RAJASTHAN AND HERITAGE ON WHEELS
A cultural tour of India

In terms of colourful landscape, imposing architecture and the friendly desert people, there is no other part of India that can match Rajasthan. The glamour of Rajasthan is further enhanced to a nostalgic time set by including in the tour a train journey across the desert. This 16-day tour of India is nothing but a romantoc experience – the memories of which will last for all times to come.

Tour Summary	Map
Day Place 01-02 Delhi 03 Delhi / Agra 04 Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur 05 Jaipur / Heritage on Wheels 06-07 Heritage on Wheels 08 Heritage on Wheels ends Jaipur / Pushkar 09 Pushkar / Udaipur 10 Udaipur 11 Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur 12 Jodhpur 13 Jodhpur / Jaisalmer 14 Jaisalmer 15 Jaisalmer / Delhi 16 Delhi / Home	Incredible !ndia

Day 01: Arrive Delhi
Namaste! We are warmly greeted the traditional Indian way with hands clapped together and transferred to our hotel. In the evening we are hosted to a Welcome dinner at Chor Bazaar Restaurant.
Overnight: Hotel in Delhi (2 nights) (D)

Day 02: Delhi
The capital of India is a true reflection of the old and new of India. We visit the famous India Gate followed by the Houses of Parliament, Connaught Place and the Qutab Minar - a perfect minaret towering 102 m into the sky. New Delhi is an exotic blend of Mughal, Hindu, British and modern and independent India.
Our tour of Old Delhi takes us back to the reign of the Moghuls with the famous Red Fort. Built by Shah Jehan, this was once the most opulent fort of the Mughal Empire. Next we visit the majestic Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, followed by the Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. We end our tour with a bazaar experience at Chandni Chawlk, the street of silver and goldsmiths. In the evening we enjoy Sound and Light Show at the Delhi Red Fort followed by Dinner at Ghulati Restaurant. (B, D)

Day 03: Delhi / Agra (drive 204 km)
This morning we pass interesting Indian scenery as we drive to Sikandra where lies the remains of Akbar the Great – medieval India’s greatest Mughal ruler. The mausoleum is also famous for the black-faced monkeys who dominate the site. We then proceed to Agra - home to the most well known of the wonders of the world - the Taj Mahal. Built by Shah Jehan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj is built of white marble, beautifully carved and inlaid with semi-precious stones. Next we visit Agra Fort, where Shah Jehan, in the later years of his life, was imprisoned by his son to prevent him from spending the family fortunes on a black echo of the Taj Mahal.
Overnight: Hotel in Agra (1 night) (B, D)

Day 04: Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur
A short drive gets us to Fatehpur Sikri the 1640 capital of Akbar which was later abandoned for lack of water. A superb example of Mughal architecture, it stands perfectly preserved in the desert. We also visit the artistically designed mausoleum of Salim Chisty who is reputed to have prayed for a son for Akbar leading to the birth of Salim Jehangir, the builder of the Taj. From here we continue on a countryside drive to Jaipur, the rose pink capital of Rajasthan. Evening, we visit the famous Birla Mandir to witness the prayer ceremony and at Chokhi-Dhani, an indigenous Rajasthani village, we see a spectacular cultural dance with Rajasthani diner. Snake charmers sway to the lilt of the “Been” and beat of the drum.
Overnight: Hotel in Jaipur (1 night) (B, D)

Day 05: Jaipur / Heritage on Wheels
Jaipur, filled with frenetic crowds, Rajasthan's famous pink capital, is a place of wild contrasts, bombarding the senses at every turn. Jaipur's old city, its rich color deepening and fading according to the light, is lined with long, twinkling bazaars. A royal experience awaits us as we take an elephant ride uphill to the intriguing Amber Palace, a distinguished example of 17C Rajput architecture. We then visit the old astronomical observatory built by the founder of the city, Jai Singh. The majestic Palace houses a rare collection of Indian art. At the colorful bazaar we see the well known Jaipuri craftsmen, skilled in brass inlay, lacquer work and stone setting, at work. Most of the buildings in the old city are made of pink sandstone and one of the most beautiful is Hawa Mahal, Palace of Winds, where the ladies of the royal harem used to watch the city from behind the intricately carved facade. Evening we board the famous Heritage On wheals deluxe Train with a welcome dinner on board as we steam off to Bikaner.
Overnight: Heritage On Wheels (3 nights) (B, D)

