Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Asia sticks to you. From the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan to the frenetic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent so full of intrigue, adventure, solace & spirituality that it has fixated & confounded travellers for centuries. Wrapped in rainforests, edged by golden sands, crowned by volcanoes, studded with ruins of lost civilisations: this is Asia as you have always imagined it. The joss sticks lit for the household shrines in Thailand impart a sweet perfume to the thick air & the heavenly aroma of Indian spices follows you for days.

And India is an incredibly varied & exciting vacation destination, pulsating with a spectacular mix of people, traditions & landscapes. With an intoxicatingly rich history, which has spawned a number of exquisite Palaces, Temples & monuments, your journey through this mind-stirring country will blaze in your memory long after you have left its shores.  Come, discover India with us….

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

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 International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Reach 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 8 historical Delhi, 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 & magnificent monuments, but also in the rich & 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 & art galleries, architectural wonders, a vivacious performing-arts scene, fabulous eating places & 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.

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

One of the finest examples of the precision, grandeur & finesse of Mughal architecture & now enduring symbol of political authority in India, Lal Quila or the Red Fort, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, between 1638 & 1648. The red sandstone used in its massive outer wall gave it the name “Lal Quila” or the Red Fort. The Red Fort was the residence of the Mughal emperor & the capital of the empire till Bahadur Shah Zafar the last Mughal emperor was deposed by the British in 1857. 

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 audio-visual show within the sandstone walls of the Fort.

Projectors illuminate different parts of the Fort. The terraces are set up in the garden & the different parts of the Palace are spread out before your eyes. A bit kitschy all the same.

Relive the history as the enchanting fusion of lights & sounds, accompanied with captivating narration takes you through the extraordinary episodes of Delhi.  Let yourself be carried away by the fairy-tale atmosphere of this luminous music show, sublimating the already dreamlike aspect of the place retracing the history of the city. Not only will you see the Fort in a different light (literally), you will also get an idea of the city’s heritage.

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

After breakfast, you will meet the Tour-guide in the lobby at 09.00 am & embark on a 6 hour sightseeing tour of Delhi.

Proceed to discover this amazing kaleidoscope of old & new cultures. You will see a well-groomed corporate Executive whizzing by in a BMW or a Mercedes or a Bentley (Ferraris & Lamborghinis are for the evenings) 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 and glory - makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval & modern cultures at the same time and space. Today, you will explore the capital of India - 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 Red Fort built in 1648 by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan famous for his great edifice of love the “Taj Mahal”. 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 Gandhi & this Cenotaph draws millions of people all through the year.

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).

Post lunch you will be taken to see New Delhi which came into existence much later, and is also known as Lutyen’s Delhi, named after the British architect who was largely responsible in designing India Gate - the 42 meter tall monument, built in the memory of the World War 1 martyrs (i.e. British soldiers), Viceroy’s Palace which is now Presidential residence, Parliament House - the govt. headquarters & many other buildings in that area. You will be stopping at India Gate & driving by the Palace & Parliament. 

Continue on to visit the recent jewel in the crown, the Lotus Temple, a symbol of Bahai faith & then drive on to see the UNESCO World Heritage site, the 72.5 meters Qutub Minar the tallest brick minaret in the World, which heralded the arrival & rise of Islam in India. 

Return to the hotel.

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

Overnight.  B D 

Morning, depart for Agra.

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

Reach the hotel after 3 hours of driving & 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’.

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.

The earliest citation for Agra comes from the mythological era, where the epic Mahabharata refer Agra as ‘Agravana’ meaning paradise in Sanskrit or ‘border of the forest’. ‘Ptolemy’, the famous 2^nd century A.D. geographer, was the first person who referred Agra with its modern name. Right from the epic Mahabharata to the Mughal Dynasty, Agra has been monumental & has played a significant role in shaping India’s history.

The modern Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodi, ruler of Lodi dynasty in 16^th century who built many structures including forts, step wells, mosques etc in Agra. He moved his capital from Delhi to Agra & after his death, his son ruled the city for 9 years. Later, Sher Shah Suri ruled Agra. But it was when Shah Jahan descended the Mughal throne & the made capital of the Mughal Empire, that the city reached the zenith of architectural beauty.

Under the Mughal reign, ruled by greats like Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, etc. it was called Akbarabad & their love for architecture, Persian gardens on the banks of the Yamuna & monuments & Mausoleums & art & culture added a new dimension to Agra’s personality, considered as Agra’s golden age. What also shaped Agra’s culture were the different religions that were born & flourished here. From Din-i-Ilahi to the Radhaswami Faith, these beliefs had followers from Akbar’s time. Runukta of Hinduism & Shauripur of Jainism too have their links to Agra.

It was after the decline of the Mughal Empire & during the reign of the Marathas that Akbarabad became Agra. By 1803, it came under the British Raj that remained strong for most part until India gained independence in 1947.

Shortly after, meet the Tour-guide in the lobby & proceed for a 6 hour sightseeing of Agra, visiting some of the UNESCO World Heritage listed monuments dotted in & around the city.

With so many prominent rulers having ruled the city, in the mid 16^th century & earlier 17^th century, Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity. 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 including 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The splendour of Agra remains undiminished & monuments here depict some of the first examples of extensive marble usage in the architectural styles.

First stop will be the massive Agra Fort. Of course, with the Taj Mahal overshadowing everything else one can easily forget that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India

Walking through courtyard after courtyard of this palatial red-sandstone & marble UNESCO World Heritage listed Fortress, your amazement grows as the scale of what was built here begins to sink in.

Built by Emperor Akbar with the help of 4,000 workers who toiled for 8 years to finish its construction in 1573, the Fort is made of red sandstone.  The Fort has been prominent during the Mughal reign & was the seat of the Mughal Empire. Even though Akbar built it, during the rule of Shah Jahan, he renovated it by adding marble work & converting the raw red sandstone structure to a Palace. Years later, his son Aurangzeb imprisoned him in the same Fort at Mussalman Burj.

It has 4 large entry gates of which the Delhi Gate was used for the King’s formal entry. At the Diwan-I-Khas (hall of private audience) where marble pavilions with floral inlays lend an ethereal ambience, the Emperor sat on his gem-studded Peacock Throne & met foreign ambassadors & rulers of friendly kingdoms. At the Diwan-I-Am (hall of public audience), a colonnaded hall of red-sandstone with a throne alcove of inlaid marble at the back, the Emperor heard public petitions.

