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 

Delhi with its Old & New parts - each with its specific charm and glory - makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval and modern cultures at the same time and 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.

Meet the Tour-guide in the Lobby at 09:00 am & 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 amidst the chaos of the Delhi streets shared by cows and may be an elephant or a camel walking by.

Old Delhi - the former center of Mughal power which offers ancient monuments, narrow streets & bustling markets. 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 & this cenotaph draws millions of people all through the year.

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 metre 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 and many other buildings in that area. You will be stopping at India Gate and driving by the President 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 meter Qutub Minar the tallest brick minaret in the World, which heralded the arrival & rise of Islam in India.

Return to the hotel.

Early morning, depart for Agra, driving through the rural countryside, enroute stopping over at Sikandra Fort, the last resting place of the Mughal emperor Akbar.

Akbar was the greatest of the Mughal emperors and one of the most secular minded royalties of his time. He was the heir to a long tradition of oriental refinement, a great patron of the arts, literature, philosophy and science. Akbar's vast, beautifully carved, red-ochre sandstone tomb is set amidst a lush garden. Akbar himself planned his own tomb and selected a suitable site for it. To construct a tomb in one's lifetime was a Tartary custom which the Mughals followed religiously. Akbar's son Jahangir completed the construction of this pyramidal tomb in 1613.

Continue on to Agra.

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

On arrival by noon, Check-in at the hotel.

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 mid 16^thcentury & 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. And despite the hype, it is every bit as good as you have heard.

But the Taj is not a stand-alone attraction. The legacy of the Mughal empire has left a magnificent Fort & a liberal sprinkling of fascinating Tombs & Mausoleums, and there’s also fun to be had in the bustling chowks (marketplaces). 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.

Balance of the day free to relax or to explore the Agra’s rich heritage of handicrafts in its markets or for optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestions & make the arrangements).

Overnight.  B  

Early morning, meet the Tour-guide in the lobby who 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, on a 6 hour tour

Start the tour with a visit to the Taj.

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!!! Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra.

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.

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, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and 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 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!

After spending a couple of hours, drive to the 16^th century Mughal monument known as the Red Fort of Agra, situated on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Famed Mughal emperor Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563 - 73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates & walls of red sandstone & a moat. This powerful fortress encompasses within its 2.5 km long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace & the Khas Mahal, built later by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; & 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, depart for Jaipur.

Enroute, stop at Fatehpur Sikri.  The deserted, red Sandstone City, Emperor Akbar built that as his capital & palace in the late 16^th century is an exhilarating experience.

It a veritable fairytale city and 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. It 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 & the Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India). It is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour & 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 Gujrat and is 54 meters high. To the North of the Mosque is the dargah of Shaikh Salim Chishti, 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.

The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish. Though the city is in ruins, it is a place worth visiting. Visit Jama Masjid ; Buland Darwaza; Palace of Jodha Bai ; Birbal Bhavan & Panch Mahal. Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu & Persian Muslim architecture.

Continue on to Jaipur in the Rajput state of Rajasthan.

“Aao Padharo Maaro Desh” (Come visit our country), with these promising words on the lips of every Tour- guide, travel in the vibrant state of Rajasthan feels a lot like absorbing the real essence of India. The land of sand dunes, legendary forts & luxury palaces, Rajasthan draws a large number of tourists from all over the globe. The legendry forts & palaces depicting the enriching history of the various clans is the one half of  Rajasthan, whereas the second one is all about the rural flavors of the state.

Endowed with different natural beauty & history, the cities of Rajasthan are famed for its architecture & city structure. From the ancient palaces of Jaipur to the sand dunes of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan has a treat for everyone. A haven for architectural lovers, Rajasthan houses some of the best structures of the world. The Amber Palace, Castle Mandawa, Fort Delawara, Hawa Mahal, City Palace in Udaipur, Khimsar fort, Jaisalmer Fort & Ummaid Bhawan Palace are a few in the long list of archaeological marvels of Rajasthan. 

