India
50 Days Tour
Places to Visit: Delhi
- Udaipur - Jodhpur - Pushkar - Jaipur-Agra - Gwalior - Khajuraho - Varanasi -
Aurangabad - Mumbai - Goa - Banglore - Maysore - Hassan - Chennai - Trichy - Madurai
- Periyar - Alleppy - Kochi - Abroad
Duration: 49 Nights / 50 Days
Day 01: Arrival at Delhi Company representatives will
receive you on arrival at the international airport in Delhi late in the evening.
Transfer to hotel for overnight stay. DELHI,
the
capital of kingdoms and empires is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating
blend of the past and the present. It is a perfect introduction to the composite
culture of an ancient land. A window to the kaleidoscope - that is India.
Day 02: Delhi After breakfast, full day city tour of old &
modern capital of India. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built
by Shah Jahan, the construction was started in 1844 and was not completed until
1658 ; visit Red Fort ( from out side only, as it is not permitted to visit from
inside due to security reason ), which was also built by Shah Jehan. This massive
fort was built from 1638 to 1648 ; Chandni Chowk and Rajghat - the cremation site
of Mahatma Gandhi. Witness the India Gate, the Presidents House & the Parliament
. Visit Humayun's Tomb : built in mid 16th century this is an early example of
Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar.
Overnight stay at Delhi.
Day
03: Delhi Breakfast at hotel.
Full day explore the Indian local market
, the most interesting once are “ Janpath” Rajasthani & Tibetan
Street Market and “Dilli Haat” the place that all the states has their
traditional shops and food paradise .
Overnight stay at Delhi.
Day 04: Delhi – Udaipur ( by Flight ) Breakfast at hotel. Later on
departure transfer Domestic Airport to fly Udaipur.
Flight No : 9W 3317 (
Jet airways )
Departure at Delhi :11:25 AM
Arrival at Udaipur : 13 : 05
PM
On arrival, our representative will take you to hotel, Check Inn .
UDAIPUR : One of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is
also known as the city of lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens
and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage in the desert. The founder
of Udaipur, Maharana Udai Singh, was overcome by the misfortunes that his old
capital of Chittaurgarh had to face due to repeated attacks by the Mughal armies.
On the advice of a holy man, Udai Singh shifted his capital to the banks of Lake
Pichola- the city was named Udaipur after him. Afternoon Boat ride at Lake Pichola
and visit “Jag Mandir” . Evening free at leisure.
Overnight in stay
at Udaipur.
Day
05: Udaipur Breakfast at Hotel . Morning visit the City Palace, Jagdish
Temple, drive around Sahelion ki Bari (queen's resort for her friends), Fateh
sagar Lake. We will try to organized your Lunch at “ Lake Palace ” (
because that’s the only way to visit inside the Lake palace) Afternoon /Evening
free at leisure.
Overnight stay at Udaipur.
Day 06 : Udaipur -
Jodhpur ( by surface 240 KMs/ 6 hours drive) Breakfast at hotel. Drive
to Jodhpur via Ranakpur .
Visit the world famous Jain temple of Ranakpur.
n the AD 1439.
After lunch Continue drive to Jodhpur. Arrive Jodhpur by late
afternoon, Check Inn at hotel.
Overnight stay at Jodhpur.
Jodhpur
: Set at the edge of the Thar Desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes
with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the
Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan
of Rajput who claimed to be descendants of
Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana.
The massive 15th century AD Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill,
soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. A high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable
bastions encompasses the city.
Day 07 : Jodhpur Breakfast
at hotel, proceed on sightseeing of Jodhpur- gateway to the desert beyond, home
of the Rathors of Marwar, visit the Mehrangarh Fort, rising up a hilly scarp,
built on the advice of a hermit, overlooking the city in the image of a long sentinel.
Inside the Fort are a number of palaces added by successive rulers. In this palace
you would see different miniature paintings & cradle room. After this you
would visit Jaswant Thada Memorial. After lunch if you are interested we can show
you the some villages at “Pali District ” famous for “Bishnoi”
People .
“Bishnoi Villages” : The Thar desert in India
is full of ironies—one of them being the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan.
Here, peace is maintained with aggression and robust health rubs shoulders with
regular famine. Here penniless women flaunt heavy gold jewelery and wild animals
leave the supposed security of jungles to stroll around village huts and farmlands.
Not to mention the fact that the Bishnois worship nature in all its manifestations.
Not the ripe, yielding nature of ancient pagan societies, but the ruthless and
demanding desert where a desolate horizon meets a blazing sky. Here, women suckle
motherless deer, die to save trees, go hungry to provide food for animals and
live a strictly sattvic (simple) life advocated by their guru Jambaji.
Day 08: Jodhpur – Pushkar ( by surface 230 Kms/ 5 hours drive)
Breakfast at hotel.
Drive to Pushkar. On arrival, check In at hotel.
PUSHKAR - Amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan, discover a unique gem - Pushkar.
