North India Uncovered

• Day 1: Arrive Delhi

  At the Delhi International Airport you will be received by a Trans India Holidays representative and he will escort you to The Park Hotel and will help you with the check in formalities. The Park is a modern 5-star Hotel, situated in the shopping and commercial district of Connaught Place, The Park offers comfortable rooms, equipped with all modern conveniences. Leisure facilities at the Park include an outdoor swimming pool, a Spa, several good restaurants and bars. Your North India Uncovered tour starts from the Capital, Delhi bustling with energy with an ideal combination of the ancient and the contemporary era. Delhi has two visible parts: New Delhi, the city created by the British, as the royal capital of India in 1911. The Old Delhi which was considered as the Muslim capital of India between the 17th and the 19th century. There are at least eight cities on the location of modern Delhi among which Indraprastha is one of the first recognized settlements, highlighted in the epic Mahabharata over 3000 years ago. Nevertheless, Delhi has always been one of the major cities in the northern region of the subcontinent. Overnight stay in Delhi.

• Day 2: In Delhi

  After a relaxing breakfast, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you for a guided sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. The Tour includes the following places: Red Fort: The term Red Fort is taken from a Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort. The structure of the Red Fort is very uneven and it is placed in an octet shape along the Yamuna River. This fort is delimited by a wall of about 2.4 km in perimeter and is constructed of red sandstone. In 1638, Shah Jahan started building this huge fort and it was completed in 1648. The fort has a Diwan-e-Am (Hall for public audience), a Rang Mahal (a water- cooled apartment of royal ladies) and a Pearl Mosque, which was constructed with white marble. Red fort has two main entrances the Delhi Gate and the Lahori gate, and both this gates face the renowned Chandni Chowk. Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid is one of the country’s major mosques where hundreds and thousands of Muslims offer their prayers even today. Jama Masjid was constructed by Shah Jahan as an architectural extravaganza in 1658. The wonders of construction in Jama Masjid are seen in the long stretches of stairs and the hefty courtyard. Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): Chandni Chowk is well-known for its colorful streets with the famous shopping spots of Old Delhi. It also has the country’s best known extensive market for textiles, electronic goods and watches. Entire Chandni Chowk was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s beloved daughter and was then populated by the well-to-do families of that time. The famous Paranthawale Gali, known for its mouthwatering paranthas is also located in Chandni Chowk. The famous gold market, Dariba Kalan is also situated here. Raj Ghat: An elementary square platform of black marble on the banks of Yamuna River, symbolizes the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated followed by his assassination in 1948. A dedicatory ritual takes place each Friday, in his memory. India Gate: India Gate is a free standing, 42 meter high arch. It was built in 1931 and was formerly called the All India War Memorial in 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 arch. The eternal flame was lit here to honor the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier), in 1971. Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): Rashtrapati Bhavan is the authorized residence of the President of the country. It was designed by Lutyens, and was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. Humayun’s Tomb: Nine years after the death of Humayun, Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) built this tomb in 1565-66 in his memory. Qutub Minar: This outstanding building in the Southern part of the capital was 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 km/04 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 trail to Agra, the next stop on your North India Uncovered tour programme. The drive from Delhi to Agra will be via the new Expressway, one of India’s finest highways. Agra, Agra is situated on the bank of Yamuna River. It is the dwelling place to India’s famous monument, the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries. On your arrival at the Crystal Sarovar Premiere Hotel in Agra, you will again be met by our representative and will be assisted with check in formalities. The Crystal Sarovar Premiere is a brand new 04-star hotel in Agra, conveniently located in Agra’s tourist hub, Fatehabad Road, its strategic location offers a magnificent view of the Taj Mahal. Most of the rooms offer a picturesque view of the Taj Mahal. Leisure facilities at the hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, a Spa and a few good restaurants and bars. Later in the afternoon, the tour guide will pick you up for the guided sightseeing trip of Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort. Taj Mahal: Emperor Shah Jahan constructed the Taj Mahal in the memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal who died during the birth of their child in 1631. The construction of this famous monument is said to have taken 22 years, starting from 1631. Over 20,000 artisans were working day and night for the construction of this landmark. The hardwork and the marveluous craftsmanship is seen till date in the 'Wonder of the World' which is also among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. The visit to the Taj Mahal will long be remembered by you as the highlight of your North India Uncovered tour programme. Agra Fort: Emperor Akbar started the construction of this huge red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River in 1565. It was mainly constructed for the soldiers until his grandson, Shah Jahan, added more opulent accommodations. There are a number of attractive buildings within its porches such as 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. Overnight stay in Agra.

