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Discover the very best of Rajasthan in 11 nights on an exciting group tour! Explore the hues and contrasts that define India as you travel from Delhi, the historical center and modern capital of India, to Agra, where the glimmering white Taj Mahal towers over bustling streets and wooded forests. In Jaipur, ride to an ancient fort upon the back of an elephant before discovering a pink paradise in town; then continue on to Udaipur to see majestic palaces as they seem to float in green-watered lakes. Next, you find yourself in Jodhpur, the Brahmin's Blue City, where you can stroll through its gardens protected by an impressive fort. Finally, witness a glorious sunset over the sand dunes of Jaisalmer's desert. When you return to Delhi after 12 days of adventure and relaxation, you will have truly experienced all of the vibrant Colors of Rajasthan.
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Itinerary :
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The national capital territory of Delhi is situated between the Himalayas and Aravalis Ranges in the heart of the Indian sub-continent. Delhi is considered one of the most historic capitals in the world, and two of its monuments — the Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb — have been declared World Heritage Sites. Exploring Delhi is both rewarding and fascinating. The most visited places in Delhi include the majestic Red Fort, the historical Chandni Chowk, as well as Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana -- modern structures constructed after India's Independence in 1947.
The city was built and destroyed seven times and has been witness to the various events which have brought India through the history books. It is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi (then called Indraprastha) around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.
As a commercial hub, Delhi has many shopping areas to offer its tourists. Visit the upscale avenues of Connaught Place, or go to Delhi Haat for handicraft goods. Don't forget to stop at Janpath Market for a variety of inexpensive traditional and souvenir items to bring home to your friends and relations.
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Arrive in India’s capital city of Delhi and let the experience begin! A traditional welcome marks the start of your magnificent journey before you are transferred from the airport to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure resting and relaxing from your long flight and stay overnight at the hotel.
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- Day
2
- Explore Old and New Delhi
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The national capital territory of Delhi is situated between the Himalayas and Aravalis Ranges in the heart of the Indian sub-continent. Delhi is considered one of the most historic capitals in the world, and two of its monuments — the Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb — have been declared World Heritage Sites. Exploring Delhi is both rewarding and fascinating. The most visited places in Delhi include the majestic Red Fort, the historical Chandni Chowk, as well as Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana -- modern structures constructed after India's Independence in 1947.
The city was built and destroyed seven times and has been witness to the various events which have brought India through the history books. It is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi (then called Indraprastha) around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.
As a commercial hub, Delhi has many shopping areas to offer its tourists. Visit the upscale avenues of Connaught Place, or go to Delhi Haat for handicraft goods. Don't forget to stop at Janpath Market for a variety of inexpensive traditional and souvenir items to bring home to your friends and relations.
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After breakfast this morning, proceed for a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bazaars that have been the center for the spice and cloth trades for centuries in Old Delhi. This portion of your tour is an amazing contrast to your private tour of modern New Delhi later in the day, where you may visit such places as the historic Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Qutab Minar, Parliament House, and Birla Temple. The evening is free to spend at your leisure.
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- Travel to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal
Agra, which lies on the west bank of river Jamuna, became one of the principal cities of the Mughal Empire, as the capital of the Emperor Shah Jahan and his beautiful Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Its beautiful monuments and the rich presence of color and harmony make it a place worth visiting at least once. But the most important of Agra's tourist attractions and its main claim to fame is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the pride of India. Taj Mahal is considered as one of the eight wonders of the world. The architecture alone has inspired reams of rapture over the years. Other tourist attractions in Agra include the Rambagh and Dayalbagh Gardens, Chini ka Rauza, and Jama Masjid. Agra Red Fort, an elegant military structure constructed by Akbar (but partially converted into a palace by Shah Jahan), gives you a feel of Agra's rich past.
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Depart Delhi this morning after breakfast and drive to Agra. Upon arrival, check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Agra Fort and Sikandra's Tomb, followed by a visit to the magnificent marble Taj Mahal, which glitters in the moonlight.