Lord Brahma - The creator of the world in a search for his abode on earth, performed
the supremely spiritual VEDIC YAGNA at Pushkar. It is thus the site of the only
Brahma Temple in the world. Blessed with cultural blends, it is the venue for
the famous Pushkar Fair, with people coming from all over Asia to buy and sell
cattle of breeds from across the world. The consecrated mausoleum of Khawaja Moinuddin
Chisti at Ajmer attracts pilgrims from all over the world. A city of Pilgrimage
from time immemorial with over 500 temples and Ghats Pushkar begets a legacy of
timeless architectural heritage. Pushkar radiates an ambience of peace and spirituality
that casts a lure to visit again and again. The Pushkar fair is amongst the largest
cattle fairs in the world and amongst the oldest cities in India, with references
in mythology and the Mahabharat. There are 52 bathing Ghats, which are linked
to the lunar calendar, enclose the lake. Each Ghat has its own miraculous qualities
and powers of healing and this city of temples has over 500 temples built over
different eras with varied architectural styles. The rose garden of Rajasthan
- the essence of the famous Pushkar rose is exported the world over. Pushkar has
the most varied terrain in Rajasthan with sand, rock, hills, and proximity to
a number of heritage properties in the area and a number of fairs and festivals
- especially on the new and full moon days.
Overnight stay at Pushkar
Day 09: Pushkar – Jaipur (By surface, 140 km /3 hrs drive )
Breakfast at hotel. Sight seeing of Pushkar and straight drive to Jaipur.
JAIPUR - The origins of the beautiful city of Jaipur can be traced
back to the eighteenth century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended
the Amber throne in 1699. Jaipur today, epitomizes the spirit of Rajputana. In-spite
of growing into a bustling metropolis, it still retains it's character and history
- A beautiful fusion of the yesteryears and modernity. Popularly known as the
Pink City because of the extensive use of the locally abundant pink plastered
stone, painted so in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria.
Jaipur thrills the soul with its massive forts, magnificent palaces, exquisite
temples and lush gardens. Afternoon , proceed for sightseeing of the city.
CITY PALACE - A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani
architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled
city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace
Museum.
JANTAR
MANTAR - This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories
built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting
of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use.
HAWA MAHAL -
The ornamental facade of this "Palace of Winds" is a prominent landmark
in Jaipur. Its five-storey structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with
fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace has 953 niches and windows.
Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace
women. Visit a rug factory and see the ladies at the intricate work or a gem factory
and see the gem cutting and polishing process.
Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Day 10: Jaipur Breakfast at hotel.
Proceed for excursion to
Amber Fort in the outskirts of Jaipur. Elephant ride ascent to the fort.
AMBER FORT PALACE - Amber is the classic romantic Rajasthani fort palace.
Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent
Jai Singh I. It's forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful
fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds it's ultimate expression. aipur is considered
as a shoppers paradise for Textile & Jewelers. Afternoon, free time will be
given for visiting local markets .
Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Day
11: Jaipur – Agra ( by surface / 6 hours drive) Breakfast at Hotel,
drive to Jaipur en-route visiting “Abhaneri” & “Fatehpur Sikri”
Abhaneri : hardly any people knows ( including most of the travel
agent from India too ) a place call " Abhaneri" situated between Agra
& Jaipur. Is famuse for 8th Centuary temple & a special 8th Centuary Monument
called " Chand Baouri" is about 100 feet deep open well with flights
of steps on three side , no body has been able to count the steps. One can see
the royal toilets with carved windows and Jhrokhas, which was used by the king
& queen.
Fatehpur Sikri : abandoned Mughal city of built by
Emperor Akbar in 1569, was the old capital of the Moghuls, which was abandoned
after 15 years due to scarcity of water. See the graceful buildings including
the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal & other Palaces which are
still preserved in its original glory. On arrival at Agra , Check inn at hotel
. Overnight stay at Agra.
Day 12: Agra After breakfast the
highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal ( Please note that Taj Mahal is closed on
Friday), which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Contruction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. later on
proceed for remaining sight seeing of Agra , which include, Red fort, which was
built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions were made up until the time of his
grandson, Shah Jahan. It contains the hall of public and private audiences amongst
many other beautiful structues; Itmad-ud-daulah, which was contructed by Nur Jahan
between 1622 and 1628 and is very similar to the tomb she constructed for her
husband, Jehangir, near Lahore in Pakistan;
Day 13: Agra – Gwalior
( by surface / 3 hours drive) Breakfast at Hotel. Later on drive down
to Gwalior, on arrival Check inn at Hotel. Later on sight seeing of Gwalior. Overnight
stay at Gwaliore. The city of Gwalior has many monuments that were built by the
erstwhile Tomar and Scindia rulers. The majestic Gwalior fort is one of the largest
and mightiest forts in India. There are various chattris or cenotaphs commemorating
the Scindia rulers who ruled the region till India's independence. The Man Mandir
Palace and the Gujari Mahal are two other interesting sights in Gwalior. The Sas-Bahu
Temples are 11th-century temples of Lord Vishnu while Teli-ka-Mandir is a 300-metre-high
Vishnu temple of the 9th century.
Day 14: Gwalior – ( Via Orcha
) – Khajuraho ( by surface/ 6 hours drive) Breakfast at Hotel later
on drive down to Khajuraho via Orcha . Sight seeing and lunch at Orcha.