Besides creations of the human civilization, Rajasthan is also acknowledged as a spiritual gateway. Be it the ancient temples of Mount Abu & Dilwara or the rare, yet sacred Brahma temples in Pushkar, Rajasthan gets a whole new range of pilgrims every year.     

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

Check-in on arrival & relax for a while.

Late afternoon, you will begin your sightseeing of the city by visiting the Birla Temple to learn more about the fascinating religious life of Jaipur. The marble structure, built as recently as 1985, houses ornate statues including one of Lakshmi (goddess of Wealth and Beauty) and Narayan dressed in gaudy robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. Carvings in the temple and on pillars supporting the covered walkways include images of the Hindu pantheon, as well as Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary & St Francis of Assisi. Your visit will coincide with the Aarti Ceremony, which involves oil lamps being lit & waved, in order to awake & invoke the deity.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide in the lobby at 08.00 am & proceed for a 6 hour tour of this historical city.

First point will be the majestic Amber Fort where the ascent to the Fort situated on a tall hillock, is on an elephant (subject to ever changing government regulations).

Perched on a hill some 11 km from Jaipur, and nestling among the Aravalli Hills, is the historic fort-palace of Amber. Set in a picturesque background, the splendid Amber Fort (Jaigarh) was built in 1600 by Raja Man Singh, commander-in-chief of the Mughal army during Akbar's reign & certainly one the greatest general of medieval India. The Fort was initially a palace complex within the much larger Jaigarh Fort. The Fort is constructed of red sandstone & white marble overlooking Maotha lake & was reputed to be the treasure vault of the Kacchwaha rulers.

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.

Return to the city & visit City Palace.

Conceived and designed by Maharaja Jai Singh, it is a fine blend of Rajasthani & Mughal architecture. 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.

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 953 finely screened windows and 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 & the local Bazaar.

Catch up on your shopping or return to the hotel.

Morning, drive to the town of Samode, an erstwhile royal principality located near Jaipur.

Samode lies amidst the hills of the Aravalli range & continues to live its own life right outside the gates of Samode Palace, in Samode village, around Samode Bagh and all the way around the countryside to the other villages & fields of Samode.

This town in Rajasthan, once belonged to the feudal landlords of the state of Amber. It shot into prominence due to the Thakurs lineage traced to Maharaja Prithviraj Singhji, the 17^th century prince of the house of Kacchwaha Rajputs. Samode was bequeathed to Gopal Singhji one of his 12 sons, as a noble feudatory of the Jaipur principality. Samode was, even then, considered a very rich town under the kingdom of Amber.

Samode has come to mean many destinations because of the many experiences it provides.  It is a favourite setting for the movies. Many Hindi feature films have been pictured with the settings of the palace. And, many Hollywood films have also been shot in the palace precincts. The 1984 American HBO Serial adaptation of the Raj-romance novel The Far Pavilions was also filmed in the palace precincts and starred Ben Cross, Amy Irving, Omar Sharifand Christopher Lee

Tucked away in the northeast corner of the old city is this charming 200 year old building, once the town house of the rawal (nobleman) of Samode, Jaipur’s prime minister. The royal family has caringly restored three of their ancestral heritage properties into now trend-setting exclusive hotels & resorts, which illustrate the rich history of several hundred years and display a fusion of Mughal & Rajasthani art & architecture.

Samode Palace was initially built in the 16^th century as a Rajput fort, but after 300 years, it was converted from a fort into an exquisitely designed palace in Rajput & Muslim architectural style. It was further expanded by adding the Durbar Hall (considered as "extravagantly florid & hand painted") with a gallery and the Sheesh Mahal or the hall of mirrors. In 1987, it was converted into the heritage Samode Palace Hotel, featured in Conde Nast, National Geographic & other iconic publications & Reports.

The suites are astonishingly decorative, covered in twinkling mirrorwork, ornate paintings, tiny alcoves & soaring arches. Rooms have large beds & most have private terraces. The standard rooms are more ordinary but still manage to charm. The pool with its bar is a veritable oasis.

