Golden Triangle With Desert Dunes

• Day 1: Arrive Delhi

  The Golden Triangle with Desert Dunes tours begins with your arrival at the Delhi International Airport. Meet a Trans India Holidays representative for escort to the hotel and help you with the check in formalities. Delhi, the fascinating capital of India is a bustling metropolis with its roots intact in the past. A near-perfect combination of the old co-existing peacefully with the new, Delhi has over eight cities, the earliest dating 3000 years back. The two distinct parts, Old and New Delhi have their own histories. The old part of the city was formerly the Mughal capital between the 17th and 19th centuries, while the new was the imperial capital of the British. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 2: In Delhi

  After breakfast, get pick up from your hotel and proceed for a guided sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest: Red Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the red-sandstone structure dates to the 17th century is one of the fine specimens of Mughal architecture. Set along the Yamuna River, the octet shaped fortress is spread over 2.4 kms in the perimeter. The highlights of the fort are Diwan-e-Am (Hall for public audience), a Rang Mahal (a water-cooled apartment of royal ladies), Pearl Mosque, constructed of white marble. Jama Masjid: Among the country’s major mosques where thousands offer their prayers, The Jama Masjid towers over the old Delhi city of Shahjahanabad. It is another of the architectural extravaganzas of the Mughals. Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): Set in the heart of Old Delhi, the ‘moonlit square’ as the name translates to, was designed Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s beloved daughter. It was the residence of the well-to-do families of the Mughal times. It is now known as the shopping hub for textiles, electronic goods, etc. The famous Paranthawale Gali here has a reputation for mouth-watering paranthas. The famous gold market, Dariba Kalan is also situated here. Raj Ghat: The memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Nation, the Raj Ghat is set on the banks of Yamuna River. The elementary square platform of black marble is set amid sprawling greenery. India Gate: A 42-metre high arch built in 1931, India Gate was formerly called the All India War Memorial. Dedicated to the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I, the walls of the arch have names of the warriors are engraved. Also on the site is the eternal flame, honor the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier). Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): The authorized residence of the President of the country is one of the architectural splendors of India. Formerly, it was the official residence of the Viceroy during the British Raj. It was designed by Lutyens, the British Architect and is an impressive view. Humayun’s Tomb: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, the Humayun’s tomb is the mausoleum of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was built by his widow Haji Begum nine years after the death in 1565-66. The garden tomb is said to be the inspiration behind the ‘wonder of the world’ Taj Mahal and is a masterpiece of architecture. Qutub Minar: 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. The archaeological complex is one of the world heritage sites listed by UNESCO. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 3: Delhi – Agra (220 Kms / 4 Hrs)

  After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by one of our representatives who will assist you with the check-out formalities. You will then start your journey to Agra, the next stop of Golden triangle tour. The drive from Delhi to Agra will be via the new Expressway, one of India’s finest highways. Agra: Situated on the bank of Yamuna River, Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries. Home to the Taj Mahal, the icon of love which is also one of the most prized architectural masterpieces in the country. The glory of its earlier days is lovingly preserved. The monuments, culture, food, shopping, etc. reminds of one of the most popular chapters of Indian history. On your arrival at the hotel in Agra, you will again be met by our representative and will be assisted with check in formalities. The day is at your own leisure. You can choose to explore the markets to indulge in shopping, embark upon foodie trails or enjoy the culture. Overnight in Agra.

• Day 4: In Agra

  Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Later leave for the guided sightseeing trip including: Taj Mahal: Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal, Taj Mahal is worldwide known as an icon of love. This white-marble mausoleum is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is also granted the title of one of the 'wonders of the world'. The most visited popular landmark and also the most visited, every India tour must include a visit to the Taj. It took 22 years and over 20,000 artisans to create this spectacle. Agra Fort: The erstwhile centre of governance of the Mughal Empire, the Red Fort is a magnificent red-sandstone structure. Settled on the bank of Yamuna River, the fortress construction was started by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century while elegant additions were made by Shah Jahan. Opulent accommodations and attractive buildings were added by Shah Jahan. The highlight of the fascinating fort include Diwan–e–Am, Diwan–e–Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, etc. Itmad ud Daulah: The mausoleum of Itmad-ud-Daulah is an attractive specimen of Mughal architecture. Described as a 'jewel box' and the 'Baby Taj', it is inspired from the Taj Mahal. It is one of the most popular sights to cover on a visit to Agra. The geometric symmetry, intricate jail work and overall beauty enhance the experience of visiting the beautiful monument. Sikandra: Sikandra is the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. He himself chose the site while he lived. Set amid sprawling beautiful gardens, the mausoleum is carved of red-ochre sandstone. Overnight stay in Agra.

