Compare The Glory of Rajasthan by Memorable India vs Inspirational India, a Wander Women Journey, Summer 2022 by Insight Vacations
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Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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Duration | 9 days | 12 days |
Price From | $ 475 | $ 4,689 |
Price Per Day | $ 53 | $ 391 |
Highlights |
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Trip Style | Private guided tour | Group tour |
Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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Travel Themes |
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Countries Visited | ||
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Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
Description |
In the calm waters of the Kerala with the lush greenery of tall coconut palms for the backdrop, and the faint tropical breeze that caresses your face as you cruse through backwaters of god’s own country. What better way to explore this exotic land of Keralathan in the traditional houseboat or the Kettuvalam in local tongue. With an expanse of water that covers nearly 1500 kms, encompassing 5 lakes and 38rivers, the beauty of this region is truly worth witnessing on water than on land. |
Join female explorers in search of new experiences on a journey to the Sikh temples of Delhi, the hilltop yoga retreats of Jaipur and the Bishnoi people of Jodhpur—who for 500-years have protected nature to ensure the survival of endangered species. Tour the Gurdwara Bangla Sahib Sikh temple in Delhi and witness the beautiful practice of langar—serving free food to the hungry and promoting equality among the Sikh women who help prepare the meals. Start your day in Jaipur with a yoga lesson led by a female guru—harnessing ancient restorative techniques to create harmony between body, mind and spirit. Marvel at the Taj Mahal and discover how Emperor Shahjahan commissioned 20,000 craftsmen to carve this monument out of white marble and red limestone—in honor of his late wife. |
Day 1: Delhi
On your arrival to our incredible country, our representative will arrange for the transfer to you hotel and assist you with the check-in process. The day is free to rest and rejuvenate before we begin of tour.
Day 2: Delhi - Jaipur
For our first leg of this tour, we travel to Jaipur in the morning. After completing check-in procedures at the hotel, we shall tour the attractions in the city such as the City Palace that is adorned with beautiful courtyards, its museum that is home to rare collections of the royal family of Jaipur and the astronomical observatory called the Jantar Mantar. A drive-through visit to the Hawa Mahal, before returning to the hotel for the night.
Day 3: Jaipur
Amber Fort, once the capital of the princely state of Jaipur is a few km away from the city. Today, we travel to this fort, and attempt a journey back in time when the fort actually looked into the affairs of the state and protected the people living within its walls. Experience the royalty at the fort, by taking an elephant tour of the fort, just like the kings did once upon a time. The remainder of the day is free and we recommend the markets of Jaipur city for a visit. The night will also be spent in Jaipur at the hotel.
Day 4: Jaipur - Bikaner
Our next leg of our journey, we travel to the city of Bikaner. After checking in to the hotel, we visit the Junagarh Fort. The fort is unique for it is built directly on the desert itself. And a trip to the desert is not complete, if you do not see a camel. So, we take you to the Camel Breeding Farm in the city where you can see the camels graze and spot a herd of camels returning to their resting places while the Sun quietly sets in the background.
Day 5: Bikaner - Jaisalmer
After a night’s rest and a delicious breakfast at Bikaner, we travel to Jaisalmer. The sandstone walls, beautiful havelis and lack of modernisation in terms of architecture make this city picturesque. The tour of the city includes a visit to the Fort Palace Museum, temples, Gadisar Lake and Patwaonki Haveli. We retire at the hotel for the night fully aware that there is more to see in this city.
Day 6: Jaisalmer
After breakfast we head to Jaisalmer Fort and then tour the many beautiful havelis the city is known for. Gorgeous frescoes on the walls of these havelis make them stunning showpieces for every visitor. As the evening comes near, we take a camel ride to the sand dunes and visit the Sun Set point. After seeing the desert sand glitter and then dark, we return to the hotel and prepare for an early start.
Day 7: Jaisalmer - Jodhpur
Early breakfast and then, with the rising Sun, we travel to the Sun City of Jodhpur. We have reserved some time for rest at the hotel. Later in the afternoon, we will visit the Mehrangarh Fort and then visit the royal cenotaphs at Jaswant Thada. These white marble structures over 120 years old commemorate the then ruler of Jodhpur, Maharaja Jaswant Singh.
Day 8: Jodhpur - Udaipur
We travel to Udaipur today, the last leg of our tour. On our way, we will visit the Jain temple of Ranakpur. After reaching Udaipur and completing the hotel formalities, you can enjoy some peace and quiet at Lake Pichola. Called the City of Lakes, Udaipur is set with a backdrop of Aravali hills and the scenery of the place itself brings tranquillity to one and all.
Day 9: Udaipur
Our guided tour will take you the City Palace and its museum and the Jagdish temple. One final glimpse of royalty, when you visit the Sahelionki Bari, the garden which was maintained as a meeting place for the women folk.
We say goodbyes here as you travel ahead to further explore our incredible country, our customs, our traditions and our glory.
Day 1: Welcome to Delhi
After your arrival at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Airport, you are greeted with the traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow female travellers for a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: The hustle and bustle of Old Delhi Relaxed Start
Dive into Old Delhi’s symphony of sounds, smells, tastes and colours as you wander down beautiful narrow lanes and taste authentic Delhi street food. Visit an elegant haveli, an old private mansion and enjoy a delicious lunch with a local family.This afternoon, visit the Sikh temple Bangla Sahib Gurdwara and take a walk through their community kitchen where you witness the practice of langar: serving food free of charge to anyone who is hungry. This beautiful act promoting equality also involves the Sikh women who help with the preparation of the meals.
