Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Namaste & welcome to incredible Republic of India - one of the friendliest countries on earth, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome.

With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture & landscapes, your memories of India will blaze bright long after you have left its shores.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant city Delhi, one of the world’s greatest megalopolises with its chaotic charm & juxtapositions found on every street, Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colourful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal 3 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be met by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you the hotel. Assistance will be provided during Check-in & there will be a short briefing to discuss the program for the next few days.

Arrive at the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Delhi, the capital of kingdoms & empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past & the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land & a window to the kaleidoscope that is India. It is a city that bridges two different worlds.

Delhi has been the political hub of India. Every political activity in the country traces its roots here. This was true even of the mythological era. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata had their capital at Indraprastha, which is believed to have been geographically located in today's Delhi.

Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis & formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues & imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers & many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed & then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers & then as creators.

Delhi is a city built upon cities. There are at least eight historical Delhis, each constructed on, or near, the ruins of its predecessor, leaving a modern-day citadel that's dotted with ancient monuments, many said to be haunted by djinns (spirits). Love history & you will be left salivating as you trace your way through the eras, clambering across the ruined forts of Tughlaqabad, Siri, Purana Qila & Shajahanabad; exploring the magnificent tombs of eminent historical figures & visiting the still-vibrant temples, mosques & shrines that throng with devotees today, as they have done for hundreds of years.

The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of empires and magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures. No wonder chroniclers of Delhi culture - from Chand Bardai & Amir Khusro to present day writers - have never been at a loss for topics. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating museums and art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places and bustling markets.

And how can we forget the indomitable Delhi cuisine & street food.

As the capital city of one of the most delicious country's on Earth, Delhi tantalises your taste buds with its thali-like fusion of flavours from every corner of the subcontinent: Breakfast on South Indian idly; lunch on Punjabi kulchas; then, come evening, dine on rich Mughlai curries. But don't forget to leave room for some Dilli-ka-Chaat, Delhi's famously delicious street-food snacks; try sizzling kebabs for starters, then munch on aloo tikki (spiced potato patties) before getting your fingers sticky on jalebi (orange-coloured coils of deep-fried batter dunked in sugar syrup) or savouring some sumptuously creamy cardamon kheer (rice pudding).

Evening, be ready for an interesting experience, reliving the centuries old history.

In time, you will be met by the Journeys Rep up at 06.00 pm for transfer to the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort, more popularly known as Lal Quila.

Relive the history as you enjoy the 1 hour + Son et Lumiere Show within the sandstone walls of Delhi's Red Fort. Learn how Delhi’s Red Fort became one of its most important landmarks, the mystifying stories, astonishing legends, the tales of rise & fall of kingdoms, eminent rulers who changed the course of history, narrated through a composition of music & color.

Feast your eyes & ears on the magical effects created by the Son et Lumiere Show within the sandstone walls of the Fort. Relive the history as the enchanting fusion of lights & sounds, accompanied with captivating narration takes you through the extraordinary episodes of Delhi. Learn how Delhi’s Red Fort became one of its most important landmarks, the mystifying stories, astonishing legends, the tales of rise & fall of kingdoms, eminent rulers who changed the course of history, narrated through a composition of music & color.

After the Show ends, get ready to enjoy authentic Indian delicacies & proceed to the popular Chor Bizarre restaurant, in the vicinity.

Designed to look like a thief's market, this dining room serves dishes from around the country.

"Chor Bizarre is the complete eating out experience - great decor, distinct ambience enhanced by assorted Hindi, '50's music, wondrous cocktails, superlative food, charming 'Old World' service" - The Economic Times.

Every city in India has its own special 'Chor Bazaar' which translates as 'thieves market'. All kinds of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners). This being our inspiration & to celebrate the eclecticism of India in all its exuberant irreverence, the owners coined the name with a pun on the word bazaar & 'Chor Bizarre' was born

Having created an atmosphere that provides a unique setting for truly authentic & inspired cuisine, Chor Bizarre has been one of India's most celebrated restaurants since 1990.

Return to the hotel.

Overnight.  D

Morning, meet Tour-guide in the Lobby at 09:00 am & proceed to discover this amazing kaleidoscope of old & new cultures. You may see a well-groomed corporate Executive whizzing by in a BMW or a Mercedes or a Bentley (Ferraris & Lamborghinis are for the evenings only) amidst the chaos of the Delhi streets shared by cows & may be an elephant or a camel walking by.

