Golden Triangle And The Himalayas

• Day 1: ARRIVE DELHI

  On arrival at the Delhi International Airport, you will be received by a Trans India Holidays representative. Get escorted to the hotel and help with the check-in formalities. Delhi is perhaps the most intriguing city in the country and an ideal base to explore the country. The capital city is a bustling with modern amenities and at the same time witness to thousands of years of history. There exists eight cities in Delhi, the oldest of recognized settlements- Indraprastha dating over 3000 years, Old Delhi in the 17th-19th centuries was the seat of the Mughal Empire and New Delhi crated during the British colonial rule. Heritage, culture and charming experiences are synonymous with the Check-in at the hotel, there are no plans for the day. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 2: IN DELHI

  Start the day with breakfast. Your tour guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you for guided sightseeing. This tour includes the following places: Red Fort: The recognized landmark of Old Delhi, the Red Fort is a 17th-century Mughal fortress. It is one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Named after the red sandstone used in its construction, it also goes by the name Lal Quila. The octet shape wall of about 2.4 kms lies along the Yamuna River. Inside the fort remises there are royal places, gardens, Diwan-e-Am (Hall for public audience), a Rang Mahal (a water-cooled apartment of royal ladies), while-marble Pearl Mosque and museums exhibiting the heritage. Jama Masjid: The 17the century mosque is one of the major places of worship in the country. An impressive relic in Old Delhi, the architectural extravaganza is known for its long stretch of stairs and hefty courtyard. Chandni Chowk: The famous street market of Old Delhi is also the country’s best-known shopping hub for textiles, electronic goods, spices, mouth-watering tastes and other cultural experiences. Designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s beloved daughter in the 17th century it was home to the well-to-do families of that time. The ‘Moonlit Square’ or the ‘Silver Street’ it was called is also known for Paranthawale Gali, famous for its mouth-watering paranthas, spice-market Khari Baoli, gold market, Dariba Kalan and cycle rickshaw rides through these bylanes. Raj Ghat: The cremation grounds of the ‘Father of the Nation’ Mahatma Gandhi, Raj Ghat is an elementary square platform of black marble on the banks of Yamuna River. The lush grounds and the rituals held every Friday make it a worthwhile visit. India Gate: The 42-meter high arch, formerly called the All India War Memorial commemorates the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The names of the warriors are engraved all along the walls of the India Gate. The eternal flame honoring the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier) burns for the last four decades. Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the President of the country. Designed by British Architect Edward Lutyens, it was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. The magnificent architecture and the lush grounds make it an attraction worth exploring. Humayun’s Tomb: The mausoleum of Mughal Emperor- Humayun built amid lush grounds is an inscribed UENSCO World Heritage. Built in the 19th century, by Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) the tomb is said to be the motivation behind the 'wonder of the world' Taj Mahal. Qutub Minar: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar and the Archaeological Complex is among the fascination architectural marvels in the southern part of the capital. Built by the Muslim King; Qutab–ud–din Aibak in 1199 A.D. the Minar (tower) is 72.5 meters tall and its base is a mosque. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 3: DRIVE DELHI - AGRA (220 KMS/04 HRS)

  In the morning, meet our tour representatives who will assist you with the check-out formalities. Start your journey to Agra, the major highlight of Golden Triangle tours in India. The drive from Delhi to Agra will be via the new Expressway, one of India’s finest highways. Situated on the bank of Yamuna River, Agra is the dwelling place to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Serving as the capital of the Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries and still retaining the splendor of its bygone days, it is one of the cultural highlights of every India tour. On your arrival at the hotel in Agra, you will again be met by our representative and will be assisted with check-in formalities. Later in the afternoon, the tour guide will pick you up for the guided sightseeing trip of the Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset. Agra Fort: The red-sandstone fortress of Agra has served as the centre of governance of the Mughal Empire and is also one of the world heritage sites in India. Emperor Akbar started the construction of in 1565 as base for soldiers, while Shah Jahan added more opulent accommodations. The attractive highlights are Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan–e–Am, Diwan–e–Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal. Taj Mahal: One of the most beautiful structures in the world, the white-marble mausoleum-Taj Mahal is granted the title of one of the 'wonders of the world'. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known as the 'icon of eternal love'. The monument took 22 years to be built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved Mumtaz Mahal. Over 20,000 artisans labored hard day and night and craftsperson and experts came from France and Italy, while the chief architect was from Iran. Visit to Taj Mahal at sunset is an experience of a lifetime. The view is beyond words and most memorable memory of India tours. Overnight stay in Agra.

