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TEMPLES OF INDIA

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Duration of Programme: 24 Nights / 25 Days
Places to Visit: Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh - Haridwar - Agra - Pushkar - Udaipur - Jaipur - Chennai - Tirupatti - Chennai - Trivandrum - Kovalam - Alleppey - Thekkedy - Munnar - Cochin - Delhi.

India Gate-DelhiDay 01: Arrive Delhi
Evening arrive at IGI (Indira Gandhi International) airport.
Delhi - a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators.

On arrival, meeting, assistance at airport by our representative and transfer to hotel. Where our executive will explain the travel plan in detail and hand over the essential documents (Tour programme, hotel's vouchers, feedback report etc.) to you. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 02: Delhi - CYCLE RICKSHAW RIDE
After breakfast at hotel start combined city tour of Old & New Delhi start from Red Fort (From outside) - Closed on Monday - built in red sandstone, constructed by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, Jama Masjid - India's largest mosque and enjoy Cycle rickshaw ride in narrow alleys of old Delhi through Kinari Bazaar and 400 years old Chandni Chowk bazaars. Rajghat - crimination place of Mahatama Gandhi. Laxmi Narayan Temple, Humayun Tomb - the tomb of first Mughal emperor Humayun and Qutab Minarthe highest stone tower in India. India Gate - This solemn monument was built in memory of the 90,000 Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the World War Ist. Drive past the Rashtrapathi Bhawan, Parliament House. Evening free to explore local markets. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 03: Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh (210kms )
Today morning breakfast at hotel and drive to Haridwar - Haridwar or Hari-dwar in Hindi literally means Gateway to God; Hari is synonymous to God and Dwar means gate! Situated in the state of Uttarakhand, this holy place is a famous religious destination that invites people of various faiths and background. Haridwar depicts Indian culture and civilization in its full effect. The ancient Indian mythology refers to Haridwar as Gangadwar, Kapilsthan and Mayapuri, as also known in olden times. 

Upon arrival evening visit the Har Ki Pauri and Mansa Devi .Evening witness the aarti of Haridwar. Overnight stay at Rishikesh Hotel

w3infotekDay 04: Rishikes
Rishikesh - is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram (now closed), and the town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga. Rishikesh is also the Gateway to the Himalayas. The Char Dham Yatra (Four Shrines Sacred Journey) ideally begins from Rishikesh.  Rishikesh itself famous for its various Ayurvedic treatments.

Today enjoy half day guided city tour including all the famous places, temples of the town. Evening enjoy Ganga Aarati. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 05: Rishikesh - Agra (410kms)
After breakfast at hotel drive to Agra. Agra - the former capital of Hindustan, is a city on the banks of the river Yamuna. Upon arrival, check-in at hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 06: Agra

After breakfast at hotel visit Taj Mahal (Closed on Friday) - world's greatest monument to love. Emperor Shah Jahan built this pristine white marble mausoleum in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Agra Fort, built by the Mughal dynasty's greatest Emperor, Akbar, in 1565. A number of the fort's beautiful palaces, mosques and gardens were built by his successors in later years. Pearl Mosque, it shined like a pearl. It is held that this mosque was constructed by Shah Jahan for his members of royal court. Diwan-i-Khas - Here envoys and other honoured guests were granted a personal audience with the ruler. the Diwan-e-Khas is a small marble structure near the Diwan-e-Am. Diwan-i-Aam - the ruler held mass audience. He would sit on his throne facing petitioners. His minister would assemble the petitions and refer them to the Diwan-e-Khas for private audience. Jahangir Mahal - Jahangiri Mahal is the most important building of the Akbari period in the Agra Fort. Itmad - Ud - Daula known as the "Baby Taj", it is the first tomb in India built entirely in white marble. Sikandra - The great Mughal emperor Akbar's Tomb. Rest of the day free to relax at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 07: Agra - Pushkar (375 Kms )
After breakfast at hotel drive to Pushkar. Pushkar - A very small town, seemingly just about bigger

than the lake it adjoins, Pushkar attracts Hindu devotees and Hindu dilettantes in large numbers. On arrival, check in hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 08: Pushkar - Udaipur (280 Kms )
After breakfast at hotel visit Brahma Temple - The only temple in the world that is dedicated to Lord Brahma and Pushkar Lake.

