India Budget Tour Travel Packages

Tourist Attractions In Uttaranchal

2009-10-21T22:44:00.000-07:00

Tourist Attractions In Uttaranchal :

Glaciers In Uttaranchal : Bandarpunch Glacier, Doonagiri Glacier, Kaphini Glacier, Maktoli Glacier, Pindari Glacier, Tiprabamak Glacier, Corbett National Park, Gangotri Glacier, Khatling Glacier, Nanda Devi Group Of Glaciers, Satopanth Glacier

Lakes In Uttaranchal : Bhimtal Lake, Dodi Tal, Kedar Tal, Nachiket Tal, Satopnath Lake, Devaria Tal, Hemkund Sahib, Masar Tal, Sahastra Tal, Sat Tal

Waterfalls In Uttaranchal : Corbett Waterfalls, Kempty Waterfalls

History of Jaipur

2009-09-06T21:58:00.000-07:00

Jaipur is Located 262 kilometres from Delhi, Jaipur was the first planned city in northern India and was conceived by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1727. Maharaja Jai Singh’s predecessors had enjoyed good relations with the Mughals and he was careful to preserve this alliance. He laid out the city, with its surrounding walls and rectangular blocks according to principles set out in the Shilpa-Shastra, an ancient Hindu essay on architecture and in 1728 built Jantar Mantar, the remarkable observatory that still stands as one of the city’s main attractions.

Amer Fort Jaipur’s true history though dates back to the 12th century when the Kachchwaha clan of Rajputs arrived at the old fort palace of Amer in the Aravalli hills. The Kachchwaha belonged to the Kshatriya, or the warrior caste of Hindus, but they traced their origins back to the sun, via Kusa who was the twin son of the god Rama.

The ousted Kachchwahas people were the Susawat Minas, who became the hereditary loyal guards of what became one of the largest and most valuable treasuries in India. From this base, the Kachchwaha Rajputs, with their brilliant soldiering and knack for lucrative alliances, amassed a fortune. However it was the special relationship the Amer rulers developed with the Mughals that brought them real power, influence and wealth.

Jaipur Amer Fort Arriving in Jaipur through the narrow pass in the hills, you are presented with a view of the Amer fort-palace that conforms to every aspect of how a romantic Rajput fort should appear. Rambling over a rugged hill, reflected in Maota Lake below, it is a magnificent sight. A circle of protective hills surrounds it and snaking up them are crenulated walls punctuated by look-out posts.

Maharaja Man Singh II Not long after this the two rulers who built Amer, Man Singh, a leading general under both Akbar and Jahangir, and Jai Singh I, a military and diplomatic genius brought the house of Amer to its highest point in the Mughal court. On the throne Jai Singh I (aged 11) was soon commanding a Mughal force for Jahangir, which went on to fight the Mughal empire for Shah Jahan and finally succeeded. This then led him to became emperor Aurangzeb’s most prized Rajput commander.

AurangzebAll this time, the Kachchwaha coffers were filling with prizes, rewards and booty. Three rulers later, Jai Singh II, another child prodigy, came to the throne. The boy quickly impressed the 71-year-old Aurangzeb who awarded him the title ‘Sawai’, meaning one-and-a-quarter. (Even today, the flag flying above the City Palace in Jaipur has an extra, quarter-sized one next to it.) Jai Singh II, having proved his soldiering ability further enriched his coffers and fulfilled his other passions - the arts and sciences. After ascending the throne, he shifted the capital from Amer, studied the architecture of several European cities and drew up plans for constructing a larger and well-planned city. He consulted his best mathematicians, astronomers and the Silpa Sastra, a traditional Hindu architectural treatise before making the blueprint for the new city.

After building close bonds with the Mughals and sure that there could be no danger to his throne, Sawai Jai Singh, envisioned his dream project, the building of Jaipur. The foundation stone was laid by him in 1727 and an eminent architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharaya, was asked to design the ‘Pink City. ’It was a two-in-one compliment as ‘Jai’ means victory and was also the ruler’s first name. That it was later chosen as the capital of Rajasthan formed from the amalgamation of various kingdoms, a tribute to both Jai Singh and Bhattaccharya.

Jaipur Gate, The city is planned in a grid system of seven blocks of buildings with wide straight avenues lined with trees, with the palace set on the north side. Surrounding it are high walls pieced with ten gates. The site of the shops, were chosen after careful planning and they are arranged in nine rectangular city sectors (chokris). Jaipur was the first sizable city in north India to be built from scratch, though the famous pink colour symbolising ‘welcome’, came later when Ram Singh II received the Prince of Wales in 1876. The colour was chosen after several experiments to cut down the intense glare from the reflection of the blazing rays of the sun. To this day, the buildings are uniformly rose pink. After Jai Singh died in 1773, a battle for succession followed and the Marathas and Jats who were making advances in various parts of the country also decided to try their luck and Jaipur lost large chunks of territory with the ruler playing second fiddle to the fast-growing East India Company.

