Delhi has a number of tourist attractions, right from history to present. Museums, heritage, shopping -you name it, Delhi has it all. It’s astonishing heritage is the city's star attraction - both in terms of its monuments and its cultural offerings. Although there are sites in Delhi that one may tick off the travellers list, it is the Old Delhi area which has those lesser talked about places that cannot be missed.
Agra tops the list of "must visit" places in India and attracts tourists like moths to flame. Home to one of the seven wonders in the world, The city is studded with splendid architecture, dating back to the Mughal-era. Agra Fort, Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri have been recognized by the UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
Ranthambore National Park is one of the biggest and most renowned national parks in Northern India. The park is located in the Sawai Madhopur district of southeastern Rajasthan, which is about 130 km from Jaipur. Once considered as one of the famous and former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur, today the Ranthambore National Park terrain is a major wildlife tourist attraction that has drawn the attention of many wildlife photographers and lovers.
Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, evokes an image of the royal family that once ruled the region what is now called the Old City or Pink City for its trademark building colour. It is known for its fascinating monuments, colourful markets, gorgeous handloom garments and wonderfully laid-out gardens; it is not difficult to fall in love with Jaipur the moment you land here.
On your arrival at Delhi Airport, you will be welcomed by our tour executive and later transferred to the hotel. Rest of the relax.
Delhi – the capital of India, is a fascinating city with complexities and contradictions, beauty and dynamism, where the past co-exists with the present. Many dynasties ruled from here and the city is rich in the architecture of its monuments. Delhi is not only the present metropolis of India but also a Necropolis. Because of its location, being on the banks of the River Yamuna, many cities have risen and fallen over the last five millenniums. Overnight Stay at Delhi
Morning do the sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. Old Delhi is a mix of ancient monuments and modern commerce. Visit the historic Red Fort (Closed on Mondays) – Shah Jehan’s elegant citadel in red sandstone, which was built as an octagon measuring 900m by 550m and surrounded by a 9-meter deep moat, which was at its inception fed by the waters of the Yamuna River. Very near the Fort is the Jama Masjid (Friday Mosque), India’s largest mosque, also built by Shah Jahan. Take a cycle –rickshaw ride through the crowded bazaars to the famous shopping street of Chandini Chowk, a good way to get up close and personal with Old Delhi.
In the afternoon, tour New Delhi. Visit the Qutb Minar, a Tower of Victory which was built in the 12th century by Qutbuddin Aibak. The Tomb Of Humayun – the magnificent structure in red sandstone and white marble is one of the finest examples of the garden tomb, and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Its proportionate spaces, double dome and refined elegance are characteristic of Mughal architecture. Also, visit India Gate, the memorial of the First World War and the road that leads from there to Rashtrapathi Bhawan – the residence of the President of India, which is flanked by the houses of Parliament and the Government Secretariat buildings. Overnight stay at Delhi.
Start your drivee to Agra on or before 8AM, so that you can avoid the busy traffic at Delhi. On arrival check in your hotel and later proceed for the sightseeing. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire for nearly hundred years from 1564 and is the home for one of the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal. Visit Agra Fort which was built by three Mughal Emperors starting from Akbar the Great. There are a number of buildings within the fort such as Moti Masjid, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal, sheesh Mahal and the Musamman Burj, where Emperor Shahjahan died as a prisoner. Itimad ud Daulah is the tomb, built by Empress Noorjahan in memory of her father Ghias Ud Din Beg and is considered as a pioneer of the Taj Mahal. Later visit Taj Mahal during sunset. It was built over a period of 22 years by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Overnight stay at Agra.
After breakfast star your drive to Karauli. Enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri. This town was built by Emperor Akbar with Red Sand Stone. This town was built in the 17th century and abandoned immediately after 15 years of occupancy due to water shortage and political issues. Some of the important buildings here are Diwane I Am (a vast courtyard where the emperor gave daily public audience), Diwane I Khas (a large quadrangle where all the major functions of the Palace were held), Pachisi Court (The emperor’s private living quarter), Jodha Bhai’s Palace, Hawa Mahal, Panch Mahal and Birbal’s Palace.
