you will be able to participate and learn more about this culinary art. The process behind the creation of the menu is something to behold–a result of the hard work put in by the passionate owners and the food is best described as a drawing influence from traditional Rajasthani recipes passed on by generations. Enjoy a sit-down dinner at the end of the cooking demonstration with your hosts accompanied by drinks and tales of the bygone era. This wonderful ambiance has been created with the luxury of privacy just for your unique taste and an unforgettable experience.

Indian Food

Indian Food

India Building

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Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

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Proceed to the highly ornamented Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds built in 1799 which has no less than 953 little windows and balconies. It is a stunning example of Rajput artistry and was originally built to enable ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life in the streets below through the delicately honeycombed sandstone windows.    Later visit the imposing City Palace now a museum this was the former royal residence built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal styles which now houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armory of the Mughals and Rajputs. Also, visit the ancient Observatory & drive past the picturesque bazaars of the walled city. We also have the option to embark on an adventure of discovery of the city of Jaipur as we take bi-cycle rickshaws to the narrow and winding lanes of the city markets experiencing the various interesting sights and sounds, thereafter walking tour through the bustling bazaars. Free time for souvenir shopping -Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving, semi-precious stones, and local crafts which still thrive from the day of Maharaja Jai Singh’s patronage when he designed special areas in the city for the ‘bandhanas’, the ‘cheepas’ and the ‘meenakari’ workers.

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jaipur

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Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

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Private transfer to the Airport, and then you'll board a domestic direct flight from Jaipur to Udaipur. and then you'll have a Private transfer from Udaipur airport to your Hotel, After checking in enjoy a Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Pichola visiting the Jagmandir Island – situated in the middle of this romantic lake. It commands a magnificent view of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Sajjangarh Fort, on its own island, and it is where Prince Khurram was given refuge in the 17th century.

Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East" is the most romantic city in the state of Rajasthan. Udaipur nestles like a gem in a valley surrounded by green hills, reflected smooth and white in the clear blue waters of Lake Pichola. The city is a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

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Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

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Begin with the tour of the city known for a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces, and temples. Visit the City Palace within which are several architectural and artistic highlights known for its stunning peacock mosaics and a series of wall paintings. The City Palace was once the home of the Mewar rulers. Most of the Palace is converted into a museum and a luxurious hotel. Wander through the markets and bazaars to get a feel of the city situated close behind the City Palace. Visit the Jagdish Temple built in 1651 ornamented with excellent carvings and a bronze figure of the Garuda.  Proceed to the “Sahelion ki Bari” or Garden of the Maids of Honor. Constructed in the early 18th century, this was used as a venue for royal parties.

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Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

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You will begin our tour with Eklingji. The town has all about 70 temples including the famous Eklingji Shiva temple. The original structure of the temple was built in 734 A.D. The temple has beautiful rustic architecture with a distinctly carved tower. The temple also has beautiful and heavy silver doors. On entering the main hall, you are greeted by a mesmerizing fragrance and a silver image of ‘Nandi’. 

Our next stop would be Nagda. This city founded in the 6th century has many small and big temples, but the main attraction is the 'Sas-Bahu' temple. The term 'Sas-Bahu' suggests 'Mother-in-law and Daughter-in-law' respectively. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it is made of two structures. The main entrance to both temples has intricate carvings. The temple of ‘Sas’ (mother-in-law) is larger than that of the ‘Bahu’ (daughter-in-law). The 'Bahu' temple has an octagonal ceiling, which is adorned with beautifully carved eight intricate female figures.

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India Temple

Indian Temple

Lotus Temple

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Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

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Enjoy the last day at leisure. The driver will assist you to the airport.

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Pine Tree Spa and Resorts

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Check-out and transfer to Udaipur Airport to board your flight to Bagdogra via Kolkata. Arrive Bagdogra airport; you will be met & transferred to Darjeeling. Arrive Darjeeling & check into the hotel

  Darjeeling – In short, it's all about magnificent views of snow-capped Kanchenjunga, torrents flowing down the mountain slopes, lovely tea gardens, landscapes with firs, pines & ferns, and all that combined with friendly people and modern yet colonial charm.

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Pine Tree Spa and Resorts

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Kalimpong lies at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. Overlooking the Teesta River, it is a lovely historical town that boasts of vibrant locals, Buddhist monasteries, lovely views and colonial buildings.   Embark on a city tour, including its popular tourist attractions such as Forest Museum- placed near Down Hill, this is place comprising the regions flora and fauna on display; Deolo Hill- the highest point of Kalimpong, this point has a well-maintained park that doubles up as a picnic venue; Hanuman Mandir- located next to Deolo hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers superb views; Dr Graham's Homes- formerly known as the St. Andrew's Colonial Homes, this complex was founded in 1900 and consists of offices, church, bakery etc; Durpin Monastery- also known as Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa, this monastery also houses rare Buddhist manuscripts.

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Pine Tree Spa and Resorts

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Toy train ride: Toy Train Ride up to Ghoom which starts at 10.40 AM. This 50-minute journey on the toy train criss- crosses the motor road and passes through bazaars, leaving a long-lasting memory to the traveller. Arrive at Ghoom Monastery. This is oldest Monastery in the area which was built in 1875. The statue of Maithreya Buddha, which is 4.57 meters high, is of interest here. The monastery also preserves some of the rarest Buddhist manuscripts. Visit to Tibetan self-help centre or refugee centre This institute is run by Tibetan Refugees to preserve their handicrafts    and one can see making of Tibetan Carpets, Leather work, Paintings and Wooden work etc. HMI (Himalayan Mountaineering Institute) & PNHZ Park: Located on Birch Hill, these are the major attractions of the area. This institute was started in Darjeeling when Tenzing Norgay climbed Everest to give training for mountaineering and other adventure sports related to mountaineering and in that Institute one can see equipment etc. used by Mr. Tenzing Norgay and Everest Museum having complete details on Everest attached to institute  

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Pine Tree Spa and Resorts

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Enjoy the full-day at leisure

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Pine Tree Spa and Resorts

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