Maharaja Jagat SinghIn 1818, several maharajas of the north-west princely states and Maharaja Jagat Singh of Jaipur, signed a treaty with the British under which they could continue to have control of their states, but would be collectively supervised by the British under a new name, Rajputana.

Monuments in Jaipur

2009-09-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

Jaipur is perhaps the ideal city that you can choose for going on historical tours to Jaipur - Rajasthan, North India. This rustic city has plenty of forts and monuments that remind you of the ancient glamour, glory and charm of Rajput rulers.

Some of the popular historical monuments in Jaipur, India that you can visit on your holiday tours are the Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Albert Hall etc.

The Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory located at Jaipur, India was constructed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1716.

There are huge masonry instruments of extraordinary precision located inside the Jantar Mantar that can still be used accurately. The astronomical instruments at the Jantar Mantar were meant to determine the exact position of longitudes, the equator and the latitudes. The main astronomical instruments set up at this royal observatory are the Jaiprakash Yantra, Ram Yantra and the Samrat Yantra.

The Hawa Mahal is one of the most popular monuments that you can visit during your tours to Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. This historical monument is a multi-layered palace that has a beehive structure and is an architectural wonder. The Hawa Mahal was constructed for the women of the royal court.

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh of Jaipur, Rajasthan, built the Hawa Mahal in the year 1799. This architectural wonder was built with pink and red sandstone and the walls of this monument are decorated with artistic motifs.

The Amber Fort located at a distance of 11 kilometers from Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The Amber Fort complex is located atop a hill overlooking the tiny Maota Lake and the Jaipur-Delhi highway. This massive and imposing architectural wonder is a must visit during your tours to historical monuments in Jaipur, India. There are quite a few monuments within the fortress such as the Diwan-e-Khas, Sukh Niwas, the Jai Mandir, Sheesh Mahal and the Temple of Victory.

Some of the major monuments in Jaipur are :
Jantar Mantar
Hawa Mahal
Albert Hall

Gardens in Jaipur

2009-09-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

Jaipur, also known as the Pink City is famous all around the world for its historical monuments, colorful lifestyle and traditions. The city that is relatively new as compared to other cities of Rajasthan depicts a culture that is simply incomparable. People from all over the planet come here to see the hues that the city culture has in its keep. The city founded by Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1727 was the capital of the Kachchwaha clan of Rajputs since its beginning.

Among the attractions in the city, the gardens in Jaipur are among the prominent ones. If you want to see the wonders of nature amidst barren lands and mountains that comprise the state of Rajasthan, then come to Jaipur. You would simply be amazed to see how well the minds of the people in those times worked and they brought greenery to the barren lands that once gave an impression of the desert itself. The lush green gardens surrounded by barren lands give a feeling of heaven itself.

Although there are a number of big and small gardens in the city of Jaipur but the most famous gardens in Jaipur include :
Ram Niwas Garden
Vidyadhar Garden
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh
Zoological Garden

Tour To Haridwar

2009-06-23T02:22:00.000-07:00

The land where the holy River Ganges descends into the planes, Haridwar is the holiest of Hindu cities. Haridwar, literally meaning the gateway of the Lord, is visited by devout Hindus at least once in a lifetime to get rid of ones sins and purify the body and soul by bathing in the sacred waters of the Ganges. Located on the foothills of Shivaliks, Haridwar is thronged by pilgrims and tourists from across the globe alike. This mystical town of Haridwar opens the windows of the rich Hindu civilization to a person coming from the west. Haridawr has been called by many names in ancient holy texts such as Mokshdwar, Gangadwar, Mayapuri and Kapilsthan.

Haridwar is a holy town which happens to be sanctified by being one of the major Shakteepeethas since times immemorial. Haridwar has also been a major center of Hindu learning, philosophy and culture and arts. Haridwar is one of the oldest cities of India which have continued maintaining the Gurukul tradition of learning. Haridwar is the gateway of the revered char dhams situated in Uttarakhand- Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamnotri.

This revered city is one of the four places where the much celebrated Ardh Kumbha Mela takes place in every six years and the Kumbha Mela in every 12 years. Being enveloped by the Himalayas the holy city of Haridawr looks magnificent. Nature's bounty can truly be witnessed by a traveler here.

