YOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart USA. Your exotic journey to India begins this afternoon as you depart on a non-stop wide-body jet flight bound for Delhi.

Day 2: Arrive Delhi. Afternoon arrival in India's bustling capital. You'll be greeted at the airport and escorted to your upscale city-center hotel. Later this evening, your tour director hosts a welcome briefing followed by a short orientation walk to explore lively Connaught Place, located near your hotel! The Park Hotel

Day 3: Delhi Sightseeing/Drive to Agra. After a good night's rest and a sumptuous breakfast, embark on a guided tour to introduce you to Delhi’s major attractions. In exotic Old Delhi visit the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi and view the Jamma Masjid, India's largest mosque. You’ll also drive by the magnificent Red Fort, built in 1648 as a symbol of Mughal's power. In New Delhi you’ll see the Birla Temple, the India Gate, the Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. You’ll have some free time for lunch on you own before departing Delhi by road to Agra, home of the legendary shrine built and dedicated to love, the Taj Mahal. Clarks Shiraz Hotel (B)

DAY 4: Taj Mahal Excursion. Agra is an ancient city that came into prominence in Medieval times under the Mughal rulers and was once the capital of a sprawling Mughal kingdom that covered much of southeast Asia. The highlight of this morning's included tour is a guided visit to the fabled, perfectly proportioned, Taj Mahal considered the finest example of Mughal architecture. This 17th century, white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jehan to enshrine the mortal remains of his Queen Mumtaz Mahal who died in childbirth. Building began around 1632 and took over twenty years to complete, employing thousands of artisans and craftsmen. As you get closer, you'll see that the white marble surface is covered with floral patterns and beautiful calligraphy made of inlaid jasper. Even today the Taj Mahal remains one of the most breathtaking structures ever built. The balance of the day is free to explore on your own, shop or relax at your luxury hotel's pool. You may also consider an optional visit to the bustling spice market and to the Agra Fort, a sprawling fortress of mosques and palaces on the banks of the river. (B)

Day 5: Fatehphur Sikri/Jaipur. After breakfast depart Agra for a visit of Fatehpur Sikri, once a glittering capital, later abandoned due to scarcity of water. Marvel at the well-preserved buildings and red sandstone palaces. Later, voyage by road to Jaipur, the "Pink City", famous for its exquisite buildings built of rose-colored terra cotta. After you check into your upscale conveniently-located hotel, join your guide for a walk to explore the colorful local bazaar. The Fern Hotel (B)

Day 6: Amber Fort/Jaipur. This morning venture out of the city to nearby Amber Fort, ancient capital of Rajasthan. You'll ride an elephant up the imposing hill where the fort is perched. A local expert will guide you through its magnificent ramparts & watchtowers commanding spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the lake below. Visit the ornate chambers and hallways of the palace which are famous for their unique architecture and decoration. Return to Jaipur where the balance of the day is at leisure to explore as you wish. You may enjoy a rickshaw ride through the picturesque old town or join an optional visit to some of the city's renowned pink sandstone buildings including the Palace of Winds and the City Palace Museum, housing a magnificent art collection of the Maharajas. Your guide can also arrange for you to attend a unique prayer ritual at a local Hindu temple. (B)

Day 7: Jaipur/Delhi. Free time this morning for last minute pursuits. Explore the markets and lanes of Jaipur where you can buy spices, unique local souvenirs or bargain for beautiful, hand-woven carpets. Later, voyage back to Delhi, where you'll join your fellow travelers for a festive farewell dinner. Following dinner, transfer to the airport for your late night flight. (B,D)

Day 8: Delhi/USA. Bid farewell to incredible India. Your memorable journey ends as you arrive the USA this morning.

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