Indian Educational Tour

Duration : 11 Nights / 12 Days
Destinations : Delhi - Chandigarh - Ropar - Kalka - Shimla - Delhi - Agra - Jaipur - Delhi

India's history and culture is ancient and dynamic, spanning back to the beginning of human civilization. Beginning with a mysterious culture along the Indus River and in farming communities in the southern lands of India. The history of India is one punctuated by constant integration with migrating peoples and with the diverse cultures that surround India. Placed in the center of Asia, history in India is a crossroads of cultures from China to Europe, and the most significant Asian connection with the cultures of Africa.

India's history is more than just a set of unique developments in a definable process; it is, in many ways, a microcosm of human history itself, a diversity of cultures all impinging on a great people and being reformed into new, syncretism forms.

Broadly we can categories Indian history in three stages, i.e. Ancient, Medieval &Imperial.

INDIAN HISTORY AT A GLANCE:
The History of India begins with the birth of the Indus Valley Civilization in such sites as Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Lothal, and the coming of the Aryans. These two phases are usually described as the pre-Vedic and Vedic periods. It is in the Vedic period that Hinduism first arose: this is the time to which the Vedas are dated.

In the fifth century, large parts of India were united under Ashoka. He also converted to Buddhism, and it is in his reign that Buddhism spread to other parts of Asia. It is in the reign of the Mauryas that Hinduism took the shape that fundamentally informs the religion down to the present day. Successor states were more fragmented.

Islam first came to India in the eighth century, and by the 11th century had firmly established itself in India as a political force; the North Indian dynasties of the Lodhis, Tughlaqs, and numerous others, whose remains are visible in Delhi and scattered elsewhere around North India, were finally succeeded by the Mughal empire, under which India once again achieved a large measure of political unity.

The European presence in India dates to the seventeenth century, and it is in the latter part of this century that the Mughal Empire began to disintegrate, paving the way for regional states. In the contest for supremacy, the English emerged 'victors', their rule marked by the conquests at the battlefields of Plassey and Buxar.

The Rebellion of 1857-58, which sought to restore Indian supremacy, was crushed; and with the subsequent crowning of Victoria as Empress of India, the incorporation of India into the empire was complete. Successive campaigns had the effect of driving the British out of India in 1947.

Day 01 : Arrive Delhi
Upon you arrival at Delhi International Airport, our representative will meet you thereafter you will be transferred to hotel.

India’s capital and a major gateway to the country, contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis, which successfully combines in its folds - the ancient with the modern. Amidst the fast spiraling skyscrapers the remnants of a bygone time in the form of its many monuments stand as silent reminders to the region’s ancient legacy. The first impressions for any visitor traveling in from the airport are of a specious, garden city, tree-lined with a number of beautiful parks.

Delhi – A Historical City:
Delhi, where a empire rose and fell before the dawn of history; where citadels of emperors appeared and disappeared; a city of mysterious eternity whose old ruins proclaim a majestic and imperial past and whose present pulsates vibrantly with the ever flowing life of India. The eternal Jamuna bears witness to the glorious and tumultuous 5,000 year old history of Delhi. A history, which begins with the creation of Indraprastha by the Pandavas and the transformation of this barren gift of the Kauravas into an idyllic haven.

A history which encompasses all the various kings and emperors who fixed their royal citadels here-- Indraprastha, Lal Kot, Quila Rai Pithora, Siri, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad, Ferozabad, Dinpanah, Delhi Sher Shahi or then Shahjahanabad. But, combined and integrated into one, these 'new cities' have always been called Delhi and howsoever many names it may have acquired, Delhi has always been intrinsically identified with power and imperial sway. There have been at least eight cities around modern Delhi, and the old saying that whoever founds a new city at Delhi will lose it has come true every time -- most recently for the British who founded New Delhi in 1911.