The spiritual experience one gets in Haridwar is unparalleled. The daily Ganga arti at Har-ki-pauri, with thousands of pilgrims singing praises of the sacred river with lit up lamps, is something which will leave you completely mesmerized. The spiritual extravaganza is accompanied by a healthy way of living which includes several Yoga and Ayurvedic centers in the city. Haridwar undoubtedly provides one with a kaleidoscope of Indian civilization and culture.

Places to See in Haridwar

The gateway of Gods, Haridwar is undoubtedly a kaleidoscope of Indian civilization and culture. Being blessed by the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh Haridwar holds immense significance for a devout Hindu. The numerous temples dedicated to a host of Hindu gods and goddess is a major puller for the pilgrims. Haridwar also happens to be an ancient shakteepeeth thus again attracting lot of ardent devotees. As it is in Haridwar that the holy Ganges descends in the planes, a large number of Hindus come here to take a holy dip. Read on to know more about the places to visit when in Haridwar.

Hari Ki Pauri
Hari ki pauri ghat was built by King Vikramaditya to commemorate the descending of Ganga after years of difficult prayers and fasting done by his ancestor Bhagirathi. Lord Vishnu is believed to have left his foot prints on a rock at this ghat. Everyday at twilight the Har ki pauri ghat comes to life with singing prayers and lit up lamps along the Ganges where people in hundreds and thousands view this mesmerizing and cleansing ritual. It is believed that the one who bathes at Har ki pauri gets rid of all sins and completely cleanses their soul. Floral tributes and lit up diyas floating on the Ganges is the most enchanting sight one gets at this ghat.

Chandi Devi
Standing atop the Neel Parvat, the Chandi Devi temple was built in 1929 AD by the king of Kashmir Suchat Singh. It is believed that the main statue of goddess Chandi devi, who killed the demon brothers Shumbh-Nishumbh, was laid here in the 8th century AD by Adi Shankracharya. The Chandi Devi temple can now be reached by a ropeway as well.

Mansa Devi
Situated on the southernmost hill of the Shivalik ranges is the Durga temple called Mansa Devi. One can reach this temple either on foot or by a cable car. Perched on Bilwa Parvat, the temple provides a panoramic view of the Haridwar city with the Ganges flowing in its middle.

Sapt Rishi Ashram & Sapt Sarovar
It is at this place that Ganges is believed to have divided itself into seven small streams to not to disturb the Sapt (seven) Rishis meditating and worshipping here.

Bharat Mata Mandir
It is one of its kind temples in Haridwar and is dedicated to Mother India, tracing its history from the times of Ramayana to present day. This eight storied temple houses the pictures and idols of some of the great Indian men from ancient to present times and pictures of the cities of the country. A must visit to get a sneak preview in to the history and culture of India.

Sati Kund
This is the holy place where the wife of Lord Shiva, Mata Sati is believed to have done the ritual of self-immolation. The ghat here is thus famous today as Sati Kund.

Rajaji National Park / Chila Wildlife Sanctuary
The Rajaji National Park, spread over an area of 240 sq km, houses the Chila wildlife Sanctuary and is situated at a distance of 10 km from Haridwar. Situated on the banks of River Ganges, the sanctuary is a haven for a large number of animals. This biodiversity park boasts of nearly 23 mammals and about 315 fauna species. The river in the park houses large number of fishes and fauna in the water. At Chila you can have the pleasure of spotting leopard, tigers, jungle cat, herd of elephants, wild boar, stags, spotted deer, sloth bear, langur, monkeys, woodpecker, king cobra etc. During the monsoons the park remains closed and otherwise it is open after sunrise and closed after dusk.

How to Reach Haridwar

Located at the foot of Himalayan Shivalik ranges, Haridwar is situated in the state of Uttarakhand. Haridwar is close to several major North Indian cities and is about 214 km from the capital city of New Delhi. This revered city of Hindus is visited by millions every year to experience the spirituality and the divinity associated with the place. Find about various ways how you can reach this holy city from different parts of the country and beyond.

By Air
Haridwar does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport to Haridwar is located in Dehradun called the Jolly Grant airport* which is about 35 km away from the city. From Dehradun you can either board a train or hit the road to reach Haridwar. Also one can take a flight to the International Airport at Delhi and from here one can take a train or road journey to the holy city. Jolly Grant airport is presently undergoing renovation and therefore closed for flights

By Rail
The Indian Railways has a railway station at Haridwar which is connected by trains from major cities of India. Reaching Haridwar by train is one of the most convenient and economical means. Trains from Ujjain, Delhi, Varanasi, Bombay, Allahabad, Amritsar, Lucknow and Dehradun all ply regularly to Haridwar. Some of the important trains running to Haridwar are Bombay-Dehradun, Doon Express, Gorakhpur - Dehradun Express, Ujjaini Express, Varanasi-Dehradun Express, Dehradun-Allahabad Link Express, Mussoorie Express (Delhi-Dehradun), Shatabdi Express (Delhi- Dehradun).