• Day 4: Drive Agra – Gwalior (120 km/03 hrs)

  After a leisurely breakfast, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Gwalior, the next destination on your North India Uncovered tour programme. Gwalior – Gwalior is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is the city of true royals, the Scindias. Gwalior is famous for its magnificent Forts and is considered as one of the best in the world. This grand Fort that dictates this dry and dusty city has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties which have had power over the centuries. The main palace, Man Mandir, still displays the elaborate carvings and the art form from the 9th century. And the prison underneath the palace gives a realistic image of the Mogul prisoners’ fate. This Fort has been defined by Babur as ‘the pearl among the fortresses of Hind’. Upon arrival in Gwalior, check in at Hotel Usha Kiran Palace. Usha Kiran Palace is a 05 star heritage hotel, a historical property of the Taj Hotels. Located on a lush 9-acre landscaped estate in Gwalior, beside Jai Vilas Palace, this white-and-yellow palace was built in 1880 by H H Maharaj Jayaji Rao Scindia (Scindia Dynasty of the Marathas) and since then has hosted royalty and dignitaries on myriad occasions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, equipped with all modern amenities. Leisure facilities include a few restaurants and bars, swimming pool, fitness centre, Indoor and Outdoor recreational facilities. Later in the afternoon, the tour guide will pick you up for the guided sightseeing tour of Gwalior. The Tour includes visits to the following places: Gwalior Fort - This is the most famous landmark of Gwalior , an imposing Fort rising 100 meters above the town, housing the Man Singh Palace, the Teli Temple; the Sas Bahu Temple; and Jain Sculptures. Rani Laxmibai Memorial: An equestrian monument built to commemorate Rani Laxmibai, the heroine of India’s first war of independence, who was shot by a British soldier during 1858. Jai Vilas Palace And Museum: The collection at Jai Vilas Palace Museum includes of largest pair of chandeliers in the world, precious ancient oil paintings , and pieces of furniture from the era of the royalty. Tansen’s Tomb: One of the greatest musicians of India and en eminent vocalist in the courts of Akbar in the medieval period, Tansen was also among one of the nine gems of the Mughal court. Overnight stay in Gwalior.

• Day 5: Drive Gwalior – Orchha (120 km/03 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you will start your drive to Orchha, the next destination on your North India Uncovered tour programme. Orchha - Orchha is a small town far away from the madding crowd of the city. It is in the Central part of India, once the capital of the Bundela rulers. This small town is set amid the well-preserved temples and palaces, which dates back to 16th century. Most of the temples are still regularly visited by hundreds and thousands of devotees to worship at the shrine of Rama. Though little-known, Orchha is a place worth visiting for its serene beauty. Little shrines and memorials are spotted all over Orchha, each of them with their own history. On arrival in Orchha, check in at the Orchha Palace. The Orchha Palace & Convention Centre is sprawling over 12 acres of lush green ambience with luxurious rooms, exotic food and impeccable facilities. Afternoon, the tour guide will pick you up from your hotel for the guided sightseeing tour of Orchha. The tour of Orchha takes you to the Jehangir Mahal, the largest of the palaces, the Raj Mahal with its murals and the Raj Praveen Mahal constructed near the garden. The Chatur bhuj temple and the Royal Chattris are by the Betwa River. Overnight stay in Orchha.

• Day 6: Drive Orchha – Khajuraho (180 km/04 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will start your drive to Khajuraho, the next destination on your North India Uncovered tour programme. Khajuraho : Khajuraho was once the capital of the Chandela Rajputs of Bundelkhand. It is the dwelling place of the World’s famous 10th century Khajuraho Temples. These temple have attractive and erotic rock carvings, these carvings symbolizes some of the beautiful specimens of the medieval Hindu architecture and sculpture in the country. On your arrival at the Clarks Hotel in Khajuraho, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check in formalities. Situated in the lush green grasslands on the banks of river Khuddar, Hotel Clarks Khajuraho is a 10 minutes drive away from the 9th century temples and close proximity to the airport. The hotel features 104 centrally air-conditioned rooms and suites that are equipped with all modern amenities and a swimming pool. Afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel and will be taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Khajuraho. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest : Eastern & Western Group Of Temples: The Eastern group of temples includes the Lakshmi and the Varaha Temple, the Lakshmana Temple, the Kandariya Mahadev, the Mahadeva Temple, the Devi Jagadamba Temple, the Chitragupta Temple and the Vishwanath Temple. The Eastern Group of temples houses the Parasvanath Temple, the largest and finest Jain temple in the city as well as the Adinath Temple, the Shantinath Temple, the Ghantai Temple, the Javari Temple, the Vamana Temple and the Brahma and Hanuman Temple. The Western group of temples includes the Matangesvara Temple, the only temple in Khajuraho where the daily rituals still takes place and the Chausath Yogini Temple, the temple which is in ruins now and is believed to be the oldest temple in Khajuraho. Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