• Day 4: DRIVE AGRA - JAIPUR (250 KMS/05 HRS)

  After breakfast, you will be met by our representative and will be assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your trip to Jaipur, the Pink city, en route stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, for a guided tour of this historic town. Fatehpur Sikri: The deserted city of Mughals- Fatehpur Sikri lies roughly 35 kms outside Agra. Built in the 16th century and abandoned a few years later due to the scarcity of water, it is an intriguing UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Buland Darwaza, 54 m tall constructed in the honor of Akbar’s victory in Gujarat welcomes to the city. Inside the premises there are royal places, gardens, shrines and other architectural marvels. After visiting Fatehpur Sikri, head to Jaipur. Jaipur: The capital of Rajasthan and the former royal province of Rajputana, Jaipur is known as the “Pink City”. The walled city of Jaipur is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Bordered by the barren Aravali Hills marked with defensive forts, the 18th century was planned with according to early Hindu architecture. The planned grid system has wide straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of the main roads. The architectural marvels are attention-worthy as is the gastronomy and shopping. On arrival, you will again be received by our representative and will then be assisted with check-in formalities at the hotel. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 5: IN JAIPUR

  Post breakfast, pick up by the guide from the hotel followed by a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur and Amber. Sightseeing in Jaipur includes: Amber Fort: The Amber Fort, located 11 km away from Jaipur on the hilltop facing the Maota Lake is one of the must-visit sights in the city. The yellow-sandstone fortress is one of the hill forts of Rajasthan listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur. Amer is excellent illustration of Rajput architecture. Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): One of Jaipur’s main landmarks, Hawa Mahal was formerly a pleasure palace for the ladies of the royal family. The pink windows and latticework screens was constructed for the ladies of the imperial household to watch the ordinary life and parades of the city without being seen by the common folk. City Palace: The City Palace is a masterpiece of Rajputana architecture as well as grandeur. To date the residence of the royal family of Jaipur, the palace is a testament to the olden days of glory. This palace museum has an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons. Jantar Mantar (Observatory): Built by Maharaja Jai Singh, a patron of science in 1728, Jantar Mantar is a collection of instruments, buildings and architecture that calculate time, measure the positions of stars, altitudes, and azimuths and calculate eclipses. Listed among the UNESCO inscribed world heritage sites, it is an impressive wonder. The most striking instrument is the 27-meter tall sundial that casts a shadow that moves up to 4 meters an hour. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 6: Fly Jaipur – Chandigarh via DELHI

  In the morning after breakfast, check out of the hotel and get assisted with transfer to the airport. Board the domestic flight to Chandigarh via Delhi to continue with the tour of the Golden Triangle and the Himalayas. Chandigarh: Chandigarh “the City beautiful” was planned by the famous French architect Le Corbusier in the 20th century and is a marvel of city -planning. Scenically located at the foothills of Shivaliks, the city serving capital to two states (Punjab & Haryana) in India is a masterpiece of urban planning and modern architecture offering amazing experiences. On arrival in Chandigarh, get assisted with check-in at the hotel. Later, meet your tour representative to proceed with half-day guided sightseeing tour of Chandigarh. Sukhna Lake: The beautiful man-made lake is among the picturesque attractions of the city. Nestled at the foothills of the Shivalik range, the lake that captures the beautiful essence of the city. Rock Garden: The Rock Garden is a beautiful example of waste to marvel. Spread over 40-acres the open-air exhibition displays sculptures made from urban and industrial wastes that have been designed and executed by Nek Chand. The Museum and Art Gallery: A tribute to Indian history and partition, the museum is known for its rich collection of paintings, artifacts, and sculptures. The unique architecture was designed by master city-planner Le Corbusier. The Open Hand Monument: A symbolic structure designed by the architect Le Corbusier who also planned the city is located in the Capitol Complex of Chandigarh. It symbolizes peace and prosperity, and the unity of mankind. Rose Garden: Exhibiting around 825 varieties of flowers and 32,500 varieties of trees and medicinal shrubs, it is the largest garden of its kind in Asia. Misty mountains in the background, well-laid walkways and gorgeous fountains enhance the beauty, especially in the evening. Overnight stay in Chandigarh.