Some of the major attractions are the Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Jehangir’s Palace & Khas Mahal. Also ensconced within is the picture-perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction.

Spend a couple of hours before hopping in the vehicle & driving to the Taj Mahal. The Tour-guide will plan the arrival to offer you the opportunity to catch the mesmerizing views at sunset.

It was during this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built. 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, the white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal whose Tomb rests right under the central dome of the monument. It took 22 years & over 20,000 workers to be complete & was designed & planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance & perfect symmetry, which is why it looks the same from all four sides. The UNESCO World Heritage listed Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens & some of the best intricate inlay work ever seen adding a touch of magnificence to the structure. Shah Jahan spent his last years imprisoned by his son in the Agra Fort gazing at his creation & after his death, he was buried inside the Taj Mahal next to his wife.

Poet Rabindranath Tagore described it as 'a teardrop on the cheek of eternity'; Rudyard Kipling as 'the embodiment of all things pure'; while its creator, Emperor Shah Jahan, said it made 'the sun & the moon shed tears from their eyes'. The white marble monument is an architectural marvel with fine detailing, on the south bank of the Yamuna River. Verses from the Holy Quran are inscribed on it & gemstones adorn its walls.

Being one of the Seven Wonders of the World & the only one in India doesn’t stop from wrong stories floating around the Taj Mahal. Ones like the it was also to be built in black marble or that Shah Jahan dismembered the arms of the artisans who built the monument are pretty common but not really true.

But one fascinating story that Agra was not the first choice to build the Taj Mahal has more traction & history. Yes, the world famous monument was originally planned to be constructed in Madhya Pradesh in Burhanpur because Mumtaz Mahal passed away there. Shah Jahan had even marked out the site along the Tapti River where it was to be built but the plan was shelved when the area was unable to supply enough white marble that was required for its construction. And so, Agra got its iconic immortal monument that we call the Taj Mahal.

Depending on the time, noting the closing time at the monuments, the Tour-guide may take you to another landmark, out of many. Akbar’s Mausoleum, Mehtab Bagh, Itimad-ud-Daulah (nicknamed the Baby Taj), Kinari Bazaar.

Visitors are caught up in a world of contrasting edifices, of red sandstone & white marble, narrow alleys, quaint buggies & that irresistible charm that this favorite city of the Mughals still retains. It is not surprising, that modern Agra still reflects its heritage most conspicuously.

The sightseeing concludes & you are transferred back to the hotel.

At 06.30 pm, you will be transferred to the famous theater complex - Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center for an amazing audio-visual treat.

Evening is spent enjoying the 1.5 hour Mohabbat The Taj show which depicts the romantic love story of Emperor Shajahan (creator of the Taj Mahal) & his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

It is a dance drama extravaganza, replicating the Taj’s story.

You will be blown away by the creative dance, music & songs performed by over 80 talented artists through innovative dance sequences accompanied by a dramatic light & sound show with the 12’ x 12’ Taj Mahal replica in the background.

Learn how the love between the Emperor Shah Jahan & his wife Mumtaz inspired the Taj as well as the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal Empire. You will not only be touched by the beautiful story but also feel the life-like experience of the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal court.

The Show ends & you will proceed to a famous restaurant which traces its lineage right back to the Mughals.

Come back to the hotel.  

Overnight.  B D 

Early morning, Check-out & depart for Jaipur.

Enroute, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the magnificent fortified ancient city with red sandstone architecture & intricate carvings, perched atop a rocky ridge, west of Agra. It was the short-lived capital of the Mughal empire between 1572 & 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar who created it as a city of victory.

It is a veritable fairy tale city & its "ruins" are in pristine condition ... it is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur. He had visited the village of Sikri to consult the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir to the Mughal throne. When the prophecy came true, he built his new capital here, including a stunning Mosque, still in use today & 4 Palaces, one for each of his favorite wives – one a Hindu, one a Muslim & one a Christian (though Hindu villagers in Sikri dispute these claims). Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years, he selected Sikri as the seat of his government believing it to be auspicious.

He experimented both with architecture & art and built a walled city in about 15 years, expressing his ideals & vision. One of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour, the culmination of Hindu & Muslim architecture, the inner citadel is immaculately preserved.

Today, it is a deserted, phantom city & the sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish. The finest well-preserved monuments within, are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal, & the Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India). 3 of its walled sides are still intact & enclosed Palaces, Harems, buildings, Courts & a Mosque.

The Mosque here is said to be a copy of the Mosque in Mecca displaying designs derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture & its grand entrance is with 52 steps leading up to a red sandstone 54 meters high archway - Buland Darwaza - that has 2 Persian inscriptions.

North of the Mosque is the Dargah of the great Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, built in 1570 with one of the finest lattice work, where childless women come for blessings of the saint. Even Akbar was blessed with 3 sons when he came here. Akbar’s favorite minister Birbal too had his house here. Since he was a Hindu, the architecture of Birbal’s house is different than the usual Mughal buildings.

Akbar, the founder of the faith Din-e-Ilahi also constructed Ibadat Khana in Fatehpur Sikri which was used for religious congregations. The Panch Mahal, a 5 storey palatial structure was for the ladies & the Naubat Khana that had drummers announce the entry of the Emperor were other unique structures.

Despite the lavish architecture & careful planning, it had to be abandoned in 1585 because the lake that supplied water to the city dried up. The red-sandstone palace walls are at their most atmospheric & photogenic near sunset.

Spend a few hours exploring the complex & in time, depart for Jaipur.

Arrive by late afternoon & Check-in at the hotel.

Enthralling, historical Jaipur is the capital of India’s most flamboyant state of Rajasthan. A romantic realm of resplendent Palaces, mighty Fortresses & regal Maharajahs that lies in the western deserts.

Rajasthan is literally the Land of the Kings. It is home to the chivalrous Rajputs, and its battle-scarred heritage is ingrained with pride & tradition. Proudly belonging to the Kshatriya warrior caste & fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, most of them realized that to maintain their wealth & authority locally, it was expedient & street-smart to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors & also the British Raj that followed.