Orcha: Was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain
Rudra Pratap. Orcha's grandeur has been captured in stone, frozen in time; a rich
legacy to the ages. For, on this medieval city, the hand of time has rested lightly
and the palaces and temple built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries
retain much of their pristine perfection. Complementing the noble proportions
of their exteriors are interiors which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela
school of painting. In the Laxminarayan Temple, vibrant murals encompassing a
variety of religious and secular themes, bring the walls and ceiling to rich life.
Continue drive to Khajuraho , on arrival at Khajuraho check inn at hotel. Overnight
stay at Khajuraho.
Day 15: Khajuraho Breakfast at hotel, sight
seeing of Khajuraho.
Khajuraho: The temple city of central India,
is famous throughout the world for its exquisitely carved temples in stones. Thousands
of visitors and tourists from all over the world flock together to envisage this
immortal saga of Hindu art and culture engraved in stone by shilpies (stone craftsmen)
a millenia ago. Today, apart from the temples, Khajuraho is a small village but
a thousand years ago it was a large city of the Chandelas, medieval Rajput kings
who ruled over Central India. Khajuraho is 595 km (370 miles) south-east of Delhi
and can be visited by air, rail or road. The visitor to Khajuraho cannot but be
attracted to the vivid erotic sculptures on the temples walls. The sculptures
are mithunas i.e. couple in various erotic poses. There have been many interpretations
of their existence and some have criticized them severely. According to one authority,
a man and woman in erotic embrace typify the ultimate union of the soul such erotic
figures save the temple from beings struck by the lightening. The reason given
for this is that Indra, Lord of rainand thunder bolt who himself is a great connoisseur
of Kama, will not damage anything pertaining to that. Evening light and sound
show will be organized ( this show will give you an idea about the history of
this place).
Day
16: Khajuraho – Varanasi ( Flight) Breakfast at Hotel. Later on departure
transfer to Airport to fly Varanasi.
Flight No : 9W 724 ( Jet airways )
Departure at Khajuraho :13:30 PM
Arrival at Varanasi : 14 : 10 PM
On arrival
at Varanasi , our reperesentative will take you to hotel, Check Inn . Later in
the evening visit the Ganga river Ghat to see" Arti " Puja.
Overnight
stay at Varanasi.
Day 17: Varanasi Morning boat ride tour
at river Gangas, return to hotel for breakfast. Later on Proceed for full day
sight seeing and overnight stay at Varanasi. Varanasi is an important and sacred
pilgrimage center for Hindus and a major tourist attraction. It is situated on
the banks of river Ganga. The word Varanasi has been derived from an ancient name
meaning the city between two rivers - the Varuna and Asi, which flow in the north
and south of the city. Varanasi is also known as Kashi and Benares. Varanasi,
one of the ancient seats of learning in India, is a center of learning even to
this date. Glorified by myth and legend and sanctified by religion, it has always
attracted a large number of pilgrims and worshippers from times immemorial.
Ghats: Pilgrims gather at the Ghats to have a ritual bath and worship
the rising sun. The most famous ghat is the Dasashvamedh Ghat, others being Asi,
Panchganga, Barnasangam and Manikarnika, Ghats.
Sarnath: 12 km
from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon and revealed
the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace,and elightenment.
Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi and is dedicated
to Lord Shiva. The temple has skillfully been restored as the actual temple was
destroyed by Mughuls
Day 18: Varanasi ( overnight train )
Breakfast at hotel , later on transfer to railway station to catch the train to
Bhusawal.
Train No. : 1094 ( Mahanagari Express) Overnight train.
Departure
Varanasi at : 11:30 AM
Arrival Bhusawal at: 06:05 AM ( next day)
****
We will provide Packed food for this journey. ( please note that there is no direct
flight for this sector)
Day 19: Bhuswal – Aurangabad
On arrival at Bhuswal, our representative will pick you up and transfer to a local
hotel for wash & change . After breakfast drive to Aurangabad . On the way
visit “ Ajanta Cave” On arrival at Aurangabad , check inn at hotel.
Overnight stay at Aurangabad.
Ajanta Caves - The world heritage
site, Ajanta caves has 30 Caves dating back from 200 BC to 250 AD. Cut out from
volcanic rocks of Deccan India, they are located in the forest ravines of the
Sahyadri Hills. Two basic types of monastic Buddhist architecture that can be
seen Ajanta are the
Chaityas (rayer halls) and Viharas (monasteries). While
Mahayana sex related edifices have religious imagery, Hinayana sect have theirs
plain and stark.
Day 20: Aurangabad After breakfast , tour
of Ellora Caves .
Ellora Caves: Impressive in their own right
is the rock-hewn temples and monasteries of Ellora that lie just 30 km away from
Aurangabad city. In all, there are 34 cave temples, 12 Mahayana Buddhist caves
(550-750 AD), 17 Hindu caves (600-875 AD) and 5 caves of the Jain faith (800-
1000 AD) 22 more caves, dedicated to Lord Shiva, were recently discovered. Kailash
Temple (cave16), the central attraction at Ellora, is the most remarkable. Afternoon
free at leisure. Overnight stay at Aurangabad.
Day 21: Aurangabad
– Mumbai ( by flight ) Early breakfast at Hotel. Later on Departure
Transfer to Airport to fly Mumbai.
Flight No. : 9W 3104 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Aurangabad : 08:45 AM
Arrival Mumbai at : 09:45 AM
On arrival
at Mumbai , our representative will transfer you to Hotel, Check Inn . Afternoon
Mumbai City tour.
