The Jewels Of The Crown….
Day 09 : Sodawas / Rohet (65 kms)
Following breakfast we ride out to Rohet. Upon arrival check into the Rohetgarh fort.
At Rohet, one is transported in to a world of the past, a world of honour and of
chivalry, of glory and of pride; a world of vibrant colours and spectacular magnificence.
Past centuries come to life at the historic boundary walls of Rohet- the 16th century
fortified deserted home of a Rajput clan. Within the precincts of these time weathered
walls is our hotel, the impressive Rohetgarh Fort- a bastion of proud Rajput traditions
bathed in the ambience of unmistakable Rajasthani culture where one can, even today
experience the famed warm and courteous Rajput hospitality. Frescoes on the tall gateway,
brightly painted in the traditional style, using traditional motifs and colour schemes
herald your entry to this charmed world the bygone era. The gateway leads to a compound
where a profusion of flowers frame the archways in welcome. The portico is a warm and
informal place decorated with the artifacts and trophies of many years. Exquisitely carved
furniture, delicate hand block prints, original paintings and photographs decorate your
rooms, which though redolent with the romance of a bygone era, provide all the modern
amenities. Antique hunting riffles, shields & spearheads, daggers and original
paintings form the backdrop of the dinning room. The swimming pool here is in beautiful
settings and is an oasis in a dessert.
The food at Rohetgarh is special; each recipe is both traditional and typical, handed
down the generations and jealously guarded to retain its pristine flavours. You savour
only the very best of Rajasthani cuisine's, food favoured by the Royalty. The 16th century
descendants of the Rathore ruling family still live here and host the guests. The members
of the Royal family interact with the guests and interesting stories and anecdotes are
narrated.
This afternoon, we would explore Rohet, which is a fascinating small feudal town, which
seems to be straight out of the Arabian Nights. There is no proper road here - only one
main dusts trail. On either side are typical thatched houses and shops of all kinds -
colourful bangles, silver jewellery, potters, fruit vendors on carts, dress shops, tailors
etc.
Late afternoon we enjoy jeep safaris to visit the heart of Rajasthan villages where
traditions centuries old still permeate life styles. One can witness the 'opium ceremony'
- a ritual by which guests are welcomed. Gaily attired men and women carry on their chores
and one can catch a glimpse of their norms and customs. The smoothened mud floors of the
village huts remind one of the simple and traditional living here
Overnight: Rohetgarh (B)
Day.10 Rohet / Jaipur
After breakfast drive to Jaipur. In a land steeped with heritage, picturesque with
exquisite architecture, in a state vibrant with heroic memories and romance, lies the
Dream City of Jaipur. The people are dynamic, martial and, need we say it, colourful. Here
every walk through the by lanes is a walk through history. Indeed, Jaipur could be
compared to a vast open-air museum. Pink turbans jostle with saffron 'odhinis' (ladies
scarves). Camel's buggies and elephants are as commonly found as motorcars and buses.
Upon arrival, check in to Hotel Alsisar Haveli - This is the flagship hotel in a
bouquet of heritage hotels. The Haveli lies tucked away in the heart of Pink City, Jaipur.
It brings back to life the grandeur of the old days and is a memorable regal Rajasthan
experience for the guests. Refurbished in 1982, the Haveli incorporates the finesse of
traditional Rajput architecture and a site to behold. The large elevated platform that
dominates the central area of the ground floor and once used for get-togethers by the
gents of the house is now open to guests who can witness puppet shows and folk dances
while enjoying their snacks or drinks. The spacious lobby which opens into the chowk
(inner courtyard), was a century ago used by the ladies of the house and is now open to
guests. You will treasure this experience of staying in an authentic Rajput home.
Afternoon is designed for walks with our guide in Jaipur's shady animated streets - or
for independent discovery. The city is best explored on foot and only the inquisitive
visitor willing to go into the rastaas (streets) and galis (lanes) will feel the spirit of
the city. Jaipur's colorful bazaars tantalize the eye with enameled blue pottery,
exquisite gem-studded jewelry, engraved brass work, traditional block-printed fabrics and
brightly patterned dhurrie rugs together with traditional crafts and miniature painting.
Overnight At Alsisar Haveli
Day 11 : Jaipur
This morning we visit Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Few fail to
be moved by the dramatic Rajput grandeur of this hilltop fortress-palace 11 km north of
Jaipur. We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing
through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred
years
For more on the tourist attractions of Jaipur, click here. Jaipur Tour
Overnight At Alsisar Haveli
Day 12 : Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra
Following breakfast we drive to Fatehpur Sikri for a guided tour. This abandoned
capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire's
splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted
buildings. From here we continue riding to Agra.
Upon arrival check into hotel Holiday Inn, lies in the heart of this fascinating city,
allowing you to explore and witness the ambience of this historically beautiful city as
well as the romance of the Taj Mahal and the elegance of emperor Akbar's Fatehpur Sikri.
Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world.
However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much
and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this
is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter
how high your expectations are, the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and
beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sun set we visit the
Taj Mahal to witness this spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in
every aspect of its construction, the inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in
pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable.
We would also have an opportunity to visit a marble showroom where we would be able to
witness the inlay work done on marble just as at the Taj Mahal
Overnight At Holiday Inn - a 4* Hotel
Day 13 : Agra / Delhi
Morning, we ride to the massive Agra Fort. The elegant buildings inside reflect an
interesting synthesis of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. Built by Emperor
Akbar, the maze of the courtyards, mosques & private chambers of the fort echo the
story of the Mughal Empire. The Moti Masjid & other magnificent buildings reflect the
skill of the ancient Indian architects.
Following the tour, we drive to Delhi. Upon arrival check into your hotel The Connaught
for overnight. Rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight At The Connaught - a 4* Hotel
Day 14 : Delhi / Depature
Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight.
END OF TOUR
We also offer customized tours to destinations in Rajasthan. We will be happy to
customize this tour for you to suit your interests and convenience. |
