Taj with 4 philosophies of turquia

A Travelastu representative will meet you upon your arrival at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Delhi, the capital of kingdoms and empires, is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of past and present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the complex culture of an ancient land and a window into a wonderful kaleidoscope—that is, India.

After a good night's rest at the hotel and breakfast, we will visit the Lotus Temple, renowned for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Akshardham : Akshardham signifies the eternal, divine abode of the Supreme God, the abode of the eternal values ​​and virtues of Aksha. According to the Vedas and Upanishads, Akshardham represents a place where divine bhakti, purity, and eternal peace prevail. Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi encapsulates 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom, and bliss.

Overnight in New Delhi.

After breakfast, we begin our tour of Old Delhi.

The tour starts with a visit to Raj Ghat , a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. We then pass by the Red Fort from the outside and continue to Jama Masjid , one of the largest mosques in Asia, by bicycle or rickshaw

. Enjoy the rickshaw ride in Old Delhi.

Imperial Delhi will include the Qutub Minar , the tallest tower in India . The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate , the Parliament Building , and Rashtrapati Bhavan , the President's residence . Overnight in Delhi.

By air

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Dharamshala.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Check-in.

The residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is surrounded by high walls and is located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the valley. In addition to the Dalai Lamas' residences, the complex also includes the offices of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Free time to explore the local markets.

Overnight in Dharamshala.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Tour of the Dalai Lama Temple , followed by a view of His Holiness's residence from the outside.

Mentsee Khang Museum of Tibetan Medicine : This institute, founded by the 13th Dalai Lama, is dedicated to developing Tibetan medicines and oils and studying astrology.

Tibetan Parliament and Museum : A tour of the Tibetan Parliament and Museum showcases the Tibetan struggle for freedom.

Norbulingka Institute : The Tibetan Institute is the first institute in the world to offer courses in Tibetan arts and culture. Located near His Holiness the Dalai Lama's residence, the Norbulingka Institute has been established on the hill station since 1754. The Institute derives its name from the Dalai Lama's summer residence; Norbulingka means "Jewel Garden." The Norbulingka Institute houses three academies: the Center for the Arts, the Academy of Tibetan Culture, and the Literary and Cultural Center. The Institute is famous for producing Tibetan gift items, paintings, woodwork, metalwork, fashion accessories, silk paintings, furniture, Buddhist artifacts, and much more.

Gyuto Tantric Monastery : Gyuto Tantric Buddhism, originally from Tibet, was established in Dharamshala after the Chinese invasion. Gyuto monks are famous for their chanting and mantras.

Aghanjar Temple of Shiva with the River : The beautiful temple of Shiva with a cave and a small river. A place to enjoy and meditate.

Overnight in Dharamshala.

By road 205 km in 5-6 hours:

Breakfast at the hotel.

Travel to Amritsar.

Arrival and check-in at the hotel.

Amritsar , home to the Golden Temple, is one of India's oldest and most fascinating cities. It is an important landmark of Indian history and culture. As the gateway for travelers arriving in India via the overland route through Central Asia, it soon became a center of diverse commercial activities. There are several sites of great historical and religious interest; see the Amritsar city map. The most famous of these is the Golden Temple, which was founded by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ramdas, and completed by his successor, Guru Arjan Dev.

Golden Temple : Sri Har Mandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, is the holiest shrine in Sikhism. Also known as Sahib Durbar Shri, it is located in the heart of Amritsar's Old City.

Jalianwala Bagh : This site is famous for being the location of the most notorious massacre under British rule. It is located about 400 meters north of the Golden Temple.

Overnight in Amritsar.

For flights with a connection in Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Udaipur. Arrival in Udaipur and check-in at the hotel.

The City of Aurora , Udaipur is a beautiful land surrounding the blue lake, nestled amidst the lush Aravalli hills. A vision of white steeped in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a captivating blend of sights, sounds, and experiences, inspiring the imaginations of poets, painters, and writers.

This kaleidoscope of fairytale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens, and alleyways lined with market stalls carries the flavor of a heroic past, embodying valor and chivalry. Its reflection in the placid waters of Piccola Lake is a captivating sight.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dance performance at Bagore Ki Haveli with the assistance of a driver.

Overnight in Udaipur.

After breakfast at the hotel, the city tour begins.

Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Pichola and visit the Jag Temple .

City Palace : Standing on the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, this massive complex of palaces was built at different times, beginning in 1559 AD. The palace balconies offer panoramic views of Jag Niwas (the world-famous Lake Palace Hotel), Jag Mandir on one side, and the city of Udaipur on the other. Its main entrance is through the three-arched Tripolia Gate, built in 1725.

