INDIAN SOUJOURN 9nts

Destinations: Mumbai, Vadodara, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, Sawai Madhopur, Delhi 

Mumbai

Mumbai is built on what was once an archipelago of seven islands. Between 1661 and 1666 the islands were placed in the possession of the English Empire. Over the years of British rule the islands were merged via landfill to become the area known today as Mumbai. India gained independence from Great Britain in 1947; and in 1995 Bombay was returned to its original name of Mumbai named after Goddess Mumba Devi. One of the most popular places to visit is the Gateway of India which was built during the colonial era to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911. Once representing the grandeur of British Empire, it was also the place from where the last troop of British regiment marched at the time of independence. Another place to visit is Marine Drive - a C-shaped 3 km stretch of road lined with palm trees overlooking the Arabian Sea. At night when the streetlights come on it resembles a necklace and is often referred to the Queen's Necklace. This is one of the best places for a walk with refreshing breezes and numerous stalls and restaurants. Perhaps visit the Rajabai Clock Tower which is an 85-metre-tall tower resembling London's Big Ben, and Bombay High Court which is one of the oldest High Courts in India, and it's a UNESCO-recognised site.

Vadodara

Discover Vadodara, one of Gujarat’s most vibrant cultural and historical cities, renowned for its royal heritage, beautiful architecture, and thriving arts scene. Formerly known as Baroda, the city is home to the magnificent Laxmi Vilas Palace, an opulent royal residence set within expansive gardens. Visitors can explore fascinating museums, historic landmarks, bustling markets, and picturesque parks, including the popular Sayaji Garden. With its blend of rich history, modern development, and warm hospitality, Vadodara offers an authentic glimpse into Gujarat’s cultural legacy and is an excellent destination for history lovers, families, and travellers exploring western India.

Udaipur

Udaipur, the ‘City of Lakes,' is one of Rajasthan's most romantic destinations, renowned for its shimmering lakes and majestic palaces. Nestled among the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur boasts the stunning Lake Pichola, the iconic City Palace, and vibrant bazaars filled with handicrafts. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on serene waters, explore ornate temples, and savor authentic Rajasthani cuisine. With its royal heritage and breathtaking scenery, Udaipur is a must-visit for culture lovers and luxury travellers.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur, known as the ‘Blue City' of Rajasthan, is a captivating destination set against the edge of the Thar Desert. Dominated by the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur boasts stunning blue-painted houses, bustling bazaars, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Umaid Bhawan Palace, ancient temples, and enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine. With its vibrant streets, historic architecture, and desert charm, Jodhpur is a must-visit for travellers seeking authentic Rajasthan experiences.

Jaipur

The Amber Fort is a classic, romantic Rajasthani Fort Palace. The rugged, time-ravaged walls of the Fort not only look beautiful from the outside, but the interior is a virtual paradise. Miniatures painted on the walls depict hunting and war scenes, apart from festivals. Precious stones and mirrors are embedded into the plaster. Inside the Jag Mandir is the famed Sheesh Mahal - a room with all the four walls and ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirror pieces, which were specially imported from Belgium during that period. En route to Amber Fort, you will have a brief photography stop at Hawa Mahal - the Palace of Winds.In Jaipur city you can also visit Maharaja's City Palace, the former Royal residence, part of it has been converted into a museum. A small portion is still used by the Royal family of Jaipur. Built in the style of a fortified campus, the palace covers almost one-seventh in area of the city. One of the major attractions in the museum is the portion known as the Armoury Museum housing an impressive array of weaponry-pistols, blunderbusses, flintlocks, swords, rifles and daggers.The royal families of Jaipur once used most of these weapons. Later visit the Jantar Mantar, which is the largest stone and marble crafted observatory in the world. Situated near the gate of the city palace, the observatory has 17 large instruments, many of them still in working condition."Step into the kaleidoscopic world of Jaipur, the Pink City pulsating with history and heritage, on a captivating crafts, cuisine, and bazaar walk. Meandering through its vibrant streets, delve into the heart of Jaipur's cultural tapestry. Witness the skilled artisans of the bangle makers community & their meticulous craftsmanship that defines Jaipur's identity. Amidst the lively bazaars, the irresistible scent of local delicacies beckons, offering a flavourful journey through Rajasthan's culinary landscape. Bypass Jaipur's oldest known temple and the first school, guesthouse of the Pink city.

Agra

Visit Mehtab Bagh (Moonlit Garden), on the east bank of Yamuna River. Mehtab Bagh is one of the eleven Mughal-built gardens along the Yamuna offering the beautiful view of Taj Mahal. The park was set up by Emperor Babur, way before when Taj Mahal was built. The park has now been reconstructed to its original grandeur and is today a good location to view the Taj Mahal.

Landscape artists meticulously planned the replanting of trees, plants and herbage to match the original Mughal Gardens, replicating the riverside gardens brought to India from Central Asia. 81 kinds of plants adopted in Mughal horticulture including Guava, Maulshri, Kaner, Hibiscus, Neem, Bahuinia, Ashoka, Jamun and some citrus fruits have been planted. The Taj Mahal is living example of greatest love story ever told.

On the death of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, in wild extravagance, Mughal emperor Shahjehan built her this memorial. 20,000 men laboured for over 17 years to build this wealth of white marble and precious stone. (Closed on Fridays). Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest Mughal forts in India. Built in the 11th century, an era marked by invasions and battles, this red stone-fortified castle was also the site of India's Rebellion of 1857.

Sawai Madhopur

Discover Sawai Madhopur, a historic town in Rajasthan, India, best known as the gateway to the world-famous Ranthambore National Park. Combining rich heritage with exceptional wildlife experiences, the town offers visitors the chance to explore the majestic Ranthambore Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside one of India’s premier tiger reserves. Surrounded by rugged hills, lakes, and forests, Sawai Madhopur is renowned for its thrilling safari adventures, diverse wildlife, and opportunities to spot the elusive Bengal tiger. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and cultural travellers alike.

New Delhi

Delhi, being the national capital of India is the lifeline of the country. A place where past greets the future and lives calmly is worth a detailed visit. Whether it's inviting markets of the Connaught place or the crowds of foodies at world famous Chandni Chowk, Delhi has food to satiate your taste buds and lovable locales to entertain your senses. A place where all important national offices reside has a mixture of multilingual population coming to work and earn its living. Ancient Mughal era remnants like Humayun ka Makbara and magnificent Qutub Minar spell the historical importance of this ancient soil. Delhi has old world charm as well as modern lifestyle necessities to cherish at its every nook and corner. The banks of river Yamuna serve as a rich platform for the flourishing culture.