Day 06: Heritage on Wheels
Our first stop is at Bikaner where we visit the famous Bikaner Forts built from the times of the Moghuls. Inside the fort there is a museum, which has an astonishing collection of ancient manuscripts, gems and jewela, exquisite carpets, treaties, arms and royal weaponry. Then before heading off to Haat, we are treated to a sumptuous lunch with time to enjoy camel safaris humping along the sand dunes of the Rajasthan desert. Back on board we depart Tal Chhapar whilst enjoying dinner on the train. (B, L, D)

Day 07: Heritage on Wheels
Upon arrival at Tal Chhapar, we visit the local handicraft shops before departing for Ramgarh where we have an interesting tour of the famous Rajasthani havelis (mansion houses that accommodate large families and clans). The architect of each haveli tries to supersede the previous one. Our next stop is the highlight of Rajthasthan - Mandawa. Here we enjoy the grandeur of the Mandawa palaces and cenotaphs. Lunch is another treat at the delicious Mandawa Resort before departing for Nawalgarh. Time for touring Nawalgarh with snack time enjoying local delicacies before we head off on our last train for Jaipur. (B, L, D)

Day 08: Heritage on Wheels ends Jaipur / Pushkar (drive 131 km)
After our farewell breakfast on board the Heritage on Wheels, we journey to the cultural rich city of Pushkar - a bewitching little town. Like a beautiful mirage on the edge of the desert, with temples, bathing ghats, onion domes and chalk colored buildings clustering around its holy lake, which is said to have appeared when Brahma dropped a lotus flower, Pushkar is an important pilgrimage centre and you'll see plenty of Sadhus (Spiritual men), as well as countless chilled-out travelers experimenting variously with spirituality, Bhang and the facial hair. We visit the most famous temple of Lord Brahma Temple marked by red spire with the entrance gateway of the Hans, or goose symbol, of Brahma, who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as its site.
Overnight: Hotel in Pushkar (1 night) (B, D)

Day 09: Pushkar / Udaipur (drive 250 km)
A scenic countryside drive gets us to Udaipur. If Jaipur is a study in pink then Udaipur is a vision in white. The City of Dawn, surrounded by the ancient Aravali Mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples. Eight marble porticos mark the spot where the Mewar sovereigns were weighed in gold, the equivalent value of which was then distributed to the poor. Within the City Palace are several architectural and artistic highlights such as the Mor Chowk, known for its stunning peacock mosaics and the Bhim Vilas Palace with its series of lovely wall paintings. The most memorable parts of Udaipur are its lake palaces, shimmering like jewels on Lake Pichola. Jag Mandir a marvel in red sandstone, was a refuge for the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan when he was in exile following a quarrel with his father, Emperor Jahangir.
Overnight: Hotel in Udaipur (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 10: Udaipur
We start the day with a tour visiting City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Fateh Sagar Lake, Seheliyon Ki Bari or the Garden of Maids. This afternoon we visit Crystal and Tea display at the Gallery Restaurant after which we take a boat ride on lovely Lake Pichola. Afternoon is free for shopping or boating on one of the lakes. Udaipur is famous for it’s bazaars specialising in different eares. (B, D)

Day 11: Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur (drive 260 km)
Our Rajasthani drive gets us to Jodhpur - the beacon of this colourful province of India. En-route we visit the exotic Ranakpur Temples, home to an exceptionally beautiful complex situated in the Aravali range. The temples are a popular pilgrimage for the Jains. Aftrer visiting the temples here we proceed on a countryside drive to Jodhpur. Evening is free to meet the local folks whose origin is from an oasis.
Overnight: Hotel in Jodhpur (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 12: Jodhpur
Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - hero of the epic 'Ramayana'. Dominating Jodhpur is the massive fortress, Mehrangarh Fort, which safeguards the Royal Palaces with their collections of arms and priceless jewels. We also visit the exquisite Jaswant Thada and the Mandore Gardens. In the afternoon we take a an interesting Jeep Safari to Bishnoi Village, to see the traditional lifestyle of rural Rajasthanis living in small houses and garbed in their colorful dress. (B, D)

Day 13: Jodhpur / Jaisalmer (drive 285 km)
Another interesting day enjoying the rural and colourful Rajasthan as we continue for Jaisalmer. We are now in the hinterland of the incredible Thar Desert and get a panoramic view, from the ground, of the life in the desert where survival is an everyday affair. Evening, we take an excursion tour of see the sand dunes. These dunes have been created to a large extent from shifting sands when the wind heaps the sand into hills or deep hollow scopes varying in sizes from 3 to 15 km. Adventure freaks can go out on a Camel Safari - getting the real feel of the desert on the camel back. Enjoy the sun set with changing colors in desert.
Overnight: Hotel in Jaisalmer (2 nights) (B, L, D)

