DAY 05: JAIPUR–AGRA (approx. 6 hours drive)
After breakfast, depart the hotel and drive to Agra. En route visit Fatehpur Sikri to visit this deserted city.
Fatehpur Sikri - the deserted red sand stone city that was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was dramatically abandoned a few years after it was built. It was a veritable fairy tale city and its ‘ruins’ are still in a pristine condition. It is not hard to imagine what the court life must have been like in the days of its grandeur.
After visiting Fatehpur Sikri continue the journey to Agra and upon arrival check into the hotel. Evening is free for independent activities. Overnight, stay at the hotel.
Agra - In the 16th and 17th centuries, Agra was the capital of the grand Mughal Empire. During this period the city became a leading centre of art, science, commerce and culture. Akbar the Great made Agra great. The city’s origins are dim but Akbar’s grandfather Babur is credited with Agra’s founding. The short golden age of Agra came to an end with the seventeenth century reign of Shah Jehan, mastermind of the unforgettable Taj Mahal.
DAY 06: AGRA
After breakfast proceed for a half day city tour of Agra visiting world famous Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal, that magnificent monument to love - built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had Lahori blinded and his hands cut off, so he would never duplicate the structure. What makes the Taj Mahal unique is its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. It is impossible to visualise the Taj Mahal in any surrounding other than its paradoxical garden. Paradise, in Islam, is visualised as a lush garden where running streams flow. When the Mughals brought this concept to India they elevated it to heights of incomparable artistry.
Later proceed to visit Agra Fort and the city. At the impressive Agra Fort you are taken through the chambers of this royal residence. As you drive through the city, witness the local life and bazaars and the hustle bustle of everyday India. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.
DAY 07: AGRA–DELHI (approx. 5 hrs drive)
After a leisurely breakfast drive to Delhi. Arrive Delhi and check into the hotel. This evening is free for independent activities, shopping etc. Overnight, stay at the hotel.
DAY 08: DELHI
After breakfast at the hotel the day is free for independent activities. Check out from the hotel at 1200 Noon.
(Your luggage will be kept safe.)
Later transfer to the International Airport to connect with your flight for onwards destination.
DAY 09: DELHI
Early this morning you will depart Delhi for your return home.
Tour ends
Important note:
Taj Mahal, Agra will remain closed on Every Friday.
Red Fort, Delhi will remain closed on Every Monday
Please plan the dates accordingly.
HOTELS ENVISAGED (or similar, depending on availability):
City Category ‘A’ Category ‘B’ Category ‘C’
Delhi The imperial – Heritage Room Le Meridien – Premium Room The Connaught – Standard Room
Jaipur Jai Mahal Palace – Luxury Room Samode Haveli – Deluxe Room Clarks Amer – Standard Room
Agra Mughal Sheraton – Executive Rm Le Meridien – Deluxe Room Clarks Shiraz – Standard Room
Delhi The Imperial – Heritage Room Le Meridien – Premium Room The Connaught – Standard Room
TOUR COST
On application for the current Tour Cost
Where prices are quoted in US$, the UK pounds price shown is based on current exchange rates.
Payment
1. Acceptance Payment £150 (non refundable) by cheque payable to “S W & M Miller”
Your Contract for all tour arrangements is directly with Creative Travel Delhi, India to whom payment for the tour is made.
2. Eight weeks prior to arrival in India (or on Acceptance) - 50% of the cost is payable in US $, by Credit Card or International Bank Transfer, direct to Creative Travel, India.
3. On arrival in India – the remaining 50% is payable, in US $, by Credit Card or Cash.
Cancellation Charges
35 days prior to arrival a cancellation fee of US$200 per person will be applicable.
30 days notice of cancellation a fee of 25% of the total amount will be applicable.
25 days notice of cancellation a fee of 50% of the total amount will be applicable
Less than 25 days notice incurs the full amount.
Acceptance Payment non refundable
Included in the Cost
- Accommodation on a twin sharing, room and breakfast basis at the hotels specified,
- Any single room subject to a supplement shown.
- All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by air-conditioned car.
- Services of an English speaking local guide at all places
- Entrance fees at monuments (except camera fees)
- Cycle Rickshaw ride during Old Delhi visit
- Camel rise in Jaisalmer
- Boat cruise on Lake Pichola
- Jeep Safari in Jodhpur
- Elephant ride at Amber fort in Jaipur (subject to operating) or jeep.
- Porterage at airports and hotels (not tips).
- All currently applicable taxes.
- Prices quoted in US$ and the UK pounds price shown is based on current exchange rates.
Excluded from the Cost
- Expenses of a personal nature such as table drinks, laundry, telephone calls, Internet charges, mineral water, tips, shopping etc.
- Any other meals or services not mentioned in the programme.
- Any international airfare or any airport taxes.
- Any Government or State taxes subsequently introduced.
- Travel Insurance
- Any Christmas or New Year Dinner
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