Today arrive New Delhi, capital of modern India. Many dynasties and rulers have flourished on its regal soil over the last 3000 years. The legacy still survives in many monuments varying from the 13th century mausoleum of the Lodi Kings to the buildings of British India's imperial past like the Parliament House and the Presidential Estate. On arrival you will be met & transfered to hotel. Overnight stay at Delhi.
Today proceed on a guided tour of Old Delhi. Visit Red fort - Shah Jahan shifted his capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad and laid the foundation of Red Fort. It took nine years to build this mighty citadel and it got completed on 16th April 1648. Rajghat - cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most visited sites in Delhi. Jama Masjid - Shah Jahan, as his final architectural extravagance, built one of the largest mosques in India. Stroll through the colourful bazaars of Chandni Chowk. Later tour of New Delhi, drive past Safdarjang's Tomb (1753 AD) while we are on the way to the Qutab Minar (1193 A.D.). This striking medieval tower of victory, built by the slave dynasty, is 73 m high. Within the Qutab complex, amidst the ruins of Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, stands the Iron pillar which has stood the vagaries of weather and has not rusted for over 1500 years. Later drive through the Embassy area, Diplomatic enclave, stop for a quick photo shoot at India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan (Presidential Estate formerly Viceroy's House).
Early evening drive to Agra (4 hrs) - the ancient city once the capaital of the Mughal empire in the 16th & 17th century,depicts a gorgeous panaorama of majestic architectural creations and a rich tradition of art and culture. Agra houses one of seven wonders of the world, the marble symphony of Emperor Shah Jahan - "The Taj Mahal". Discover the dazzling creations of their craftsmen in other architectural marvels in Agra, the quintessential Mughal City. On arrival check in. Overnight stay at Agra.
Morning visit Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays) - the mausoleum of Empress Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved spouse of Shah Jahan, who died in 1630. Considered the finest example of Mughul architecture - a style that combines elements of Persian, Turkish, Indian and Islamic elements. Continue your tour to Agra Fort, the original red sandstone fort built by Moghul Emperor Akbar in 1565. The Forts maze of courtyards, its marble mosque and lavish private chambers reflect the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565 A.D, although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jahan. Visit Akbar's Mausoleum at Sikandra, which is a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture, like the emperor himself.
Post lunch tour Fatehpur Sikri - Emperor Akbar's 16th century abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri, this ghost town is remarkably well preserved and presents a perfect synthesis of Muslim, Hindu and Jain architecture. The sculptured columns bear mute testimony to this gallant experiment to unite Hindus and Muslims. Continue your drive to Jaipur - the capital of Rajasthan, this picturesque city is a symphony in pink, a color which signifies hospitality in Rajput culture. Built by Raja Jai Singh in the 18th century, it is surrounded by hills topped with rugged fortresses and dotted with fairy tale palaces. Ambling camels and brightly dressed locals, reflect Jaipur's desert heritage while the teeming markets display a profusion of handlooms and crafts. Come visit the city of love, legends and lore. Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Early today embark on excursion to Amber Fort, here you are transported bak in time, riding royally atop elegantly draped and painted elephants to the mountain fortress of Amber, situated about 11 kms from Jaipur and was the ancient citadelof the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, before the capital was shifted to the plains, the present day Jaipur. The interior wall of the palace depicts expressive painting scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror setting. Enroute visit Palace of Winds, the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh built this Palace of winds. This is easily the most well known landmarks of Jaipur and is also its icon. Continue touring, visit Jantar Mantar, one os the five observatories in India, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. This is one of the largest and the best preserved . City Palace & Observatory - located in the heart of walled city, the City Palace Complex gives you an idea about the far sightedness of the founder of Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. The palace is a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture and the ex-royal family still lives in a part of the palace. Evening is at leisure. Overnight stay at Jaipur.
Bid farewell. Today we transfer to Jaipur airport for your onward flight.