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- Day
4
- Travel to the "Pink City"
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Agra, which lies on the west bank of river Jamuna, became one of the principal cities of the Mughal Empire, as the capital of the Emperor Shah Jahan and his beautiful Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Its beautiful monuments and the rich presence of color and harmony make it a place worth visiting at least once. But the most important of Agra's tourist attractions and its main claim to fame is the magnificent Taj Mahal, the pride of India. Taj Mahal is considered as one of the eight wonders of the world. The architecture alone has inspired reams of rapture over the years. Other tourist attractions in Agra include the Rambagh and Dayalbagh Gardens, Chini ka Rauza, and Jama Masjid. Agra Red Fort, an elegant military structure constructed by Akbar (but partially converted into a palace by Shah Jahan), gives you a feel of Agra's rich past.
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The royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26 miles west of Agra, was built at the orders of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It is predominately built in red sandstone. The Emperor buildt a magnificent city as an act of gratitude to a saint, made it the capital of his empire, and then, due to the shortage of water supply, the pristine complex was abandoned. This deserted city has two complexes. The first has the royal enclosure of the palaces and the official buildings. And the second dargah of a Sufi saint, with a mosque and a lofty gateway.
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Jaipur is one of the most beautiful cities in India. In 1876, Jaipur dressed itself in pink to welcome Prince Albert and Queen Elizabeth II, and thus the nickname “Pink City” is still attributed to it. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, the desert state in India, which is famous for its majestic forts, opulent havelis, beautiful lakes and sand dunes. It is also home to gold and silver jewellery made in the “Kundan” and “Meenakari” traditions, which are now world famous. The city also has an excellent infrastructure to support the tourism. Jaipur has some of India's best hotels, which compliment the scenery and architectural beauty of the Pink City.
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Awaken early this morning to enjoy an unforgettable sunrise view of the most opulent wonder of the modern world - the Taj Mahal. Return to the hotel for breakfast and depart by road for Jaipur. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned Mughal palatial complex of Emperor Akbar. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check into your hotel and spend your evening at leisure.
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- Day
5
- City tour of Jaipur
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Jaipur is one of the most beautiful cities in India. In 1876, Jaipur dressed itself in pink to welcome Prince Albert and Queen Elizabeth II, and thus the nickname “Pink City” is still attributed to it. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, the desert state in India, which is famous for its majestic forts, opulent havelis, beautiful lakes and sand dunes. It is also home to gold and silver jewellery made in the “Kundan” and “Meenakari” traditions, which are now world famous. The city also has an excellent infrastructure to support the tourism. Jaipur has some of India's best hotels, which compliment the scenery and architectural beauty of the Pink City.
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This morning after breakfast, begin your tour of Jaipur with an elephant ride to the top of Amber Fort. After lunch, embark on a guided sightseeing tour of the "Pink City" visiting such places as Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), the City Palace and Museum, Jantar Mantar Observatory and Albert Hall Museum. You are treated to dinner tonight accompanied by a cultural show.
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6
- Journey to Chittaurgarh
Chittaurgarh is located about 112 km from Udaipur in a country strewn with rocky cliffs, monsoon streams, and pleasant fields. The fort is studded with several historical monuments and memorials, the most important being Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha's Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera and Kumbha Shyam Temple etc. The fort has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles in the Indian history.
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After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, check out and embark on the drive to Chittaurgarh. Enjoy the views from the window as the colorful countryside passes by. Check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
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- Day
7
- History revisited in Chittaurgarh and Udaipur
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Chittaurgarh is located about 112 km from Udaipur in a country strewn with rocky cliffs, monsoon streams, and pleasant fields. The fort is studded with several historical monuments and memorials, the most important being Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha's Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera and Kumbha Shyam Temple etc. The fort has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles in the Indian history.
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Udaipur is known as the Venice of the East and is also called the City of Lakes. It is certainly an oasis in the landscape of Rajasthan, with blue waters surrounded by beautiful green hills. Udaipur has been the capital of the world's longest ruling dynasty - the Sisodias of Mewar. The temple of Eklingji, the patron deity of Udaipur royal family is worth visiting as are the nearby Sas-Bahu temples at Nagda. Lake Pichola is one of the central attractions of Udaipur. The grand City Palace sits on the banks of the lake and the Monsoon Palace on the hills nearby. All palaces in Udaipur are located on its banks or over its waters. It is quite rare to find any other body of water in the world having so many historic buildings as part of its premises.
