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PUSHKAR CAMEL FAIR
In November, the small town of Pushkar is the scene of one of India's best-known animal-trading fairs. Thousands of people come with their camels and cattle and set up camp on the sand dunes just outside Pushkar. This is also a centuries old religious festival which attracts many pilgrims. It is perhaps the largest camel market in the world. Against a backdrop of endless camels, colorful skirts and turbans, and the clanging of temple bells, one may see the villagers enjoying camel races, camel decorating contests, etc. This is where photographers run out of film. Experience Rajasthani folk music and dances and much more. Since the fair is only once a year there are not many hotels in Pushkar. Tourists are mostly accommodated in Deluxe Tented Camps.
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Day 1 YOUR TOUR BEGINS
The vast and exotic subcontinent of India beckons as we depart West Coast or East Coast for Delhi, India.
Day 2
ARRIVE DELHI
Late night arrival in Delhi, capital of India. It's history goes back 2000 years. |
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Day 3 DELHI (BD)
New Delhi tour this morning, visiting the impressive Qutab Minar, a 234-ft sandstone tower and Humayun's tomb. See the Government buildings and presidential palace along the broad and majestic Rajpath. Afternoon tour of Old Delhi to see the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal power. On return, visit Raj Ghat, a memorial to the great Mahatma Gandhi.
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Day 4
DELHI - UDAIPUR (BD)
Today we fly to Udaipur. It stands in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. In the afternoon, a scenic cruise on the Lake Pichola including a visit to the Jagmandir Palace.
Day 5 UDAIPUR (BL)
Morning tour of Udaipur, visiting the vast and exquisite City Palace of the Maharana. Amber, jade and colored glass gives the palace a sparkling, |
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| yet ethereal quality. See the Fateh Sagar Lake and visit the Jagdish Temple. |
Day 6
UDAIPUR - JODHPUR (BLD)
On our drive to Jodhpur, we will stop at the beautiful Jain temple at Ranakpur. This 15th century temple, built in white marble, has exquisite intricate carvings. It is amazing to find that among hundreds of pillars no two are alike. Stop en route to participate in one of the most interesting features of this tour, a Village Safari. Experience first-hand the true rural life of India not often seen by tourists. Jodhpur stands on a range of sandstone hills. Dominating the view is a massive fortress. Within the walls are royal palaces with priceless jewels and a striking collection of artifacts.
Day 7
JODHPUR (BL)
Tour of the Mehrangarh Fort and Jodhpur city. Visit the colorful downtown clock tower market
Day 8
JODHPUR - PUSHKAR (BLD)
Today we drive to Pushkar. A circular lake called Pushkar |
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is surrounded by white washed period buildings. The lake, a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma 'the creator', and the colorful bazaar are the main attractions here. Enjoy a camel or camel cart ride.
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Day 9
PUSHKAR - JAIPUR (BD)
Morning visit Pushkar. Later we drive to Jaipur the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan. Surrounded on all sides by rugged hills and crowned with forts, Jaipur is aptly called the Pink City of India.
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Day 10 JAIPUR (BL)
This morning, riding on elegantly caparisoned elephants, we make our way to the Amber Fort. Inside, we will find lavish courtyards, beautifully decorated halls and the Chamber of Mirrors. Afternoon tour, visiting the Royal Observatory and Palace Museum. We will also see the ornate and elaborate Palace of Winds, the Hawa Mahal, a striking landmark of Jaipur. Later visit exotic 'bazaars' of Jaipur.
Day 11 JAIPUR - AGRA (BL)
Today we drive to Agra visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri, the once fabled Mughal capital that now lies quietly but wonderfully preserved.
Day 12 AGRA (BD)
Visit the Taj Mahal built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 AD in memory of his Queen. It took the world's best craftsmen and over 20,000 workers almost 20 years to build this dream. Also visit the Agra Fort.
Day 13 AGRA - ORCHHA - KHAJURAHO (BLD)
Morning train ride to Jhansi and then drive to Khajuraho visiting en route palaces and temples of Orchha. In Khajuraho, the temples are known for their symmetry and design, and also for their intricate and erotic carvings.
Day 14 KHAJURAHO - VARANASI (BD)
Morning visit the magnificent Khajuraho temples. Afternoon fly to one of the most fascinating cities in India, Varanasi. With its array of shrines, temples and palaces, rising in several tiers from the water's edge, Varanasi is the holiest city for Hindus. Later visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon.
Day 15 VARANASI - DELHI - HOMEBOUND (B)
Early morning boat ride on the Ganges River. Thousands of devout Hindus descend to the holy waters of the Ganges for purification. Later fly to Delhi and connect homebound flights.
Day 16 ARRIVE
West Coast or East Coast.
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