The upper echelons of this medieval society built magnificent Palaces & Forts, big-ticket attractions today. Powerful Forts loom from mountain tops, their battle-scarred ramparts still defying long-dead enemies. Spiked doors that once held war elephants at bay open onto the twisting approaches to the Palaces within. Austere & practical on the outside gives way to fantasy & opulence once safely inside. Carved marble & stone, fountains & coloured glass decorate the halls of business & rooms of pleasure.

All across, there are numerous forgotten Forts & lovingly restored Palaces, including Jaisalmer's fairy-tale desert outpost, Amber's honey-hued fort-palace & Jodhpur's imposing Mehrangarh to name just a few. Many of which are now sumptuous Hotels & impressive Museums.

The intensity & spectrum of colour in Rajasthan is impossible to ignore. The rainbow of fire-engine red turbans & emerald green & canary yellow saris is simply dazzling. Little wonder so many fashion designers find their inspiration & raw materials in this state.

In addition, stunning handicrafts & fine arts were developed & nurtured through the patronage of the Maharajas. Village life remains steeped in tradition but, just like the rest of India, the pace of change is accelerating. Turbaned men still barter for decorated camels - they just relay the successful deal home via a smartphone.

Easier to catch on a camera are the bright hues of Rajasthan's many festivals: from garishly decorated camels in Pushkar, or painted elephants in Jaipur, to the rainbow explosions of Diwali & Holi, celebrated across the region. The lucky visitor might even see a flash of orange while tiger-spotting in Ranthambhore National Park.

No other region in the country assembles these many paradoxes as does this desert state, by far the most colourful region in India. Rajasthan’s kingdoms are an enduring legacy to India’s history. A land endowed with invincible Forts, magnificent Palaces & waves of sand dunes & serene lakes.

The famous & popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit is a traveller’s survey of Indian icons. The triangle usually kicks off at the daunting mega-metropolis of Delhi, with its majestic Mughal heritage. It then angles to Agra, where the world’s most famous Tomb - the Taj Mahal, defines the city with its exquisite proportions. The triangle is completed at Jaipur - a city with some of the most colourful bazaars in India.

Fortified Opulance | Land of Kings | Celebration of Colour

Known as the 'Pink City' on account of the distinctive colour of its buildings, the bustling capital 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 & a quarter', suggesting that the Mughals thought this Emperor to be more valuable than just 'one'. The ‘pink’ colour scheme did not, however, form part of the original plan, but dates back to 1856, when the city was given a wash of pink in honour of a State Visit by Prince Albert.

The city’s colourful, chaotic streets ebb & flow with a heady brew of old & new. Careering buses dodge dawdling camels, leisurely cycle-rickshaws frustrate swarms of motorbikes & everywhere, buzzing auto-rickshaws watch for easy prey. In the midst of this cacophony & mayhem, the splendours of Jaipur’s majestic past are islands of relative calm evoking a different pace & another world. Once you have slept in a Palace, explored a medieval Fort or swayed on a camel, you will want to experience more.

Jaipur, a romantic realm of resplendent Palaces, mighty Fortresses & regal Maharajahs, offers a dazzling immersion into the riches of traditional India. Since its foundation in 1727, royal family & nobles of Jaipur had been patronizing various craftsmen & artisans in Pink City. Many of these traditions continue to this day, making the modern day Jaipur a place to witness India’s rich Art & Craft. Traditional methods are still used to produce valuable & highly prized items.

Around, 03.30 pm, meet the Tour-guide & proceed on a 2 hour ‘walking tour’ of the non-touristic places. Explore Jaipur like locals do. 

Take a stroll inside little known lanes of the Walled City, where the old ways of life continue uninterrupted. Explore bustling craft bazaar & walk through bustling markets loaded with selling colourful traditional dresses, turban makers, jewellery spices & flowers & perfumes. Observe local artisans in their workshops - jewellers & silversmiths, gold & silver foil makers & bangle makers, gem stone traders.

There are Vendors selling delicious Indian sweets & savoury delicacies. Sample a large variety of Indian snacks like Samosa & Kachories. Those with a sweet tooth, can try some local sweets of Jaipur like Mal Pua & Rabri

Visit a 150 year old private residence to join the family for a cup of tea in their beautifully decorated drawing room & experience Indian hospitality to learn about the rich art traditions of this fascinating city. You will also visit a deserted historic Haveli bedecked with superb frescos narrating the silent story of its once glorious past.

The ‘walk’ concludes & you return to the hotel.

But, the day is not over yet.

In time, you will be transferred to Amber Fort located high on a hill in the nearby city of Amer for an exciting Son et Lumiere Show.

Settle into your seat at the bottom of the hill & watch as the story of Amber Fort comes to life, blending history, anecdotes, music & light effects. During the 50 minute show, admire the colorful lights that illuminate the structure & reflect beautifully on the adjacent Maota Lake. Gain an understanding of the majestic Fort’s legendary past, dating back more than 600 years as you learn about the 28 Kings of the Kachwaha Dynasty who ruled a number of Kingdoms in the area & see how through their unique diplomacy of strategic alliances, their valor & strength, they played a part in changing the destiny of medieval India. Learn about the history of the town of Amer, its traditions & the grand lifestyle of the royal family.

After the show, enjoy a delectable dinner at a popular restaurant in Jaipur that serves traditional Indian, Chinese & local Rajasthani cuisine.

Return to the hotel.

Overnight.   B D

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08:00 am & proceed for a 6 hour tour of the ‘pink’ city.

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; and 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, (where you went yesterday).

Drive to the majestic historic fort-palace - Amber Fort perched on a hillock among the massive Aravalli Hills in the town of Amer, on the outskirts of Jaipur.

Ascent to the Fort will be atop an elephant, as the royals used to do in the older days.

Set in a picturesque background, the construction of this splendid Fort was started in 1592, by Raja Man Singh I, commander-in-chief of the Mughal army during Akbar's reign & certainly one the greatest General of medieval India. It was completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its foreboding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal & Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.

The magnificent pale yellow, pink, red sandstone & white marble Fort overlooking Maota Lake, was initially a Palace complex within the much larger Jaigarh Fort. It was reputed to be the treasure vault of the Kacchwaha rulers. The royal Palace is divided into 4 main sections, each with its own courtyard.