The historic Purana Qila, which has stood witness to Delhi's rejuvenation, periods of anarchy, and the rise & fall of empires, brings alive history of the capital. Amidst the tranquility of the splendidly panoramic environs of Purana Qila, Delhi's historic and legendary past come to life. After Shah Jahan built Red Fort the attention of administration shifted to gorgeous palaces of the fort. Today the fort is open for the public but only limited area can be accessed. More than half of the fort area has been taken over by the Army. But even what is open to visit reminds one of the splendour and lavish life style which our rulers lived. Delhi has seen the death of many empires and resisted bloody attempts to eliminate her. Nadir Shah had ordered his soldiers to plunder and massacre Delhi. It is said that he got so much wealth from Delhi that he was not able to carry in home. Abdali and Taimur Lane were no different they had tried their best to demolish the city of Delhi but it was some kind of a boon which helped it to regain its lost glory each time Delhi was plundered.

Delhi was the focal point for the first war of independence in 1857. Though the revolt did not reach its desired conclusion, Delhi became a thorn in the eyes of the British. Not only in ancient times or the mediaeval period, Delhi has been the center of any activity at all times. As the Britishers shifted their capital from Calcutta to Delhi, all the activities during the freedom struggle were directed towards Delhi. Thus, Delhi also bears the marks of the freedom struggle. The ultimate goal of the Azad Hind Fauz during the freedom struggle was to capture Delhi and established Swaraj. The slogan 'Dilli Chalo' is still used by leaders and political parties when they oraganise any rally or demonstration. It was the hosting of the Tricolour at Red Fort in Delhi which marked a chapter in the history of India.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 02 : Delhi
After breakfast at the hotel, you will proceed to visit famous Historical sites of Delhi.
Before we proceed to visit the medieval period sights, we will stop at The Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Continue driving to visit the Red Fort – an important site of medieval period. One of the most spectacular pieces of Mughal Architecture. Built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648, the Red Fort has walls extending up to 2 kms in length with the height varying from 18 mts. on the riverside to 33 mts. on the city side. Mughal Emperor Shahjahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and work was completed in 1648. The fort contains all the expected trappings of the centre of Mughal government: halls of public and private audience, domed and arched marble palaces, plush private apartments, a mosque and elaborately designed gardens. Even today, the fort remains an impressive testimony to Mughal grandeur, despite being attacked by the Persian Emperor Nadir Shah in 1739 and by the British soldiers during the war of independence in 1857.

Walk through the historical streets of Chandni Chowk to visit the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was the last architectural extravaganza of the Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan built in the year 1656 AD with the help of 5,000 craftsmen. It was made across the road from the Red Fort. The mosque is also known as Masjid-I-Jahanuma, which means 'mosque commanding view of the world'. The measurement of the mosque is 65 m X 35 m while the courtyard is forms an area of 100 n square. The mosque has the capacity to hold as many as 25,000 devotees.

After the tour of Old Delhi you will proceed to visit the sites of Imperial Delhi. Visit the imposing India Gate - India War Memorial is a monument built by Edwin Lutyens to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the World War I and the Afghan Wars. The foundation stone was laid on 10 February 1921 by the Duke of Connaught. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls. It was completed in 1931. Burning under it since 1971 is the Amar Jawan Jyoti (The flame of the immortal warrior), which marks the Unknown Soldier's Tomb,

Also visit the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President’s residence. The present day Rashtrapati Bhavan was the erstwhile residence of the British Viceroy. Its architect was Edwin Landseer Lutyens. The decision to build a residence in New Delhi for the British Viceroy was taken after it was decided in the Delhi Durbar of 1911 that the capital of India would be shifted from Calcutta to Delhi in the same year.

In the afternoon a lecture by research scholar on Indian History will be arranged for you.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 03 : Delhi
After breakfast you will proceed to visit the National Museum, New Delhi, today, has in its possession over 2,00,000 works of exquisite art, both of Indian and Foreign origin covering more than 5,000 years of our cultural heritage. Its rich holdings of various creative traditions and disciplines which represents a unity amidst diversity, an unmatched blend of the past with the present and strong perspective for the future, brings history to life.

