Incredible India

Itinerary

Day 1 – Feb 22  Arrival in Delhi

• Welcome to India! Arrive Delhi, clear immigration and customs and proceed towards the visitor’s gallery, where our representative will be holding a placard for you to assist. Traditional Garlanding Welcome upon arrival and assisted transfer to your hotel.
  • Upon arrival at hotel, Welcome drink (non-alcoholic), key distribution and check in.
• Enjoy your day at leisure to relax after a long flight connection.
  • Delhi, the capital of India has a fascinating history and a stimulating present.  Delhi has been the seat of a power of a number of dynasties – the Rajputs, the Muslims invaders from the North, the Afghan dynasties followed by Tughlaqs, Sayyads, the Ladies and the Mughals, who continued the Imperial line, until British days. The old city, built by Shah Jahan in the 17^th century, stands today as an epitome of the whole history of Indo-Islamic architecture.  New Delhi, designed and constructed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker, is a mixture of east and west.  The public buildings in red sandstone are in the Mughal style. New Delhi has a circular Parliament House and an imposing Central Secretariat in two blocks, which stand at the approaches to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the residence of the President of India.  Delhi is today the political, economic, and cultural capital of the world’s largest democracy and has also become one of the greatest tourist centers of the world. 
• Taj Mahal, New Delhi, is a luxury 5-star deluxe hotel that has recently undergone a complete renovation, preserving its timeless appeal while incorporating contemporary charm. Situated in the heart of the city, the hotel offers a unique vantage point with views of the leafy boulevards of Lutyens Delhi, adding to its status as an iconic landmark in the historic part of the capital.
• Overnight: Taj Mahal Mansingh Road – Luxury Room
• Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Feb 23 Delhi

• Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
• 9:30am: Pick up from the hotel lobby to depart for a guided sightseeing tour of Old Delhi to visit:
  • Jama Masjid: this is one of the largest mosques in India, and a sight of historical importance. Begun in 1644, the mosque was not completed until 1658. It has three gateways, four angle towers and two minarets standing 40m high and constructed of altering vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble.
  • Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the Chandani Chowk market. We will then drive past the Red Fort (stop for photo from outside), built in red sandstone are the walls of Lal Quila. The Red Fort extends for 2 km and varies in height from 18m on the river side to 33m on the city side. Shah Jahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. Later visit the Raj Ghat, the place where Mahatma Gandhi was put to rest. 
• Lunch at a local restaurant. 
• Return back to hotel. After freshen-up, assemble at one of the meeting rooms for 3 hrs meeting session.
• 3:00pm – 6:00pm: Conference/Meeting session
• 8:00pm: Welcome cocktail & dinner at hotel.
• Accommodation: Taj Mahal Mansingh Road – Luxury Room
• Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3 – Feb 24 Delhi

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• 9:30am: Pick up from the hotel lobby and depart for a guided sightseeing tour of New Delhi to visit:
  • Qutab Minar – 234 feet high tower, the Qutab Minar itself is a soaring tower of victory that was started in 1193, immediately after the defeat of the last Hindu kingdom in Delhi. It is nearly 73m high and tapers from a 15m diameter base to just 2.5m at the top. The tower has five distinct stories, each marked by a projecting balcony. The first three storey are made of red sandstone, the fourth and the fifth of marble and sandstone.
  • Humayun’s Tomb (Tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun) – built in the mid-16th century by Haji Begum, the Persian-born senior wife of Humayun, the second Mughal emperor, this is a wonderful early example of Mughal architecture.
  • Drive past India Gate (War Memorial), the President’s House which was once the Viceroy’s Palace, Parliament House and Secretarial buildings. 
  • Continue towards Connaught Place (as large vehicles are not allowed to enter), we will get down to nearest places and enjoy auto rickshaw/Tuk Tuk ride (three wheeler vehicles Or small vehicles) through Connaught Place. Connaught Place is a frenetic business and financial hub, centered on a ring of colonnaded Georgian-style buildings with global chain stores, vintage cinemas, bars and Indian restaurants. Stalls at Janpath Market sell saris, embroidered bags and trinkets.
  • After an enjoyable ride, return back to parking/designated places to board the bus to visit Akshardham Temple.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Akshardham Temple (closed on Mondays): The Akshardham Temple is one of the most recently built temples in Delhi. Constructed by the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), it is situated on the banks of the River Yamuna. Delhi Akshardham Mandir was inaugurated in Novenmber’05 in the presence of President APJ Abdul Kalam. It is spread over an area of 100 acres and took about two years to complete.
  • Tour ends with a visit to ‘Akshardham Temple & Water Show’ with guide, also known as ‘Sahaj Anand.’
  • Show Timings: First show starts soon after sunset. (Currently 19:00 hrs)
  • Shows: Two shows may be held during weekends or public holidays. 
  • Duration: 24 minutes
• Accommodation: Taj Mahal Mansingh Road – Luxury Room
• Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4 –Feb 25 Delhi – Udaipur

• Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel and check out.
• Meet our representative and you will be transferred to airport to board flight for Udaipur.
• Upon arrival, proceed towards exit gate, meet our local representative. After traditional welcome, assisted transfer to hotel.
• Enjoy your welcome drink (non alcoholic) upon arrival at hotel and check in.
  • In Udaipur the visitor finds his dream of India come true – for the city combines real beauty with picturesque associations of a great and glorious past.  It stands in a valley, amid green hills on the banks of the wide, steel blue Lake Pichola. On little islands in the lake, from the water’s edge, rise marble palaces of pure white that glisten like fairy castles.  Crowning the ridge, in which the city clusters, along the shores of the lake is the palace of the Maharaja.  Within the palace is all the magnificence of the East – peacocks in mosaic on the walls, floors inlaid with tiles of rare beauty, and roof gardens affording magnificent views of the panorama below.
• After fresh-en-up, assemble at one of the meeting rooms for 3 hrs meeting session.
• 3:00pm – 6:00pm: Conference/Meeting session
• Dinner at Hotel.
  • Royalty meets fairy tale at the Taj Lake Palace Udaipur, seemingly poised to grace the waters of Lake Pichola. Here, every glance unveils breathtaking panoramas of the serene water expanse, rolling hills, and the splendid city of Udaipur. Jag Niwas, a masterpiece conceived between 1743-1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, the illustrious 62nd custodian of the House of Mewar, once served as a summer haven for the Mewar Royal family. In 1963, under the discerning eye of Maharana is Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar of Udaipur, it was transformed into a heritage haven, reflecting the epitome of lavish living. Meticulously resurrected to its former glory, it mirrors the unwavering commitment to excellence that characterises the Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur.
• Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace – Palace Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5 – Feb 26 Udaipur

• Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. 
• Later depart for guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur to visit City Palace – one of the most important attractions in Udaipur. It has several exotic palatial structures that enchant with their carved and fantastic walls, latticework, mirror work etc. Jagdish Temple, Gulab Niwas Garden, Sahelion Ki Bari (Queen’s retreat for her friends), enjoy a drive around Fateh Sagar Lake – a man-made lake and Bagore Ki Haveli Museum.
• Lunch on your own
• After lunch, depart to visit Sajjangarh Fort: High on a hilltop just outside Udaipur lies this dramatic 18th century palace, with a breathtaking view of the Mewar countryside Originally intended to be a towering five-story astronomical centre, it was later abandoned and used as a monsoon palace and hunting lodge. It was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to house and observatory and was planned as a nineteen-storied structure. However the Maharana died prematurely & the plans were curtailed. The now derelict palace dominates the skyline 2468 feet high on top of Bansdara Mountain. It is visible from a great distance & affords splendid scenic views.
• Dinner at the hotel.
• Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace – Palace Room
• Meals: Breakfast, & Dinner

Day 6 – Feb 27 Udaipur

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• This morning, depart for a boat ride (Private Boat) on Lake Pichola – visit the Jag Mandir Palace.  The palace, built of granite and marble, covers four acres and is built almost in the middle of the lake. Visit the Borra Mahal, Khas Mahal and the courts, gardens and fountains.
• Upon arrival at the hotel, relax and have your lunch (own arrangements).
• After lunch, assemble at one of the meeting rooms for 3 hrs. meeting session.
• 3:00pm – 6:00pm: Conference/Meeting session
• Later stroll around in the local market and shopping. 
• Dinner at the hotel Lake Palace – Jharokha.
• Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace – Palace Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7 – Feb 28 Udaipur – Jaipur