Delhi with its Old & New parts - each with its specific charm & glory - makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval & modern cultures at the same time & space. Today, you will explore the capital of India in a full-day tour - including buildings of early Turkish structure to Mughal buildings to Lutyen's Delhi.

Visit Old Delhi - the former center of Mughal power which offers ancient monuments, narrow streets & bustling markets.

Honk-honk-beeeep! Welcome to Old Delhi. Love or hate it, it is impossible to ignore. Whether you make it your base, or just dip into it for shopping sprees or to see the Red Fort, you will be hard pushed to ever forget your time in this wonderfully chaotic & fabulously photogenic corner of the city.

You will be sharing its hectic streets and alleys with carts & cycle-rickshaws, with cows and monkeys, with shoppers & with beggars, with street-food sellers & market traders, and with cars, vans, scooters & auto-rickshaws; watch your back - honk-honk-beeeep!

Visit the famous Red Fort built in 1648 by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan famous for his great edifice of love the “Taj Mahal”. It was the residence of succeeding Mughal emperors for about 200 years. Also see Jama Masjid, constructed by Shah Jahan in 1658 and reputed to be largest mosque in Asia.

Then enjoy a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk to get a feel of the royal life of the Mughal emperors. A visit to Delhi without paying homage to the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi is not possible. Raj Ghat was built to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and this cenotaph draws millions of people all through the year.

Post lunch you will tour New Delhi which came into existence much later & is also known as Lutyen’s Delhi, named after the British architect who was largely responsible in designing the modern part during the British raj.

All the riches of India twinkle in Delhi's emporiums, so if you are regretting not buying that handmade kathputli (puppet) you saw in Rajasthan or that Madhubani painting you loved in Bihar, fear not; chances are you will be able to find one here too.

New Delhi's emporiums are multi-floor, gift-filled markets that are perfect for a last-minute souvenir binge before you fly home. Old Delhi's famously frenetic street bazaars, meanwhile, contain a mind-boggling array of clothes, slippers, shawls, handicrafts, food, electronics & more – even if you are not buying anything, they are a joy to visit (& photograph).

You will be stopping at India Gate - the 42 metre tall monument, built in the memory of the World War 1 martyrs (i.e. British soldiers). You will drive by (you can snap a couple of photo from the distance) the Viceroy’s Palace which is now the Presidential residence & Parliament House & other govt. buildings in that area.

Continue on to visit the recent jewel in the crown, the Lotus Temple, a symbol of Bahai faith. The final stop of the sightseeing will be the UNESCO World Heritage site, the 72.5 meter Qutub Minar - the tallest brick minaret in the World, which heralded the arrival & rise of Islam in India.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the many options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Overnight.  B 

Early morning, depart for Jaipur. 

Check-in on arrival by afternoon and relax for a while

Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan a romantic realm of resplendent palaces, mighty fortresses and regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts and is an utterly unique part of India. Proudly belonging to the Kshatriya warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth and authority locally, it was expedient to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and also the British Raj that followed.

The bustling Rajasthan capital of Jaipur takes its name from its venerated founder Jai Singh II, who was given the title Sawai Maharaja by the Mughal. Literally translated this would mean 'one and a quarter', suggesting that the Mughals thought this emperor to be more valuable than just 'one'. Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings. This did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink colour in honour of a State Visit by Prince Albert.

The city’s colourful, chaotic streets ebb and flow with a heady brew of old and new. Careering buses dodge dawdling camels, leisurely cycle-rickshaws frustrate swarms of motorbikes & everywhere buzzing auto-rickshaws watch for easy prey. In the middle of this cacophony & mayhem, the splendours of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of relative calm evoking a different pace & another world.

At the city’s heart, the City Palace continues to house the former royal family; the Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory, maintains a heavenly aspect; & the honeycomb Hawa Mahal gazes on the bazaar below. And just out of sight, in the arid hill country surrounding the city, is the fairy-tale grandeur of Amber Fort, Jaipur’s star attraction.

Late afternoon, meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby & proceed to the Birla Temple (aka Laxmi Narayan Temple) to learn more about the fascinating religious life of Jaipur.

Birla Mandir is a Hindu temple located in Jaipur & is part of one of the several Birla mandirs located all around the country. The grand temple is located on an elevated ground at the base of Moti Dungari fort.