By Road
Many inter-state deluxe, semi-deluxe and ordinary buses ply to Haridwar everyday. If you wish to come in a large group you can even book a private bus for coming to Haridwar. For a smaller group private cabs or even your own vehicle can be used to reach Haridwar. In the course of the journey you will find several restaurants, hotels, motels and even garages for servicing of the vehicle.

Goa Holiday Budget Tour Package

2007-10-20T00:47:00.006-07:00

Duration: 17 Nights / 18 Days
Destinations: Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Udaipur - Delhi - Goa - Mumbai

Day 01 : Abroad - Delhi
Arrive at Delhi International airport. On arrival in Delhi, you will be met by our representative and transferred to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 : Delhi
This morning you will be taken to visit Old Delhi - Former centre of Moghul Power, Old Delhi offers ancient monuments, narrow streets and bustling bazaars. Drive past the Red Fort, built in 1648 and board the 'rickshaw ride' for a unique experience from the Red Fort, through "Chandni Chowk" or Silver Street, experiencing the sights and sounds of this very busy avenue heading west from the Fort.

Later visit the Jama Masjid, the greatest mosque in India and completed in 1658 by Shah Jahan who also built the Taj Mahal, and the Raj Ghat, the simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 03 : Delhi - Agra
Morning drive to Agra (203 kms). Upon arrival in Agra - check into the hotel. Afternoon visit the famous Taj Mahal. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04 : Agra
Red Fort - which lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Afternoon visit the beautiful mausoleum of the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah. Overnight at hotel

Day 05 : Agra
Full day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 06 : Agra - Jaipur
Morning drive to Jaipur (221 kms), en route visit Fatehpur Sikri. Thereafter continue drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival in Jaipur - check into the hotel. Overnight at hotel

Day 07 : Jaipur
Morning tour of the impressive Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 08 : Jaipur
Full day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 09 : Jaipur - Udaipur
Morning you would be transferred to the airport for your flight to Udaipur. Depart: Jaipur Arrive: Udaipur On arrival, you would be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10 : Udaipur
Thereafter, city tour of Udaipur - the romantic Lake City in Southern Rajasthan, famous for the stunning white marble Palace built on an island in the Lake Pichola. It was the former Palace of the Maharana and now converted to one of the most glamorous hotels in India. The tour will cover the magnificent City Palace, the Jagdish temple, the pleasure gardens and a drive around the other nearby lakes.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 : Udaipur
Morning excursion to Ranakpur temples - a visit to the famous Jain Temple, dating back to the 15th century. 200 pillars, none of which are alike, support its 29 halls. The Temple abounds with intricate friezes and sculptures. Includes visits to two more Jain temples and the Temple of the Sun God with its erotic sculptures. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12 : Udaipur
Full day at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13 : Udaipur - Mumbai
Morning you would be transferred to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Depart: Udaipur Arrive: Mumbai On arrival, you would be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14 : Mumbai
Morning, one hour boat ride across Mumbai Harbour brings you to the lush green Elephanta Island. Here, visit some of the huge and intricately carved Elephanta Caves that date back to the 8th century. Overnight at hotel.

Day 15 : Delhi - Goa
By Flight
After breakfast transfer to Airport for flight to Goa. Arrive Goa. Afernoon City Tour. Overnight at Hotel

Day 16 : Goa
Day at Leisure for Beach Activities

Day 17 : Goa - Delhi/ Mumbai
Breakfast at hotel. Day activities in Goa. Afternoon transfer to Airport for onward flight to Delhi/ Mumbai for onward journey

Day 18: Mumbai - Departure
Transfer to the international airport for flight back home. Depart: Mumbai.

Budget Pushkar Fair Tour Package With Taj

2007-10-20T00:47:00.003-07:00

Duration: 09 Nights / 10 Days
Destinations Covered: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambhore - Pushkar - Jaipur - Delhi

Day 01 - Arrive - Delhi
Arrive Delhi by international flight. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Check-in time is 12 Noon. Overnight.

Day 02 - Delhi
This morning you will be taken to visit Old Delhi - Former centre of Moghul Power, Old Delhi offers ancient monuments, narrow streets and bustling bazaars. Drive past the Red Fort, built in 1648 and board the 'rickshaw ride' for a unique experience from the Red Fort, through "Chandni Chowk" or Silver Street, experiencing the sights and sounds of this very busy avenue heading west from the Fort. Later visit the Jama Masjid, the greatest mosque in India and completed in 1658 by Shah Jahan who also built the Taj Mahal. Overnight at hotel

Day 03 - Delhi - Agra 204 Km
Breakfast at the hotel, drive to Agra and on arrival,
check-in at the hotel.