• Day 7: Drive Khajuraho - Allahabad (300 km/07 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast, you will start your drive to Allahabad, the next destination on your North India Uncovered tour programme. Allahabad : The city of Allahabad is famous for several reasons. Firstly, for the Kumbh Mela, that is held there every 12 years , and then also for being the meeting point of 3 of North India’s most important rivers, the Ganges, the Yamuna and the Saraswati. On your arrival in Allahabad, check in at Hotel Kanha Shyam. Hotel Kanha Shyam is a decent 3 star centrally located hotel in Allahabad, located at a short distance from Sangam, the major tourist attraction. The rooms are tastefully designed in a contemporary decor. Each room is equipped with a satellite television, direct dial telephone, mini-bar, tea/coffee maker, writing desk and Wi-Fi Internet access. Overnight stay in Allahabad.

• Day 8: Drive Allahabad – Varanasi (150 km/03 hrs)

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel for a guided sightseeing tour of Allahabad. The tour includes the following places: The Allahabad Fort – Situated on the bank of the Yamuna near it’s confluence with the River Ganges, the Allahabad Fort is said to be the largest fort built by Mughal emperor Akbar. The Anand Bhavan – The former house of Moti Lal Nehru and Jawahar Lal Nehru (India’s first Prime Minister) , Anand Bhavan is now a Museum, and it also houses the Jawahar Planetarium. The Triveni Sangam – This is the highlight of Allahabad. The word Sangam means confluence, and this is the point where three holy rivers of North India, the Ganga , Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati meet. It is here that the historic Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years. Later, you will start your drive to Varanasi, the next and final destination on your North India Uncovered tour programme. Varanasi - Varanasi the ‘eternal city’ is one of the major pilgrimage spots in India. Varanasi is located on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Over 2000 years Varanasi has been a center of learning. Apart from being a pilgrimage spot in India, Varanasi is also considered as an auspicious place to die, establishing an instant route to heaven. Varanasi is a special place for the Sanskrit scholars and students from all over India are seen here. The ancient city of Varanasi is located along the West bank of the river Ganges. This city extends back from the riverbank ghats in a twisted collection of passageways. These passageways are too cramped for anything but walking. The city extends from Raj Ghat, near the bridge to Asi Ghat near the University. On your arrival at the Rivatas by Varanasi Hotel in Varanasi, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-in formalities. Rivatas By Ideal is a 4-star hotel, located on the Mall road in Varanasi. The hotel has 68 air-conditioned rooms, 3 food, and beverage outlets, 24-hour room service, as well as a swimming pool. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

• Day 9: In Varanasi

  The day begins early with a Dawn Boat Ride on the holy river Ganges. The guide will pick you up from your hotel and will take you to the river Ganges. The City and the river Ganges come alive at dawn, when hundreds and thousands of devotees come to the river to worship the Sun God. The edge of the river looks amazing from a boat at sunrise and this sight is spiritually uplifting. Hinduism is deep and magical, it is everywhere; in the sight of a sparkling temple; in the sound of a sacred bell; in the prayer chants of the priests and in the smell of the flowers. In the afternoon, you will be picked up again from your hotel for the guided tour of Varanasi. Tour includes visits following places of interest: Asi Ghat : Asi Ghat is one of the five extraordinary Ghats in India; where the pilgrims are suppose to bathe in all the Ghats on the same day and in order. The order is Asi, Dasaswamedh, Barnasangam, Panchganga and finally Manikarnika. Durga Temple: Durga Temple was constructed in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani. This temple is commonly known as the ‘Monkey Temple’ as many monkeys have it their home. The construction of this temple is in Nagara style (North Indian style). The temple has a Durga Kund (Kund means Pond or pool). The temple has multi-tiered shikharas and is stained red with ochre, which represents the color of Durga. This temple is closed for non-Hindus. Kashi-Vishwanath Or Golden Temple: The Kashi-Vishwanath or the Golden Temple is devoted to lord Shiva as the Lord of the Universe. The original Temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb and he constructed a mosque over it. The New temple is constructed in 1776 by Ahalya Bai of Indore and the Gold plating on the towers of the temples was contributed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Lahore. The new temple is located right across the road from its original position. The Traces of 1600 temples could be behind Aurangzeb’s mosque. Next to the temple is the GyanKupor Well, the well of knowledge. In this temple also the non-Hindus are not allowed. Overnight stay in Varanasi.

• Day 10: Fly Varanasi-Delhi & Depart

  After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by our representative and he will assist you with the check-out formalities. You will then be escorted to the airport en-route visiting the Sarnath. Sarnath - Located 13 km outside Varanasi city, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It is here that post attaining enlightenment, Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. After visiting Sarnath, you will be escorted to the airport in time to board flight for Delhi to connect your further flight home.

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