Here you can admire the halls with mirrored walls and ivory doors, the colorful stained-glass windows and marble-inlaid balconies, and the Peacock Courtyard.

Saheliyon Ki Bari : (The Maidens' Garden) Maharana Sangram Singh established this in the mid-18th century. The "maidens' garden" evokes the lifestyle of the ladies of the court. The beautiful gardens appear understated and in impeccable taste. There are four pools with delicate kiosks, and everything is flowers, gardens, pools, and fountains protected by a series of walls and trees. The Saheliyon Ki Bari is maintained solely by water pressure and the use of pumps. The garden has a lotus pool and a lounge decorated with paintings and glass mosaics. The entire setting exudes a nostalgic flavor, reminiscent of those beautiful bells, and is set in a luxurious aura.

Jagdish Temple : The temple is located in the city center. The Jagannath Rai Temple, now called Jagdish-ji, is an important monument and should be considered carefully. Built on a high terrace and completed in 1651, it is a tribute to both the The tenacity of its builders and the ability to revive the artistic tradition it represents.

Night in Udaipur.

By road

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Jodhpur , visiting the Jain temples of Ranakpur.

En route, visit the Ranakpur Temples , dating back to the 15th century. Two hundred pillars, none of which are alike, support the 29 halls. The building is filled with intricate friezes and sculptures. The tour includes visits to two Jain temples and the Sun Temple, with its erotic sculptures.

Arrival in Jodhpur and check-in at the hotel.

Situated on the edge of the Thar Desert , the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the desert emptiness. Once the capital of the state of Marwar, it was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed descent from Rama, the epic hero of the Ramayana. It is also known as the Blue City, due to the painted houses surrounding Mehrangarh Fort. Previously, blue houses were for Brahmins, but not for those who had recently converted to Brahminism, as the color was believed to repel mosquitoes. Jodhpur is located near Rajasthan, making it a popular tourist destination. The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a thick stone wall. The wall has six main gates: Nagauri Gate, Merati Gate, Sojati Gate, Jalori Gate, Siwanchi Gate, and Chand Gate.

In the afternoon, enjoy a stroll through the local markets and a visit to Umaid Bhawan Palace . The romantic Umaid Bhawan Palace was built to provide employment for the people of Jodhpur during a prolonged period of scarcity. The royal family of Jodhpur still resides in one part of the palace. Another part houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an incredible array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family—weapons, antiques, fascinating clocks, tableware, and trophies.

Overnight in Jodhpur.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Enjoy a guided tour of the city.

Mehrangarh Fort : Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and grandeur of the fort's numerous palaces tell a saga of hard sandstone, sculpted by the skilled Jodhpuri artisans. Stretching over 5 km up a perpendicular hill and towering 125 meters below, Mehrangarh Fort presents a majestic presence on the city skyline. It was built in 1459 on the advice of a saint to establish a formidable stronghold. This fort is one of the finest in India, with its exquisitely carved latticed windows, panels, and richly decorated Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture, and cannons are well preserved on the fort walls.

Jaswant Thada : Near the fort complex lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th-century royal cenotaph, built of white marble, commemorates Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and three other cenotaphs stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh houses the distinctive portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, accompanied by some of the locals, will reveal the reverence they still hold for their valiant kings.

A stroll through Umaid Bhawan and a visit to a Bishnoi tribal camp .

Overnight in Jodhpur.

By road

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Jaipur.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, a romantic kingdom of resplendent palaces, powerful fortresses, and royal maharajas, nestled in the western deserts and a unique landscape in India. Proudly belonging to the Kshatriya warrior caste and fiercely independent, the Rajput princes made formidable enemies. However, many of them realized that to maintain their wealth and local authority, it was advantageous to pledge allegiance to the central power. In this way, they were able to enjoy a privileged position under the Mughal emperors and the subsequent British Raj.

This afternoon, visit the Birla Temple with a driver to learn more about Jaipur's fascinating religious life. The marble structure, built in 1985, houses ornate statues, including one of Lakshmi (goddess of wealth and beauty) and Narayan, both adorned in striking robes, representing a Hindu vision of celestial luxury. Engravings on the temple and the pillars supporting the covered walkways include images from the Hindu pantheon, as well as Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Francis of Assisi. The visit will coincide with the Aarti ceremony , in which oil lamps are lit and waved to awaken and invoke the deity.

Enjoy the experience and spend the night in Jaipur.

After breakfast, ascend by elephant to Amber Fort .

Amber Fort Palace – Amber is the classic Jaipur landmark. Its construction was begun by Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by his descendant, Jai Singh I. Its formidable exterior conceals an interior paradise where a beautiful fusion of Hindu and Mughal styles finds its ultimate expression.