Whether you walk or ride an elephant, you will enter the 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 is worth taking the steps just to the right, which leads to the small Siladevi Temple, with its gorgeous silver doors featuring repousse (raised relief) work. Heading back to the main stairway will take you up to the 2^nd courtyard & 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 & latticed galleries above.

The Maharaja’s apartments were located around the 3^rd 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 & multi-mirrored ceiling. Carved marble relief panels around the hall are fascinatingly delicate & 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 here, visitors can enjoy fine views from the ramparts over picturesque Maota Lake below.

The Zenana (secluded women’s quarters) surrounds the 4^th 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.

The most magnificent sight inside is the Hall of Mirrors. When royalty lived there, at night they needed only a single candle, because the thousands of tiny intricate mirrors would light the entire room.

After spending 2 hours, exploring the Fort, you will drive back to the city & continue the sightseeing.

At the center of its stately street grid stands the opulent, colonnaded City Palace complex from where the Maharaja reigned.

With gardens, courtyards & Museums, part of it is still a royal residence where the current descendent lives with his family in Sawai Jai Singh's 7 storey facade Chandra Mahal ("moon palace"). If you see the royal flag flying, it means the Maharaja is in town.

Conceived & designed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the Palace sprawling over one-seventh of the area in the walled city, is a fine fusion of Rajput, Mughal & European styles although the Palace was designed to Vaastushastra treatise.

One of the most important architectural landmarks in the city, the Complex features numerous buildings, courtyards, impressive gateways & temples. The Palace also houses various structures such as, solid marble Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam & Diwan-e-Khas (the Hall of Private Audience), Shri Govind Dev Temple & the City Palace Museum which is home to unique handcrafted products, various uniforms of the rulers & many more things pertaining to the royal heritage of the City Palace.

Some of the famous richly decorated entrances are the 'Udai Pol', 'Jaleb Chowk', 'Tripolia Gate' & 'Virendra Pol' whose walls & gates designed in Mughal style, are adorned with various murals, lattice & mirrors.

After spending 2 hours inside, continue on to Jantar Mantar, the royal astronomical Observatory built in stone by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1716 to measure movement of the stars & planets, time, altitude & other astronomical events. There are plenty of Observatories all over the world, but Jantar Mantar is considered to be one of the largest ever built.

Maharaja Jai Singh II was a great scholar & an avid astrologer. He studied philosophy, astrology, architecture & religion in various schools & was also well versed with universal mathematical concepts such as Euclid's Clements, Ptolemy's Syntaxes & the Master works of Aryabhatta.

The Universe & the Cosmos have always been of interest to man & it was this interest that compelled the Maharaja to build 5 different Observatories around North India. Jantar Mantar is the common name given to all 5 magnificent structures built in Jaipur, New Delhi, Ujjian, Varanasi & Mathura, combining religion, science & art.

The Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the 5 Observatories & also houses the world's largest sundial. The Observatory consists of 14 major geometric devices for measuring time, tracking constellations & even for, observing the orbits around the sun. The 'Jantar Mantar' at Jaipur, being the biggest conservatory in the country, houses various instruments that offer precise measurements of time, the azimuth, declination of the sun & the positions of constellations, along with several other astronomical phenomena but it was fully functional for only a very short period.

The Jantar Mantar houses various architectural & astrological instruments that have caught the interests of astronomers, historians & architects around the world.

Drive by 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 5 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.

End the Tour with a brief visit to Nawab Sahab Ki Haveli & the local Bazaar.

Return to the hotel by late afternoon.

Balance of the evening is at leisure to relax or perhaps go for one of the optional activities (we shall be happy to offer suggestions, & make arrangements).

Overnight.  B D 

Morning, depart for Mandawa. Not only a specific location but the entire city can be called as one open air art gallery.

Check-in on arrival by early afternoon & relax for an hour.

Rajasthan is literally the Land of the Kings. It is home to the chivalrous Rajputs, and its battle-scarred heritage is ingrained with pride & tradition. Proudly belonging to the Kshatriya warrior caste & fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made fearsome foes. However, most of them realized that to maintain their wealth & authority locally, it was expedient & street-smart to proclaim allegiance to the central power. Thus, many enjoyed a privileged position under the Mughal emperors & also the British Raj that followed.

The upper echelons of this medieval society built magnificent Palaces & Forts, big-ticket attractions today. Powerful Forts loom from mountain tops, their battle-scarred ramparts still defying long-dead enemies. Spiked doors that once held war elephants at bay open onto the twisting approaches to the Palaces within. Austere & practical on the outside gives way to fantasy & opulence once safely inside. Carved marble & stone, fountains & coloured glass decorate the halls of business & rooms of pleasure.

All across, there are numerous forgotten Forts & lovingly restored Palaces, including Jaisalmer's fairy-tale desert outpost, Amber's honey-hued fort-palace & Jodhpur's imposing Mehrangarh to name just a few. Many of which are now sumptuous Hotels & impressive Museums.

One out of many small settlements in the Shekhawati region, Mandawa is the one best located in the semi-desert region in the triangular area between Delhi, Jaipur & Bikaner. 

The settlement of Mandawa was made a thikana in the mid 18^th century by the Bhojraj Ji Kasubsub clan of Shekhawat Rajputs. A remote feudal principality in the centre of the Shekhawati region,

Starting around the 14^th century, a number of Muslim clans moved into the area & the towns which developed in the region became important trading posts on the ancient caravan routes emanating from the ports of Gujrat to China & the Middle East. It was an important junction on the famous silk route to China. Some of India's richest industrialists of the 20^th century belong to Shekhawati region.

Thakur Nawal Singh, the Rajput ruler of Nawalgarh & Mandawa, built a fort in 1755 to protect this outpost. The township that grew around the Fort soon attracted a large community of traders, who settled here. They constructed for themselves & their families, huge Mansions that used to have precious gems studded on its elaborately painted walls & traditionally adorned with beautiful frescoes. These 18^th century havelis reflect the old world charm that seems to expressively narrate the ideologies & customs of that time.

Later on, with the migration of these merchant families, their old settlements remained in total obscurity with no one to look after them. Despite the time lapse & ignorance about these visual & architectural extravaganzas, their attraction did not fade & today they are some of the major attractions for the travelers visiting Rajasthan.