Later drive to Udaipur. Udaipur - One of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes and the City of Dawn. On arrival meeting, assistance at airport by our representative and transfer to hotel. check in at hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 09: Udaipur
After breakfast at hotel, visit City Palace. City Palace - Udaipur's fascinating City Palace is the largest royal complex in Rajasthan. Sahelion Ki Bari - The "garden of the maids of honour", Sahelion-ki-Bari was designed and laid out early in the eighteenth century as a retreat for ladies of the royal household to spend their time in leisure. Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandir - Is home to an attractive collection of folk dresses, puppets, ornaments, folk musical instruments and paintings. The museum is the best place for those interested in puppetry. Bagore ki Haveli - There is a very congenial old building built right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola. 

In the evening one can enjoy a lake cruise at their own, on the placid waters of Lake Pichola by sunset and visit the island palace Jagmandir - according to legends the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan lived and got inspired to build the Taj Mahal. Rest of the day free to explore local markets. While passing through the markets of Udaipur, you would trace many articles that can make part of your wardrobe and lifestyle too. These markets present an assortment of items covering handicrafts, pottery, jewelry, wooden toys, antique items and paintings. Udaipur is particularly famous for its miniature paintings inspired by style of Rajputs & Mughals. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 10: Udaipur - Jaipur (418 Kms )
After breakfast at hotel drive to Jaipur. Jaipur - capital of Rajasthan, is popularly known as ‘The Pink City for the colour of the buildings in its wonderful old city. On arrival, check in at hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 11: Jaipur - ELEPHANT RIDE AT AMBER FORT
After an early breakfast at hotel, visit the majestic Amber Fort and Palace, originally constructed by Raja Mansingh and one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Enjoy the unique experience of an ascent on the back of a brightly caparisoned elephant, up to the Fort. Jantar Mantar Observatory, a sanctuary of the astronomer king, Maharaja Jai Singh II. Nearby, the intriguing Palace of the Wind, the Hawa Mahal, was built in 1799 to allow ladies from the royal family to view the city and bazaar below in privacy. Jal Mahal - Jal Mahal is known for its majestic architecture and sophisticated design. It was once used for the royal duck shooting parties. Evening free to explore local markets. Overnight at hotel.


Optional Activities:

imgIn the evening one can enjoy The Amer sound & Light show - Amber holds the history of a citadel, pulsating with a legendry past of 600 years and 28 kings of the Kachhwaha dynasty, before their capital moved to Jaipur. Through their unique diplomacy of strategic alliances, their valor and strength, the rulers not only established a long dynasty but, in time, also played a part in changing the destiny of medieval India. Through this Son-et- Lumiere spectacle, an attempt has been made to revive the pride of Amber and bring forth the traditions that coloured the lives of its people and the pomp that once existed in its fullest form.
This musical extravaganza has highlighted the local legends, folklore, with a myriad of music that continues to give Rajasthan its unique identity. The show is a simple attempt to end the silence that had long fallen upon Amber - for the spirit of Amber is eternal.

The show is set in an exotic location, with the giant panoramic view of Amber Fort in front, the rising Jaigarh fort on the left, the hills at the back and the gallery itself in the Kesar Kiyari Complex of Maota Lake

w3infotekDay 12: Jaipur - Chennai (Flight) 
Morning breakfast at hotel transfer to airport for connecting your flight to Chennai.

Upon arrival at Chennai our representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Evening free to enjoy Asia's 2nd longest beach MARINA in CHENNAI. Overnight stay.

w3infotekDay 13: Chennai - Tirupatti (140 Kms )
Today morning proceed for the Chennai sight seeing visit The British east India Company's St. George Fort is a famous landmark of Chennai. Another colonial structure in the city of Chennai worth visiting is the Santhome Cathedral.
After sight seeing drive to Tirupatti. Pilgrims visiting the temple are filled with spiritual divinity and pray for a good fortune in their life. This temple town is an exciting and awe-inspiring tourism spot. Pilgrims visiting the place can make their dharshan to visit the Lord Vishnu, either by availing special Sevas or free dharma dharshan. The seva time starts from 3 in the morning and closes around 12 pm in the night. Generally, it takes around 4 to 5 hours of queue waiting to get the dharshan of Lord Vishnu! Either the Free dharshan or Paid dharshan, disciples must have to wait in a long queue. TTD method of approach by using the computerized issuing of tokens is being dispatched to the pilgrims. This method has greatly reduced the waiting time in a queue. Pilgrims can enjoy visiting the place and buy the prasadhams being sold there. As well-known, Tirupati is popularly known for Laddu - the most familiar known prasadha! Upon arrival check-in at the hotel and Overnight stay.

w3infotekDay 14: Tirupatti - Chennai (140KM )

Today in morning proceed for the visiting temple and get darshan of Lord Tirupatti Darshan. Later drive to Chennai, on arrival check in hotel Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 15: Chennai - Trivandrum (Flight) - Kovalam (15 Kms )
Morning breakfast at hotel transfer to airport for connecting your flight to Trivandrum.