• 5:00am: Early morning baggage down, check out and you will be transferred to airport to board flight for Jaipur. 
• Arrive in Jaipur, proceed towards exit gate, traditional garlanding welcome and assisted transfer to hotel. (Hotel check in time 2:00pm)
• Enjoy your welcome drink (non-alcoholic) upon arrival at hotel and check in.
• 2:00pm: Depart for guided sightseeing tour of city to visit:
  • City Palace & Museum. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.  The centre of the palace is a seven storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine views over the gardens and the city. Next stop is the Solar Observatory – an astronomical treasure house, with solar devices that still give accurate predictions. Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal woman could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens. You may stroll around or enjoy rickshaw ride through the local market nearby Hawa Mahal.
• Dinner at the hotel’s Rajput Room
  • Built in 1835, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur gracefully retains its elaborate splendor. Adorned with hand-carved marble latticework, sandstone balustrades, and lush Mughal Gardens, it once served as a royal guesthouse and hunting lodge. From the Maharaja’s residence to an authentic palace, this palace hotel in Jaipur upholds its ceremonial grandeur for all guests. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur has a stately elegance that has long made it a much-cherished destination. Celebrated restaurants and iconic grounds bestow the ‘Jewel of Jaipur’ with an added measure of grandeur.
• Accommodation: Rambagh Palace – Palace Rooms
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8 – March 1 Jaipur

• Breakfast at hotel.
• 10:00am – 1:00pm: Conference/meeting 
• This evening, depart for a special dinner at the Kurki Heritage Royal Boutique Hotel (Time to be advised locally).
• Jaipur: The rose-pink capital of Rajasthan is surrounded on all sides by rugged hills, crowned with forts and enclosed by embattled walls.  The Maharaja’s palace stands in the centre of the city amidst lovely gardens.  Houses with latticed windows line the streets, their rose-pink colour lending enchantment to the scene which is almost magical at sunset.  Jaipur is aptly called the ‘Pink City of India’.  It takes its name from the famous Maharana Sawai Jai Singh, who founded the city in 1728. 
  • Jaipur is noted for its craft men skilled in the art of cutting precious stones and famed for its garnets and rubies.  It is equally well known for brass inlay work, lacquer work and the printing of muslines.  The City Palace which now houses a museum containing rate manuscripts, paintings and an armoury; the Observatory with a sundial 90 ft. high; the Museum amidst the Ram Niwas Palace Gardens founded in 1876 with a large collection of antiques; the Palace of Winds a landmark of Jaipur made of pink sandstone and of unique design.
• Dinner at the hotel.
• Accommodation: Rambagh Palace – Palace Rooms
• Meals: Breakfast  & Dinner.

Day 9 – March 2 Jaipur

• Early breakfast at hotel.
• 8:30am: Pick up from and depart to visit Amber Fort (the former capital of the Royal Rajputs). Ascend the fort on Elephant back or jeep ride. Few fail to be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11-km north of Jaipur. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, and surrounded by fortified battlements, the palace straddles two sepia-hued tundra hills overlooking Maota Lake, and its sprawling crenelated walls lattice the surrounding hills. 
  • Continue to visit Panna Meena Ka Kund, a square-shaped stepwell, with adjoining stairs on all four sides and a room on the northern wall. It’s believed this room was used for religious ceremonies before weddings or on popular festival dates. Jal Mahal – is a palace in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. The palace was originally constructed in 1699; the building and the lake around it were later renovated and enlarged in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber.
• Rest of the day free to relax/shopping.
  • You will get an opportunity to visit one of the Art & Craft factories and see a demonstration of gem cutting & polishing. Jaipur is noted for its craft men skilled in the art of cutting precious stones and famed for its garnets and rubies.  It is equally well known for brass inlay work, lacquer work and the printing of muslins.
• Dinner at the Hotel Taj Amer’s House of Ming Restaurant.
• Accommodation: Rambagh Palace – Palace Rooms
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.

