Soul of India
Day 01
Delhi
On arrival Delhi Meeting and assistance by our representative & transfer to Hotel
(check in at hotel is 12 noon). Delhi the second-largest metropolis in India after
Mumbai and one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. The city
is believed to be the site of Indraprastha, legendary capital of the Pandavas in
the Indian epic Mahabharata. The Archaeological Survey of India recognizes 175 monuments
in Delhi as national heritage sites. Morning is free to overcome the jetlag.

Afternoon proceed on a New Delhi tour visiting the Qutub Minar, the tallest stone
tower in India; Humayun's Tomb built in the Indo Persian style and a predecessor
to The Taj Mahal in Agra; India Gate - A War Memorial Arch. Also drive past the
President's House, Parliament House, Government Secretariat Buildings and Connaught
Place - the heart of New Delhi and a busy shopping center. Evening is at leisure
to explore the local market. Overnight at the hotel.
Optional
Tour-1: Choice to visit local LGBT friendly pubs/restaurants in the city.
Some of them have dedicated nights in a week the details of which will be advised
as per the date of travel.
Optional
Tour -2: Visit to Kingdom of Dreams with Bollywood show
The ultimate entertainment and leisure destination, sprawling across acres of land,
ideally located at the apex of the golden triangle of Jaipur, Agra and Delhi is
the magnificent Kingdom of Dreams. Here, the carnival that is India is distilled
into one iconic destination. This fabulous Kingdom brings to life a blend of India's
art, culture, heritage, craft, cuisine and performing art...all with the technological
wizardry of today. Nautanki Mahal: showcasing an extravagant cinematic and theatrical
musical. Culture Gully: an elaborate culture, arts, crafts and food boulevard. IIFA
Buzz: a glamorous Bollywood themed cafe. This is a destination in itself which is
capturing the imagination of the world. Get ready for this century's most novel
tourist destination. For more details please visit their website
www.kindomofdreams.in
Day 02
in Delhi
After breakfast, proceed for an Old Delhi tour visiting the Red Fort (only photo
stop from outside) built by Emperor Shah Jahan; Jama Masjid, one of the largest
mosques in India; enjoy a walking tour in Chandni Chowk- the silver street of Delhi
bustling with activity. Visit Raj Ghat (memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon is
free for shopping etc. Overnight at Hotel.
Optional Tour 3:
Visit to AKSHARDHAM
TEMPLE. The beautiful monument built without steel, consists of 234 ornately carved
pillars, 9 ornate domes, 20 quadrangle shikhars, spectacular Gajendra Pith (plinth
of 148 stone elephants featuring stories and legends of elephants with nature, man
and God). The monument is a fusion of pink stone and pure white marble, where pink
stone symbolizes bhakti in eternal bloom and white marble that of absolute purity
and eternal peace. For more details on this temple, please visit the website www.akshardham.com
Day 03
Delhi-Khajuraho (by Air)
Transfer to airport to connect your flight from Delhi to Khajuraho and transfer
to your hotel. Khajuraho is famous for its group of temples which are famous for
their exemplary carvings and intricate sculptures based on eroticism. A UNESCO World
Heritage Site, the Khajuraho temples are a masterpiece and were built from 950 to
1150 AD, a span of 200 years. The Khajuraho temples are prominently known for the
explicit depiction of erotic life during the medieval ages. The erotic art of the
monuments reflect the zenith of sensuality and celebration of life. They depict
the society's acceptance of eroticism as a source of gratification of earthly desires
and a step towards attaining moksha.
Evening enjoy sound & light show in the complex of Western Group of Temples- This
fascinating Son-et-Lumiere spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela
Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th Century to the present
day. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 04
In Khajuraho
Full day sightseeing of Eastern, Western & Southern group of temples. The Western
Group has 14 temples. The Chaunsath Yogini, Lalguan Mahadev, Parvati, Varaha, Matangesvara,
Lakshmana, Vishvanath and Nandi, Chitragupta, Devi Jagdamba and Kandariya Mahadeo
temples belong to this group. The Eastern Group consists of seven temples (four
Jain and three Hindu). The Parsvanath, Adinath, Shantinath, and Ghantai temples
belong to the Jains while the Vamana, Javari and Brahma are Hindu temples. The Southern
Group, about 5 km from Khajuraho, contains the Chaturbhuj and Duladeo temples. Overnight
at the hotel.