Mumbai : This city, a union of seven islands,
was named by its natives after the goddess Mumbadevi. After the Portuguese occupied
the islands in 1534, they renamed it Bom Bahia, for the natural harbour, which
served as a safe place for its ships. The religious and business pursuits pulled
people to Mumbai from all over the country. When the Portuguese left the land
the city started developing into a metropolitan city and an industrial center.
Today, the city is the country's financial and cultural centre and also owns a
thriving film industry. This is the city of dreams where people come to strike
their luck Overnight stay at Mumbai.
Day 22 : Mumbai Breakfast
at Hotel. Proceed for an excursion to the Elephanta Caves.
Rest of the day
free for Shopping .
Overnight stay at Mumbai .
Day 23 : Mumbai
– Goa ( By Flight ) Breakfast at Hotel. Later on Departure Transfer
to Airport to fly Goa.
Flight No. : 9W 475 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at
Mumbai : 12:00 AM
Arrival Kochi at : 13:00 PM
On arrival at Goa, welcome,
assistance and transfer to hotel, check Inn . Rest of the afternoon free to relax
near the beach . Overnight stay at Goa.
About
Goa : Colourful festivals. Warm and gracious people. Superb cuisine. Goa is
one of India's most laid back, yet sophisticated and exciting , destinations.
From miles and miles of sunny beaches, to the splendors of its quaint cities,
towns and cobbled alleyways, Goa is more than just beaches and sunshine. and abundant
wildlife topped with the legendary warmth and hospitality of the Goan people.
And away from the beaten track , travelers discover a romantic and other-century
goa in its medieval small towns, and beautiful villagers, with rich flora and
fauna. There is so much to see and yet at the end of it all you feel there's too
little time. A truly exhilarating out of this world experience that only Goa can
provide. Whether it's fun adventure , sunshine, spirituality or just plain relaxation,
you don't need to look beyond the magical land of Goa.
Day 24 : Goa
Breakfast at hotel. you will move ahead for full day Sight seeing over Goa : Visit
Old Goa, the most important Cathedrals and Churches : Se – Cathedral, Church
of St. Francis Xavier, St. Catherine’s Church, Arch of Vice Roy of Goa.
Se-Cathedral Church : The Portuguese Viceroy Redondo commissioned the
Se, or St. Catherine's' Cathedral, southwest of St. Cajetan's, to be "a grandiose
church worthy of the wealth, power and fame of the Portuguese who dominated the
seas from the Atlantic to the Pacific". Today it stands larger than any church
in Portugal, although it was beset by problems, not least a lack of funds and
Portugal's temporary loss of independence to Spain. It took eighty years to build
and was not consecrated until 1640.
The Church of St. Francis Xavier :
It is built of laterite plastered with lime mortar, with tiled roof supported
by wooden rafters is a plain chapel with only one altar. Architecturally, it is
of the Doric order. The Chapel was within the enclosure of the College of St.
Paul and was dedicated either to St. Anthony or to St. Jerome. As the chapel was
used by St. Francis Xavier, it was re-dedicated to him after his canonization
in 1622. The original chapel was in existence in 1545. With the outbreak of the
epidemic and the consequent abandoning of the college of St. Paul in 1570, the
chapel fell into ruins and the present chapel was built in 1884. Location : Old
Goa, Panjim, Goa.
The Chapel Of St. Catherine : Further to the west
of the Church of St. Francis of Assisi is the chapel of St. Catherine. Built of
laterite blocks it has a tower on either side of the façade. The chapel
in the interior, having only one altar is plain .
Day 25 : Goa
Breakfast at Hotel. Full the free time for your own activities. If you want car
will be with you for disposal.
Overnight stay at Goa.
Day 26 :
Goa -- Banglore. ( by Flight ) Breakfast at Hotel. Later on Departure
Transfer to Airport to fly Bangalore.
Flight No. : 9W 522 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Goa : 15:30 AM
Arrival Bangalore at : 16:30 PM
On arrival
at Bangalore, welcome, assistance and transfer to hotel, check Inn . Rest of the
evening free to relax or you can visit some ultra modern pubs in the city !!
Overnight stay at Bangalore.
Day 27 : Banglore. Breakfast
at Hotel, full day sight seeing tour of Tippu Palace, lai Garh Botanical Garden,
Technological Museum & Banglore palace.
Overnight stay at Bangalore.
Day 28 : Banglore – Maysore ( by surface / 4 hours drive)
After breakfast drive to Mysore. Enroute visit the Ranganathitoo Bird Sanctuary
& Srirangapatnam, the ruins of the capital of Tipu Sultan, one of the great
warriors of the South. On Arrival at Mysore, check inn at Hotel. Afternoon visit
Mysore palace. Overnight stay at Mysore.
Mysore :140 Kms from
Bangalore lies the abode of untold grandeur and glory. Mysore,the capital city
of the Wodeyars has always enchanted its admirers with its quaint charm,rich heritage,
magnificent palaces,beautifully laid-out gardens, imposing buildings,broad shady
avenues and sacred temples. There's an old world charm about the city that reaches
out and leaves no one untouched. Mysore,or Mahishur as it was called then, traces
its history back to the mythical past,when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi
Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mysore Dasara is the
celebration of this victory of good over evil. Mysore also has associations with
the Mahabharata and King Ashoka of the 3rd century B.C. During the Wodeyar rule
Mysore reached the Zenith of its glory as a fabled centre of oriental splendour.