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A morning excursion to Chittaurgarh gives you an insight into the historic charm of Rajasthan. The massive Chittaurgarh Fort sits high upon a hilltop and symbolizes the glory, bravery and nobility of the Rajput tradition. Later this afternoon, drive to Udaipur, the serene “City of Lakes.” Visit City Palace and Museum, Sahileyon Ki Bari (Garden of Royal Ladies), Jagdish Temple and Bhartiys Lok Kala Mandal. Check in to your next luxurious hotel and stay overnight.
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8
- Discover the temples of Ranakpur en route to Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the Sun City in Rajasthan, is another fascinating destination for tourists. It is also called the "Blue City", due to its many blue-painted houses. Impressive forts, flawless havelis and a splendid culture welcome you into Jodhpur in Rajasthan. See the grand Mehrangarh Fort, amazing Jaswant Thada, tribal settlements, temples and other entrancing and unique attractions.
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Your private chauffeur driven car awaits to take you to Jodhpur. En route, visit the famous temples of Ranakpur, including a white marble Jain temple with over 1,400 exquisitely carved pillars and distinctive domes and turrets.
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- Day
9
- City tour of Jodhpur
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Jodhpur, the Sun City in Rajasthan, is another fascinating destination for tourists. It is also called the "Blue City", due to its many blue-painted houses. Impressive forts, flawless havelis and a splendid culture welcome you into Jodhpur in Rajasthan. See the grand Mehrangarh Fort, amazing Jaswant Thada, tribal settlements, temples and other entrancing and unique attractions.
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Enjoy a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Jodhpur, a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several bastions. Rediscover the heritage of Rajasthan at the rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort, Mandore Garden and the impressive Umaid Bhawan Palace.
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- Day
10
- Travel to Jaisalmer, "Jewel of the Thar"
Jaisalmer is located in the middle of the desert in the western portion of Rajasthan state. Tourist attractions in Jaisalmer are a constant reminder of the city's golden past that sparkles with tales of valor and courage. The surrounding region, once a princely state, consists almost entirely of sand, forming part of the Great Indian (Thar) Desert. A visit here is incomplete without venturing on a Camel safari. The heart-stirring yellow sandstone Jaisalmer Fort and the exotic Gadi Sagar Tank, which was, at a certain point of time in history, the only source of water supply for Jaisalmer, are two memorable sites. Jaisalmer has also become a popular destination for desert safaris in present times, rivaling other such expanses in Africa and elsewhere.
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Today, depart Jodhpur for Jaisalmer, a jewel of a city set in the heart of the Thar Desert. Enjoy an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam and witness an explosion of color as the sun sets against the golden dunes.
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- Day
11
- The desert experience at Jaisalmer
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Jaisalmer is located in the middle of the desert in the western portion of Rajasthan state. Tourist attractions in Jaisalmer are a constant reminder of the city's golden past that sparkles with tales of valor and courage. The surrounding region, once a princely state, consists almost entirely of sand, forming part of the Great Indian (Thar) Desert. A visit here is incomplete without venturing on a Camel safari. The heart-stirring yellow sandstone Jaisalmer Fort and the exotic Gadi Sagar Tank, which was, at a certain point of time in history, the only source of water supply for Jaisalmer, are two memorable sites. Jaisalmer has also become a popular destination for desert safaris in present times, rivaling other such expanses in Africa and elsewhere.
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Jodhpur, the Sun City in Rajasthan, is another fascinating destination for tourists. It is also called the "Blue City", due to its many blue-painted houses. Impressive forts, flawless havelis and a splendid culture welcome you into Jodhpur in Rajasthan. See the grand Mehrangarh Fort, amazing Jaswant Thada, tribal settlements, temples and other entrancing and unique attractions.
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Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer, whose temples, forts and palaces are constructed mainly out of yellow sandstone. See the Patwon Ki Havelis, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and Gandhi Sagar Tank before returning to Jodhpur later this afternoon.