Day 05
Khajuraho-Orchha-Jhansi-Agra
Morning drive to Jhansi enroute visiting Orchha- Orchha's grandeur has been captured
in stone, frozen in time, a rich legacy of the ages. For this medieval city, the
hand of time has rested and the palaces and the temples built by its Bundela rulers
in the 16th and 17th century retain much of their pristine perfection. Jahangir
Mahal, a tiered palace crowned by graceful Chhatries, commands a spectacular view
of soaring temple-spires and cenotaphs. Later transfer to railway station to board
fastest tourist train - Shatabdi Express (1800/200hrs) for Agra. On arrival transfer
to hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 06
in Agra
Morning after breakfast, proceed to proceed to vist the famous white marble mausoleum,
The Taj Mahal (remains closed on Friday) which was built in the middle of the 17th
century by the Moghul emperor Shah Jehan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal surely
the greatest monument to love and one of the wonders of the modern world. Completed
in 1652, skilled craftsmen from Persia, Turkey, France and Italy and some 20,000
labourers worked for 17 years to build this edifice, constructed by emperor Shah
Jehan as a mausoleum for his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. Later visit the red sandstone
Agra Fort which stands like a crescent on the banks of Jamuna River enclosed by
forbidding 20-meter high walls, with a 12- meter moat between them. Three successive
Mughal emperors - Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jehan - helped create this massive structure
which contains Hindu and Muslim architecture. Afternoon is free for shopping / enjoy
facilities at your hotel. Overnight at the Hotel.
Day 07
Agra / Fatehpur Sikri / Jaipur (245Kms/5 Hrs. Drive)
This morning you will drive to the "pink city" and the capital of Rajasthan en-route
visiting the ancient Moghul capital of FATEHPUR SIKRI en-route. This 16th century
capital of Moghul emperor Akbar is a complex of forts, palaces and mosques built
in sandstone. The city had to be deserted because of lack of water. The white marble
Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti, Akbar's spiritual adviser, is now observed as a Muslim
pilgrimage spot here. Later continue your drive to Jaipur and check in at the hotel.
Jaipur is known as the "pink city" with its buildings of pink and orange hues and
it's a wonderful place to see the color of Rajasthan and its people. Jaipur is well
known for its beautiful carpets, enameled ornaments, precious and semi-precious
stones, brass ornaments and many other arts and crafts. Rest of the day is free
to explore the colorful town independently. Spend time in crowded lanes & by lanes
of pink city, haggling and souvenir-hunting. Overnight at the Hotel.
Day 08
in Jaipur
After breakfast you will explore the massive Amber Fort the ancient capital of the
State until 1728. Visit the Temple of Kali, the Hall of Victory or Jai Mahal and
Jagmandir. You can have the unique experience of traveling on elephant back to and
from the top of the hill on which the fort is situated. It has halls of Public and
Private Audience, a Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors) various marble palaces which
are marvelous examples of ancient Rajput architecture. Later proceed for a city
tour of the pink city, visit the City Palace - the former royal residence built
in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal styles which houses a museum with a superb
collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of the Mughals and Rajputs, including
swords of different shapes and sizes with ornate handles. It has an art gallery
with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia
and rare astronomical works in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit. Also visit the
Jantar Mantar - an astrological and astronomical Observatory built by Maharaja Jai
Singh in 18th century, which is remarkable for its accuracy even at the present
times. Lastly stop at Palace-of-Winds for taking pictures and back to hotel. Overnight
at the hotel.
Day 09
Jaipur- Bundi (205km/4hrs)
Morning drive to Bundi and check in at the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing of Bundi
visiting the 14th century Taragarh Fort. Later visit the Bundi Palace next to the
fort has some beautiful murals on display. At Chhattar Mahal of the many splendid
structures the ancient water clock at Hathi Pol and the beautiful Diwan-e-Aam are
a must see. You can quietly savour the serene surroundings of the beautiful gardens
of Sukh Mahal and the artificial lake at Nawal Sagar. Chatra Mahal and Badal Mahal,
a part of Garh Palace, is a treasury of miniature paintings in red, golden and blue.
Phool Sagar Palace is another building which has wonderful murals. The area is famous
for its step-wells such as the 17th century Raniji-ki-Baoli built by Rani Nathavatji.
This is the largest of the baolis (step wells) in Bundi. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 10
Bundi-Chittorgarh-Udaipur (250km/5hrs)
Morning drive to Udaipur enroute visiting the famous Fort of Chittorgarh which is
huge and colossal structure. The entrance to the fort is provided through seven
gates and lead up to the main gate. There are a number of magnificent monuments
inside the fort itself. Continue your drive and arrive The City of Lakes-Udaipur.
Check in at the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy your hotel. Overnight
at the hotel.
Day 11
In Udaipur
Morning visit Jagdish Temple-dedicated to Lord Vishnu, in 1651. It houses an image
of Lord Vishnu in black stone, along with a brass image of Garuda, his carrier.