• Day 5: Agra to Jaipur (240 Kms / 5 Hrs)

  After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, you will be received by our representative and will be assisted with check-out formalities. Start with drive to Jaipur, en route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, and the crowning glory of Emperor Akbar’s architectural legacy. Fatehpur Sikri: Built in the 16th century of red sandstone, its numerous palaces, halls, and structures exemplify the creativity of erstwhile Mughal emperors. It was abandoned for 12 years due to the paucity of water. The entire city is still intact, and a sight of this city is worth remembering. The Buland Darwaza, is the main entrance to this city, which is 54 m tall and this gate was built in the honor of Akbar’s victory in Gujarat. Jaipur: It is the capital of Rajasthan, and is known as the “Pink City” because of the pink tinted constructions in the old city. It is situated on a dry lake bed, bordered by barren hills vanquished by forts and broken walls. The city was found in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who wanted to be in the good books of the then ruling Mughals. The princely city of Jaipur, which is built in 9 rectangular sectors symbolizing 9 divisions of the universe, as per Indian cosmology. Besides sightseeing, it is a great city for shopping. On arrival at the Jaipur hotel, you will again be received by our representative and will then be assisted with check in formalities. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 6: In Jaipur

  After the morning meal, you will be picked up by the guide from the hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur and Amber. Sightseeing in Jaipur includes: Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): Constructed by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of the Jaipur’s main landmarks, the front of the Mahal has pink windows and latticework screens. This mahal was initially constructed for the ladies of the imperial household to watch the ordinary life and parades of the city. City Palace: The City Palace is still the dwelling of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur. This Palace still has an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons. Jantar Mantar (Observatory): It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. Jantar Mantar appears to be an inquisitive collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a detailed purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial which is 27 meter tall gnomon. The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meters an hour. Amber Fort: The Amber Fort is located 11 kms away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur. The Fort is an excellent illustration of Rajput architecture, impressively situated on a hillside facing a lake, which reflects its walkways and walls. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

• Day 7: Jaipur – Bikaner (330 Kms / 7 Hrs)

  Post breakfast, complete check-out formalities. You will be on the road driving towards Bikaner, the camel city of India. Enjoy the passing scenery of arid desert landscape on the way to Bikaner. This town of Rajasthan is renowned for best riding camels in the world. Bikaner – The charming town of Rajasthan, Bikaner was once a proud royal province of the Rajputana. Rao Bikaji, second son of the founder of Jodhpur, established Bikaner. The old city stands on a slightly high ground delimited by a fortified wall. The Ganga canal, which was constructed between 1925 and 1927, fetched fortune to this otherwise dry desert region. On your arrival at the Bikaner hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-in formalities. Overnight in Bikaner.

• Day 8: In Bikaner

  Start the day with a relaxed breakfast. Later, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel for a guided half day sightseeing tour of Bikaner. Tour includes visit to the following places of interest: Junagarh Fort & Museum: The Junagarh fort was built in the late 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The Fort lodged palaces inside it and many Maharajas added comfortable suites to it. There are beautiful halls in the fort like Diwan-e-khas (private audience hall), Anup Mahal, Badal Mahal, Gaj Mandir and Hawa Mahal. The Fort also houses an interesting collection of royal vestments, armory (enormous bore guns used from the back of the camels), Maharaja Ganga Singh’s 56 kilogram suit of armor, sword with ivory and crystal handles and a biplane presented to Ganga Singhji by the British during World War I. Only two models of this plane were apparently made. Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum: The Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum is known for its incredible collection of antiquity. It houses various sections according to the order and historical importance of the exhibits including Traditional Rajasthani musical instruments, terracotta ware, the Silk Robe of Prince Salim along with the delicate collection of miniatures from across the desert, antique carpets and royal garments. You can also see the war weaponry and the Litho prints of the British Empire. Some of the old photographs, trophies are also on the view. In the evening proceed to the desert dunes to enjoy the sunset. Overnight stay in Bikaner.

• Day 9: Bikaner– Jaisalmer (170 Kms / 3 Hrs)

  After breakfast complete check-out formalities at the hotel. Proceed to the golden city of Jaisalmer, snuggled on the edge of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer - Jaisalmer was established by the head of the Bhati sect, Rawal Jaisal Singh in 1156 A.D. It is called the golden city of the Thar Desert, because yellow sand and yellow sandstone is used in most of the buildings in the city. Jaisalmer was declared a National Heritage City in 1974 and since then the town has been very well maintained and protected for the pleasure of the tourists. The vicinity of Jaisalmer is the residence for many rare desert flora and fauna. On your arrival at the hotel in Jaisalmer, you will be met by our representative and he will help you with the check-in formalities. You are free for the rest of the day. You can either relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city. Overnight in Jaisalmer.