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Jodhpur, the Sun City in Rajasthan, is another fascinating destination for tourists. It is also called the "Blue City", due to its many blue-painted houses. Impressive forts, flawless havelis and a splendid culture welcome you into Jodhpur in Rajasthan. See the grand Mehrangarh Fort, amazing Jaswant Thada, tribal settlements, temples and other entrancing and unique attractions.
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The national capital territory of Delhi is situated between the Himalayas and Aravalis Ranges in the heart of the Indian sub-continent. Delhi is considered one of the most historic capitals in the world, and two of its monuments — the Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb — have been declared World Heritage Sites. Exploring Delhi is both rewarding and fascinating. The most visited places in Delhi include the majestic Red Fort, the historical Chandni Chowk, as well as Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana -- modern structures constructed after India's Independence in 1947.
The city was built and destroyed seven times and has been witness to the various events which have brought India through the history books. It is believed that the Pandavas, the heroes of the epic Mahabharata, originally founded Delhi (then called Indraprastha) around 1200 B.C. Present day Delhi is built around the ruins of seven ancient cities.
As a commercial hub, Delhi has many shopping areas to offer its tourists. Visit the upscale avenues of Connaught Place, or go to Delhi Haat for handicraft goods. Don't forget to stop at Janpath Market for a variety of inexpensive traditional and souvenir items to bring home to your friends and relations.
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This morning after breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi or to your next destination as you recall the exciting adventures and marvelous sights of the past twelve days which remain forever as cherished memories.
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Travel Tips & FAQ's
What is the best time to travel to Rajasthan?
Rajasthan is a colorful destination with many activities, fairs and festivals throughout the year. The most visited time is September to mid-April. Starting at the end of April, it will get hot and the rains occur from late July to August. In the summer months (May to August) the temperatures can reach over 40 degrees Celsius and may be even higher in Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and other areas closer to the desert.
What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to India?
A passport with validity at least six months beyond your departure from India is required. Also, visas must be obtained prior to arrival in India. If you are a US citizen, please follow this link for details on obtaining an Indian Visa: https://www.indian-visa.com/. If you are not a US citizen, Please visit www.mea.gov.in, click on "Welcome" and then under "MEA Links" at the right, click on "Missions and Posts Abroad" and then click "Consulate Generals". You can then select your appropriate Consulate General office and link directly to its website, where detailed visa information and application forms can be found.
Where and when are meals taken?
All breakfasts are a la carte and are served at your hotel. Lunches and dinners are usually not included unless specified. During your tour, your escort will have a list of hotels and restaurants where our guests typically enjoy lunch or dinner. We have tried our best to identify these based on our experiences and that of other travelers since quality and safety of food is an important factor while traveling. Your attendant / escort will go over the list of these establishments with you and recommend you best option. You would be able to choose the location depending on the availability and feasibility during your tour.
If I have a specific diet restriction or preference, will you be able to accommodate my request?
All efforts are made to accommodate reasonable diet preferences. We communicate the requests to the hotels and restaurants where you would be eating and your request should generally be honored and ready. However, it is always better to re-coordinate the requirements with our escort / attendant who will be able to ensure the establishments know about your requirements. We also request you to re-inform the establishment about your requirement at the time you go for meals to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
Can you provide a wheelchair if I need assistance on the sightseeing tours?
Wheelchairs and attendants are available but the arrangements must be made well in advance. Please do let us know and we will be happy to arrange for this. If there is an additional charge, it will be communicated to you depending on your exact requirements. Please be aware that sightseeing vehicles and many monuments are not fully wheelchair accessible. Therefore, it will be beneficial if the party can stand and walk at least a few steps with assistance for entering/exiting vehicles and maneuvering within certain monuments.
What kinds of hotels are used?
We use the best properties available in each location, only standard, deluxe, and luxury, 4- or 5-star hotels such as Taj, Oberoi, Imperial, Intercontinental and Hiltons, which give you good value, best security and hygiene conditions, and excellent service. In order to maintain our high standards of safety and security for our clients, we do not deal with low-end or budget hotels. We want you to enjoy every moment of your trip and not worry about your person or your belongings.
Please contact us if you would like to replace a hotel that we are using in the itinerary so we may provide you a price comparison and recommendation. Please look at the "Accommodation" tab for this tour in order to see the list of hotels used.