In the afternoon, enjoy sightseeing in Jaipur, visiting:

City Palace – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace covers one-seventh of the walled city area. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and the City Palace Museum.

Jantar Mantar – This is the largest and best-preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consists of instruments of extraordinary size and still in use.

Hawa Mahal – The ornate facade of this "Palace of Winds" is an emblem of the city of Jaipur. It is a five-story structure made of pink sandstone with intricate plasterwork, latticework, and elaborate balconies. The palace boasts 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Taj was originally a royal tribune for the women of the

Night Palace in Jaipur.

By road

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Agra, visiting the village of Abhaneri.

Arrival in Agra and check-in.

AGRA : Two great Mughal monarchs, Akbar and Shah Jahan, transformed the small village of Agra into the second capital of the Mughal Empire – giving it the name Dar-ul-Khilafat (Seat of the Emperor). Today, a visitor to Agra is captivated by a world of contrasting buildings, from red sandstone to white marble, narrow galleys and picturesque horse-drawn carriages, and the irresistible allure that the Mughals' favorite city still retains. It's no wonder that modern Agra still reflects its Mughal heritage. A stroll through the narrow, bustling city streets will introduce the visitor to the aromas of Mughal cuisine.

A walk through Mehtab Gardens .

Overnight in Agra.

By train

The Taj Mahal Sunrise Visit.

Taj Mahal (Closed on Fridays) - There's not much to say about this architectural marvel, which is always the raison d'être of any tourist visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is a white marble monument featuring his beautiful wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to complete and was designed and planned by the Persian architect, Ustad Isa. Aside from its stunning design and perfect symmetry, the Taj Mahal is also particularly noted for its elegant domes, carved wooden screens, and some of the finest inlay work ever seen.

Return for breakfast at the hotel.

Agra Fort – Built by the famous Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly made of red sandstone. Inside the fort is the photo-perfect Pearl Mosque, a major tourist attraction. It is located on a bend in the Yamuna River, almost in the heart of the city. Akbar built it as his citadel between 1563 and 1573 in the finest architectural style. It is characterized by its imposing gates, red sandstone walls, and a moat.

After visiting Agra Fort, we will visit Baby Taj , also known as the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Ulah – the interior of which is considered even more magnificent than the Taj Mahal. One of the most beautiful Mughal tombs, the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Ulah was built by Nur Jahan, Empress Jahangir, for her father in 1628. The tomb is the final resting place of the powerful Mughal court figure, Itmad-ud-Ulah, whose life is fascinating.

Free afternoon to explore the city itself.

Departure by train to Varanasi.

Overnight on the train.

Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Picturesquely situated on the crescent-shaped left bank of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi, one of India's ancient centers of learning, is said to be a composite of the names of two streams, the Varuna and the Assi, which flow north and south of the city, respectively.

Enjoy the evening Aarti ceremony at the ghat . Your guide will provide commentary on the procedure and the meaning of the chants during the river ceremony.

Overnight in Varanasi.

In the morning, transfer by car to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat trip on the sacred Ganges River to see the cremation ghats and witness the living traditions of one of the world's oldest and most important religions. The most fascinating experience of your life will begin at 5:00 a.m. We will travel to the banks of the Ganges before dawn so you can witness one of the greatest wonders of this extraordinary city. Aboard a small boat, and with your guide, we will travel to the middle of the river, where the sunrise will unfold before you. Thousands of worshippers arrive daily at the banks to bathe and pray as temples and palaces rise, terraced, from the water's edge. Afterward, stroll along the cobblestone streets along the Ganges. At this time, the shops are opening, and the area becomes a hive of activity, with a constant flow of worshippers coming and going. Back at the hotel, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Day trip to Varanasi. Visit the Bharat Mata Temple , which features a large relief map of Mother India carved in marble. You can also visit the 18th-century Durga Temple , commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to its large monkey population. Continue to the Tulsi Manas Temple , a temple designed in white marble where the entire Ramayana is inscribed on its walls. Also visit BHU, considered the largest residential university in Asia. The university campus houses an art gallery and the mosque of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

Visit Sarnath , 5 miles from Varanasi, for a day trip: one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the world, where the Buddha preached his first sermon in 590 BCE. Here he revealed the eightfold path that leads to inner peace, enlightenment, and ultimate Nirvana. Witness the ruins of a once-flourishing Buddhist monastery, then visit a very good museum housing an excellent collection of Buddhist art and sculptures found at the site.

Overnight in Varanasi.

By flight

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure by plane to Delhi to connect with an international flight home with sweet memories of India in your heart.