Day 04 - Agra
Morning sightseeing tour of Agra.

Agra, the home of the immortal Taj Mahal, the inimitable poem in white marble is the first expression of love of an Emperor Shahjehan for his queen Mumtaz Mahal. This great monument was completed in 1653 AD. Agra Fort, the imposing structure on the banks of the river Yamuna is replete with priceless examples of craftsmanship in the Mughal period, including the beautiful pearl Mosque, it was designed and built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD.

Day 05 - Agra - Ranthambhore drive, 275 km
Morning drive to Ranthambhore visiting enroute Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri, the birth story of this beautiful city is interesting. There, in a grotto in Sikri, lived a Muslim Saint , Sheikh Salim Chishti by name. Akbar hearing of his renown, asked of the blessings of a son, and when a son was born, not only was the child named Salim, the site for a mighty and ambitious project - a city - was chosen near the residence of the saint erected in k1569.

Day 06 - Ranthambhore
Morning and afternoon jeep safari to view wildlife. Main species found: Tiger, panther, hyena, jungle cat, civet, sambar, chital, nilgai, bear, wild boar, partiridge, green pigeon, red spurfowl etc.
Meals and overnight at the hotel.

Day 07 - Ranthambhore - Pushkar drive, 265 km
On arrival, check-in at PUSHKAR RESORT Rest of the day, witness Pushkar fair.

Day 08 - Pushkar
Day at Pushkar Fair.

Pushkar, this sacred town lies 11 km north east of Ajmer and 130 km from Jaipur. According to mythology, Pushkar Lake is supposed to have appeared miraculously when a lotus flower fell from the hands of Lord Brahma and dropped into this valley. On Kartik Poornima, thousands of pilgrims come to bathe in the holy waters of the Pushkar Lake. An annual cattle fair is held every year for 5 days which attract thousands of tourists from all over the world. The fair is overwhelming in its magnitude and its visual impact. Colourful bazaars are set up, camels are paraded and also bought and sold.

Day 09 - Pushkar - Japur drive, 142 km
Morning excursion to Amber Fort, set in a picturesque location. Amer is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Built in the 16th century by Raja Mansingh in red sandstone and white marble, the palace complex has some very interesting apartments. Jai Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, Ganesh Pol and Temple of Kali are some of the prominent areas of interest. Elephants are provided to ascend the fort to visit the complex.

Day 10 - Jaipur - Delhi, 260 km

Budget Pushkar Fair Tour Package

2007-10-20T00:47:00.001-07:00

Duration: 09 Nights / 10 Days
Destinations Covered: Delhi - Agra - Ranthambhore - Pushkar - Jaipur - Delhi

Kerala Backwater Budget Holiday Tour Package

2007-10-20T00:46:00.001-07:00

Duration : 09 Nights / 10 Days
Places to visit : Mumbai - Cochin - Periyar - Kumarakom - Allepey - Marari - Cochin - Mumbai

Day 01: Abroad - Mumbai
Arrive Mumbai International airport. On arrival, the guest will be met by our representative and transferred to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Mumbai
Morning, one hour boat ride across Mumbai Harbour brings you to the lush green Elephanta Island. Here, visit some of the huge and intricately carved Elephanta Caves that date back to the 8th century. For rows of massive columns cut into solid rock from three magnificent avenues, lead to the outstanding three-headed sculpture representing Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer. Dedicated to Shiva, the beauty and power of these phenomenal sculptures depicting the various manifestations of Shiva is overpowering. Afternoon, City tour of Bombay - the great port city with its Victorian Gothic buildings from the British Raj Era mingling with the modern. The tour includes 'Gateway of India' overlooking the Harbour, the 'Towers of Silence', 'Marine Drive', the 'Colaba Causeway' - the commercial heart of Bombay and the Dhobi Ghat, the unique and colourful outdoor 'laundry'. Drive upto the Malabar Hill to the lovely 'Hanging Gardens' and the Kamla Nehru Park from where you will get a wonderful view of Mumbai and the Arabian Sea, spread out before you. Also visit Mani Bhawan, a small museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi, and the bustling Crawford Market. Overnight at hotel