Day 10 – March 3 Jaipur – Agra

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Later check out and depart by road to Agra and upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
• Agra, located on the banks of the river Yamuna, Agra is famous around the world as the ‘City of the Taj’. 
• Lunch at Taj Hotel & Convention’s Taj Daawat e Nawab.
• Evening, depart to visit the world-famous Taj Mahal during Sunset.
  • The world-famous Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays) during Sunset – symbol of eternal love, which stands on the banks of River Yamuna. It was built by the 5th Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan in the year 1631 in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It was completed in 22 years. The Taj Mahal is widely recognized as “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage”. It is regarded by many as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements from Persian and Indian architectural styles. In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
  • That said, the Taj is at its most alluring in the relative quiet of early morning, shrouded in mists and bathed with a soft red glow. As its vast marble surfaces fall into shadow or reflect the sun, its colour changes, from soft grey and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white; it’s well worth visiting at different times. This play of light is an important decorative device, symbolically implying the presence of Allah, who is never represented in anthropomorphic form.
  • The moods of the Taj vary from dawn to dusk. The Taj Mahal or the Crown of Palaces looks milky white in the soft light that characterizes early morning, while the afternoon sun makes it glisten bright and dazzling in the overhead sunlight, almost looking like a jewel against the opaque blue of the skyline and then comes a moonlit Taj breaking into the night sky, majestic and simply beautiful in a sense that cannot be put into words. It is at this time that it shines like a pearl. (A visit to the Taj Mahal at dawn or dusk is an unforgettable experience)
• Dinner at the Taj Hotel & Convention’s Taj Daawat e Nawab.
  • Within walking distance of an iconic landmark, Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra is an expression of grandeur. Opulent and elegant best describe this luxury property, that offers alluring views of the Taj Mahal, a fabled monument and an icon of love. Verdant 4.5 acres of landscaped gardens and unique architecture that blends regal charm with contemporary style and state-of-the-art facilities, make this, one of the best hotels in Agra.
• Accommodation: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre – Superior Room
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 11 – March 4 Agra

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• This morning, enjoy Holi festival with Indian Family at the Villa 21 Home Stay, Agra. Holi is the festival which is celebrated in India but is famous throughout the world, and the best way of experiencing it is celebrating it with Indian family at Indian home.
• The activities start at approx.: 11:00am till 1:00pm.
• Kurta/Suit Distribution: A pair of kurta-pyjama/ladies suite can be bought from market or can be arranged.
• You are welcomed with a Tika on their forehead & a drink called Thandai which is a milk base drink with spices & dry fruits. They are also offered snacks like Gujiya, mathri and papad which are a must on this occasion. Then the guests are taken to the garden where they play Holi along with other guests with dry herbal colors. During this time famous dance numbers are played. We also arrange Dhol for this festival as the beats of Dhol provide a traditional feel to the festival. The guests try to catch the beat of Dhol & dance on it, in which they are accompanied by the family members and their friends.
• Lunch at your own expense.
• Later, in the afternoon, depart for guided tour to visit Agra Fort – Agra is not only famous for the Taj Mahal but the impressive Mughal Red Fort known as the Agra Fort. The city built by Emperor Akbar and beautified with palaces and gardens by Jahangir is dominated by Agra Fort. The crescent-shaped fort is enclosed by its 20-metre high, 2.4 km long outer walls. The fort contains a maze of buildings forming a small city within a city. One enters the fort through the Amar Singh Gate, into the southern part of the fort which includes nearly all the buildings of tourist interest. Jahangir’s palace commissioned by Akbar was the largest private residence in the fort. The Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) were built by Shahjahan for receiving audiences. Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower, stands close to Diwan-i-Khas.
  • Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb (also known as BABY TAJ) – The interiors of which are considered better than the Taj. One of the most beautiful Mughal tombs, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb was built by Nur Jahan, the Empress of Jahangir for her father in 1628. The tomb is a resting place of the powerful personality in Mughal Court, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, whose life is very interesting, formerly a very poor Persian merchant then named Mirza Ghiyas or Ghiyas Beg he became a minister and a trusted treasure in Akbar’s court. After Akbar’s death in 1605, his son Jahangir rose into power. Jahangir made Ghiyas Beg his chief minister and honoured him with the title of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, the Pillar of State. Later, Jahangir met a beautiful daughter of Ghiyas Beg named Mehr-Un-Nissa and married her. Mehr-Un-Nissa soon played a significant role in the Jahangir’s court and was called Nur Mahal, the light of the Palace. Owing to her influence, her father and brother were granted with privileges in the court. When Ghiyas beg (Itmad-Un-Daulah) dies in 1622, Nur Mahal decided to build a mausoleum for him. Queen Mumtaz Mahal or the lady of the Taj was also from this prevailing family. The mausoleum is entirely made of white marble and graced with intricate decoration of inlay work, and marble-screen work belonging to the Islamic style. With its tranquil, small garden on the bank of Yamuna River, the tomb stands impressively elegant from a distance.
• Rest of the day free to relax/shopping.
• You will also get the opportunity to visit one of the marbles cutting factories to witness marble carving/cutting demonstration. Agra is also famous for marble object with precious and semi-precious stone incrusted.
• Evening, enjoy the spectacular dance show with the great love story of Mumtaj & Shah Jahan – Mohabbat the Taj Show.
• Dinner at the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre’s Infini-Sky Lounge.
• Accommodation: Taj Hotel & Convention Centre – Superior Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12 – March 5 Agra – Delhi – Goa

