Eastbound Tours promises incomparable luxury travel experiences in India, UAE, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Japan and Bhutan.
In this compact tour of India’s Golden Triangle, Eastbound pulls out all the stops to ensure a full experience of one of the most fascinating areas of India.
Day One in Delhi
Delhi is India’s capital and a major gateway to the country. Contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis which successfully combines the ancient and the modern. One of the most historic capitals in the world, Delhi is a treasure trove that reveals the ultimate combination of tradition and trends. The city has seen the rise and fall of many emperors which have left behind a plethora of monuments that commemorate the grandeur and glory of bygone ages. Once you have settled into the hotel, enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the city.
Overnight in Delhi.
Day Two in Delhi
Old Delhi is the 300-year-old walled city built by Emperor Shah Jehan in 1648 as his capital. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort built of red sandstone. Opposite the fort, visit the black and white onion dome and minarets of the Jama Masjid, the most elegant mosque in India. Take a short walk through the bustling narrow by-lanes of Chandni Chowk and savour the sights, smells and sounds of the fabled streets. The tour is full of legends and unfolds tales of Old Delhi which go back thousands of years. See the quaint shops selling incredible wares from food to jewellery. Later, drive to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib which is a prominent house of worship for the Sikh community. This 17th-century shrine is dedicated to the memory of Guru Har Krishan, the eighth Sikh Guru. In addition, witness the langar service, a community kitchen which serves. You will also visit the simple but moving memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
Drive past the imposing India Gate – a War Memorial Arch, the residence of the President – the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the Parliament House and other government buildings. Visit the Qutab Minar (Tower of Victory), a masterpiece built to establish the might of Islam and the onset of the Muslim rule in India and Humayun’s Tomb. The tomb is the first great example of a new and distinctive style which developed to become the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty. Following a busy day sightseeing, return to the hotel for dinner and relaxation.
Day Three in Agra
Agra is renowned across the world as home to the incredible Taj Mahal. Being located on the banks of the Yamuna River and in the heart of India, Agra’s position has always been of great importance. In its glorious past, the city was the capital of various ruling dynasties. The city of Agra, the quintessence of the grand Mughal era, is viewed as he epitome of royal grace, imposing architecture and power.
During the late afternoon, Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Agra during the late afternoon. Visit the Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture and the seat and stronghold of the Empire. Later on, visit the world famous Taj Mahal for a sunset viewing (Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays). The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite wife and queen, Mumtaz. This incomparable marvel is constructed entirely out of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful inlay work and marble screens. Approximately 20,000 of India’s most revered craftsmen were recruited to give shape to this amazing national monument.
You will get a chance to witness the Marble inlay at a local workshop.
Spend the night at your hotel in Agra.
Day Four in Jaipur
Drive to Jaipur this morning, a drive of approximately 238 kms/6hrs drive). The journey is a sightseeing trip in itself. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri: the deserted red sandstone city was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great as his capital in the late 16th century and abandoned on his death. It was the Mughal capital for 14 years after which it was abandoned due to lack of water. The city made of red sandstone and combines influences from both Hindu and Mughal architecture.
From there, drive to Jaipur and enjoy lunch on the way.
Arrive in Jaipur and check in to the hotel for 2 nights.
Day Five in Jaipur
Jaipur is the vibrant 18th-century capital of Rajasthan and commonly known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the pink coloured buildings in the old city. It was founded in 1727AD by one of the greatest rulers of the Kachhawaha Dynasty, the astronomer King Sawai Jai Singh. These days, Jaipur is the capital of the state of Rajasthan and a jewel which forms one point of the golden triangle.
During your visit to Jaipur, enjoy a tour of the magnificent Amber Fort, a honey coloured fortress palace in the Aravalli Hills, by jeep. The fortress possesses a chamber of mirrors, the interiors are a decorative arts paradise – the fortress possesses a chamber of mirrors. Enjoy striking views of the gorge from the fortress.
Later on, visit the Observatory and City Palace in Jaipur which boasts courtyards, impressive gateways and temples. Witness the elegant façade of the Hawa Mahal, the spectacular Palace of the Winds,built by King Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. This is one of Jaipur’s photographic highlights.
Day Six – onward journey
Time to leave the Golden Triangle and transfer to you Delhi Airport for your onward journey to explore more of India or to head home.
Get in touch with Eastbound Tours to find out more.