HARAPPAN CIVILISATION
This gallery was jointly set up by the Archaeological Survey of India and the National Museum. It has a rich collection of a large number of artifacts from the sites of Harappan Civilisation. The collection includes pottery, seals, tablets, weights and measures, jewellery, terracotta figurines, toys, etc. It also has copper tools from Harappan sites like axes, chisels, knives, etc. About 3,800 objects have been displayed in the modernized Harappan Gallery from the National Museum collection. This Gallery also has 1,025 excavated artifacts belonging to the Indian Harappan site of the Archaeological Survey of India collection.

ARCHAEOLOGY
A prestigious collection of approximately 800 sculptures have been displayed in the Archaeological Galleries on the ground floor, the rotundas on the ground, first and second floors and around the museum building.
The sculptures displayed are mostly in stone, bronze and terracotta, dating from the 3rd century B.C., through the 19th century A.D., representing all major regions, periods and schools of art.

BUDDHIST ART
An added attraction is the gallery on Buddhism: A spiritual journey, with the focus on the sacred relics of the Buddha (5th-4th century B.C.) unearthed from Piprehwa, Distt. Basti and outstanding specimens of Buddhist Art as a global movement, is illustrated through 84 exhibits in stone, bronze, terracotta, stucco, wooden sculptures and painted scrolls or Thankas from Nepal, Tibet, Central Asia, Myanmar, Java and Combodia, representing the three principal Buddhist forms - Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana. Of special importance are the images of Kapardin Buddha from Ahichchhatra, Buddha - pada (footprints) from Nagarjunakonda, Distt. Guntur in Andhra Pradesh and Buddha's life scenes from Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh as well as ritualistic objects from the trans-Himalayan reign. These objects stimulate a sense of devotion, dedication and love for humanity.

INDIAN MINIATURE PAINTINGS
The Museum has in its possession the rich heritage of Indian Miniature paintings. These belong to major styles such as, Mughal, Deccani, Central Indian, Rajasthani, Pahari and many other sub-styles relating to the period from 1000 A.D. to 1900 A.D. It also includes paintings on palm leaf, cloth, wood, leather, painted manuscripts, covers on wood and hardboard and Thankus on canvas, etc. The major theme of these miniatures are Jain Kalpasutra, the epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagwatpurana, Durgasaptasati, Jaideva's Geetgobind, Ragamala, Baramasa, Panchatantra and Vishnu Purana. A few Indo-Islamic manuscripts such as Shahnama and Baburnama are also noteworthy. The portraits of medieval kings, rulers and saints are also part of this large heritage. The gallery displays selected 352 exhibits for public view.

DECORATIVE ARTS
The gallery brings to light for the first time 232 exclusive decorative arts artifacts, which are dated from 18th-20th century. All these utilitarian and decorative objects are made with different material, i.e. ivory, jade, glass, wood, marble, metal and ceramic. A magnificent ivory temple shrine, finest enameled and filigree work in silver, exquisite designed silver huqqa, wooden peacock and copper inscribed degcha (cooking vessel) are the few important pieces in the gallery.

PAINTINGS FROM TANJORE AND MYSORE
This gallery presents the two famous schools of South India-Tanjore and Mysore for viewers. The important themes are displayed in this gallery : lndian mythology, stories from epics, various gods and goddesses. Fifty paintings are on display which show a fine admixture of tradition and spiritual aspect of Indian Art from South India. The technique, how to make a Tanjore painting is also displayed with the help of seven pictures

PRE-COLUMBIAN AND WESTERN ART
Pre-Columbian and Western Art collections were gifted mostly by Mrs. and Mr. Nasli Heeramaneck of U.S.A. These art objects covered mostly the pre-1492 A.D. period when Christopher Columbus unknowingly reached this part of the world in search of the new sea route to India and South-East Asia. In this gallery most of the objects belong to Mexico, Peru, Maya, Inca, North-West coast of America, Panama, Costa Rica and El Salvador. Apart from these some objects of Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Egypt and some objects of Germany and France are also displayed in the gallery. About 252 exhibits are on display.