• Day 10: In Jaisalmer

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up by the tour guide from the hotel and he will take you for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer. Tour includes the following places of interest: Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort was constructed in 1156 by the Bhati ruler, Rao Jaisal. This fort stands over the 80 m tall Trikuta hill, and is delimited by 3 walls and 99 bastions. The Golden sandstone fort over the centuries witnessed many battles between the Bhatis, Mughals and the Rathores of Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Fort is said to be the oldest and largest living Fort in the World. Jain Temples: In the fort complex there are many beautifully carved Jain Temples constructed in the 12th and the 15th century. The Maharawals (rulers) of Jaisalmer were sincere Hindus, but were humane on Jainism and encouraged art and religion. There are seven Temples in the complex all of which are connected by an array of halls and alleys. The Gyan Bhandar, a library established in 1500 A.D. is also close to the Fort. This Library stocks some of the priceless manuscripts and other displays like the astrological charts. Laxminath Temple: The Laxminath Temple is situated in the heart of the Fort. This Temple is one of the less decorative temples in the fort. It displays an exciting dome of fine paintings. Havelis: Jaisalmer has vouched for different forms of construction in different eras. It has witnessed the dominating Rajputana architecture as well as the blend of the Rajputana and delicate Islamic architecture. Havelis are the places, which served as the dwelling place of the ministers and the landlords and they commission these Havelis to show their social status in the society. Patwon ki Haveli is the most elegant and palatial of all the Jaisalmer Havelis. This haveli was constructed between 1800 and 1860 by five Jain brothers. Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli are the other two havelis that are open to visitors. Gadi Sagar Tank: Gadi Sagar Tank was once the source of water supply to the city. The tank is encircled by shrines and temples and a variety of waterfowl can be spotted here in the winter months. Later in the evening, a visit to the Sam Sand Dunes. Just outside the city of Jaisalmer, lie the panoramic dunes of Sam, a visit to which will remain in your memory as one of the highlights of your Rajasthan tour. The spirits of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a fascinating mirage that stretches for miles and miles. The tour includes a short camel ride, giving you wonderful views of the sunset over the dunes. Overnight stay in Jaisalmer.

• Day 11: Drive Jaisalmer - Jodhpur (290 Kms/05 Hrs)

  After breakfast, you will be met by our representative at the hotel and he will assist you with the check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jodhpur, the next destination on your Golden Triangle with Desert Dunes tour. Jodhpur - Jodhpur is famous as the 'blue city' because of its blue cottages. The lively desert city of Jodhpur stands at the fringe of the Thar Desert and is the second major city of Rajasthan after Jaipur. The city is differentiated by a huge fort that covers a sheer rocky ridge rising in the heart of the town. The old city is still delimited by a 10 km long wall, made about a century after Jodhpur was established. There are eight gates leading out of the old city. You can take a stroll through the beautiful winding streets. The city of Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the chief of a Rajput clan known as Rathores and was earlier called Marwar. On your arrival at the hotel in Jodhpur, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check in formalities. You are free for the rest of the day. You can either relax and enjoy the hotel facilities or explore the city. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

• Day 12: In Jodhpur

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jodhpur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest: Mehrangarh Fort: Rested on a hilltop, it takes five kilometres by a curvy road to reach Mehrangarh Fort. Mehrangarh is considered by many as the most striking fort in Rajasthan. Initially built by Maharaja Jodha Rao, the fort was further succeeded by the rulers of Marwar. Of the seven huge gates to the fort, a few like Jayapol and Fatehpol were built to celebrate Marwar rulers' victories over countless enemies. Inside the fort is a series of courtyards and palaces. If you enter through Surajpol, the Jodhpur Museum stocks a brilliant collection of relics of Rajasthan. Jaswant Thaada: Located close to the Mehrangarh Fort, is the white marble war memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, known as the Jaswant Thada. The best way to explore and experience the city of Jodhpur is to take a fascinating walk around the colorful Sardar market and the Clock Tower. Besides experiencing the culinary delights of Jodhpur in the small local restaurants, the antique shops are also worth a visit. You can relax for the rest of the day or explore the city on your own. Overnight stay in Jodhpur.

• Day 13: Fly Jodhpur - Delhi

  After breakfast, complete your check-out formalities at the hotel. Get on time transfer to Jodhpur Airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival, get assistance with transfer and check-in at the hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

• Day 14: Delhi Departure

  Bid goodbye to Golden Triangle with Desert Dunes tours as you reach the Delhi Airport for onward journey.

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