There have been earlier references to the origin of this town. When it was initially founded by Mandu Jat, it was known as ‘Mandu ki dhani’, ‘Mandu ka bas’ or ‘Manduwas’ which changed to ‘Manduwa’, ‘Mandwa’ & finally, ‘Mandawa’.

The compact & busy little town of Mandawa was / is a historical trade town, settled & fortified by the dominant merchant families of the region. Today, it is one of the most popular cities of the Shekhawati region, portraying a mesmerizing blend of traditional Rajput art style & the European influences in the paintings beautifying its Havelis & Castles.

It is known for its imposing Mandawa Fort & numerous smaller Havelis (traditional, ornately decorated residence). There is only one main street, with narrow lanes fanning off it.

Later in the afternoon around 01.00 pm, meet the Tour-guide & proceed for a 2 hour sightseeing tour to see some of the local Havelis.

Mandawa provides the visitors with a sense of discovery at every turn; battlements that offer spectacular views of the town below, a whimsical peacock weather van & an arched window that overlooks the verdant garden visited by peacocks. 

The Chokhani & the street with Saraf havelis are some of the splendid examples of this region's enchanting architecture & art. The Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli has some defaced erotic images. A painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna & his cows leads to the bazaar.

Visit the massive Fort, now converted into a hotel. The archway of the Fort is painted with fascinating paintings, depicting Lord Krishna & his cowherds. Displaying architectural brilliance, each wing of the Fort is set up with a different theme. Exquisite wall paintings & amazing mirror work adorn the rooms.

Continue on to Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, which has surprising images representing the advent of technology and how it affected the lives. You will find here paintings of Wright brothers flying their plane as people stare at them in shock. There is a boy shown using a telephone & a European woman sitting in a chauffeur driven car, a symbol of luxury.

Built in the 1930s, the Murmuria Haveli has colorful murals that give us a hint of the local paintings being influenced by the European happenings & events that also made rounds in the Indian society. One can see some political messages being spread using the traditional artwork. In one of the paintings, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, first Prime Minister of independent India, is shown with the Indian tricolor flag, riding on a horse.

The royal portraits of Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli are also quite a crowd puller. In one of the paintings, on the southern wall, a Maharaja is shown proudly displaying his long mustache, which used to be considered a sign of manliness and royalty. Amazing mirror work and mosaic work detailing ornaments the doorway opening to the courtyards. One can also see here an image of the Sun God.

The tour ends & you return to the hotel.

Balance of the day at leisure to explore the surroundings on your own (we will be happy to offer suggestions).

Overnight.   B D 

Early morning, depart for Delhi.

In the afternoon, you will be transferred to New Delhi Station to board the Shatabdi Express .If there is enough time in between, before the boarding, we will make arrangements to enable you to see a bit more of Delhi.

On arrival at Amritsar Station at 10.35 pm, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel, help you settle in & provide you with some useful tips for exploring the area as well as discuss the program for the next day.

Please alight & stay right outside your carriage door. If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Station & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

Founded in 1577 A.D.  by the 4^th Sikh guru, Ram Das, Amritsar is home to Sikhism’s holiest shrine, the magical Golden Temple, one of India’s most serene & humbling sights. Originally, it was known as Ramdaspur & colloquially as Ambarsar, it is the 2^nd largest city in Punjab & is a major cultural & economic centre

Originally, the area was covered with thick forests & had several lakes. Before commencing construction. the Guru invited 52 traders from different sectors belongings to nearby places like Patti & Kasur to settle here.

It derives its name from Amrit Sarovar which was built by Guru Ram Das in the village of Tung. It was believed that the waters of the lake had healing powers. Gradually, the village developed & came to be known as Chakk Ram Das which finally became Amritsar that literally translates to pool of nectar.

Amritsar is the heart & soul of the Sikhs & the largest spiritual & cultural centre of Sikh religion, with a historical significance & a proud past.

Guru Arjan Sahib, the 5^th Nanak, conceived the idea of creating a central place of worship for the Sikhs & he himself designed the architecture of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Earlier, the planning to excavate the holy tank (Amritsar or Amrit Sarovar) was chalked out by Guru Amardas Sahib, the 3^rd Nanak, but it was executed by Guru Ramdas Sahib under the supervision of Baba Budha ji.

The land for the site was acquired by the earlier Guru Sahibs on payment or free of cost from the Zamindars (landlords) of native villages. The plan to establish a town settlement was also made. Therefore, the construction work on the Sarovar (the tank) & the town started simultaneously in 1570. The work on both projects completed in 1577 A.D.

Amritsar is divided in 2 sections. 12 medieval gates bound the old city, with the Golden Temple & other historic sights - this is a fascinating area to explore, with a capillary network of narrow bazaars that seems to float between the centuries.

To the north of the railway lines, ‘modern’ Amritsar has grown up in haphazard fashion around a scattering of colonial-era boulevards. Gleaming malls & upmarket hotels stand testament to the prosperity of the city, but the hectic traffic makes this area hard to love at street level. Crossing between the old & new cities is best done by cycle-rickshaw, but once you are in the old city, walking is often the quickest way to get around.

Golden Temple (or Sri Harmandir Sahib) is the focal point of Sikh faith, attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world.

Founded by Guru Ramdas & completed by Guru Arjan Dev, it is one of the holiest places of worship in India. It’s significance is the fact that the first version of 'Guru Granth Sahib', which is regarded as the holiest book of Sikhism was installed here.

Furthermore, Guru Gobind Singh - the 10^th Guru laid the establishment of 'Khalsapanth' (which is the religious community of Sikhism worldwide), on the day of Baisakhi. The sacred lake situated in the centre of the Temple is popular for its therapeutic properties & it is believed to cure several ailments.

Representing the distinct identity, glory & heritage of the Sikhs. The Golden Temple is not only a central religious place of the Sikhs, but also a symbol of human brotherhood & equality. Everybody, irrespective of cast, creed or race can seek spiritual solace & religious fulfilment without any hindrance.

Very early in the morning before 05.00 am, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to the Golden Temple, to experience / participate in Prabhat Pheri or early morning procession when the Guru Granth Sahib is ceremoniously brought to the Temple from Akal Takhat, the temporal seat of the Khalsa brotherhood, another building in the complex. The same procession takes place in the evening when it is ceremoniously returned to Akal Takhat. 

