Rajasthan & Gujarat Pilgrimage Tour 1

Sightseeing in Jaipur

Amer Fort : Located 11km outside Jaipur, Amer Fort is a blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture. Amer was originally the capital of Rajasthan before Jaipur and ruled by the Kacchwahas from the 11th century to the 16th century. Famously known as the Amer Palace, it was built by Raja Man Singh in 1592. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and marble. It consists of various buildings within the premises like the Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam and a beautiful lake just at the base of the fort. Touring the fort requires a lot of walking, therefore it is suggested to wear comfortable shoes

Albert Hall Museum :Albert Hall Museum is one of the most popular architectural wonders of Jaipur. It was built as a concert hall in 1876, with its design inspired by the V&A Museum in London. It was later turned into a museum to showcase handicrafts and traditional Indian art of the artisans. This Indo-Saracenic museum is beautifully ornamented and has 16 galleries. It houses a collection of paintings, weapons, metal art, sculptures, and various other historical artifacts. It is also known for its collection of Rajasthani miniatures from various schools of art like the Bundi, Kishangarh, Udaipur, Jaipur and others. The museum is closed on the last Tuesday of every month, Republic Day and Dhulandi.

City Palace Jaipur :Located in the heart of the Pink City of Jaipur, City Palace is a combination of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Maharaja Sawai Singh built the outer walls of the palace between 1729 and 1732 and the successive rulers enlarged the monument into a beautiful palace. The Palace Complex is endowed with sprawling courtyards, beautiful gardens, museums, and art galleries. There are three entrances to the palace; Virendra Pol, Udai Pol, and Tripolia Gate. Do not miss Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal once you are here. Since the complex has many structures to visit, therefore it is advised to wear comfortable shoes. The palace, one of the most famous landmarks of Jaipur, still houses the last ruling family of the former kingdom in a private section.

Hawa Mahal : Built in 1799, the Hawa Mahal, situated at Badi Chaupar, is one of the magnificent attractions of the Pink city - Jaipur. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh for royal women to enjoy festivities and everyday public scenes without being seen by strangers. The five-story palace is in the shape of Lord Krishna's crown with 953 intricately decorated windows. The top three floors are named Vichitra Mandir, Prakash Mandir, and Hawa Mandir. Sharad Mandir on the first floor is where the spring celebrations used to take place during the olden times and Ratan Mandir on the second floor is decorated with glasswork. Also, one can shop and eat at the markets surrounding the palace. Take a photo-stop outside the Hawa Mahal on your way to visit the City Palace or other places in Jaipur. Car itineraries usually do not include an extended stop here, therefore keep a lookout while you pass by this attraction.

Jantar Mantar :Jantar Mantar is the largest stone astronomical observatory in the world and is located right next to the famous City Palace in Jaipur. The word 'Jantar' in Hindi means instrument and the word 'Mantar' means calculation, hence, Jantar Mantar means a calculation instrument. The observatory was built in 1734 by Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh II who was also an avid astronomer. The intriguing architecture of Jantar Mantar has 19 instruments built from stone, marble, and brass. The instruments allow one to calculate the position of heavenly bodies, measure time, track stars and to predict eclipses with naked eyes.

Elephant Ride at Amber Fort

About Activity

"Feel like royalty as you ride an elephant to the top of Amber Fort. Enjoy the unique experience, admiring the brilliant architecture of this historic spot along the way. Note: Activity timings are 7:30 AM onwards. Cancellations done a week prior to the date of travel will not be eligible for any refund. "

Sightseeing in Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort :Towering over the blue city of Jodhpur and rising to a height of 410 ft, Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in the country. Constructed in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the fort's striking history attracts tourists from all around the world. Sprawling courtyards and intricate detailing on the walls are a sight to behold. One has to walk through seven gates to reach the fort - Victory Gate, Fateh Gate, Gopal Gate, Bhairon Gate, Dedh Kangra Gate, Marti Gate and finally Loha Gate. Within this legendary fort, there are stunning palaces like Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal. It also comprises of museums and galleries showcasing a rich historical collection of miniature paintings, royal palanquins, instruments, and furniture. Since the fort is spread over a large area, visitors are suggested to wear comfortable footwear during their visit. For those with mobility issues, an elevator is available till certain parts of the fort. The ramparts of the fort offer the sight of some ancient cannons as well as amazing views over the blue city below.