According to history, the Birla temple was built on the land given to the wealthy industrialist Birla family by the Maharaja of Jaipur, for just a token sum of one rupee. One of India's most famous business families, B.M Birla Foundation, built this temple in the year 1988. The family has erected similar grand temples across India, including in Delhi, Kolkata & Hyderabad.

The Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Narayan), the preserver & his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.

Constructed with the finest quality of white marble, it houses ornate statues of Lakshmi & Narayan, carved from a single piece of marble, dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Ganesh, the protector of households, is above the lintel, and the fine quality of the marble is evident when you enter the temple and look back at the entrance - Ganesh can be made out through the marble, which is almost transparent.

The three huge domes of the temple represent three different approaches to the religion. The beautiful white marble temple mesmerizes the onlookers, when it glows at night. The temple’s stained-glass windows depict scenes from Hindu scriptures.

Many of the deities of the Hindu pantheon are depicted on Carvings inside the temple & on pillars supporting the covered walkways. The fascinating exteriors of the temple are carved splendidly with beautiful sculptures based on mythological themes, while the interiors have a large marble panel portraying mythological events

On the outside walls, historic figures from other religions are shown, including Socrates, Zoroaster, Christ, Buddha & Confucius as well as the Blessed Virgin Mary & St Francis of Assisi. The Temple of Jaipur looks stunning, when it is brightly lit in the night.

The Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a modern architectural marvel, surrounded by lush green gardens. Next to the Birla Lakshmi Narayan Temple there is a small museum, which houses objects belonging to the billionaire Birla family.

Your visit will coincide with the Aarti Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit & waved in a certain way, in order to awake & invoke the deity.

Return to the hotel.

Overnight. B 

Early morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & proceed for full day 8 hour sightseeing of the city.

First stop will be Amber Fort is located on a hillock in Amer, a town with an area of 4 square kilometres on the outskirts of Jaipur.

Ascent to the Fort will be atop an elephant, as the royals used to do in the older days. Amber Fort Palace - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace.

Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its foreboding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.

This magnificent fort is largely made up of a royal palace, built from pale yellow & pink sandstone & white marble and divided into four main sections, each with its own courtyard. Whether you walk or ride an elephant, you will enter Amber Fort through Suraj Pol (Sun Gate), which leads to the Jaleb Chowk (main courtyard), where returning armies would display their war booty to the populace - women could view this area from the veiled windows of the palace.

From Jaleb Chowk, an imposing stairway leads up to the main palace, but first it’s worth taking the steps just to the right, which lead to the small Siladevi Temple, with its gorgeous silver doors featuring repoussé (raised relief) work. Heading back to the main stairway will take you up to the second courtyard and the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), which has a double row of columns, each topped by a capital in the shape of an elephant, and latticed galleries above.

The maharaja’s apartments are located around the third courtyard - you enter through the fabulous Ganesh Pol, decorated with beautiful frescoed arches. The Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory) is noted for its inlaid panels and multi-mirrored ceiling. Carved marble relief panels around the hall are fascinatingly delicate and quirky, depicting cartoonlike insects & sinuous flowers.

Opposite the Jai Mandir is the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure), with an ivory-inlaid sandalwood door & a channel that once carried cooling water right through the room. From the Jai Mandir, you can enjoy fine views from the palace ramparts over picturesque Maota Lake below.

The zenana (secluded women’s quarters) surrounds the fourth courtyard. The rooms were designed so that the maharaja could embark on his nocturnal visits to his wives’ & concubines’ respective chambers without the others knowing, as the chambers are independent but open onto a common corridor.

Return to the city & continue the sightseeing tour of Jaipur visiting City Palace - a delightful blend of Mughal & traditional Rajasthani architecture. Conceived & designed by Maharaja Jai Singh, the Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. One of the most important architectural landmarks in Jaipur, the palace complex has numerous buildings, courtyards, impressive gateways & temples. The palace houses Sawai Jai Singh's seven-storey facade Chandra Mahal ("moon palace"), solid marble Mubarak Mahal, the Diwan-e-Aam & Diwan-e-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience). Chandra Mahal is still the residence of the present royal family. It also houses Shri Govind Dev Temple & the City Palace Museum.

You will pass by Hawa Mahal. Arguably Jaipur's most acclaimed landmark, the tapering Hawa Mahal, or "Palace of Winds" was built in 1799 to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch street processions while remaining in a strict state of purdah. Its five-storey facade, decked with no less than 593 finely screened windows & balconies, makes the building seem far larger than it really is; in fact it is little more than one room thick in most parts.