ARMS AND ARMOUR
The Museum has one of the finest collections of Indian Arms and Armour comprising edged weapons, projectiles, smashing weapons, armour for men and animals, ornamental, sacrificial and ritual weapons, fire arms and war accessories. The collection is predominantly Mughal in addition to Maratha, Sikh, Rajput and Hindu arms which are also well represented. The Arms embellished with damascening, enamelling, filigree work or those inscribed or studded with semi-precious and precious stones are in the collection. This gallery has been modernized by displaying 500 exh

In the afternoon you will proceed to visit some more important medieval period sights of Delhi our first stop will be the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. Qutub-ud-din Aibak started it in 1199. Pulling down 27 Hindu and Jain temples and using their columns erected the attached Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque also built by him.. Then visit Humayun’s tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, it is an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style, a precursor of the Taj Mahal.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 04 : Delhi - Chandigarh
Early morning Our representative will transfer you to Railway station to board train for Chandigarh.
Departure: Delhi at: 0740 Hours By: Shatabdi Express
Arrive: Chandigarh at: 1100 Hours
Upon arrival you will be assisted and transfer to hotel.

Chandigarh –City Beautiful:
Chandigarh is a great vision of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru realized through the genius of French architect Le Corbusier and his team. Chandigarh, derives its name from the temple Chandi Mandir located in the vicinity of the site selected for the city. The deity Chandi, the goddess of power and a fort or 'garh' lying beyond the temple gave the city its name.

Chandigarh is India's youngest city and is capital of Punjab and Haryana, two of the most flourishing states. Chandigarh has a history of 50 years only and its foundation stone was laid in the year 1952.

Chandigarh is a Union Territory. It means that the City is under the direct administration of the Government of India and not constituted as a state with its own legislative assembly.

After you settle down at your hotel, you will proceed to visit the Government Museum.
Of the various multi-dimensional Museums in India, the Government Museum and Art Gallery at Chandigarh occupies a very distinctive position for not only its unique collection of the objects, but also for other reasons as well. Situated in the heart of the city planned by Le Corbusier, and very close to the city center in beautiful view of the Shivalik range of mountains, the Museum has a very sprawling and spread out campus at one side of which is located the Government College of Art. The Museum building is an attraction in view of the fact that Le Corbusier himself designed it. The Museum was inaugurated on the 6th May, 1968 under the initiative and active support of Late Dr. M.S. Randhawa, renowned connoisseur and patron of art, and the then Chief Commissioner of Chandigarh. Later a few other buildings were added in view of the growing need of the Museum's expansion. The campus in which the Museum is situated is surrounded with selective trees adding grandeur to the campus. The vast expanse of the courtyard of the Museum is dotted with some contemporary sculptures suitable for environmental display.

The Museum has three wings of which the largest and the most imposing is doubtless the building of the Art Gallery. Another wing constitutes the Natural History Museum and the City Museum. The latter documents the different stages of development from the inception to the present stage of the city of Chandigarh.

The City Museum
On display here one can have the glimpse of the original documents pertaining to the planning and evolution of the city, and also of some rare plans, sketches and relevant photographs prepared by Master Planner of the City. The detailed information about this City Museum can be had from a beautifully published handbook for the Museum which is on sale at its reception counter.

The Natural History Museum
In 2001, in a landmark decision, the existing museum of Evolution of Life was upgraded to its present status as the Natural History Museum with five major sections:

• Cyclorama of Evolution of Life
• Nature in Art section
• Manuscript section
• Evolution of Man section
• Dinosaurs of India section

Return to the hotel after the tour.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 05 Chandigarh - Ropar - Chandigarh
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to nearby city Ropar (40 Km / 01 Hrs) to visit the excavations sites of Harappan Civilization.

Rupar is a 21 metre high ancient mound overlaying the Shiwalik deposition on the left bank of the river Sutlej where it emerges into the plains. It has yielded a sequence of six cultural periods or phases with some breaks from the Harappan times to the present day. The migration of the Harappans to Rupar has been postulated through the lost Saraswati River to the Sutlej as both the river once belonged to one system.