Continue your drive to Karauli. On arrival check in your hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Karauli.
Today you can tour around the campus and see the vintage cars, Organic dairy, Organic Farming, Horses and you have the option to visit the campus charity school for poor family children and handicraft workshop run by NGO. Later take a jeep safari to the Kaila Devi Sanctuary to visit the villages living on natural habitat inside the sanctuary. On the way you have the option to visit the Kaila Devi Goddess Temple and see the 200 bed hospital run by the temple trust. Later take a camel cart ride through the nearby village with its handicraft shops selling lacquer work, bangles, wooden toys, bamboo items, traditional sweets etc. Visit the once magnificent City Palace; although in need of restoration, the palace has some impressive architectural features and the Durbar Hall contains some fine wall paintings and stone carvings. A Krishna temple – at which the evening ‘Aarti’ ritual takes place - is located in the palace grounds. Overnight stay at Karauli.
After breakfast start your drive to Ranthambhore. Enjoy the afternoon safari inside the national park in search of Royal Bengal Tigers, as well as the many other species which inhabit the park. Common sightings in the park include Langur Monkeys, spotted and Sambar Deer, Nilgai and wild pigs. The park is also home to a vast array of bird species. Less commonly sighted are crocodiles, sloth bears and leopards. Total safari time on each trip will be around 2.5 to 3 hours. Overnight stay at Ranthambhore.
Both in the morning and in the afternoon enjoy the jeep safaris inside the national park. Overnight stay at Ranthambhore.
Leisurely start your drive to Jaipur. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and famous for shopping. It is popularly known as the “Paradise of Shoppers”. In the evening explore the markets and the bazaars on your own. Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Sightseeing of Jaipur includes Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar –the observatory and the Hawa Mahal. At the Amber Fort, you need to climb up the rampart either by elephant or by jeep to reach the top of the palace. Inside the palace visit the Jag Mandir (The hall of Victory), Sheesh Mahal – a room with four walls and the ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirrors, imported from Belgium. The City Palace is the royal residence. Now part of this residence is converted into museum and a part of the portion is still now occupied by the royal family of Jaipur. An impressive array of pistols, blunderbusses, swords, rifles and daggers are found in the Armory museum. Jantar Mantar is the large observatory in the world having 17 instruments, most of them are still in working condition. It is built of stones & marbles. Hawa Mahal is otherwise known as the Palace of Winds. This is the ideal spot for photography. Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Morning you will be drop at nearest railway station / airport for your onward journey.
The Claridges, New Delhi has strived to be the best in business and has been successful in winning accolades of guests and fraternity. The Claridges houses some of the finest restaurants of the city, huge banquet halls, a rejuvenating fitness center, adequately furnished rooms, a pool with cabanas and lush green lawns to make your experience memorable. Comprising of elegantly adorned rooms, The Claridges offers you a plethora of rooms to choose from. Adequately equipped with all the facilities that you could possibly need, these rooms proffer an unconventional blend of the elegant style of architecture and the contemporary modern styles.
Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal, a luxury hotel in Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture. This luxury hotel in Agra comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.
Bhanwar Vilas Palace is a series of delightful discoveries-from the first awe-inspiring glimpse of its magnificent façade standing out against the ancient town of Karauli, to an exploration of its edgy decor aesthetic-an eclectic melding of Oriental and Art Deco forms. Built in 1938 it is the family home of Maharaja Krishna Chandra Pal, who is the 181st in an illustrious line tracing itself back to Lord Krishna and is the head of the Yaduvanshi Rajputs.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, the best 5 star hotel in Ranthambhore, offers luxury tented accommodation inspired by the opulent caravans of the royal families. A fine restaurant serving authentic Rajasthani and international cuisine. And spa experiences customised to suit your needs. All accompanied by hospitality that is genuine and sincere. The perfect space to relax and unwind in after a thrilling day spent tiger spotting in the neighbouring jungle.