What airlines are used for domestic flights?
We use Jet Airways, Jet Lite, Kingfisher and at times (if needed for big groups) we use chartered aircraft.
The tour ends in Delhi, but I would like to go to Mumbai instead. Does the tour cost change?
The tour cost itself does not change, as airfare is not included in the cost. Please advise us of which city you would like to fly to at the end of your tour and we can quote you the additional costs for the airfare.
What is the recommended gratuity?
Gratuities are solely at your discretion, and should reflect your enjoyment of the journey and your satisfaction with the quality of service provided. As a general guideline, per day, a tip of $10 for the driver and $5-$10 for the guide is appropriate.
Are doctors available at all times?
We have identified qualified doctors in each destination you visit. These doctors are available in any case you need emergency medical attention. The hotels that we use usually have their own panels of on-call doctors available to their guests. In any case, please let the escort / attendant / anyone in our ground office know immediately if you feel unwell or think you are going to need medical attention.
What is the travel time between each city?
Delhi - Agra is about 5 hours by car, depending on local traffic conditions
Agra - Jaipur is about 5 hours by car, plus the time taken for sightseeing in Fatehpur Sikri
Jaipur - Chittorgarh is about 6.5 hours by car, depending on local traffic conditions
Chittorgarh - Udaipur is about 2 hours by car
Udaipur - Jodhpur is about 6 hours by car
Jodhpur - Jaisalmer (and return trip) is about 6.5 hours by car
Jodhpur - Delhi is by air which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes
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Do I need a Visa for India?
All visitors to India need a Visa
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All prices quoted in U.S. Dollars ($) per person
| Class | Dates | Single Rate | Double Rate | Triple Rate |
| Luxury |
| For departures April 16,2012 through September 14,2012 | $6,172.00 | $3,423.00 | $3,747.00 |
| For departures September 15,2012 through April 15,2013 | $8,627.00 | $4,672.00 | $5,242.00 |
| Maharaja |
| For departures April 16,2012 through September 14,2012 | $2,720.00 | $1,541.00 | $1,326.00 |
| For departures September 15,2012 through April 15,2013 | $3,850.00 | $2,108.00 | $1,683.00 |
| Royal |
| For departures April 16,2012 through September 14,2012 | $2,432.00 | $1,370.00 | $1,107.00 |
| For departures September 15,2012 through April 15,2013 | $3,082.00 | $1,703.00 | $1,341.00 |
PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (INR) and are subject to change based on exchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. An option to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.
1. Royal class includes accommodation at Hanz Plaza in Delhi or similar, Taj Gateway Hotel in Agra or similar and Country Inn & Suites in Jaipur or similar as per the itinerary.
2. Maharaja class includes accommodation at Hilton Garden Inn in Delhi or similar , Taj Gateway Hotel in Agra or similar and Jai Mahal Palace Hotel in Jaipur or similar as per the itinerary.
3. Luxury class includes accommodation Hotel Taj Palace in Delhi or similar, The Oberoi Amarvilas in Arga or similar and Taj Rambagh Palace in Jaipur or similar as per the itinerary
Your tour price includes:
- Breakfast at all locations per the itinerary
- Domestic bottled water during sightseeing
- Arrival and departure transfers with assistance
- All sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide for all sightseeing
- Entrance fees to all monuments and cultural events as per the itinerary
- Still & video camera charges at all monuments
- Baggage handling
- Elephant ride to Amber Fort in Jaipur
- Entrance to the Taj Mahal for two visits (one evening, one morning)
Your tour price does not include:
- Any international or domestic airfare
- Any airport departure taxes
- Any lunches and dinners
- Travel insurance or Mediclaim
- Any alcohol, beverages, laundry, telephone calls, gratuities, or other items of a personal nature
- Any compulsory holiday dinner or celebrations imposed by the hotels
- Any expenses not specifically mentioned as included
OPTIONAL UPGRADES:
- Please contact us about upgrading your room categories
- You may choose to hire a car with driver and optional guide for your "at leisure" times
- Additional night(s) in your choice of Delhi hotels available at special rates through Palace Tours
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