Period I - At Rupar excavation, the lowest levels yielded the Harappan traits in Period 1, which falls in the proto-historic period. A major find was a stealite seal in the Indus script used for the authentication of trading goods, impression of seal on a terracotta lump of burnt clay, chert blades, copper implements, terracotta beads and bangles and typical standardised pottery of Indus Valley civilisation. They flourished in all the Harappan cities and townships. The earliest houses at Rupar were built with river pebbles available in abundance but soon they made use of cut slabs of lime with the same ratio of 4:2:1. Sun baked bricks were sometimes used in the foundations. Houses were built to suit climatic conditions. Walls were plastered with built to suit climatic conditions. Walls were plastered with water repelling sticky clay. In the north, flat roofs were common but deep-pitched roofs were used along the west coast - Bengal and Assam - due to heavy rainfall. The dead were buried with head generally to the north and with funerary vessels as unearthed in cemetery R-37 at Harappa (Sind, Pakistan). What led the Harappans to desert the site is not known.

Period II - belongs to Painted grey ware people who followed the Harappans. Typical pottery of this period consisted of fine greyware painted black, terracotta bangles, semi precious stones, glass, bone arrowheads, ivory kohl sticks and copper implements. This period is identified as the period belonging to the Great War Epic - Mahabharata. A new settlement sprang up here by about 600 BC - chronologically Period III at Rupar. Grey pottery of Period II still continued. This period belongs to circa 600 BC to 200 BC. It yielded the earlier coins (punch marked and uninscribed cast coins), copper and implements. An important find was an ivory seal inscribed in Mauryan Brahmi script (4th and 3rd century BC). Minutely carved and polished stone discs with a figure and motif associated with the cult of the Mother goddess of fertility have also been unearthed in the excavations from Taxila (now in Pakistan), Patna in the state of Bihar and other Mauryan sites. Houses of mud and kiln burnt bricks were by no means rare. A 3.6 metre wide burnt brick wall traced to a length of about 75 mts probably endorsed a tank which collected water through inlets. The upper levels have soak wells lined with terracotta rings of Sunga and Kushana periods.

Period III To V - From Period III to V there are fairly rich dwelling complexes with houses of stone and mud bricks. The full plans of the houses could not be exposed owing to the vertical nature of excavations carried out.

Period IV - The next phase, Period IV revealed the evidence of the Sungas, Kushans (also spelt as Kushana) and Guptas and their successors. Excavations also revealed successive building levels of various dynasties. In the upper levels a hoard of copper coins of Kushan and Gupta rules were found. This includes a gold coin issued by Chandragupta-Kumerdevi of the Gupta dynasty, which is also known as the golden age in ancient Indian history. A large number of terracotta figurines of Sunga, Kushana and Gupta periods were also discovered. Among them was a Yakshi figure with cherubic expression and a beautiful seated figure of a lady playing on the lyre reminiscent of Samudragupta’s figure in a similar position on the famous gold coins of the Gupta dynasty. A set of three silver utensils for ritualistic purpose with Greek influence depicts the fine craftsmanship of the Gupta dynasty in its chased decoration.

The pottery of this period in the upper levels is for the most part red ware and is frequently decorated with incised motifs. After a short break, there is evidence of a fresh occupation identified as Period V commencing around the early 6th century and continuing for three or four centuries. The coins of Toramana (circa AD 500) and Mihirakula (circa 510-40) have been recovered from these levels. The spacious brick building of the fifth period were constricted neatly and evidences showed a good measure of prosperity during this period.

Probably after desertion, a new town sprang up here around 13th century AD on the same site named Period VI and it continues to flourish to the present day.

An archaeological site museum has been set up to house some of the antiquities of Rupar along with the photographs displaying excavation material.
Return to Chandigarh after the visit.

Afternoon visit the famous Rock Garden of Chandigarh. A 40-acre park of paths, courtyards, plazas, waterfalls and thousands of lively sculptures made from recycled materials, the Rock Garden was built in complete secrecy in dense forest outside the city of Chandigarh, India, over four decades. Nek Chand began collecting materials for his Rock Garden in 1958. Construction began in 1965 and was ongoing until recently. The Rock Garden was opened to the public in 1976.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 06 : Chandigarh - Kalka - Shimla
After breakfast you will be driven to Kalaka Railway station to board Hill train Himalaya Queen for Shimla – a colonial city.