Experience the finest luxury hotel in Jaipur - ITC Rajputana, where we are proud to offer one of the best accommodation in the city with a host of comforts and services in settings that reflect the spirit of Rajasthan and its royalty. Just 15 kilometres from the airport and half a kilometre from the city centre, our regal-influenced design and gardens echo the city’s history. Retreat to our 218 guest rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities. Our restaurants offer tastes from around the globe, designed along the lines of traditional havelis, this leisure hotel in Jaipur has its own definition of space and splendour.
Journey to India.......once is not enough!!!!
BANKING AND CURRENCY
Currency
The Indian Rupee is the official currency of the Republic of India. The modern Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Banknotes in circulation come in denominations of INR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 2000. Please note that as of November 2016, the older 500 and 1000 INR note are no longer valid legal tender and only new ₹500 notes will be accepted.
The latest Indian Rupee coins are available in denominations of INR 1, 2, 5, 10.
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited. However, amounts exceeding US$5,000 or equivalent in cash, or US$10,000 or equivalent in all forms of currency must be declared. The export of foreign currency is allowed up to the amount imported and declared.
Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. Many hotels also have facilities to change money but this is a more expensive option. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange.
Banking
Banking hours: Monday-Saturday 10h00-03h30 (Bank will be closed on second and forth Saturday).
Strictly speaking, you can neither import nor export Indian currency, but you can get some at the airport straight away to at least get you transport to your accommodation. There are Authorized Foreign Exchange dealers in most big cities, and banks will also change your currency at a fair rate if you have time for the paperwork.
A good way of getting your travellers currency is via an ATM but beware of hidden bank charges, both from the bank providing the ATM and the card-issuing bank - you also do not know what exchange rate you are getting.ATMs are found in most towns and are recommended for cash withdrawals.
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted in tourist hotels and many other shops. Debit cards are also widely accepted.
Travellers cheques are widely accepted and may be changed at banks and larger hotels. The most widely accepted currencies include US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Some banks may refuse to change certain brands of traveller's cheques whilst others may exchange quite happily.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT AND GETTING AROUND
India is big and there are lots of interesting ways to travel around it, most of which could not very well be described as efficient or punctual. Allow considerable buffer time for any journey with a fixed deadline (eg. your flight back), and try to remember that getting there should be half the fun.
India's large size and uncertain roads make flying a viable option, especially as prices have tumbled in the last few years. Even India's offshore islands and remote mountain states are served by flights, the main exceptions being Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh (although crossing over from neighbouring states is fairly easy). Due to the aviation boom over the last few years, airports have not been able to keep up with the air traffic. Most Indian airports continue to function with one runway and a handful of boarding gates. Check in and security queues can be terribly long, especially in Delhi and Mumbai.
Railways were introduced in India in 1853, more than one and half a centuries ago, by the British, and today India boasts of the biggest network of railway lines in the world, and the rail system is very efficient, if not always on schedule. Travelling on Indian Railways gives you the opportunity to discover the Indian landscape and scenic beauty first hand and is generally more economical than flying domestic. It is one of the safest ways of travel in India. With classes ranging from luxurious to regular, it's the best way to get to know the country and its people. Most train passengers will be curious about you and happy to pass the time with a chat.
In central locations of big cities like airports or stations reliable pre-paid taxis are available and will save you money as well as the bargaining hassle. However beware of touts who would claim themselves to be running pre-paid taxis. Always collect the receipt from the counter first. The receipt has two parts - one part is for your reference and the other part you will need to handover to the taxi driver only after you reach your desired destination. The taxi driver will get his payment by submitting or producing this other part to the pre-paid taxi counter. Normal taxis running by meter are usually more common. In many non Metro Cities (or even in Metros depending on time) taxies or autos may ply without the usual meter.