Visit Jantar Mantar, the royal astronomical observatory built in stone by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1716 to measure movement of the stars and planets, time, altitude and other astronomical events. End the Tour with a brief visit to Nawab Sahab Ki Haveli and the local Bazaar.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure for independent exploration or optional activities (we shall be only too happy to offer suggestions & arrange). You may want to walk down to the famous movie theatre Raj Mandir, to enjoy a ‘Hindi’ Bollywood Movie

Overnight.  B  

Morning, depart for Agra, enroute visiting Fatehpur Sikri..

Fatehpur Sikri is the old & surprisingly well preserved & deserted town of the Mughal dynasty, constructed predominantly in red sandstone. Built by the Mughal emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour at its height and is the best example of the culmination of Hindu & Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years. Akbar selected Sikri as the seat of his government believing it to be auspicious for himself. He experimented both with architecture & art and built a city expressing his ideals & vision.

Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city. But the inner citadel is immaculately preserved. The finest monuments within this area are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza, the Tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti & Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India). Though the city is in ruins, it is a place worth visiting. The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish. Its Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture. Entrance to this mosque is through the Buland Darwaza which was built in Gujurat and is 54 meters high. To the North of the Mosque is the dargah of Shaikh Salim Chishti. This dargah was built in 1570. Here childless women come for blessings of the saint. Even Akbar was blessed with three sons when he came here. The lattice work in the dargah is among the finest to be found anywhere.

Continue driving & arrive in Agra by late afternoon.

Check-in at the hotel & relax.

There are very few cities in the world that can match the history & heritage of Agra.

Situated on the west bank of River Yamuna, Agra is a part of the great Northern Indian plains. The architectural splendour of the city is reflected in the glorious monuments of medieval India built by great Mughals who ruled India for more than 300 years. In the mid16^th century and earlier 17^th century, Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity and it was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built. The buildings made during this era were purely in the contemporary Mughal style & of very high quality which is still reflected in whatever monuments remain.

The splendour of Agra remains undiminished, from the massive Agra Fort to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Monuments here depict some of the first examples of extensive marble usage in the architectural styles. Today, a visitor to Agra is caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys and quaint buggies, and that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage most conspicuously.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Overnight.  B     

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am in the Lobby & embark on a 8 hour sightseeing tour to explore the city.

The Guide will take you back in time & help you to visualise the life in the bygone era illustrated by the majestic citadels & the serene Taj Mahal.

One knows that ‘The Taj’ is one amongst the World’s Wonders!

One knows that it is one amongst the UNESCO World Heritage Sites!!

One knows The Taj as a legend of eternal love of an Emperor for his favourite Queen!!!

Well, ‘The Taj’ has distinctions much beyond just these! Therefore, ‘The Taj’, surely, deserves your visit once & more!!! The Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India & one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.. Hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal’ beauty has to be seen to be believed.

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder! Probably for Taj Mahal, the axiom is just the other way round. The Taj is the beauty personified! The Taj displays its different moods through its varied shades. The Taj has as many shades as any kind of beauty can ever have! The Taj is pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, golden when the moon shines & the intermediary variants during different hours of the day & during different seasons in a year.

Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal, the mausoleum was completed in 1653, it took 22 years to be completed and was designed & planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. A staggering total of 20,000 workers contributed their skills, in the construction of this unique mausoleum.

Apart from its stunning design balance & perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens & some of the best inlay work ever seen.   Hailed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal’s beauty has to be seen to be believed. A visit there is a sublime experience of the greatest love story ever told.

The Mausoleum stands in a formally laid-out walled garden entered through a pavilion on the main axis. The tomb, raised on a terrace and first seen reflected in the central canal, is entirely sheathed in marble, but the mosque & counter-mosque on the transverse axis are built in red sandstone. The four minarets, set symmetrically about the tomb, "The interior of the building is dimly lit through pierced marble lattices and contains a virtuoso display of carved marble. Externally the building gains an ethereal quality from its marble facings, which respond with extraordinary subtlety to changing light & weather."

The Taj will keep you indulged with thoughts superimposing your sight & would make you feel the presence of Shah Jahan, the ‘maker’ and Mumtaz  Mahal, the ‘reason’.  As you breathlessly continue staring at ‘The Taj’, you would sense them standing beside you!