Samode Haveli was also built by Rawal Sheo Singh more than 175 years back, as a resort for the royal family, reflecting the style and elegance of the royals. A special feature of the Haveli is the elephant ramp. It offers an outdoor swimming pool and a spa & wellness centre. Fitted with antique couches, rich mosaic & painted arches, the air-conditioned rooms come with a flat-screen cable TV. The private bathroom comes with a bathtub, shower and hairdryer. At Samode Haveli, you will find spa baths & a  fitness centre. Guests can enjoy puppet show, Rajasthani music & dance performance in the evening. The restaurant is decorated with colourful hand-painted murals and serves local & international cuisines. 

Located at a distance of 3 km from Samode Palace, Samode Bagh (garden) was landscaped more than 150 years back by one of the sons of Maharaja Prithiraj Singhji of Jaipur. It was patterned on the lines of Mughal Gardens, which the Mughals had developed in other parts of their kingdom as a retreat for relaxation and enjoyment.

The Garden is enclosed by a 15 feet high wall and is spread over an area of 20 acres. The garden is best known for its marble arches, raised pavilions, fountains, trees, beautiful lawns & tents to accommodate the guests. It is set on a place where once there were stables of the royal house of Samode. Here, you can assure yourself with a royal stay in the heart of Rajasthan amidst the beautiful decor & grandeur of the 16^th century.

Samode Bagh is a tented camp which offers a comfortable & luxurious stay to all the guests. The tents have beautiful paintings depicting Mughal art, beautifully decorated & furnished with lamps, well designed beds & chairs. Food is offered in the grounds of Samode Bagh where guests can enjoy eating under the trees in a soothing & tranquil ambience. An outdoor swimming pool adds to the serenity.

Check-in on arrival.

Morning is free at the Palace or you may walk up to the Fort. 

Standing like a sentinel on a hilltop, the Samode Fort is one of the prime tourist attractions in the village of Samode. During its original days, the fort was used as a residence by the royal family of the Rawals. Displaying a brilliant work of Mughal architecture, the Fort is quite reminiscent of the bygone era.

History has it that the Fort was also used at times of trouble. A secret passage right below the Fort was constructed which basically provided escape to the royal members. This passage is still open & visitors can explore it.

Besides the secret passage, attention of the visitors is likely to be caught by the decorated murals & paintings, which adorn the interior walls. Contrary to the Mughal architecture of the fort, the murals & paintings depict Rajasthani style of artwork.    

Or, enjoy a camel ride (direct payment) to explore the rural lifestyle.

Later in the day, depart for 18^th century settlement Mandawa, known for its fort & havelis.

The compact & busy little town of Mandawa was / is a historical trade town of Rajasthan, settled & fortified by the dominant merchant families of the region 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.. 

It was an important junction on the famous silk route to China. Today it is one of the most popular city of the Shekhawati region, portraying a mesmerizing blend of traditional Rajput art style & the European influences in the paintings beautifying its havelis & castles.

Eminent merchant families settled in Mandawa and established lavish houses & baolis 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 and today they are some of the major attractions for the travelers visiting Rajasthan.

The Chokhani & the street with Saraf havelis are some of the splendid examples of this region's havelis. The Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli has some defaced erotic images. There is only one main drag, with narrow lanes fanning off it.

Check-in on arrival.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & proceed for a visit the massive Fort (now converted into a hotel) & some of the local Havelis.

The medieval fort of Mandawa dominates the town with a painted arched gateway. Most notable is the fact that no two rooms are alike in the fort / palace here. In the Zenana (or women's quarters), one room offers antique murals, another has a marble fountain, and the turret room boasts of walls that are seven feet thick. Looking out from the window of the turret room, it is easy to imagine the marauding bandits that once roamed freely here. Little wonder then that the family crest contains the motto, 'Veer Bhogya Vasundhara', which translates into 'the brave shall inherit the earth'

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 of the fort.

Continue on to Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, which has surprising images on its outer eastern wall representing the advent of technology & 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 and 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 and 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 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.

Return to the hotel to Check-out & depart for Delhi. 

Check-in on arrival.

Alas, this wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to incredible India  & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this multi-ethnic kaleidoscope that 1.2 billion people call home, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow use of the hotel facilities & leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal3 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport for your onward journey.  B

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