The legendary Golden Temple is actually just a small part of this huge Gurdwara complex, known to Sikhs as Harmandir Sahib. Spiritually, the focus of attention is the Tank that surrounds the gleaming central shrine – the Amrit Sarovar, excavated by Guru Ram Das, in 1577, ringed by a marble walkway.

In the night, after the departure of the Palki Sahib (palanquin) carrying the sacred book - Sri Guru Granth Sahib to The Akal Takhat Sahib, the devotees, accompanied by the Gurdwara's staff, clean the Sri Harimandir Sahib for one hour.

There is a continuous singing of Gurbani Kiran, hymns from the opening of its portals (doors) to their closing. At the completion of the Ardas (Sikh Prayer), Karah Prasad (holy offering) is distributed among the devotees.

After purifying the precincts, the rugs are spread, on which the Peera Sahib (a small cot) is placed to install the Sri Guru Granth Sahib when it is brought back on the next morning.

The Golden Temple is located in the heart of the city & is the most visited tourist attraction of Amritsar. Characterized by its four entrance doors (called deoris) in all 4 directions & the tastefully decorated Shrines, in terms of art and architecture, the Golden Temple welcomes everyone regardless of the religion or faith one follows. The stunning sanctum, shimmering in the water of the holy Tank, flanked by spotlessly clean marble walkways & pavements makes it breathtakingly beautiful

Spiritually, the focus of attention is the tank that surrounds the gleaming central shrine - the Amrit Sarovar, from which Amritsar takes its name, excavated by the 4^th Guru Ram Das. Ringed by a marble walkway, the tank is said to have healing powers & pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in the sacred waters.

Floating at the end of a long causeway, the Golden Temple itself is a mesmerising blend of Hindu & Islamic architectural styles, with an elegant marble lower level adorned with flower & animal motifs in pietra dura work (as seen on the Taj Mahal).

Above this rises a shimmering second level, encased in intricately engraved gold panels & topped by a dome gilded with 750kg of gold. In the gleaming inner sanctum (photography prohibited), priests & musicians keep up a continuous chant from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book), adding to the already intense atmosphere.

After paying their respects, pilgrims retreat to the intricately painted gallery on the 2^nd level to contemplate.

Inside the Akal Takhat, you can view a collection of sacred Sikh weapons. The building was heavily damaged when it was stormed by the Indian army during Operation Blue Star in 1984; it was repaired by the government but Sikhs refused to use the tainted building and rebuilt the tower from scratch.

More shrines & monuments are dotted around the edge of the compound.

A tradition unique to the Sikh community is Guru Ka Langar (community kitchen). The tradition of serving langar (free meals) Initiated by Guru Nanak Dev Ji & then established by the Guru Amar Dass Ji at Goindwal.

The institution of Guru ka Langar has served the community in many ways. It has ensured the participation of women & children in a task of service for mankind. Women play an important role in the preparation of meals & the children help in serving food to the pangat. Langar also teaches the etiquette of sitting & eating in a community situation, which has played a great part in upholding the virtue of sameness of all human beings; providing a welcome, secure & protected sanctuary.

On an average day, meals are prepared for 100,000 + people a day & the number doubles on special occasions. Everyone is welcome to share the Langar; no one is turned away. All the preparation, the cooking & the washing-up is done by volunteers & by helpers (Sewadars).

People sit down together on the floor to partake the meal without any class distinction. There are paintings showing Mughal Emperor Akbar sitting among ordinary people to share langar, during his visit to Goindwal Sahib to have darshan of Guru Amardas Ji (3^rd Sikh Master)

The Kitchen is managed strictly on donations of the devotees. Each week, a family or several families volunteer to provide & prepare the food. On an average day, more than 100 Quintal Wheat Flour, 25 Quintal Cereals, 10 Quintal Rice, 5000 Litre Milk, 10 Quintal Sugar, 5 Quintal Pure Ghee is used. Nearly 100 LPG Gas Cylinders are used to prepare the meals. 100’s of employees & devotees render their services to the kitchen.

Bhai Desa Singh in his Rehitnama says, "A Sikh who is 'well to do' must look to the needs of his poor neighbours. Whenever he meets a traveller or a pilgrim from a foreign country, he must serve him devotedly.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh made grants of jagirs to Gurdwaras for the maintenance of Langar. Similar endowments were created by other Sikh rulers as well. Today, practically every Gurudwara worldwide even in Europe & North America, has a Langar supported by the community in general.

In smaller Gurdwaras, cooked food is received daily from different households. In any case, no pilgrim or visitor will miss food at meal time in a Gurudwara. Sharing a common meal sitting in a pangat is for Sikhs an act of piety.

So is his participation in cooking or serving food & then cleaning the used dishes. The Sikh ideal of charity is essentially social in conception. A Sikh is under a religious obligation to contribute one-tenth of his earnings (daswand) for the welfare of the community. He must also contribute the service of his hands whenever he can, service rendered in a Langar being the most meritorious.

After enjoying a meal in the kitchen, explore other buildings in the complex.

Inside the main entrance Clock Tower, the Sikh Museum shows the persecution suffered by the Sikhs at the hands of Mughals, the British & Indira Gandhi. At the southeast end of the Tank is the Ramgarhia Bunga, a protective fortress topped by two Islamic-style minarets; inside is a stone slab once used for Mughal coronations, seized from Delhi by Ranjit Singh in 1783.

The Temple tour concludes & you return to the hotel.

Later this afternoon at 03.00 pm, accompanied by the Tour-guide, you will proceed to India Pakistan border at Wagah Check point to witness the “Changing of the Guard” ceremony - a daily military practice that the security forces of India & Pakistan have jointly followed since 1959. As the sun starts to set, Wagah Border comes alive with an incredible zeal & an unmistakable nationalist energy on both sides.

The 1947 partition of India & Pakistan led to the marking of a long white line that defines the Wagah Border between the 2 neighbours, separated by 2 heavy gates about 2 meters apart on either side.

The show starts off with the playing of patriotic songs &remembering the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. The crowd cheers on by calling out ‘Jai Hind’ & ‘Vande Mataram’, reciprocated with cries of ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ from the opposite side.

The ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony starts with a stiff-marching parade by the soldiers from both the sides. One infantryman stands at attention on each side of the gate. Soon after, the heavy gates at the Wagah Border are flung open; the two soldiers approach each other, exchange fierce looks, give out mimicked threats, and show anger. They shake hands & begin to lower the Indian & Pakistani flags fixed on high poles at the gates, simultaneously.