Departure: Kalka at: 1210 Hours By: Himalayan Queen
Arrive: Shimla at: 1720 Hours

The Kalka - Shimla train journey popularly called 'Toy Trains' is very famous among tourists. Meandering on these trains is a galvanizing experience as one passes through the breathtaking landscapes of majestic Himalayas, tunnels/ bridges and lush green valleys embellished with pine, oak trees, leaving a long lasting memory of rhapsody and triumph.

The train is one of the most unique railway tracks of the world. It is said that this railway line has been first sketched in November 1847, almost 50 years before, it was actually constructed.

This magnificent train was inaugurated by the British viceroy, Lord Curzon in November 1903, almost covering the distance of 96 km from Kalka through the curving tracks, up to Shimla hills- the summer capital of colonial India. The toy train trek from Kalka to Shimla is adorned with resplendent panorama of the valley and the picturesque stations along the way. The train passes through 103 tunnels, 969 bridges, 919 curves and 20 railway stations in its entire journey.

The Guinness Book on 'Rail Facts and Feats' included Kalka-Shimla Railway as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in India.
Upon arrival you will be transferred to hotel.

Shimla – Queens of Hills:
Shimla came into existence in 1819, after the Gurkha War, when a thickly wooded spot, then known for the temple of goddess `Shyamala' was discovered by the British. Its climate commanded itself to British officers on leave and remained a summer village of tents for about three years. It was only in the year 1822 that Captain Kennedy constructed the first double storey building here known as the Kennedy House. Lord Amherst, the first Governor General who visited Shimla, in 1827 stayed at the Kennedy House. It was during Lord William Bentinck's time that Shimla was truly acquired by the Government of India. The old Dak Bungalow of Shimla was demolished to provide a site for the Bentinck Castle, which is today the famous Grand Hotel. Soon Shimla became the summer capital of the British Indian Government. Lord Bentinck's successor Lord Auckland, chose a residence on the northern eastern spur of the Shimla range which was known as the Auckland House. The Auckland House, one of the oldest houses of Shimla, was a scenario of brilliant balls and theatricals.

The British made Shimla their summer capital in 1864 and it remained so until 1939. The summer exodus of the officials from the plains, however, ended after 1947. Shimla continued to serve as a temporary capital of the east Punjab until the new city of Chandigarh was completed. It has remained the capital of Himachal Pradesh ever since 1966.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 07 : Shimla
After breakfast you will proceed to explore the colonial past of this beautiful hill station.
Walk down on the Mall, from this central area, the town spills downwards, with winding roads linking up settlements and stone steps connecting each layer. The Cart Road encircles the base of the main settlement, and is the highest motorable road of Shimla. The Mall is open only to pedestrians only. The Mall is the main shopping area of Shimla, lined with shops selling woollen garments and shawls, handicrafts, departmental stores, eateries and old colonial timber houses. There is a palpable change of character from the times when the Mall was strictly out of bounds for all natives except royalty, to the noisy and very Indian crowds that walk down it today.

Dominating the eastern end of the Ridge is the Christ Church, which was consecrated in 1857. It is a prominent yellow painted building with a Victorian-Gothic spire. Inside, some of the finest stained glass windows in India depict faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility. Next to the church is the mock-Tudor Library, built in 1910. It has a collection of historical books and subscribes to most English language dailies.

On the other extreme of the central square is the Scandal Corner. The place got its curious name after the daughter of a high-ranking British officer eloped with a Patiala prince from here. The place is now dominated by a statue of the Punjabi freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai and groups of local people gather here in the afternoon for some casual chit-a-chat.

Afternoon visit the most impressive colonial edifice of Shimla is the Viceregal Lodge, now known as the Rashtrapati Niwas (President’s House). Sitting on the flat top of Observatory Hill, this Elizabethan mansion was built in 1888 for Lord Dufferin. It now houses the Institute of Advanced Studies, and is open only in some parts to the public. The grey building still retains its grandeur, with a lion and unicorn guarding the entrance, immaculate lawns and original brass fire hydrants from Manchester.