While you can't take a cross-country bus-ride across India, buses are the second most popular way of travelling across states and the only cheap way of reaching many places not on the rail network (eg. Dharamsala).
FOOD, DRINK AND CUISINE ADVICE
Water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should first be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is often unpasteurised and should be boiled. Avoid dairy products likely to have been made from non-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Do not eat salads, vegetables should be cooked and peel your own fruit. Don’t eat street vendor food unless it is piping hot. Tap water is not safe to drink, rely on bottled water which is widely available. However, do check the seal on bottled water.
Indian food is world-renowned for its tantalising flavours, spiciness and enormous variety. Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region and every spice has medicinal properties and use.
Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in the fruity, coconutty dishes of southern India, while northern India has an entirely different but equally satisfying cuisine to sample. Breads like paranthas, chapatis, naans and rotis are also part of the main diet in several states like Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Achars (pickles), relishes and chutneys again vary by region and add more resonance to amazing meals.
Sweets or mithai too have regional specialities. They tend to be milk based and some are syrupy and fried. Well-known northern sweets are gulab jamun, jalebi (it’s worth watching how these syprup-based confections are made in the street), kulfi, kheer, halwa and laddu. From the east are rasgulla and rasmalai. The south has several burfi and halwa-type desserts like coconut burfi and badam halwa made from almonds.
While care should be taken in where one eats, exceptional food can be had in the most humble surroundings such as food at ashrams as can be found in 5-star restaurants. Non-vegetarians will find fabulously spiced mutton dishes according to regional specialities including fish dishes typical to coastal areas.
10 to 15% is usual in restaurants that impose no service fee; optional where service fee is added to bill.
CLIMATE AND WEATHER
The weather is mainly hot most of the year with significant variations from region to region. The coolest weather lasts from around the end of November to the beginning of March, with fresh mornings and evenings, and mostly sunny days. The really hot weather, when it is dry, dusty and unpleasant, is between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer anywhere between June and early October.
CLOTHING AND DRESS RECOMMENDATIONS
Male or female, one rule covers all visitors to India: don't leave the house with your arms or legs bare. You'll naturally get attention as a foreigner, as full-on staring is common and accepted on Indian streets, but you'll suffer far less negative attention if you remain covered up. For most locations and seasons in India, thin, loose linen or cotton pants and button-down shirts will keep you comfortable in hot, humid weather and help you blend in. While you may see Indian young adults sporting tight jeans and fitted brand-name tops, you'd stand out significantly more in the same outfit. If you visit anywhere in northern India - not just the mountains, Delhi too - during the winter, prepare for seriously cold weather. Bring jeans and heavy shirts and pick up an Indian wool wrap.
What you can get away with at an Indian beach depends entirely on which beach you visit. In the state of Goa, a popular beach and club getaway destination, locals are accustomed to seeing tourists in bikinis on the beach and Indian men often sport Speedos. But skimpy clothes need to stay on the beach. Don't walk around town or your hotel in nothing but a bikini and sarong. In less Western-frequented beach destinations, such as the beaches around Bombay, Alibag and Chowpatty, or anywhere in the south, hit the beach in light pants and a tunic.
When visiting temples and other religious sites on your own or part of a tour, be on the lookout for signs advising visitors to dress in a specific way to enter the temple. The government of India advises that some religious institutions require visitors to cover their heads or remove their shoes, and covering your legs and arms in respect goes without saying. Certain sites may carry more specific requirements, such as donning a certain colored sash or sarong-like covering. Take your cue from other visitors exiting the site.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUG STANDARDS
For the most part, electrical sockets (outlets) in India are the "Type D" 5 amp BS-546 sockets. This is actually an old British standard. The "Type D" Indian plug and socket is not to be confused with the "Type M" South African plug and socket. In pictures, they look very similar, but the South African type is much larger than the Indian type, and they are physically incompatible. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in.
Electrical sockets (outlets) in India usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliances are not compatible with 220-240 volt electrical output, a voltage converter will be necessary.