Walk along the pathway beside the reflecting pool with fountains upto the mausoleum crafted in soft & pure marble & jewelled with semi-precious stones, where in the serenity of paradise rests the Queen in peace with her King. Come to unfold the pages from the past to churn the charm out of its mystique & enrich your imagination about this marvel of an epic in stone, The Taj!

Visit the 16^th century Mughal monument known as the Red Fort of Agra. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5 km long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort has imposing gates & walls of red sandstone & a moat. Behind its colossal walls are some of the finest Mughal buildings in India. Construction of the fort commenced during Akbar’s reign and additions continued to be made until the rule of his grandson Shah Jahan. During Akbar’s time, it was primarily a military fort though later the focus shifted and it partially became a palace. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; and two very beautiful mosques.

Last stop would be the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also known as the 'Baby Taj' because of the architectural similarities. It showcases intricate latticework & carvings on marble to produce stunning marble screens. The delicate pietradura work done on the walls of this serene marble mausoleum with its four minarets set in the midst of a char bagh style garden is believed to have inspired the inlay work done on the Taj Mahal that was constructed on similar lines, though on an extremely grand scale.

Return to the hotel by late afternoon.

Early morning, meet the Journeys rep who will provide the transfer to the Agra Cantonment Railway Station to board the superfast air conditioned train for Jhansi.

On arrival at the Jhansi Station, you will be welcomed by a Journeys rep & transferred to Khajuraho. Enroute, you will be stopping at the medieval city of Orchha.

When the Tughlaqs, who were ruling Delhi in the 15^th century, pushed the Bundelkhand rajas out of Garkhundar, they retreated to distant Orchha.

The Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap Singh, founded the town of Orchha, located by the side of the beautiful boulder-strewn Betwa River, in the 16^th century, as the seat of an eponymous former princely state of central India, in the Bundelkhand region (now known as the state of Madhya Pradesh).

The medieval city of Orchha seems to have frozen in time, its palaces & temples still retaining their original grandeur. Orchha had the distinction of being the capital of one of the largest & most powerful kingdoms of central India. It showcases a supreme display of Mughal architecture, some of which is similar to that of nearby Khajuraho (albeit without such high-quality artistry) with much grander palaces & cenotaphs dotting the pastoral landscape as well.

The atmosphere in Orchha, though, is far more laid-back and hassle-free, which makes for a relaxing stay. There are great homestay options as well as opportunities to enjoy the surrounding countryside, with walking, cycling & rafting all on the agenda. Tranquil & serene, Orchha has historically been referred to as one of India’s most beautifully preserved princely states, keeping the old Bundelkhand alive.

Proceed for sightseeing of Orchha.

The 17^th century Orchha Fort complex is the biggest tourist draw of this small town. Visit some of the numerous palaces, pavilions, lodges & temples. The complex itself is divided into three parts.

See Jahangir Mahal, another stunning piece of architecture in this hidden gem of a place. Built by King Vir Singh in honor of his childhood friend & Mughal prince, Jahangir,to be a garrison & citadel for the Mughals to allow greater control over the Bundela region. Learn how Emperor Jahangir presented the state of Bundelkhand to King Vir Singh who helped him defeat the army of Abul Fazi and take a dip in the interesting history of the land.

From the Fort, board a tuk-tuk & proceed to the unique cenotaphs, built in the memory of Bundela Kings. Commonly known as Chhatris, these cenotaphs are laid down in a row along the banks of Betwa River and are an excellent example of Rajput & Mughal architecture.

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant & immediately after depart for Khajuraho.

Khajuraho is a tourist & archaeological town located in the Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh, known for its sculptured temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu & Jain patriarchs. Khajuraho's name derives from the prevalence of khajur (date palms) in the area.

Khajuraho was one of the capitals of the Chandela kings, who from the 9^th to 11^th CE developed a large realm, which at its height included almost all of what is now Madhya Pradesh state and contained about 85 temples built by multiple rulers. In the late 11^th century, the Chandelas, in a period of chaos & decline, moved to hill forts elsewhere.

The town continued its religious importance until the 14^th century (Ibn Batuta was impressed by it) but was afterwards largely forgotten; its remoteness probably saved it from the desecration that Muslim conquerors generally inflicted on Hindu monuments. The temple complex was discovered in the jungles of Khajuraho in 1838 by a British Army captain.

