|
Visit the National Gandhi Museum
Examine Gandhi’s life and teachings through artifacts, photographs, and manuscripts. This museum highlights Gandhi’s work through seminars, lectures, and the acquisition of property and other objects associated with the Mahatma.
Visit Raj Ghat
At Raj Ghat—the most famous of the ghats, where leaders and freedom fighters are cremated—see the site of Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation after his 1948 assassination.
Guided sightseeing of Old Delhi
Your guided sightseeing begins at Old Delhi’s 16th century Jama Masjid Mosque. The mosque is one of India’s largest: allegedly, it took 5,000 masons about six years to complete. Today, it continues to function as a congregational Friday mosque. You’ll also visit Old Delhi’s largest monument: Lal Quila, or the Red Fort, so named for its red sandstone walls. The Red Fort is also known as a good source for silver shopping.
Overnight in Delhi
|
Transfer to Agra
This morning, board a train (the shatabdi express) bound for Agra.
Visit Agra Fort
After arriving, visit the nearby Agra Fort, a half-moon-shaped citadel that once served as the seat of the Moghul Empire. The red-sandstone structure held Shah Jahan the final years of his life. The Shah was interned here after his son took over—the Shah could no longer adequately hold power due to his grief over the loss of his wife. Sadly, he spent these years looking out to his majestic Taj Mahal.
Overnight in Agra
|
Visit the Taj Mahal
Wake early this morning to witness sunrise at one of the world’s most fascinating structures—the Taj Mahal. Built in an Islamic theme to represent paradise, the Taj Mahal was created to hold the body of Shah Jahan’s wife, who died during childbirth (it was their 14th). In addition to marble, you will see precious stones brought in from around the world, including jade, crystal, mother-of-pearl, lapis and turquoise, adorning the walls. Construction began in 1632, the year after Mumtaz Mahal died, and nearly 20,000 laborers completed the Taj Mahal in 1653.
Visit Itmud Ud Daulah Tomb
Nur Jahan built this mausoleum for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who held the title “Itmud Ud Daulah” (“Pillar of the State”) during the Mughal Empire.
Overnight in Agra
|
Transfer to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
On your way to Jaipur, visit Fatehpur Sikri (“city of victory”), a city built by Emperor Akbar in the late 1500s to be his capital. A shortage in water forced Akbar to Agra some 15 or 20 years later. Explore the red sandstone buildings, which include the Palace of Jodha Bai (the royal palace named for Akbar’s wife) and the Jama Masjid mosque, the country’s largest.
Arrive in Jaipur
Welcome to Jaipur, capital of the state of Rajasthan. Founded in 1727 by Jai Singh II, Jaipur has long been associated with a rich architectural history. Jaipur’s pink buildings and avenues are a relic from the Prince of Wales’ 1853 visit, when the city was painted pink to welcome him. Also known as the “Gem City,” Jaipur’s bazaars are best known for jewelry of all types.
Yoga Session
After your arrival in Jaipur, participate in a yoga lesson and learn more about this millennia-old practice.
I can't wait for this!!
Overnight in Jaipur