Mysore is one of the major cities of Karnataka. Today, Mysore is a vibrant city
teeming with tourists and visitors. It is known the world over for its exotic
sandalwood and rich silks.Its grand and imposing palaces,majestic temples,gardens
leave an ever-lasting impression on the visitor. Situated 770m above sea level,Mysore
has a warm and cool climate throughout the year.
Mysore Palace :The
Maharaja's Palace is one of the important sights in Mysore. Built in Indo- Saracenic
style with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades,the Palace is a treasure house
of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world. Intricately carved
doors open on to luxuriously furnished rooms. The majestic Durbar Hall has an
ornate ceiling and many sculpted pillars. The magnificent jewel studded golden
throne of the Wodeyars is displayed here during the Dasera festival. Illuminated
on Sundays and public holidays ,the palace presents a spectacle of breathtaking.
Day 29 : Maysore Breakfast at Hotel, visit Chamundi Hills famous
for the Nandi Bull. Carved out of solid rock, it is five meters high and one of
the largest statues in India. Evening visit Brindavan Gardens. Overnight stay
at Mysore. Chamundi Hills :A well known 335 metres high landmark,Chamundi Hill
can be reached by a 13 km road or by climbing up the 1,000 steps laid out by the
Mysore Maharaja in the 17th century.Half-way up along the stone steps is Nandi,
Lord Shiva's Bull, a majestic 4.8 metre monolith.At the top is the 12th century
temple of Chamundeshwari, the patron goddess of the Wodeyars.Close to the temple
is the gigantic statue of the demon Mahishasura. The summit offers a panoramic
view of Mysore's lakes, parks and palaces. Brindavan Gardens :Located at the KR
Sagar Dam [Kannambadi], Brindavan Gardens is one of the best gardens in South
India. Spread over 150 acres, Brindavan Gardens has since the 1960s provided the
backdrop for many Indian films. Special attractions include the 'Dancing Fountains'.
In Dec 2004 the entire garden was revamped with new fountains and lights.
Day
30 : Maysore – ( Belur & Halebid ) - Hassan Drive to Belur &
Halebid to visit the Hoysala temples. The Hoysala temples are one of the most
intricately carved temples in the South. The carvings depict the everyday life
of the people. The temples were built around 1110 AD. Belur is known for it exquisite
temples. A good example is the Chennakeshava Temples which took 103 years to complete
and the façade of the temple is covered with intricate sculputers and frescos.
Halebid has a wealth of sculptural detail, the walls covered with gods, goddesses,
animals and dancing girls. No two facets of the temple are alike. Guarded by a
Nandi Bull, it was never completed despite 86 years of work. Continue drive to
Hassan. On arrival check inn at Hotel.
Overnight stay at Hassan.
Day 31 : Hassan — Banglore ( fly to Chennai) Return to Bangalore
via Sravanabelagola, one of the oldest and most important Jain pilgrimage centres
in India. The main attraction is the huge statue of Lord Gomteshvara (17m high).
It is the world's tallest monolithic statue (carved out of a single piece of rock).
It's simplicity is in complete
contrast to the complexity of the Hoysala temples.
On arrival at Banglore transfer to Air port to catch the flight to Chennai.
Flight No. : 9W 486 ( Jet Airways)
Departure at Bangalore : 19:55 PM
Arrival
Chennai at : 20:40 PM
On arrival at Chennai, welcome, assistance and transfer
to hotel, check Inn .
Overnight stay at Chennai.
Day 32 : Chennai
After breakfast , sight seeing of Fort St. George was built in the 1640 A.D.,
the first bastion of British power of India, the fort has undergone much alteration.
The fort is now used by the Tamilnadu Legislative Assembly and the Secretariat
office. The 46m high flagstaff at the front is actually a mast salvaged from a
17th century shipwreck. The Fort Museum has a collection of objects from the tenure
of the East India Company in Chennai including letters from Robert Clive. There
are many contemporary paintings too. The Valluvar Kottam, on the corner of Kodambakkam
High Rd and Village Rd, honours the acclaimed Tamil Poet, Thiruvalluvar, whose
classic work - one thousand three hundred and thirty kurals (couplets) - are reputed
to be about 2000 years old. Established in 1976, Valluvar Kottam replicates ancient
Tamil architecture with the 1330 verse Kural inscribed on panels. The outer structure
in stone is a replica of the temple car of Thiruvarur in Tamilnadu. Government
Museum , worth visiting, is on Pantheon Rd, between Egmore and Anna Salai. The
buildings originally belonged to a group of eminent British citizens, known as
the Pantheon Committee, who were charged with improving the social life of the
British in Chennai. The main building has a fine archaeological section representing
all the major south Indian periods including Chola, Vijayanagar, Hoysala and Chalukya.
It also houses a good ethnology collection. The bronze gallery has a superb collection
of Chola art. One of the most impressive is the bronze of Ardhanariswara, the
androgynous incarnation of Shiva. Overnight stay at Chennai.