The lodge has a chapel and an indoor swimming pool. Inside, the rooms have rich woodcarvings and wooden panelling. The ballroom has now been turned into a library, while the conference room has photographs of Jawaharlal Nehru, Mohammad Ali Jinnah and Mahatma Gandhi in consultation during the run-up to independence. The lodge also has a botanical garden and a café. Towards the rear is a stone terrace with a view of some major Himalayan peaks. There are streams running down from top of the hill, flowing into the Sutlej, Yamuna and Ganga.

Our last stop will be the Jakhu Temple, sitting on top of Jakhu hill at 2,455 metres is the highest point on the ridge. This temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, is quite appropriately beset with hordes of very aggressive monkeys. It is best to steer clear of them and keep all eatables well out of reach.
Return to your hotel after tour.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 08 : Shimla - Kalka
Following breakfast morning is at leisure. Later, you will be driven to Kalka Railway station (90 Km / 3 Hrs) to board train for Delhi.

Departure: Kalka at: 1730 Hours By: Shatabdi Express
Arrive: Delhi at: 2140 Hours
Upon arrival you will be met Our representative who will transfer you to hotel, where you will proceed for check-in.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 09 : Delhi - Agra
After breakfast you will be driven to Agra (204 Km / 4 ½ Hrs), upon arrival check-in at the hotel.

Agra – Medieval Wonder:
Although Agra is an ancient city in India’s heartland, but in terms of ambiance is still associated with its Mughal period. Agra has a rich historical background, which is amply evident from the numerous historical monuments in and around the city. The earliest reference for Agra comes from the epical age, when Mahabharata refer Agra as Agravana. In the sources prior to this, Agra has been referred as Arya Griha or the abode of the Aryans. The first person who referred Agra by its modern name was Ptolemy.

Though the heritage of Agra city is linked with the Mughal dynasty, numerous other rulers also contributed to the rich past of this city. Modern Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodhi (Lodhi dynasty; Delhi Sultanate) in the 16th century. Babar (founder of the Mughal dynasty) also stayed for sometime in Agra and introduced the concept of square Persian-styled gardens here. Emperor Akbar built the Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri near Agra. Fatehpur Sikri remained his capital for around fifteen years after which the city was left isolated in mysterious circumstances. Jahangir beautified Agra with palaces and gardens despite spending most of his time in Kashmir with which he was passionately attached.

Agra came to its own when Shahjahan ascended to the throne of Mughal Empire. He marked the zenith of Mughal architecture, when he built the Taj in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. In his later years, Shahjahan shifted his capital to the new city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi and ruled from there. Shahjahan was dethroned in 1658 by his son, Aurangzeb who imprisoned him in the Agra Fort. Aurangzeb shifted the capital back to Agra till his death. After the death of Aurangzeb, Mughal Empire could not touch its peak and many regional kingdoms emerged. The post-Mughal era of Agra saw the rule of the Jats, Marathas and finally the British taking over the city.
Rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 10 : Agra
After breakfast you will proceed to visit the important sites of Medieval period
Our first stop will be the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays). The Taj Mahal is everything that has been said about it and more. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried 200 miles away and was transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, in mid 17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world. Though the Taj appears to be amazingly perfect from almost any angle, it is the close-up marble inlay work, which is really astounding. You will have ample time to view and be mesmerized by this outstanding piece of architecture.

Continue to visit the Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture. Agra Fort - the seat and the stronghold of the Mughal Empire under successive generations. This was the seat of Mughal rule and administration and the present structure owes its origins to Akbar who erected the walls and gates and the first buildings on the eastern banks of Yamuna River. Shah Jehan added the impressive quarters and the mosque while Aurangzeb added the outer ramparts. Visit its Hall of Public Audience and its Royal Pavilions.

Also visit Itmad-ud-Daula. The tomb of Itmad-ud-daulah in Agra is believed to have inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. The tomb Itmad-ud-daulah was built much earlier then the Taj Mahal. The tomb was built by Nur Jahan, wife of Jehangir for her father Mirza Ghiyas-ud-din or Ghiyas Beg.