Day 3: Exploring New Delhi
Today explore New Delhi, largely built by the British in the early 20th century. Drive along the Rajpath to see the war memorial India Gate and the colonnaded Parliament House. Visit the 16th century Tomb of Emperor Humayun. This marvelous example of Mughal architecture went on to inspire the design of the Taj Mahal. Continue your exploration of Delhi with Insight Choice. Choose to get creative and hands on as you take part in a jewelery making class. Alternatively, enjoy abhyangam, an Aryuveda massage practice whereby oil is applied to your body by two skilled therapists.
Day 4: Delhi to Agra
Journey to Agra and visit its historical fort complex resembling a walled city. The Agra fort is made up of a series of impressive buildings including the Sheesh Mahal or “glass palace” and the The Muthamman Burj. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Sheroes Café and meet the inspiring women behind it who are survivors of acid attacks. Be encouraged by their resilience and enjoy this opportunity to chat to them about their stories and support their cause in raising awareness.
Day 5: The unmatched beauty of the Taj Mahal
Put on a traditional saree in preparation for your visit to the Taj Mahal, a true highlight of your journey. Following the death of his wife, Emperor Shahjahan vowed to honor her with a memorial of unmatched beauty. He commissioned the world's best craftsmen and 20,000 workers to build this mausoleum. You can’t help but be awestruck by this delicately carved white marble jewel. Later, enjoy lunch on your way to Jaipur, the stunning capital city of Rajasthan state. In the evening visit the local market and shop for a traditional Indian dress for the upcoming Diwali celebrations.
Day 6: Jaipur through the locals’ eyes
On your city tour see the Hawa Maha, the Palace of the Winds. Its stunning lace-like facadehas 953 windows. Visit the Jantar Mantar Royal Observatory, and the neighbouring City Palace, housing a fabulous collection of Rajasthani and Mughal art. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet the ladies of the Pink City Rickshaw Company, dedicated to empowering women from low-income households. Continue your exploration of Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to take part in a demonstration of the art of Mehndi, the traditional henna body painting. Alternatively, learn a few new moves at an energetic Bollywood dance class. Tonight, join a local family to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Get involved in the preparations for Lakshmi Puja by lighting oil lamps around the house, to invite the goddess Lakshmi to come home. Learn how to prepare traditional meals by watching a cooking demonstration before feasting on a delicious dinner.
Day 7: The Pink City
Start your day with a yoga session led by a female guru and explore the deeper meaning of yoga postures, breathing techniques, and the importance of harmony between body, mind and spirit. Explore Jaipur with Insight Choice. Choose to go on a walking tour in the bazaars where you will meet the colourful characters involved in gem-polishing, tie die or bangle-making as well as the world-renowned pickle makers. Alternatively, visit a Blue Pottery workshop and see how this characteristic local pottery is made. In the late afternoon, ascend the hilltop Amber Fort by jeep and experience India’s spiritual majesty with a special Hindu blessing ceremony. Feel like royalty as you dine at the opulent 1135 AD Restaurant and savour mouthwatering Rajasthani cuisine accompanied by impeccable service.
Day 8: Chandelao and the Blue City of Jodhpur
Meet the female artisans of the Sunder Rang Arts and Crafts Project in Chandelao village, producing traditional Rajasthani textiles and handicrafts. The workshop enables and empowers women to earn a fair living through developing their craft skills and providing a sustainable income. After your lunch, continue to the Blue City of Johdpur and tonight take a stroll through the Ghanta Ghar, the clock tower market. Perhaps pick up some Mathania chilis or flavoured teas and try some lassi.
Day 9: Exploring Jodhpur
This morning, venture to a nearby village and meet the Bishnoi people, who for 500 years have protected nature to ensure the survival of endangered species like the majestic black buck antelope. On your return to Jodhpur, visit the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort and see the marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada. In the afternoon, meet an astrologer and learn about the importance of the influence of planets. Indulge in a Highlight Dinner at Khaas Bagh, a worthy tribute to the legendary lifestyle of princely India surrounded by handpicked memorabilia of the Raj Period that include a fleet of dazzling vintage cars.
Day 10: Ranakpur And Udaipur
Travel to Ranakpur to explore the elaborate carvings and classic architecture of the Jain Temples before meeting a priest and attending a special prayer ceremony. Enjoy an al fresco lunch served under a 300-year-old banyan tree at Mountbatten Lodge, a unique boutique hotel in the wilderness. Continue to Udaipur. Founded in the 16th century, the city is set around a series of artificial lakes and surrounded by the ridges of the Aravalli Hills.
Day 11: Explore Udaipur Relaxed Start
Explore the City Palace complex, visit the Jagdish Temple and explore the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit the Seva Mandir Organization, working to empower women by building stronger and more ethical communities. Wander through the bazaars to see the spice and textile markets and later cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola. Tonight, experience Bedla hospitality at your Celebration Dinner. The Bedla Family had the distinction of serving their cuisine to Queen Elizabeth II, Jacqueline Kennedy and Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Hear their fascinating stories and enjoy excellent entertainment while dining on superb culinary delights and toasting to your journey in incredible India.
Day 12: Fly to Delhi
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you fly to Delhi and your journey comes to an end. For your onward travels please schedule your flight after 21:00 from Delhi.