Modern Khajuraho is a small village, serving the tourist trade with hotels and an airport.

Check-in on arrival & relax

Later in the evening, around 06:00 pm, proceed to the garden of western group of temples, to enjoy a 50 minute Son et Lumiere Show conducted by Tourism Department.

This fascinating light & sound spectacle evokes the life & times of the great Chandela Kings & traces the legend & grandeur of the unique temples story from the 10^th century to the present day, narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachan - the Bollywood legend.

The show is entertaining & informative about the construction, history & importance of the temples.  Technicolour floodlights sweep across the temples of the western group as Indian classical music soundtracks play in the background. Photography is prohibited.

Return to the hotel.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 07:00 am & proceed to the Temple Complex again to enjoy the famous monuments.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in central India, Khajuraho Temples, the origin of Kama Sutra, are amongst the most beautiful medieval monuments in India. Still the largest group of Hindu & Jain temples in the world, of the original group of 85, only about 25 of them remain today.

Divided into three complexes - the western is the largest & best known, containing the magnificent Shaivite temple Kandariya Mahadev, a 31m high agglomeration of porches & turrets culminating in a spire.Most temples constructed of hard river sandstone, the remaining temples are still reasonably well preserved.

Both internally & externally, the temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture & richly carved with excellent sculptures of gods & goddesses, warriors & musicians, real & mythological animals that are frequently sensual & at times, sexually explicit, running through the whole Kama Sutra positions & possibilities.

The erotic carvings that swathe Khajuraho’s three groups of temples are among the finest temple art in the world & have awed generations of people with their architectural brilliance & intricate carvings. The Western Group of temples, in particular, contains some stunning sculptures.

.

Most of the temples here belong to Jain faith but there are three Hindu temples of the group, namely, the Brahma temple enshrining a four-faced linga; the Vamana temple with divine carvings of sensuous celestial maidens in various poses adorning its outer walls and the Javari temple with a opulently carved doorway and ostentatious sculptures on its exteriors.

Some of the Temples you will visit today:

Kandariya Mahadeo: The 31m high temple is the largest and most typical Khajuraho temple with exquisite carvings and intricate and detailed craftsmanship in stone depicting divine deities, celestial maidens, eternal lovers, gods and goddesses. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and enshrines the 'linga'.

Chaunsath Yogini: The temple is the earliest temple of the group that has survived. It belongs to 900 AD and is dedicated Goddess Kali. It has the distinction of being the only granite temple here.

Chitragupta Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya Dev). It faces towards eastor the rising sun and the imposing image of the image of the deity in the inner sanctum is as high as five feet and is shown driving a horse-drawn chariot. It is in front of this temple and the Vishwanatha temple that most of the dance performances take place during the khajuraho Dance Festival.

Vishwanatha Temple: This temple has impressive entrances with magnificent stone guarding its northern steps and royal masonry elephants taking care of the southern steps. The three-headed image of Lord Brahma in the Temple is no less captivating.

Lakshmana Temple: A pretty Vaishnava temple flaunts a lintel over its entrance depicting the divine trinity of LordBrahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva along with Goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Vishnu.

Matangeshwara Temple: Situated outside the premises of Western group of temples, this Lord Shiva's temple is known for the daunting eight feet high lingam (male organ representing the natural process of reproduction and the continuity of human life form) that it enshrines.

Return to the hotel to Check-out.

In time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Varanasi.

Varanasi takes no prisoners. But if you are ready for it, this may just turn out to be your favourite stop of all.

On arrival at Terminal? - Varanasi Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Journeys Rep who will ensure your comfort & introduce you to the Tour-guide. He / she will also discuss the program for Varanasi.

Varanasi is the India of your imagination. One of the most colourful & fascinating places on earth, surprises abound around every corner. Varanasi is one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, & one of the holiest in Hinduism. most ancient living city.

Called City of Temples, it is obviously crowded with temples & its labyrinth of streets, attracts the maximum number of tourists. Most visitors agree Varanasi is magical - but not for the faint-hearted. Intimate rituals of life & death take place in public, and the sights, sounds and smells on the ghats - not to mention almost constant attention from touts - can be intense. Pilgrims come to the Ganges here to wash away sins in the sacred waters, to cremate their loved ones, or simply to die here, hoping for liberation from the cycle of rebirth.  