The life of Ghiyas-ud-din Beg makes an interesting read. Ghiyas-ud-din Beg was a poor merchant from Persia (now Iran). On his way to India, his wife gave birth to a baby girl. Since he was extremely poor, he decided to abandon the baby. However wails of the baby made them to take her back. The baby brought good fortune to Ghiyas Beg, who found a caravan that took him to the court of the Mughal emperor Akbar. As time passed, Ghiyas Beg became the chief minister during the reign of Jehangir. He was honoured with the title of Itmad-ud-daulah, which means 'Pillar of the State'.His daughter grew up to be a beautiful lady and was married off. But her husband died soon after her marriage and she came back to her father in the court of Jehangir. Jehangir fell in love with her and married and she was known as Nur Jahan. Ghiyas Beg died in 1622 and Nur Jahan decided to build a mausoleum for her father. The tomb of Itmad-ud-daulah is built entirely in white marble.
Return to your hotel after sightseeing tour.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 11 : Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to Jaipur (230 KMS / 06 Hrs) en-route visiting Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city, built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16th century. It was abandoned soon after it was built when the local wells went dry and it remains today in much the same condition that it was over 300 years ago. It is complete with palaces and mosques and used to be a town larger than London when it was originally constructed. Now it is an extraordinary place to wander around with its buildings in near perfect condition.

After your visit, continue your drive to Jaipur and upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel.

Jaipur – A Rajputana Kingdom:
Jaipur state, which existed from the twelfth century until Indian Independence in 1947, took its name from the city. The maharajas of Jaipur belonged to the Kachwaha clan of Rajputs, claiming descent from Rama, king of Ayodhya. The Jaipur state is said to have been founded about 1128 by Dhula Rai, who hailed from Gwalior; he and his Kachwaha kinsmen are said to have absorbed or driven out the petty chiefs. The original capital was Amber. The ruling dynasty of Jaipur provided the Mughal empire with some of their most distinguished generals. Among them were Raja Man Singh, who fought in Orissa and Assam; Jai Singh, commonly known by his imperial title of Mirza Raja, whose name appears in all the wars of Aurangzeb in the Deccan; and Jai Singh II, or Sawai Jai Singh, the famous mathematician and astronomer, and the founder of Jaipur city.

Towards the end of the 18th century the Jats of Bharatpur and the chief of Alwar each annexed a portion of the territory of Jaipur. By the end of the eighteenth century the state was in great confusion, distracted by internal broils and impoverished by the exactions of the Marathas. The disputes between the chiefs of Jaipur and Jodhpur had brought both states to the verge of ruin, and Amir Khan, an Afghan adventurer who was leader of the Pindari raiders, was exhausting the country.

By a treaty in 1818 the protection of the British was extended to Jaipur and an annual tribute fixed. In 1835 there was a serious disturbance in the city, after which the British government intervened. During the Revolt of 1857, the maharaja assisted the British.
Rest of the day is at leisure.

In the evening a lecture on history of Rajasthan and princely architecture will be arranged for you.
Overnight at the hotel

Day 12 : Jaipur - Delhi by Flight
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven just outside Jaipur to the ancient capital of Amber to see the fabulous Amber Fort. Maharaja Mansingh, Mughal Emperor Akbar’s most successful General, started the construction of Amber Fort in the 17th century.

Before the City Palace was constructed in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. The fort is surrounded by fortified battlements and overlooks the Moat Lake. Ruins and remains are spread over the Aravalli hills and sprawling crenulated walls lattice the surrounding area.

An elephant (alternatively by jeeps) will spare you the trouble of reaching up to the fortress. Once on top, stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls. Many of the rooms have delightful wall paintings, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid in the walls. Most fascinating, perhaps, is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) where a single lamplight is reflected in the many mirrors, lighting up the room.

Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. It is really an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily goings on in the street below. It is extremely intricate in its pink sandstone carving. The cool wind blows through its facade of windows and latticed screens through which the queens of the court once viewed the streets of the Jaipur include the City Palace, which is an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armoury, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings. Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur, built in 1726 and is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day. You will also have the opportunity to wander about the local markets. Return to your hotel after the sightseeing tour of Jaipur City.

Following breakfast morning is at leisure.
ate you will be driven to Delhi by surface. Upon arrival straight drive to the International airport to board flight for onward Destination.