Day 03: Mumbai - Cochin - Periyar
Morning transfer to the airport to connect flight to Cochin Upon arrival, meet & transfer to the hotel for lunch. Thereafter drive to Periyar (190 kms) Upon arrival at Periyar - check into hotel Periyar - Sprawling across 777 sq. kms. of the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats, Thekkady is the home to one of the largest wildlife reserves in India. Alive with exotic flora and vibrant wildlife, it is the perfect getaway tucked away among hills. Spice Village Resort is situated just outside the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This unique and deluxe village resort is set in a spice garden - with 37 cottages of thatched roofs which blend well with the surrounding greenery. Overnight at hotel

Day 04: Periyar - Kumarakom
Early morning boatcruise on the Lake of the famous Periyar wildlife sanctuary to see wild life. Periyar - an artificial lake or reservoir created by a dam on Periyar River is the heart of the Wildlife Sanctuary wild elephants, Asiatic Deer, Black Buck and even Tigers come to shores of the lake for a drink. Return to hotel for breakfast After breakfast a guided walk around the Spice Village to see the various spices grown in the resort garden. Thereafter drive through the winding "Ghats" lined with prosperous tea plantations & then arrive the fascinating countryside of low-lying palms and paddy fields to Kumarakom (190 kms) enroute visit the tea estates. Kumarakom - is a beautiful backwater village on the shores of the enchanting Vembanad Lake, criss crossed with meandering waterways and ancient cottages. A holiday in Coconut Lagoon promises to be different from any other. Every "tarawad" or cottage you stay in is at least a century old, reconstructed piece by piece in accordance with ancient rites of carpentry. Relax at the waterfront, with the occasional native row boat gliding silently by, and the air so calm, you can reach out and touch the sky with your finger tips. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Kumarakom - Houseboat on Backwaters
Morning at leisure at Coconut Lagoon, taking a cruise on the backwaters in traditional country canoes called "vanjis" to see the agricultural activities of the local people living on the back waters. Visit also the beautiful bird sanctuary. Lunch at the hotel Afternoon board the traditional rice boats - "Ketuvallam" and begin your journey through the picturesque backwaters and small lakes relaxing in the tranquillity of Kerala's beautiful scenery. Experience the way of life and activity of the local people, the one bedroom house with a lounge is exclusively for you, meals will be served with freshly bought produce from the local markets and cooked on board. Overnight on board.

Day 06: Alleppey - Marari
Breakfast on board. Sail to Alleppey & disembark at Puthenagady Jetty. On arrival proceed directly to Mararikulam (30 kms) Mararikulam - is one of the picturesque fishing villages that dot the lovely coast line of Kerala. This private, shallow beach is fringed with unending lines of coconut palms. Rest of the day at leisure for own activities and enjoy the facilities of the Resort. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Marari
Full day at leisure for own activities and enjoy the facilities of the Resort. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08: Marari - Cochin
COCHIN - Popularly known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin is the oldest European settlement in India. Frilled with backwaters and rich with old world charm, this city has lured many a great voyager to its shores. Arrive Cochin & check into hotel Tour of Cochin or "Kochi"- the palm green, commercial captial of Kerala is known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea". From time immemorial, Arabs, Chinese, Dutch, British & Portuguese seafarers followed the sea route to Kochi & left their impression on the town. Modern Kochi is thus a splendid mosaic of these myriad influences. Visit the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue, the Church of St. Francis, the Bolghatty Palace & the famous Chinese fishing nets. Afternoon, Harbour cruise - Cochin has one of the finest natural harbours. The backwaters extending to the east & south from the harbour are dotted with tiny islands, formed naturally by alluvial deposits from the rivers. Evening witness the Kathakali dance performance + make up demonstration - Kathakali is a unique dance which has a 2000 year old history with more than 100 different 'mudras' or gesture depicting deities, demons, heroes, heroines and kings - each based on episodes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, the two epic Indian myths. Overnight at hotel

Day 09: Cochin - Mumbai
Morning transfer from hotel to the airport for flight to Bombay. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel near airport. Room till departure. Midnight transfer to the airport for onward flight.

Day 10: Mumbai - Abroad
Leave Bombay Tour Ends

Southern Splendors Budget Tour Package

2007-10-20T00:45:00.000-07:00

Duration : 16 Nights / 17 Days
Places to visit : Chennai - Mahabalipuram - Tanjore - Trichy - Madurai - Munnar - Periyar - Kottyam - Allepey - Cochin - Ooty - Mysore - Hassan - Bangalore

Day 01: Arrive in Chennai
Arrival around midnight, meet and greet at the airport and transfer to hotel.

Day 02: Chennai - Mahabalipuram
Morning city sightseeing, afternoon drive to Mahabalipuram. Overnight.

Day 03: Mahabalipuram
Morning excursion to Kanchipuram, afternoon sightseeing in Mahabalipurm. Overnight.