It was previously known as Kashi - the city that illuminates. The present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna and Asi. The shimmering red & golden water of the Ganges when rays of dawn falls on them, the high banks, the temples, the Ashrams, the pavilions, all are an experience in themselves. Strolling the ghats or watching sunrise from a boat on the Ganges are a highlight, and confronting the reality & ritual of death can be a powerful experience.

The old city of Varanasi is situated along the western bank of the Ganges & extends back from the riverbank ghats in a labyrinth of alleys called galis that are too narrow for traffic. They can be disorienting, but the popular hotels & restaurants are usually signposted and, however lost you become, you will eventually end up at a ghat & get your bearings.

Alive with colour and activity, it is a magical city where visitors are captivated by the daily rituals of life & death taking place on the bathing ghats that line the River Ganges.

Straight from the airport, you will embark for an excursion to Sarnath a short distance outside the city.

Sarnath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where Buddha preached his first Sermon in 590 BC. It has a deer park where Gautama Buddha after achieving enlightenment in Bodhgaya, imparted the first teachings of dharma. Also, through the enlightenment of Kondanna, Buddhist Sangha came into existence at this park only. Gautama Buddha came here to teach his former five companions Dharma & thus Sarnath is regarded as the place where Buddhism found its roots, the native land of this art of life!

Witness the ruins of a once flourishing Buddhist Monastery & then visit a fine Museum which houses an excellent collection of Buddhist art & sculptures found at the site.

Drive back to the city and stroll in the narrow lanes where you can find some enchanting mementoes to take home.

Check-in at the hotel & relax for an hour. .

Evening, around 06:15 pm, proceed to the Ghats to witness an exciting event that must not be missed.

Ganga Aarti is performed daily by a group of priests at the Dashashwamedh ghat. Through the aarti, Agni Pooja is performed in which a commitment is made to the Lord Shiva, Mata Gange, Surya, Agni (Fire) as well as the whole universe made by the Lord Shiva. This beautiful ritual makes every moment of the evening period special & fills with the spiritual thoughts. It is performed, using multi-tiered brass lamps held aloft by the priests, accompanied with the mantra chant in the presence of a huge crowd. All the priests who have to perform the aarti, wear same cloth, the dhoti and kurta which is tightly bind with a long towel.A group of young priests starts the aarti in a well-choreographed manner, amidst rhythmic chant of mantras. Priests loudly blow the conch shells & the aarti continues with the incense sticks.

After the conclusion of the 45 minute Aarti, we walk back to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure. 

Overnight.  B   

Early morning (at dawn or earlier), meet the Tour-guide & drive to Daswamedh Ghat.

According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. It is the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi are full of pilgrims who flock to the sacred river to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins.

Pilgrims come to the ghats lining the Ganges to wash away sins in the sacred waters or to cremate their loved ones. It's a particularly auspicious place to die, since expiring here offers moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth). Watching people come down to river in the early morning, taking a bath in the mother Ganga, performing rituals, worshiping the Sun is a unique experience

Board a boat with your guide & proceed to the middle of the sacred river Ganges, where at sunrise, see the thousands of faithful who come daily to the banks to bathe & pray while in the background, Temples rise in tiers from the water`s edge. The old buildings, ashrams & palaces along the river side look as colorful as a rainbow when the sunlight hits them.

See the Cremation Ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. It is at the Banaras Ghat where we can see life and death together.

After you disembark, take a small walk along its narrow cobblestone streets along the banks of "Ganga". As shops are opening, the place now becomes a beehive of activity as the faithful are coming & going. Walking the ghats & alleyways or watching sunrise from a boat can be unforgettable.

Return to the hotel for a quick breakfast & Check-out.

And then, proceed for sightseeing tour of Varanasi including the Bharat Mata Temple, which features a big relief map of Mother India engraved in marble. Also visit the 18^th century Durga Temple, commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the huge population of the monkeys.

Continue on to Tulsi Manas Temple, crafted from white marble which features the entire Ramayana inscribed on its walls. Also visit the Banaras Hindu University, considered as the biggest residential university in Asia. The University Campus houses an Art Gallery & the Mosque built by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

In time, you will be transferred to the Airport for the flight to Delhi.

You will be met on arrival & transferred to the city where you will enjoy a Farewell Dinner & Ghazal Show.

After Dinner, the experience comes to an end & it is time to say good-bye.

You will be transferred back to the Airport for your onward journey (or to your hotel if you are staying longer). B D

***        End of Services      ***