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| GROUP SIZE |
Maximum 12 people |
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| GROUP MINIMUM |
1 person (all our trips are guaranteed departures) |
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| Adventure Start Date |
Adventure End Date |
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| January 5th |
January 27th, 2010 |
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| February 16th |
March 10th, 2010 |
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| April 20th |
May 12th, 2010 |
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| October 12th |
November 3rd, 2010 |
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| January 4th |
January 26th, 2011 |
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| April 5th |
April 27th, 2011 |
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| October 11th |
November 2nd, 2011 |
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Day 1 Arrival in Delhi
Namaste! Welcome to India! On arrival your Adventure Leader will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. There are no planned activities for today. After your long flight, you may want to freshen up and relax. If you arrive early and feel like going out to see the city, just talk with your Adventure Leader who will be on hand to assist you with directions, give you information on places to see, organize transport and point you in the right direction. Make sure you get plenty of rest today as we will start early in the morning tomorrow. This evening there will be a group orientation meeting complete with traditional North Indian snacks and drinks where you'll have the opportunity to get to know your Adventure Leader and fellow travelers. After our orientation meeting, we'll head out into the heart of Delhi to a local vegetarian eatery for some tasty masala dosas (South Indian crepe stuffed with potatoes & spices). (Snacks, Dinner)
Day 2 Bharatpur
In the morning we set out for Bharatpur, home of the UNESCO World Heritage Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. After checking in to our hotel and freshening up, we'll head into the national park. A haven of wetlands and forests, the sanctuary is home to over 400 species of birds including a selection of herons believed to be among the best in the world, along with a wide variety of other wildlife. We'll explore the park by bicycle or peddle rickshaw (your choice) traversing the back trails of the sanctuary with our naturalist before returning to our hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3 Bharatpur and the Taj Mahal
In the morning after yoga and breakfast, we'll visit the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built in the 16th century by Emperor Akbar, the well-preserved ruins were the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585 AD before being deserted. After exploring this ancient city we'll head out for Agra where we'll visit India's most famous landmark – the stunning Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal of course needs no introduction and is a remarkable mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his favorite wife – Mumtaj Mahal. When one sees it in person understanding its history, the feeling is best summed up in the words of Rabindranath Tagore who described the tomb as “one tear drop…upon the cheek of time”. Returning to our hotel, you'll have time to relax and freshen up before we meet in the evening for snacks, drinks and a vegetarian feast for dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4 Kishangarh
Today we set out into the desert traveling to the kingdom of Kishangarh. Founded by a Jodhpur prince four centuries ago, the kingdom flourished with its military prowess and fortunes earned as a member of the Mughal court. Here we'll be staying at the Maharajah's beautiful monsoon palace built in 1870 just outside the walls of the massive Kishangarh Fort. Set on the banks of the monsoon fed Gundalao Lake, we'll be staying in the palace's lakeside rooms with gorgeous views of the calm waters of the lake. Arriving in the afternoon, you'll have time to relax before we head out on foot into the village exploring the colorful bazaar and centuries old streets of this princely state founded in 1611 AD. During our stay be on the lookout for kites, peacocks, herons and wild ducks that call the nearby fields and monsoon fed lake home. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5 Kishangarh
After yoga we'll set out to learn a little bit about marble. Rajasthan is famous for its marble – you'll see it in temples, homes and palaces and this morning you'll get a chance to find out how it comes to be - from the quarry, to the cutting factory to the final product. After learning about marble we'll head out to the banks of one of India's largest salt lakes, Sambhar Lake, which has provided the local communities with salt for thousands of years. Throughout its history, Rajputs, Mughals and the British alike, have all exploited this rich source of salt. We'll visit the salt works and pans where we'll see salt “farmed” using many of the same methods used centuries ago. If we're lucky we may also see some of the lakes colorful but shy winged visitors, the flamingos. We'll return to the palace for lunch where you'll have time to relax before we meet in the early evening and head out to the nearby village of Roopangarh. Being dropped near the main gate to the old walled town, we'll explore the nearly four centuries old city by foot before arriving at the 1648 built Roopangarh Fort at its center. Entering the fort, we'll climb to the top of its palace where we'll enjoy views of the surrounding desert from the royal terrace over drinks, snacks and local vegetarian Marwari cuisine. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6 Bhadrajun