Day 04: Mahabalipuram - Tanjore
Morning drive to Tanjore, enroute visit Chidambaram and Kumbakoram. Overnight.

Day 05: Tanjore - Trichy
Morning sightseeing, later drive to Trichy, afternoon excursion to Srirangam, evening visit Rock fort temple during sun set. Overnight.

Day 06: Trichy - Madurai
Morning drive to Madurai, afternoon excursion sightseeing evening attend temple ceremony. Overnight.

Day 07: Madurai - Munnar
Morning drive to Munnar, afternoon excursion to Eravikulam Nationalpark. Overnight.

Day 08: Munnar - Periyar
Morning drive Periyar, afternoon at 4 PM boatride on the Periyar Lake to view wildlife. Evening visit spice market. Overnight.

Day 09: Periyar - Kottyam - House Boat - Allepey
Morning 2 hours trekking into NP, later drive to kottyam enroute visit tea plantation and tea factory. Noon check-in houseboat ( Kettuvalom) and ride in the direction to Alleppey. Overnight.

Day 10: Houseboat - Alleppey - Cochin
Explore rural life in the Backwaters. Later disembark at Alleppey and drive to Cochin, evening watch Kathakali Dance performance. Overnight.

Day 11: Cochin
Morning city sightseeing, evening sunset at the Chinese Fishernet. Overnight.

Day 12: Cochin - Ooty
Morning drive to Ooty, afternoon visit bazaar. Overnight.

Day 13: Ooty - Mysore
Morning enjoy toy train ride and proceed by car to Mysore, PM visit Chamundishree temple. Overnight.

Day 14: Mysore - Hassan
Morning city sightseeing including Mysore Palace, later drive to Hassan enroute visit Sriranqapatnam. Overnight

Day 15: Hassan - Bangalore
Morning excursion to the 11th centuary temples on Belur and Halebid. Afternoon drive to Bangalore enroute visit Shravanabelgola. Overnight.

Day 16: Bangalore
Morning city sightseeing, afternoon free. Overnight.

Day 17: Bangalore Departure
Early morning transfer to airport for your onward flight.

Rajasthan Budget Tour Package

2007-10-20T00:41:00.000-07:00

Duration: 10 Days
Places Covered: Delhi - Agra - Samode - Jaipur - Udaipur - Delhi

Day 01 : Abroad / Delhi
Arrive late night at New Delhi International airport.

On arrival, the guest will be met by our representative and transferred to hotel.

Upon arrival at hotel the guests will be provided with the traditional Indian welcome consisting of aarti-tikka and garlands with non-alcoholic welcome drink.

Overnight at hotel

Day 02 : Delhi
Morning sightseeing tour of Old Delhi.

This morning you will be taken to visit Old Delhi - Former centre of Moghul Power, Old Delhi offers ancient monuments, narrow streets and bustling bazaars. Visit the vast Red Fort, built in 1648, the Jama Masjid, the greatest mosque in India and completed in 1658 by Shah Jahan who also built the Taj Mahal, and the Raj Ghat, the simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Afternoon sightseeing tour of New Delhi.

New Delhi - drive past the stately government buildings of the British Era designed by Lutyens, including the India Gate & the Presidential Palace. Continue onto the beautiful Humayuns tomb of the Mughal era & predecessor of the world famous Taj Mahal. End the tour at the towering minaret of Qutab Minar.

Exclusive dinner at 'Chor Bizarre' - a "one of its kind" restaurant where each corner beckons you with old memorabilia and bric-a-brac handpicked from various Chor Bazaars (Thieves' Market) all over India. Apart from the Old World ambience and unique setting, it is the only restaurant that serves the most authentic Kashmiri food from the south of the valley.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 03 : Delhi - Agra
After a leisurely breakfast the guest drive to Agra

Upon arrival check in at hotel.

Late Afternoon you will be board on a decorated tongas (horse carriage) for a journey from your hotel to the Taj Mahal this white marble memorial built by Shah Jahan for his beautiful wife.…… Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist's visit to Agra.

This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from it's stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen. The guest will stay at the Taj Mahal till sunset to see this true wonder of the world in gentle late afternoon light.

In the evening witness magic show. Magic show - There is nothing that captures the magical spirit of the lad as much as the conjuror who enthralls his audience with sleights of had and a range of tricks. Only the adventurous can volunteer to be sawed in half.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 04 : Agra - Samode
After breakfast visit the Red Fort.

Red Fort - lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat.

Drive to Samode enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri.

Fatehpur Sikri - drive to the impressive sandstone fortress of Fatehpur Sikri. The fort was built in the 16th century and only occupied for a few years before being abandoned, leaving the buildings in virtually perfect conditions.