At this point the noise in the open-air theatre transforms into pin drop silence. The spectators at Wagah Border remain extremely hushed in awe of the ceremony. The only sound being that of the pounding of boots of the soldiers on both the sides as they match steps & try to outdo each other as a part of the ceremonial splendour.

The flags are neatly folded & carried back into the respective camps. There is a final brisk handshake between the soldiers from either side, after which no glance is exchanged. This is followed by the slammed closing of both the gates & blowing of trumpet to mark the end of the grand ceremony

The unusually tall soldiers at the Wagah Border are well dressed in their uniforms with colourful turbans. The Indian ‘Border Security Force’ soldiers are dressed in khaki, and the Pakistani ‘Sutlej Rangers’ soldiers are dressed in black.

The speciality of the ceremony is the extremely fast pace at which the soldiers walk, with their feet rising almost to their foreheads. This highly skilful ceremony is impressive and one of its kind in India!

The 3 hour show ends & you return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements for optional activities).

Overnight.  B D

Morning, meet a local family wo will be your host for the day in your Holi extravaganza.

The whole country goes wild in a celebration. People throng the streets, smearing each other with bright

colored powder or squirting colored water on all within reach.

Of all India’s religious celebrations, Holi is the one that tends to attract the most attention outside the country. Happy images of people plastering each other with colour powders & pigments, symbolising the triumph of good over evil & the traditional start of the harvest season, convey an atmosphere of unfettered joy & abandon that’s a-typical of a country whose rituals are generally characterised by restraint & decorum. ‘This is India letting its hair down’, the pictures proclaim ‘the sub-continental equivalent of a Thai New Year water-throwing party & beach rave all rolled into one’.

The reality on the ground, however, can be a far cry from any of the above - for foreigners in particular. Holi is marked in different ways by different segments of the population, but for its duration social norms are turned on their head & one has to be very careful when venturing out in the streets.

Dating back throughout the centuries, Holi is one of the most vibrant festivals in the Hindu calendar. A spring festival that essentially celebrates the triumph of good over evil, coinciding with the end of winter & the beginning of a new season, it is treated as a time to give thanks for a good harvest. It is also considered a time to come together & end any conflicts you might have in your relationships with others.

Every year, the streets of India become a riot of colour & frivolity as people across the country celebrate Holi. In recent years, with the influx of Indian expats, Holi has become popular in countries across the globe as a fun event that brings people together by celebrating unity & harmony. Even though the celebratory rituals vary in different parts of the country, the essential message is the same - victory of good over evil. The bonfire lit on the eve of Holi is said to cleanse the surrounding atmosphere.

As nature blooms in a celebration of color, the Indians come out wearing pure white clothes, gather in a common place & play Holi with gay abandon with friends, neighbors, relatives, rubbing gulal & throwing colored water on each other (& strangers too, who are okay with it). Earlier, the colored powders used for playing Holi used to be made from flowers, roots & herbs that worked as softener for the winter-dried skin but now synthetic ingredients are used.  

The magic of playing with color, which begins early in the morning, continues through the day. Traditional delicacies are prepared in advance & served. The spring air is still cool, the water cold, but revelers make a special traditional intoxicant punch mixed in milk, called Bhang (a potent cannabis preparation) which, add to the festivities.

Get ready to be showered in all the colors of the rainbow as you spray each other with colors; all part of the fun of Holi!

First, we will start with a toned-down version of Holi with your hosts - a nice, courteous affair where you put colors around the cheeks of family members, offer sweets & blow colors into the air.

The niceties stop afterwards & we prepare for war, a colorful war!

Once you are all painted in colors, exhausted (trust us it is exhausting) & feeling hungry, you can enjoy the delicious home-cooked meal prepared by your host, sit with the family, enjoy the talks & argue over who won the battle of colors.

Talking about celebrating the festival in our Golden City i.e. Amritsar, the enjoyment of people of all age-group is worth watching. Be it private parties, get-together or playing Holi at home or on roads, you will find people immersed in the colors of the festival & indulging themselves into some sweet & savory delights of the city.

Being a city of Golden Temple, people also believe in celebrating the festival in various Temples & Gurdwaras in the same way by playing with colors, flowers, singing & dancing. Kids can be seen playing with water balloons & water-guns. The city markets are visibly immersed with the food & material related to Holi.

Return to the hotel by afternoon to clean up.

Meet the Tour-guide around 03.00 pm & embark on a 3 hour ‘walking’ tour of the city.

Discover how life was in the days of the Gurus, as you stroll the byways & bazaars of the historical city, the seat of the Sikh faith, and discover its often troubled past.

See the Gurdwara Saraghari, a monument honoring the Sikh soldiers killed in the 1897 Battle of Saragarhi, & view Qila Ahluwalia fort before exploring Jalebiwala Chowk, a market famous for jalebi (sweet) shops. Pass along shops hawking phulkari textiles (embroidered Punjabi fabrics), turbans & antiques.

While walking through the winding alleys, you will see Katras, Akharas, Bungas, Havelis & Hatties where you will see traditional trade & crafts being practiced in the same place & in the same manner as has been done for centuries. The town planning & architecture of the age will amaze you, especially the intricately carved wooden facades

Wander through Taksal Chowk and see the infamous ‘Crawling Street,’ where in 1919, General Dyer, known as the ‘Butcher of Amritsar', ordered that people crawl on all fours. Learn how this & the 1919 Amritsar Massacre, inspired Punjab’s freedom movement.

If time permits, your Tour-guide may even take you into a shop to see a Turban tying demo to see & learn how fast the adherents can wrap a 6 feet + clothe into a perfect turban. There may be an opportunity to see braiding of ladies long hairs, too.

Lastly, view the magnificent Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the world’s holiest Sikh site. After admiring the Gateway to the Guru (Gurudwara), set in a lake believed to grant eternal happiness.

The sightseeing concludes & you return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements for optional activities).

Morning, depart for Anandpur Sahib - where the very dramatic Holla Mohalla festivities takes place.

Reach by afternoon & Check-in at the Camp / Resort.

Later in the afternoon, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to the fairground to partake in & enjoy the festivities.

When the rest of India celebrates Holi, the Sikh community in Punjab celebrates Hola Mohalla, a different format of Holi.