Upon arrival at Trivandrum our representative will meet you and drive to Kovalam on arrival check in hotel, Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 16: Kovalam - FREE DAY

Morning breakfast at hotel Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 17: Kovalam - FREE DAY
Morning breakfast at hotel Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 18: Kovalam - Alleppey (158 Kms )
Today drive to Alleppey and get your traditional houseboat checked in and to enjoy cruise in backwaters. This cruise is very exciting and sensational to watch the real traditional Kerlan life who lives on the banks of backwaters. Enjoy lunch, Dinner at Houseboat. Overnight at House boat.

w3infotekDay 19: Alleppey - Thekkady (153 Kms )

Morning after breakfast disembarks from house boat and drive to Thekkady. (Periyar National Park) - Set high in the ranges of the Western Ghats, in Kerala, is the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. The park has a picturesque lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Formed with the building of a dam in 1895, this reservoir meanders around the contours of the wooded hills, providing a perennial source of water for the local wildlife. Herds of elephant and sambar, gaur and wild pigs wander down to the lake-side and can be observed from the launches that cruise the lake. On arrival, check in at hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at hotel / Beach. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 20: Thekkady - Munnar (100 Kms )
After breakfast at hotel enjoy boat ride at Lake Periyar to explore the wildlife inside the Park. Later drive to Munnar On arrival, check in at hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel

w3infotekDay 21: Munnar
After breakfast at hotel enjoy full day city tour with our guide visiting Devikulam Seeta Devi Lake, visit Nyamakkad - a land of breathtaking waterfalls. Very beautiful down pour clear and chilly water from a peak amidst dense forest. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 m. The enticing surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Evening free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

w3infotekDay 22: Munnar - Cochin (154Kms )

After breakfast at hotel drive to Cochin. Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as 'God's Own Country'. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. On arrival arrival check in hotel. Rest of the day free to relax at hotel. Overnight at hotel

w3infotekDay 23: Cochin - KATHAKALI DANCE SHOW
After breakfast at hotel enjoy full day city tour with our guide visiting Mattancherry Palace -The Dutch Palace exhibits beautiful mural paintings that depict the scenes from Ramayana. Fort Kochi -Fort Kochi is inhabited by Anglo-Indian community. The whole of the region presents a different aura and ambience. The culture is quite unique and represents the Eurasian culture. St Francis Church -This church was built by the Portuguese in the year 1503 A.D. It is said that Portuguese explorer Vasco-da-Gama was originally buried here and his remains were later brought to Lisbon. Santa Cruz Basilica -Built by the Portuguese around 500 years back, the Santa Cruz Basilica is known for its Gothic exterior with soaring spires. Also visit Chinese fishing net.

Later in the evening visit to watch traditional Kerala Kathakali dance Show. Overnight at hotel.

Kathakali dance - It is Kerala's very own, much celebrated dance drama. Kathakali evolved in the 8th century from 'Ramanattam' a dance drama created by Kottarakkara Thampuran, a great admirer and promoter of traditional art forms. Kathakali draws its theme from the wealth of Indian mythology and folklore. The performer is assisted by vocal and percussion accompaniments while the dancer through 'hasta mudras' or hand gestures expounds the theme. Expressions of face and eyes hold the key to perfection. Unique among the Indian dance forms, Kathakali ranks high among the Indian dance forms. Noted for its archaic costumes, weird make up, the elaborately painted faces often mistaken for masks and grand headgears, Kathakali is perhaps the only dance form in India in which the masculine aspect of the dance is preserved in its elemental vigor.

w3infotekDay 24: Cochin - Delhi (Flight)
After breakfast at hotel transfer to airport to board on flight to Delhi.

On arrival meeting, assistance at airport by our local representative and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Overnight at hotel.

Day 25: Delhi / Departure

Morning breakfast at hotel. Rest of the day free for leisure activities. Latenight around 0100 hrs transfer to International airport to board your home bound flight with the happy memory of our services and country.
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