Today we get an opportunity to experience India well off the beaten track as we travel to the rustic yet charming village of Bhadrajun where we'll be staying as personal guests of the Raja (equivalent of a Lord) at his 16th century palace residence. This picturesque village will be our home for the next three days as we focus on local rural village life, culture and customs. Upon arrival in Bhadrajun, with its palace nestled among the rocky red-tinted desert hills and its delightfully peaceful village, we'll have free time to relax and take in the serenity of rural Rajasthan. As the sun sets over the desert landscape, we'll meet up in the palace dining room for dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7 Bhadrajun
The history of Bhadrajun actually dates back thousands of years and is even mentioned in the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. We start the day with yoga on the palace walls and a hearty breakfast before heading off to visit a local school in a nearby village as guests of the students and teachers. Later we'll return to Bhadrajun and explore the narrow-winding streets of this centuries old village before going by jeeps on safari into the desert to watch sunset from atop a sand dune. As the sun dips off into the arid horizon, we'll continue our journey out to a remote and auspicious Hindu temple that dates back well over 3,000 years for their aarti (Hindu ritual) ceremony. At nightfall we'll return to our palace residence for traditional local drinks and a candlelight dinner as personal guests of the Raja's family. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8 Bhadrajun
After yoga, we'll visit the Bishnois. The Bishnois are strict vegetarians and have been strong environmentalists for centuries. Known for their protection of the trees and wildlife that surround their villages, the Bishnois are self-sustaining and many of their villages, like the one we visit today – look similar to the way they've looked for hundreds of years. For lunch we'll join one of the Bishnoi families at their home for a traditional local vegetarian Bishnoi meal. After lunch we'll head back to the palace where you'll have time to freshen up and relax. In the late afternoon we'll visit a local girl's school where we'll join the students in the popular village game of sitolia. From the school we'll head outside the town to a colorful shepherds village, where brightly attired locals go about their lives much as they have for centuries – their vibrant clothes standing out in stark contrast to the surrounding desert. In the evening we'll return to the royal residence where we'll meet on the ramparts of the palace with breathtaking views overlooking the desert for drinks, snacks, dinner and a colorful evening of traditional Marwari music and dance. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9 Aranyawas
After yoga and breakfast, we drive to the magnificent 15th century Ranakpur Jain temple - one of the five holiest sites in the Jain religion. This awe-inspiring temple sprawls over 48,000 square feet, has 20 domes and is supported by 1,444 pillars. Later, we head up into the Aravalli Mountains, one of the oldest mountain ranges in Asia, to Aranyawas, a serene hillside eco-retreat surrounded by forests, rivers and small villages. This is our home for the next two days, where we stay in cottages with scenic views. Checking in to our hillside chalets, we'll have time to relax or take a dip in the retreats step-well inspired pool. We'll meet in the early evening for a scenic hike around the eco-retreat's gardens before we hit the kitchen for tonight's cooking class. Rolling up our sleeves, we'll all pitch in under the guidance of the chef, where we'll not only learn, but also cook, tonight's meal. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10 Aranyawas
Our journey today takes us to the formidable medieval citadel of Kumbhalgarh. This massive 15th century fortress rises 1,100 meters from a prominent ridge and is encompassed by a 20-mile long defensive wall. It has seven majestic gates, seven ramparts, soaring watchtowers and rounded bastions making it nearly impregnable. It also boasts excellent panoramic views of the Shero Mallah Valley. After spending the early afternoon at Kumbhalgarh, we head back to Aranyawas for a late lunch before hiking through the surrounding fields and forests to a nearby Bhil (local tribe) village. As the evening approaches we'll settle down back at the retreat for a night of Bhil tribal music, dance, drinks and of course - more tasty food! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11 Mount Abu
With lush forests, lakes and a cool climate, it is no wonder why the picturesque town of Mt. Abu, located on the highest peak of the Aravalli Mountains, attracted the ruling elite of old Rajasthan including the British, who made it their summer capital. However, well before they set up shop, sages and saints were attracted by the peak's serenity, making it home to many sacred sites – the most stunning of which is the legendary Jain Dilwara Temples. Dating back to the 11th century, the artisanship of these intricately carved marble temples is nothing less than striking. After the temples, we're off to Guru Shikhar. Standing at 5,676 feet, it is the highest peak between the Himalayas in the north and the Nilgiris in the south. On reaching the top, we'll enjoy brilliant views for sunset before heading back to town where we'll take a stroll along Nakki Lake and have dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12 Ahmedabad