Sahelion ki Bari, the garden of maidens, was built by Maharaja Sangram Singh in
the mid 18th century. Pools with elegant kiosks, flowerbeds, lawns, pools, fountains,
along with an array of trees make this garden eye-catching; the City Palace was
built by Maharaja Udai Singh. This marble monument is situated on the eastern banks
of Lake Pichola. Numerous balconies, towers and cupolas of the palace provide a
marvelous view of the lake and the city below. A triple arched gate called Tripolia,
built in 1725, provides the entry to the palace.
Afternoon boat cruise on Lake Pichola- a 4-Km long and 3-Km broad, surrounded by
splendid hills, palaces, temples, bathing Ghats and embankments. Visit the island
palace Jag Niwas which is beautifully set in the lake. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 12
Udaipur-Jodhpur (260km/5hrs)
Morning drive to Jodhpur enroute visiting the beautiful Jain Temples at Ranakpur.
One of the remarkable things about the temple is wonderful play of shadow & light
on the nearly 1500 pillars (each of which interestingly displays a different decorative
design). The three other Jain temples in the same complex, including a temple of
the Sun God, are all well worth a visit. On arrival in Jodhpur check in at the hotel.
Late afternoon proceed on a jeep safari to Bishnoi Village. The Bishnoi's are an
eco Friendly sect of Hindu religion; it is one of the different communities of Rajasthan
who are famous for their rich cultural Rajasthani life and their true love for nature
and animals. Overnight at the hotel.
Optional Tour 4: You can fly from Udaipur to Jodhpur
Day 13
Jodhpur-Aurangabad - Via Mumbai (by Flight)
Morning visit the Mehrangarh Fort- one of the largest forts in India, is the pride
of Jodhpur. Situated on a 150 m high hill, founded in the year 1469 by Rao Jodha.
The main palaces are Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Takht Vilas and Jhanki
Mahal. A museum also finds a place inside the fort, displaying a rich collection
of old royal palanquins, arms, paintings, costumes, etc. Later visit Umaid Bhawan
Palace one of the famous palaces to see in Jodhpur. Built with the noble intention
of providing employment to the people during famine, this palace is an architectural
beauty. The palace has been divided into three parts. In one part, functions a hotel,
in the second, a museum and the third house the royal family. Also visit Jaswant
Thada; a royal cenotaph built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. A white
marble memorial, the cenotaph is adorned with exquisite carvings. It houses the
portraits of the former rulers of Jodhpur.
Transfer to airport to connect your flight for Mumbai to connect flight for Aurangabad.
On arrival transfer to hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 14
In Aurangabad
Proceed on a full day excursion to Ajanta Caves The 29 caves were built as secluded
retreats of the Buddhist monks, who taught and performed rituals in the Chaityas
and Viharas, the ancient seats of learning, and nerve - centres of the Buddhist
cultural movement. Using simple tools like hammer and chisel, the monks carved out
the impressive figures adorning the walls of these structures. Many of the caves
house panels depicting stories from the Jatakas, a rich mine of tales of the several
incarnations of the Buddha. Images of nymphs and princesses amongst others are also
elaborately portrayed. Return back to hotel for overnight stay.
Important Note: Ajanta Caves remain closed
on Monday
Day 15
Aurangabad-Delhi
Morning visit Bibi Ka Maqbara- a magnificent mausoleum, situated at a distance of
approximately 5 km from the Aurangabad city of India. It entombs Rabia-ul-Daurani,
alias Dilras Banu Begum, the wife of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Later proceed
on an excursion to Ellora Caves - The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into
the sides of a basaltic hill, 30 kms from Aurangabad. The finest specimens of cave
- temple architecture, they house elaborate facades and exquisitely adorned interiors.
These structures representing the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism,
were carved during the 350 AD to 700 AD period. The 12 caves to the south are Buddhist,
the 17 in the centre dedicated to Hinduism, and the 5 caves to the north are Jain.
Important Note: Ellora Caves remain closed
on Tuesday
Transfer to airport to connect flight for Delhi. After arrival transfer to the hotel.
Day 16
Leave Delhi
Time to fly back home or to your next destination.
End of the tour.......
PinkTravelers.com will be pleased to offer the following
with their compliments
- Indian traditional welcome with flower Garlanding on arrival
- Welcome drink at the hotels (Non alcoholic)
- Fresh Fruits basket in the room
- Mineral water bottle during sightseeing & inter city drives
- Caps & shoe covers
- Surprise Farewell gift
NOTE: Following can be arranged upon request (on extra
payment basis)
1. Massage by Gay/Gay friendly masseur (in select cities only)
2. Gay/gay friendly accompanying escort can be provided for the entire trip on extra
charge basis.
3. We can also arrange an interaction with the people from the LGBT community or
organizations representing them (in select cities only)
4. With regard to meals and while lunches on the tour can be had at local restaurants,
the dinners can be had at your hotel of stay as they have multiple choices of restaurants
offering multi cuisines.
Need more information, please contact us:
info@pinktravelers.com or call + 91-11-45081818