Hola Mohalla is an annual Sikh festival, celebrated extensively over 3 days, mainly in the foothills of the Shivaliks around the historic Anandpur Sahib & Kiratpur Sahib Gurdwaras & is now replicated at other Gurdwaras worldwide. Sikhs from all over the world make this pilgrimage every year & celebrate together.

It is a martial fair that was introduced by Sikh Guru Gobind Singh in 1701, as a gathering of Sikhs called the Khalsa Panth, on the day following the festival of Holi & reminds the people of valour & defence preparedness, concepts dear to the 10^th Guru who was at that time defending the Sikhs from the attacks of the Mughal empire & the hill kings.

Since this day is celebrated a day after Holi, the crowds also play Holi by applying colours at each other. They also splatter colours on the audience.

Thousands of Nihangs, the warrior class of Sikhs, dressed in their distinct ceremonial garb of blue robes & orange oversized turbans, complete with sashes, congregate at Anandpur Sahib from all over India & even from foreign lands.

Their par excellence combat skills are further reinforced by the use of horses & other animals. The dexterity in the use of weapons can be seen in the fluid motions that replicate the energetic movements in actual battles. The ceremonial line-up of Nihangs brandish ornamented spears & swords.

The military exercise, carried out on the shores of the river Charan Ganga with the famous Hindu temple of Mata Naina Devi with Shivalik mountains as the backdrop, was personally supervised by the Guru & was meant to fortify the Sikh community by carrying out martial training & mock-drills, along with religious discussions.

During the grand festival, mock battles, exhibitions, display of weapons, etc., are held. Nihangs display their skills, bravery & physical strength through daring feats, such as Gatka (mock encounters with real weapons), tent pegging, sword-fighting displays, archery, bareback horse-riding - standing erect on 2 speeding horses & various other feats of bravery. Young fighters who learn under the tutelage of veterans of the weaponry techniques display various manoeuvres with knives, daggers & swords Many Gatka schools send their best teams to compete in the events.

The festivities of Hola Mohalla commence by visiting the Gurdwaras for early morning prayers. Durbars are held & the Guru Granth Sahib is read. Kirtans, music, dance, poetry competitions, religious lectures are conducted to unwind the charged up atmosphere & after the religious ceremonies are over, the ‘prasad’ is distributed among the people. This is also an apt platform to honour both brave as well as spiritually-evolved Sant & Babas.

The last day, especially, comes across as the highlighting factor of the whole event.

A long procession, led by Panj Pyaras, starts & ends at Takth Keshgarh Sahib, one of the 5 Sikh religious seats & passes through various major Gurdwaras like Qila Anandgarh, Lohgarh Sahib, Mata Jitoji.

Panj Pyare is a collective name given to the 5 wise men from the Sikh community given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji on April 13, 1699, namely Bhai Dhaya Singh, Bhai Dharam Singh, Bhai Himmat Singh, Bhai Mohkam Singh & Bhai Sahib Singh. The religious leaders have kept the tradition alive by selecting 5 Sants for a fixed term.

Hola Mohalla is the time to celebrate & dedicate oneself into community service.

Another aspect to this festival is the community service in the form of langars (voluntary community kitchens). organized by the local people as a part of sewa (community service).  

The divine & sumptuous traditional cuisine prepared by the local people is respectfully offered to pilgrims & all visitors irrespective of their caste or creed, who eat while sitting in rows on the ground (Pangat).

Raw materials like wheat flour, rice, vegetables, milk, sugar & other ingredients are provided by the villagers living nearby. Women volunteer to cook & others take part in cleaning utensils & other manual tasks that need to be carried out.

Return to the Resort whenever you want.

Balance of the day is at leisure

Early morning after breakfast, proceed to the fairground to witness & capture the various activities that take place during the festival.

Spend the entire day here photographing this colorful & amazing Sikh extravaganza.

Return to the hotel.

Rest of the evening is at leisure.

Alas, time to leave. Early morning, drive to Chandigarh to catch your train for Delhi.

If you are able to leave at dawn, we might even have time for a brief sightseeing tour of Chandigarh.

The city of Chandigarh was the first planned city in India post-independence in 1947 and is known internationally for its architecture & urban design and a quality of life, which is unparalleled. As the capital of the states of Punjab & Haryana, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, it is a prestigious city.

The face of modern India, Chandigarh, is the manifestation of a dream that the first Prime Minister Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru envisaged. The master plan of the city was prepared by Swiss architect Le Corbusier, transformed from earlier plans created by the Polish architect Maciej Nowicki & the American planner Albert Mayer.

Le Corbusier conceived a people-oriented city of sweeping boulevards, lakes, gardens & grand civic buildings, executed in his favourite material: reinforced concrete. 70 years on, the parks, monuments & civic squares are all still here, albeit somewhat aged. Architecturally, Chandigarh may not be everyone’s cup of chai, but this prosperous and cosmopolitan city is, nevertheless, a very comfortable city to visit.

Each sector of the city is self-contained and pedestrian friendly. Serenity & a city are 2 diametrically opposite concepts, which however, get belied in the 'City Beautiful'. Chandigarh is a rare epitome of modernization co-existing with nature's preservation. It is here that the trees & plants are as much a part of the construction plans as the buildings and the roads. India’s first planned city, is a rich, prosperous, spic & span, green city rightly called “the City Beautiful”.

Explore its wonderful Rock Garden created by Nek Chand. One of the region’s most intriguing attractions, it features unique sculptures made entirely from industrial & urban waste. You will be able to see sculptures made out of mudguards & marbles, broken bangles & brake pads or even handle bars & hubcaps!

After the Rock Garden, depending on the available time, you may head over to Sukhna Lake, a picturesque manmade lake popular with water sports fans & which is a great place to relax & unwind.

In time, you will be transferred to the Train Station to board Kalka Shatabdi Express train bound for Delhi.

On arrival at New Delhi Railway Station, you will be welcomed by a Journeys rep who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel.

Alas, the experience comes to an end & it is time to say good-bye to this land of contradiction, warm Indian hospitality & incomparable heritage & go home.

Check-out of the hotel by 11: 00 am (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow the usage of the facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller” - Ibn Battuta

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport for the flight back home.  B

 .

***        End of Services      ***