Continue drive to Samode

Upon arrival - check-in at the hotel.

Samode - the small principality of Samode lies 50 kms northwest of the city of Jaipur and dates back to the 16th Century. The 7th ruler of Amber, the ancient capital of the Rajput Empire, had twelve sons, one of whom was awarded the feudatory seat of Samode for his gallantry and outstanding service. The construction of the fort began 400 years ago and each successive ruler added to the fort and the palace.

Samode Palace - The comfortable palace is today full of architectural delights with stately corridors, frescoed walls ethereal audience halls, harmoniously reflecting the skill of master craftsmen. An evening at Samode is a magical experience of former princely India and part of an ongoing tradition.

This evening we shall organise for a candle light dinner at the Sam dunes……The guests will board Camel Cart in the evening and shall be taken for about an hour to the Sam dunes. There you will witness Rajathani dance and music performance (you may just get carried away and start dancing yourself with them), While you enjoy the dance performance, our barman shall make drink of your choice…… which will be followed by a bar-be-que dinner. This will be a low seating candle light dinner on the Sand dunes in Samode (An experience of a lifetime). Return to hotel for an overnight.

Day 05 : Samode - Jaipur
Morning explore the surroundings of Samode villages.
Later drive to Jaipur.
Afternoon city tour of Jaipur.

Tour of the Pink City - Surrounded on three sides by the rugged Aravali hills, Jaipur is the picturesque capital of Rajasthan. It takes its name from the prince, soldier and astronomer Jai Singh II who moved his capital here in 1727. Jaipur is notable for its distinctive pink-orange coloring. The whole of the old city, including many fine palaces and buildings, was constructed from solid blocks of Sandstone or faced with the same stone. But it was only in 1853 that it gained its famous title, the "Pink City"- it was painted pink for the first time in honour of a visit from Prince Albert. You will also visit the 'Hawa Mahal' , the open air Jantar Mantar Observatory to see the vast astronomical instruments. Enjoy a stroll through the colorful bazaar before returning to your hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 06 : Jaipur
After breakfast tour of Amber Fort.

Tour of the impressive Amber Fort, situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb up to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honoured fashion. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years to build and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Moghul ruling families.

Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling bazaars. Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving, semi-precious stones and local crafts which still thrive from the day of Maharaja Jai Singh's patronage when he designed special areas in the city for the 'bandhanas', the 'cheepas' and the 'meenakari' workers.

Dinner and an overnight at hotel.

Day 07 : Jaipur - Udaipur
Transfer to the Airport or flight Jaipur/Udaipur

Upon arrival at Udaipur, the guests will be met and transferred to hotel.

Morning sightseeing tour of City Palace,

Visit the magnificent City Palace, which is simply enormous - an assemblance of not one but four separate palaces covering some four acres of area and exceeding all other palaces for colossal grandeur. Here you will marvel at rooms with mirrored walls and ivory doors, colored glass windows and inlaid marble balconies; and the Peacock Courtyard.

Late afternoon boat cruise on Lake Pichola.

Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Pichola at sunset visiting the Jagmandir Island - in the middle of the romantic Lake Pichola. It commands a magnificent view of the City Palace, Lake Palace and Sajjangarh Fort, on its own island, and it is where Prince Khurram was given refuge in the 17th century

Dinner at the Crystal Gallery at Fateh Prakash Palace hotel is a part of the City Palace Complex which was built in early 20th century during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singhji. It is situated on the shore of Lake Pichola and while eating at the Crystal Gallery you will witness the lit up Lake Palace in the middle of the lake which is such a romantic site.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 08 : Udaipur
Morning city tour of Udaipur.

City tour of Udaipur - the romantic Lake City in Southern Rajasthan, famous for the stunning white marble Palace built on an island in the Lake Pichola. It was the former Palace of the Maharana and now converted to one of the most glamorous hotels in India. The tour will cover the magnificent City Palace, the Jagdish temple, and a drive around the other nearby lakes. then continue on to the Garden of Maidens "Sahelion-ki-bari' and the Folk Art Museum, to view the interesting collection of puppets & paintings.

Afternoon free for own activities and to enjoy the facilities at the hotel.
This evening an exclusive dinner will be arranged on floating platoon on the Lake Pichola.Most romantic dinner on the Lake Pichola with Lake Palace lit up at the backdrop.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 09 : Udaipur - Delhi
Morning transfer from hotel to the airport for fight Udaipur/Delhi

Upon arrival the guest will be met and transferred to hotel.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 10 : Delhi - Abroad
Transfer from hotel to the airport for flight back home.