Day 14: Jaisalmer
For 900 years old, Jaisalmer has been a major post on the trade route across the forbidding Thar Desert. Even today, one glimpses honey colored walls of the fort, rising out of the hot and barren desert. Jaisalmer is untouched by time, with its golden crenellated walls and narrow streets lined with exquisite havelies, has a medieval ambience. The havelies in both the fort and the town are exceptional. Similar in style to the homes of Venetian merchants, the havelies were the mansions of wealthy traders. The houses are decorated with beautifully carved facades, jali screens and oriel windows, each with an inner courtyard surrounded by richly decorated apartments. Our Jaisalmer experience starts with visits to some of the most colourful and striking Havelis followed by Gadi Sagar Tank, Fort and the beautiful Jain Temples followed by visits to the Lodurva Temples. (B, D)

Day 15: Jaisalmer / Delhi (flight)
Our Rajasthan experience comes to an end as we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Delhi. Upon arrival at Delhi we are met and transferred to our hotel. Rest of the day is free at leisure for personal activities or shopping.
Overnight: Hotel in Delhi (1 night) (B, D)

Day 16: Delhi / Home
After an inspiring tour of Rajasthan we bid farewell to India, with our minds filled with lovely memories of amazing sights, sounds end experiences. (B)

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Departure Dates

2008 English Speaking Departures Jan 11, Feb 08, Mar 14, Apr 11, May 5, Jun 2, Jul 7, Aug 4, Sep 8, Oct 6, Nov 10 & Dec 1

Inclusions

Tour Price Includes Tour Price Does Not Include Accommodation on twin-share basis in hotels as mentioned or similar International airfare & Airport tax Daily buffet breakfast as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner) Insurance 4 days – Heritage on Wheels with all meals Visas Entrance fees to sites and museum as per the itinerary Beverages & Gratuities Elephant Ride at Amber Fort, Jaipur   Boat Ride at Lake Pichola, Udaipur   Camel Ride at Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer   All transfers and sightseeing on air-conditioned vehicles   Domestic Air Fare for Jaisalmer/Delhi sector   Services of local English speaking guides

Tour Price

We accept payment in US $ (US Dollars), CA $ (Canadian Dollars) or equivalent EURO (for clients outside North America). Bestway Tours & Safaris offers conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received, and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please download Bestway_Payment_Info.pdf Note: to read this file you must have Adobe Acrobat.

Hotel Category Double Occupancy Single Room Supplement Superior US $ 3930 • CA $ 3930 US $ 1450 • CA $ 1450 Deluxe US $ 5545 • CA $ 5545 US $ 2240 • CA $ 2240 Hotels City Superior Deluxe Delhi Maidens Hotel – 4 Star Heritage – Colonial Style (Superior Room) Taj Palace Hotel – 5 Star Deluxe Luxury Hotel (Superior Room) Agra Trident Hilton – 5 Star (Deluxe Garden View) Taj View Hotel – 5 Star (Superior City/Pool View) Jaipur Trident Hilton – 5 Star (Deluxe Garden View) Jai Mahal Palace – 5 Star Deluxe Palace Hotel (Luxury Room) Heritage on Wheels Heritage on Wheels – Luxury Train Heritage on Wheels – Luxury Train Pushkar Pushkar Palace – Heritage Hotel (Deluxe Room) Pushkar Palace – Heritage Hotel (Deluxe Room) Udaipur Trident Hilton – 5 Star (Deluxe Garden View) Taj Lake Palace – 5 Star Deluxe – Luxury Palace Hotel (Luxury Room) Jodhpur Park Plaza – 4 Star (Superior Room) Taj Hari Mahal – 5 Star Deluxe (Superior Garden View) Jaisalmer Gorbandh Palace – Heritage Hotel (Deluxe Room) Fort Rajwada – Heritage Palace Hotel (Standard Room)

Estimated International Airfare - International airfare is NOT included in this tour

Canada - West Coast CA $ 1600 USA - West Coast US $ 1400 Canada - East Coast CA $ 1400 USA - East Coast US $ 1200

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 02 and a maximum of 15 participants.

Notes - General Conditions

All prices are subject to any revision of tax and tariff structure.

Customised Itinerary If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you. Foreign Language Departures Please contact us for information on French, German, Italian and Spanish speaking departures. You may e-mail us at bestway@bestway.com or call us at 604.264.7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1.800.663.0844.