After breakfast we head out for Ahmedabad, the central city and economic capital of Gujarat - one of the staunchest vegetarian states in India. Here we'll visit the grandest of Gujarat's famous step wells, Adalaj Wav. Built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai, the reigning Islamic ruler of the time, Adalaj Wav was a reprieve for the royal family as well as for weary travelers and pilgrims during the long dry summer months. From the step wells we set off for Sabarmati Ashram. Founded by Mahatma Gandhi on the outskirts of the main city, the ashram was the base for the Indian freedom struggle transforming it into a symbol of non-violence and peace. After returning to our hotel and freshening up, we'll go for dinner at one of the city's finest vegetarian restaurants for a pure Gujarati feast. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 13 Sasan Gir
Today we drive across the plains of Gujarat to Sasan Gir and the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary – home of the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lions in the wild. We'll be roughing it out for the next couple of days staying just outside the sanctuary on the edge of the forest in tents where you'll have plenty of time to explore the jungle and its surroundings. Before arriving at Sasan Gir we'll stop at the Mahabat Maqbara in Junagadh. A stunning and intricate catacomb of the former Nawab rulers, the Mahabat Maqbara is one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture found in Gujarat. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 14 Sasan Gir – Safari Tent Camp
The last remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lion, the Gir Forest National Park is a mixture of thick forests, banyan trees, rivers and streams. In addition, the national park is also home to leopards, deer, antelope, wild boar, monkeys, jackals and a plethora of bird varieties. After our morning yoga session down by the creek and breakfast, we'll visit the sanctuary's orientation center where you'll find information and details on the animals of the national park. After lunch we'll hop aboard jeeps and head out into the jungle on safari returning to our camp at nightfall. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 15 & 16 Diu
Leaving the jungle behind, we head out for the western coast of Gujarat stopping at Somnath Temple, a highly sacred Hindu pilgrimage site held in great reverence throughout India. After visiting the temple, we travel to the 15th century colonial Portuguese island settlement of Diu. Nestled off the coast of Gujarat in the Arabian Sea, Diu is a unique fusion of history, sun, sand and sea. The town is a maze of winding streets filled with colorful buildings and ornate cathedrals; the centerpiece being the 1541 built massive and impregnable Portuguese Fort - complete with a moat. We'll spend two days here taking in the relaxed pace of the old settlement including exploring the island's historical sites as well as natural beauty where you'll have plenty of free time to wander around the town, spend time on the beach - or both - whatever you feel up for. (Breakfast (x2), Lunch (x1), Dinner (x2))
Day 17 & 18 Palitana
From the coast of the Arabian Sea we journey inland to Palitana, the most important pilgrimage site in the Jain religion. A faith devoted to strict vegetarianism, Jainism is based on the principals that all living creatures should be treated with mutual respect and no one life is greater than the other. Resting at the foot of Shatrunjaya Hill, Palitana is the base camp town of one of India's most scenic and extraordinary pilgrimage sites. Here we begin our climb up 3,500 steps to the summit where over 850 meticulously carved temples adorn the tranquil spiritual peak, which is complimented by epic views of the surrounding mountains, rivers and valleys below. While here we'll be staying just outside the town at the hundred-year-old royal country retreat of the Gohil Rajputs, where we'll also take time to visit the nearby tribal villages. (Brunch (x1), Breakfast (x2), Lunch (x1), Snacks (x1), Dinner (x2))
Day 19, 20 & 21 Udaipur
After breakfast we set out on the road leaving the plains of Gujarat behind and head back into the desert for the enchanting oasis city of Udaipur. Arriving in the early evening at our home for the next three days, a charming old noble's haveli set alongside the banks of the Lake Pichola, we'll settle into our rooms with picturesque views of the lake, the historical city and Royal Palace. After freshening up, we'll meet on the rooftop where we'll unwind over snacks and drinks while watching the colors of the old city change to night.
Often referred to as the Venice of the East, Udaipur is one of the most romantic towns in India. Surrounded by lakes, rolling hills and rich in history, we'll spend our time here taking in the alluring princely charm of Rajasthan visiting this over four centuries old city's stunning palaces, ancient temples and vibrant bazaars.
One of the highlights of our stay here is our visit to a very special animal rescue organization known as Animal Aid. We'll spend the morning with them out at their base in the village of Chota Hawala where they not only offer a hospital, but also a home for the abused and neglected animals of the city. On our last night we'll sample the tastiest cuisine the oasis town has to offer – a Mewari feast at a local Rajput family's home while enjoying traditional live music and folk dances and sipping on a chilled juice or a cold beer. (Breakfast (x3), Lunch (x3), Dinner (x2))
Day 22 Udaipur - Train to Delhi
After breakfast you'll have the day free to get in any last minute souvenir shopping or just kickback and relax until we meet up in the early evening to catch the overnight train to Delhi. On the way to the railway station we'll stop for dinner before boarding the train. (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 23 Delhi
You arrive in Delhi in the morning by train and your adventure ends after brunch. If you would like to extend your stay at the hotel here or for any onward assistance, please talk with your VegVoyages Adventure Leader who will be more than happy to help. (Brunch)
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