Day 33
: Chennai ( full day excursion ) After breakfast full day excursion of
Kanchipuram.
Kanchipuram ( city of thousand temples) is a temple city and
its many gopurams can be seen from a long way away. Of the original 1000 temples,
there are still about 125 left spread out across the city. Many of them are the
work of the later Cholas and of the Vijayanagar kings. Kanchi is also famous for
its hand-woven silk fabrics. This industry originated in Pallava times, when the
weavers were employed to produce clothing and fabrics for the kings .Other than
the temples, Kanchipuram is a dusty and fairly nondescript town and there's precious
little to see or do except when the temple car festivals take place. Return Back
to Chennai , overnight stay at Chennai.
Day 34 : Chennai --- Trichy
Morning after breakfast departure transfer to Railway station to catch the train
to Trichy.
Train No. : 2635
Departure Chennai at : 12:25 PM
Arrival
Bhusawal at: 17:20 PM ( next day)
On arrival transfer to Hotel. Relax evening
. Overnight stay at Trichy.
Trichy : the most famous landmark of this bustling
town is the Rock Fort Temple, a spectacular monument perched on a massive rocky
outcrop which rises abruptly from the plain to tower over the old city. It is
reached by a flight of steep steps cut into the rock and from its summit you get
a
fantastic view of the town plus its other main landmark. Trichy itself has
a long going back to the centuries before Christian era when it was a Chola citadel.
The town and its fort as it stands today, was built by the Nayaks of Madurai.
It was one of the main centres around which the wars of the Carnatic were fought
in the 18th century during the British-French struggle for supremacy in India.
The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. This temple is one of the largest and most interesting
temple complexes in India, built on an island in the middle of the Cauvery River
and covering a staggering 2.5 sq km.
Day 35 : Trichy Breakfast
at Hotel, full day free time to see the spectacular Rock Fort Temple, built by
the Nayaks of Madurai, and also visit two other temples worth visiting are the
10th-century Sri Ranganathaswamy and Sri Jambukeshwara temples. This interesting
city has a long history and in the first millennium A.D. was initially part of
the Chola Empire - before the Vijayanagar Emperors of Hampi ruled until the 16th
century. The Deccan sultans then reigned until the 18th century, when the French
and British clashed in a quest for power in India. Next day we make the short
day trip to Tanjore (Thanjavur), the ancient capital of the Chola kings where
we will visit Brihadishwara Temple and Fort, built in 1010 by Raja Raja, and the
Thanjavur Palace and museums.
St. John's Church :Trichy also has
some interesting Raj-era monuments. Built in1812, St. John's Church has louved
side doors which can be opened to turn the church into an airy pavilion. Rouse
the doorkeeper to let you in. The surrounding cemetery is also interesting. Please
note that Though admission into the temples is usually restricted to Hindus only,
they are still a thoroughly impressive sight from the outside.
Day
36 : Trichy -- Madurai ( 3 hours : 30 minutes drive) After breakfast leave
Trichy for Madurai, in southern Tamil Nadu, which is one of South India’s
oldest cities and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for centuries.
During our stay we will have the option to explore the colourful Madurai Markets
and the Sri Meenakshi Temple complex. The history of this stunning temple dates
back almost 2,000 years. The city is teaming with life and is jammed packed with
bullock carts, beggars, pilgrims, tradesmen and rickshaws of every description.
If you are keen on photography you’ll love this colourful and vibrant city.
Overnight stay at Madurai.
Day 37 & Day 38 : Periyar (4 hours
drive) After so many days of restless travel, I want to give you a relax
and enjoy one of the best part of Kerala , the natural beauty and famous wildlife
sanctuary “Pariyar”. !!! Drive to Pariyar ( Thekkady) from Madurai and
stay there for 02 nights. Thekkady on the edge of one of India’s most popular
wildlife reserves. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds an artificial lake built
by the British in 1895 and is home to bison, wild boar, sambar,
monkeys, wild
elephant, antelopes and a wide variety of birds. An early morning optional cruise
on the lake is a great way to start the day. The rest of the day is free to explore
the area and perhaps take the option of a jungle walk with a local guide.
Day 39 : Periyar – ( Kumarakom ) – Alleppy (3 hours drive +
overnight house boat) After breakfast drive to the small town of Kumarakom.
Here we board our houseboat, converted from a Kettavallum or traditional rice
barge, and sail the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. This large aquatic area is
a vast network of lagoons, lakes, rivers and canals, and the people who live in
this
region have created their own distinct lifestyles. From our comfortable
houseboats we witness the peaceful way of life on these amazing waterways and
our overnight stay on board will be a real highlight of our holiday. Next morning
we dock at Alleppy. ( all meals will be provided at House boat )
Houseboat : No trip to Kerala is complete without a backwater cruise on a
houseboat. In Earlier times Kettuvalloms were the crafts used in the houseboats
and Modern houseboats are a tribute to traditional design, ingenuity, aesthetic
values and commitment to the environment. Many of them are equipped with solar
lighting, chemical toilets and outboard engines for when you want to skim the
waters. The best way to cruise the backwaters of Kerala however, is in a leisurely
laidback manner with your weather beaten poleman gently gliding the boat across
the waters, leaving you time to take in the sights. And the sights are there for
the taking.