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Early breakfast check-out and by 7:00am, depart by road to Delhi. Continue to restaurant for Lunch. After lunch transfer to airport to board flight for Goa (airport check in time 1300 hrs.).
• 5:35pm: Arrive Goa, proceed towards exit gate, meet and greet by our local representative, traditional welcome and assisted transfer to hotel.
• Upon arrival at the hotel, check-in and relax.
• Rest of the day free to relax/independent activities.  
• Approx. 8:00pm: Dinner at Hotel.
  • Escape into bliss at our renowned beachfront resort, long favoured by royals, celebrities, and dignitaries. Overlooking the beautiful Sinquerim and Candolim stretch and the ramparts of the historic 16th-century Fort Aguada, the Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa, boasts Portuguese-style architecture and manicured landscapes. With unobstructed views of the Arabian Sea and direct access to Sinquerim Beach, it’s an idyllic setting for a relaxed holiday. Indulge in world cuisine at our restaurants, including the iconic Italian restaurant, Paper Moon. From pre-dinner drinks at SFX to fresh-caught seafood at Morisco and global cuisine at Kokum Kitchen, our seasoned Chefs craft epicurean delights. End your day with a nightcap at Martini Bar. Complete your visit with our renowned spa, J Wellness Circle, for a refreshing experience.
• Accommodation: Hotel Taj Fort Aguada Beach Resort – Deluxe Sea Facing Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13 – March 6 Goa

• Morning after breakfast depart for guided tour of Goa to visit Miramar beach, Panaji the Capital City, Churches of Old Goa, Temple at Mangueshi and Spice plantation tour.
  • Miramar beach:  An urban beach in North Goa, Miramar Beach was once known as Gasper Dias Beach. A short distance away from Panaji, Goa’s capital city, Miramar is a family-friendly beach but also a perfect place for groups of friends to hangout as well as fitness lovers who can enjoy morning and evening walks/run or yoga sessions here. There are handful of water sports activities available at Miramar Beach for the adventure lovers. Adjoining Miramar Beach is the estuary of Mandovi River which opens in the Arabian Sea. Across the beach and river, one can also see the impressive Fort Aguada standing. Miramar also becomes a birdwatcher’s favorite place in the winter season when many migratory birds can be spotted here.
  • Panaji the Capital City: Panaji, the capital of Goa, is a living museum of Portuguese colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and centuries-old traditions. Nestled along the banks of the Mandovi River, this charming city tells the story of India’s unique colonial heritage.
  • Churches of Old Goa: Churches and Convents of Goa is the name given by UNESCO to a set of religious monuments located in Goa Velha (or Old Goa), in the state of Goa, India, which were declared a World Heritage Site in 1986. The Churches of Goa are centuries old and their architecture is striking. Each of the churches of Old Goa has their own individual history.
  • Temple at Mangueshi: One of the ancient temples still standing tall in the state of Goa is the Shri Mangueshi Temple in Mangeshi Village. It showcases the beautiful story of devotion and excellent architecture dating back several centuries. Being the epitome of Lord Shiva, this famous temple attracts too many devotees and visitors who long to escape from the beaches and nocturnal activities in this beach state.
• Later, you will be taken on a spice plantation tour with a Goan traditional Lunch.
• Accommodation: Hotel Taj Fort Aguada Beach Resort – Deluxe Sea Facing Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14 – March 7 Goa

• After breakfast at the hotel, rest of the day is spent at leisure.
• Accommodation: Hotel Taj Fort Aguada Beach Resort – Deluxe Sea Facing Room
• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 15 – March 8 Goa – Departure

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• In time, check out and you will be transferred to airport to board flight for onward destination.
• Flight TBA. Fly from Goa!
• Meals: Breakfast

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