• Day 7: Chandigarh – Manali (310 KMS/ 08 HRS)

  After breakfast, start your journey to the Himalayas. Enjoy the scenic views, breathe in the freshness of mountains and awe at the pictorial roads. Manali: Nestled between the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar range of Himalayas, along the Beas River Manali is a scenic mountain town. Ancient and picturesque, the hill station is known for its extremely beautiful views, ancient temples & monasteries, adventure activities and blissful experiences. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.

• Day 8: IN MANALI

  Start the day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel. The day is at your leisure. Go exploring the charming views and attractions. Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.

• Day 9: Manali – Dharamshala (220 KMS/ 06 HRS)

  After breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey further in the Himalayas. The next stop is the scenic hill town of Dharamshala. Dharamshala: Nestled in the picturesque Dhauladhar range of Himalayas, Dharamshala is the famous as the holy residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. The Tibetan monk in exile was granted residency in the mountain town in Himachal Pradesh. The divine presence of His Holiness brings visitors from far ends of the world to bask in the spiritual bliss. A hub of Tibetans in exile, the town is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

• Day 10: IN DHARAMSHALA

  After breakfast, leave for a guided full-day sightseeing tour of Dharamshala. Tsuglagkhang Complex: The residence of His Holiness Dalai Lama, the complex is known for being a treasure of carefully-preserved Tibetan heritage & culture. Namgyal Monastery in the complex is the personal monastery of the 14th Dalai Lama. Also known as Tantric College, it is known for rituals involving the Dalai Lama of Tibet. The Tibetan Museum inside the complex has a collection of brilliant forms of Tibetan Art, which include history documents, pottery, handicrafts, paintings, etc. The Tibetan Library: A premier institution in the study and research of Buddhism. With as many as 80,000 manuscripts, 600 Buddhist artifacts including beautifully crafted silk applique thangkas and a three dimensional, wood carved mandala it is indeed a calming experience to visitors. Norbulingka is a unique institute dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan arts and culture. Other highlights of the tour are the St. John's Church in the Wilderness, Tibetan Parliament, Tibetan medical, Astrological institute, and the tea garden & tea factory. And at the end visit the beautiful tribal village of Naddi known for the beautiful sunset view.

• Day 11: Dharamshala – Shimla (240 KMS/ 07 HRS)

  After breakfast at the hotel, start your journey to Shimla. Shimla: The “Queen of Hill stations” Shimla is a beautiful place situated on the lower ranges of the Himalayas. Surrounded by pine, deodar oak and rhododendron forests, it is the scenic state capital of Himachal Pradesh. The summer capital of British in India to date retains the colonial flavor. Well-developed facilities and numerous attractions make it one of India’s most popular hill resorts. Shimla offers a wide variety of shopping, sports activities, and other charming experiences. Overnight stay in Shimla.

• Day 12: IN SHIMLA

  The day is free for you, relax and enjoy the facilities of the resort and the beautiful Himalayan views. You could also visit the Mall Road in Shimla and dive into the local bazaars. Overnight in Shimla.

• Day 13: TRAIN SHIMLA – KALKA & TRAIN KALKA – DELHI

  After a relaxing breakfast, board the Him Queen (10:40- 16:10/ 3 1/2 HRS) for a mountain train ride to Kalka Railway station in time to board the Shatabdi Express (17:45) for Delhi. Arrive Delhi at 21:55 hrs. You will be met by our representative at the Delhi railway station and will transfer you to the hotel and assist with the check-in formalities. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 14: DEPART DELHI

  Have a relaxed morning at the hotel. Later, you will be met by our representative and assisted with the check-out formalities. Get escorted to the airport in time for your flight back home.

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