Day 40 : Alleppy – Kochi ( by surface / 3hours drive
) Our Car will pick you up from House boat ( at Alleppy) and drive down
to kochi. Kochi (Cochin), the Queen of the Arabian Sea and the Queen of the Adriatic,
It is also referred to as the Gateway of South India. It is situated on the west
coast of India in the beautiful state of Kerala. It is the second most important
city (after Mumbai) on the western coast of India .Kochi can be regarded as the
commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. Kerala is one of the most prosperous
state of India, flanked by the Arabian Sea on the western side and the Western
Ghats on the eastern side. Roughly speaking Kochi is 10º North and 76º
East. Afternoon sight seeing .
Overnight stay at Kochi.
Day 41
: Kochi Breakfast at Hotel. Full day explore / sight seing Kochi ( one
of the interesting part is to visit those huge Chinese Fishing nets ) . Reach
and spend the day shopping. In the evening proceed for KATHAKALI DANCE PRESENTATION.
Overnight at Cochin.
Kathakali, literally meaning `story-play', is a
dance-drama originated in the 17th century in Kerala, one of the smallest states
in India lying on the west coast of the Indian peninsula. However, its roots could
be tracked back even to the earlier times. Koodiyattom, the only surviving form
of Sanskrit theater in India has been preserved in Kerala for centuries, now,
by a small community called Chakyar as a part of their hereditary temple service.
Krishnanattom, another form of dance-drama considered fore runner to Kathakali
in its origin, is performed even today at the famous Sree Krishna temple in Guruvayoor
as an offering to the Lord. Besides these two forms, elements from martial, ritualistic,
socio-religious arts have also influenced in the making of Kathakali. Though Kathakali
is only 300 years old, a great deal of enrichment and refinement has taken place
in every aspect of its technique during this short period. Scholars are of opinion
that Kathakali is the result of a fusion between all Indian theater tradition
represented by Koodiyattom and the indigenous tradition of folk dance forms.
Day 42 : Kochi – Colombo ( by Flight ) Breakfast at hotel,
later on transfer to International Airport to fly Colombo. Flight timing will
be given as per the booking. Meet on arrival at the Bandaranaike International
Airport in Katunayake, 30 km north of Colombo. A warm welcome by our representative,
and then we drive you along the road of the Negombo scenery to your hotel selected.
Stay overnight.
Day 43 : Nogombo - Trincomale After breakfast,
you will hit the road to Trincomale - is the eastern trip of Sri Lanka, where
has one of the word's finest harbors with its long clean beaches, great surf,
colorful town and shrubby park teeming with wildlife. Stay overnight at Trincomale
Day 44 : Trincomale After breakfast, rest of the day is at your
own leisure on the beach and then you will be transited to alternative hotel.
Dinner and stay overnight at hotel.
Day 45: Trincomale -- Anuradhapura
After breakfast, we travel overland to Anuradhapura. Lunch will be provided
at Miridiya Hotel. Visit Anuradhapura - it was the first capital and undoubtedly
the grandest city of the ancient Sri Lanka. It is the home of two World Heritage
sites. Many places of historical and archaeological interest could be visited.
Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bo-Tree) was brought as a sapling of the tree under which
prince Siddhartha attained to enlightenment and it is over 2,200 years old and
is the oldest historically documented tree in the world. At Brazen Palace (2nd
century B.C), the 1600 stone columns you see are all that is left of a magnificent
multi-storied residence for monks. Ruwanweliseya (2nd century B.C) is the most
famous of all the Dagobas. It originally depicted the perfect 'bubble shape"
that modern restoration has not been able to accurately reproduce. 'Samadhi' Buddha
statue (4th century AD) is one of the most famous statues, depicting the Buddha
in a state of 'Samadhi' or deep meditation. Thuparama Dagoba (3rd century B.C)
is the oldest Dagoba in the island, which enshrines the right collarbone of the
Buddha. You will be transferred to Giritale in the late afternoon.
Overnight
stay at Anuradhapura.
Day
46 : Anuradhapura - Ponnaruwa - Sigiriya After breakfast, sightseeing
tour of Polonnaruwa, which was the 2nd capital city of Sri Lanka, built in the
11th and 12th centuries AD, and which is a world heritage site. Here you can see
the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya -where 4 splendid statues of the
Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary`' and 'Recumbent' postures carved out of rock,
the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, King Parakramabahu's statue, and the Parakrama
Samudraya Lake built by King Parakramabahu the great. There are also monuments
of famous places of worship such as the Shiva Temple, the Lankathilake, the Watadage,
the Galpotha, the Kiri Vehera and the remains of a former Temple of the Tooth
Relic. Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya. Lunch will be served at hotel. We
will proceed to Sigiriya in the afternoon; climb the 5th century Sigiriya rock
fortress which is a world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495 AD).
The 'Lion Rock' is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 metres from the scrub
jungle. The rock was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare fortified town.
A moat, rampart, and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring
the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens'
of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral
stairway. These frescoes are painted in earth pigments on plaster.
Overnight
at Sigiriya.
Day 47 : Sigiriya -- Kandy After breakfast, we
keep moving to Kandy via Dambulla. Visit the Dambulla Rock Temple. Climb up to
the temple, which was donated by king Walagambahu in the 1st century BC to Buddhist
monks. Dambulla is a World Heritage site and is the most impressive of Sri Lanka's
cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. metres of painted walls
and the ceiling is the largest area of paintings found in the world. These caves
contain over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure
of the Buddha carved out of rock spanning 14 metres. Transfer from Dambulla to
Matale, we will visit a spice garden in Matale to see the different spices, which
Sri Lanka is famous for. You will be introduced to different spices and shown
how some of these spices are grown and processed. Transfer from Matale to Kandy.
Lunch will be provided at Senani Restaurant. Start the afternoon visit with city
tour of Kandy, was the last capital of the Sri Lankan, which is one of the World
Heritage site. The name Kandy conjures visions of splendor and magnificence. Many
of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. Drive around
the Kandy Lake built by the last Sinhala King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798.
Visit the Kandy town and Bazaar, the arts & crafts enter and a gem museum
and a lapidary. The last stop is the Temple of the Tooth Relic and thereafter
you will be witnessed a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dancing.
Overnight stay at Kandy.
Day 48 : Kandy -- Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, we proceed to Nuwara Eliya with en route visit the Peradeniya
Botanical Gardens. This botanical garden was first built as a pleasure garden
by a Sinhala king and was expanded by the British. It is 147 acres in extent and
provides an amazing variety of trees, plants and flowers. Thereafter transfer
from Peradeniya to Colombo. We serve you a lunch at Ramboda Falls Inn. You are
free in the afternoon or enjoy yourself to explore the scenic surroundings of
the hill station.*Nuwara Eliya - The 'Little England' of Sri Lanka, is set against
beautiful backdrops of Mountains, Valleys, Waterfalls and Tea Plantations. It
is supposed to be one of the coldest places on the island, but is really just
like an England spring day although the temperature does drop at night. All around
Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the British influence. Houses are like country
cottages or Queen Ann style mansions.
Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya.
Day 49 : Nuwara Eliya - Colombo After breakfast, we continue driving
to Colombo via Kitulgala. En route view scenic water falls. Lunch will be served
at Plantation hotel. We commence the afternoon visit of Colombo city tour. Colombo
like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost
overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some
parts, the Old World charm is retained. As an example there is a 100 year old
clock tower and several British built colonial buildings. Other places of interest
are the Pettah Bazaar where one can shop for a bargain, the old Parliament in
Fort, a Hindu and a Buddhist temple, residential areas where you find the stately
homes of the affluent and the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall
- BMICH, an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China. Before
upcoming sunset, we take you to visit Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Temple; Buddhist
Temple traditionally believed to be the site visited by the Buddha 2500 years
ago. According to the Mahavamsa, the unusual "paddy-heap" shaped dagoba
at Kelaniya marks the spot where the Buddha, on the request of a Naga King, sat
on a "gem-studded throne" to preach the Dharma to his subjects and convert
them. It is ascribed to King Yatala Tissa of the 03rd Century. Enjoy your dinner
at a local Chinese Restaurant.
Overnight stay at Colombo.
Day
50 : Depart Colombo – ( to Singapore ) After breakfast, you will
be transferred to the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, to connect
your next departure flight to Singapore..
Suggested Hotels
| Place | Hotel | Web
Site |
| Delhi | The cannaught | www.connaughthoteldelhi.com |
| Udaipur | Rangniwas Palace | http://www.rangniwaspalace.com/ |
| Jodhpur | Ajit Bhawan | http://ajitbhawan.com/ |
| Pushkar | Pushkar Place | http://www.hotelpushkarpalace.com/ |
| Jaipur | Alsisar Haveli | www.alsisar.com |
| Agra | Jaypee Palace | www.jaypeehotels.com |
| Guwalior | Usha Kiran Palace | www.tajhotels.com |
| Khajuarho | Holiday Inn | http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/ |
| Varanasi | Hindustan Internation | http://www.hindusthan.com/ |
| Aurangabad | Ambassador Ajanta | www.ambassadorindia.com |
| Mumbai | Q.I. Parla International | www.choicehotels.com |
| Goa | Varca Palms Beach Resort | ushashriramhotels.com/varca-palmsbeach-resort.html |
| Banglore | Villa Potipatti | http://www.neemranahotels.com |
| Mysore | Hotel Ramanashre | http://www.ramanashree.com/hardinge/about. |
| Hassan | Southern Star Hassan | http://ushashriramhotels.com |
| Chennai | CI Marina Tower | www.choicehotels.com |
| Trichy | Hotel Sangam | http://www.hotelsangam.com/home.html |
| Madurai | BW Germanus | http://www.bestwesterngermanus.com/ |
| Periyar | Cardamom County | http://www.cardamomcounty.com/ |
| Kochi | Gokulam Park Inn | www.sarovarparkplaza.com |
| Nogombo | Royal Oceanic Hotel | 4
star |
| Trincomale | Club Oceanic | 3
star |
| Anuradhapura | Sudu Araliya
Resort | 3 star |
| Sigiriya | Sigiriya
Hotel | 3 star |
| Kandy | Hotel
Suisse | 3 star |
| Nuwara Eliya | St.Andrew's
Hotel | 3 star |
| Colombo | Taj
Samudra Hotel | 5 star, www.tajhotels.com |