Jaswant Thada :Surrounded by lush green trees and perched right next to a small lake, Jaswant Thada is a marvelous 19th-century cenotaph. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in the memory of his late father Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Located 8 km away from the main city, the memorial constructed of milky-white marble is also known as the Taj Mahal of Marwar. The marble used has been cut so thin and polished so beautifully that the outer surface of the memorial seems to glow as the sun-rays fall on it. Jaswant Thada is a fine example of Rajputana architecture. The monument also houses various precious paintings and portraits of the rulers of Jodhpur.

Umaid Bhawan Palace :The majestic Umaid Bhawan Palace is an absolute jewel situated in the beautiful city of Jodhpur. Showcasing a blend of both Eastern and Western architectural influences, this grand palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh to provide employment to farmers in the times of drought and famine. Spread over one million square feet, Umaid Bhawan which was the royal residence was converted into a heritage hotel and museum in 1997. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in their private residence in one wing of the palace. The museum exhibits a huge collection of royal artifacts, vintage clocks, cars, weapons etc.

Sightseeing in Udaipur and Jaipur

Nathdwara :Located 48 kilometers north-east of Udaipur, Nathdwara is a quaint town situated on the banks of the Banas River. The town is famous for being home to the highly revered Shrinathji Temple, one of the most important temples in India dedicated to Lord Krishna. Nathdwara is visited by thousands of devotees every year, especially during the festivals of Janamashtami and Holi. The town is also famous for the intricate Pichwai paintings.

Kankroli Temple :The small town of Kankroli is famous for its Dwarkadhish temple (another name of Lord Krishna). Located 65 km away from the main city of Udaipur on the banks of Rajsamand Lake, Kankroli is visited by devotees from all over India . The principal idol is claimed to have been imported from Mathura, the hometown of Lord Krishna, in the 1671 AD. The temple is considered a significant part of the Vaishnavas and Vallabhacharya sect. The serene and tranquil ambiance of the town infused with the picturesque view of the Rajsamand Lake will add more to the experience of the visitors.

Eklingji Temple :Located 22 km away from the main city of Udaipur, Eklingji temple is an ancient temple situated in the town of Eklingji. This Hindu temple is dedicated to Eklingji, one of the famous forms of Lord Shiva, and was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. The double storied temple features a pyramid style roof and an intricately carved tower. The temple is home to a 50 feet tall four-faced idol of Lord Shiva crafted from black marble. The Shivalinga is garlanded with a silver snake which is the prime highlight of the temple. The temple has other small shrines as well and is a very popular place of visit. It is suggested to dress modestly while visiting.

City Palace :Located in the heart of the Pink City of Jaipur, City Palace is a combination of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Maharaja Sawai Singh built the outer walls of the palace between 1729 and 1732 and the successive rulers enlarged the monument into a beautiful palace. The Palace Complex is endowed with sprawling courtyards, beautiful gardens, museums, and art galleries. There are three entrances to the palace; Virendra Pol, Udai Pol, and Tripolia Gate. Do not miss Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal once you are here. Since the complex has many structures to visit, therefore it is advised to wear comfortable shoes. The palace, one of the most famous landmarks of Jaipur, still houses the last ruling family of the former kingdom in a private section.

Zip Lining at Mehrangarh Fort

About Activity

"Feel the thrill as you trek through the forests of Jodhpur and zip line across the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Soak in the beautiful views as you trek through the famous Rao Jodha Eco Park. Next, you will be given instructions on safety and technique by the professionals for zip lining. Then, hop onto the zip line and enjoy gliding over the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, across the beautiful landscapes and lakes of the blue city, that is Jodhpur! Note: The duration of the activity is approximately 1.5 hours. This is inclusive of the Rao Jodha Eco Park trek, zip-lining at Mehrangarh Fort and safety gear. "

Sightseeing in Udaipur

Ranakpur Jain Temples :Dedicated to Tirthankara Rishabhanatha, Ranakpur Jain Temple (also known as Chatarmukh Temple) is one of the oldest Jain Temple and holds immense significance for the Jains. The temples are situated around 2 hours drive away from the main city of Udaipur. The construction of the temple started in the year 1446 and it took 50 years for its completion. What makes its architecture unique is the chaumukha structure-meaning it has 4 faces. An interesting fact about the structure is that it has uncountable pillars and each one of them different from the other. Please note, leather products are not allowed inside temple. Devotees as requested to wear modest attires while visiting the temple.

Sightseeing in Udaipur

City Palace Udaipur :Perched on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola, Udaipur's City Palace is grandeur personified. This majestic palace was built by various generations of Sisodia Rajputs, starting over 400 years ago. The architecture of the palace features a perfect blend of European, Medieval and Chinese influences. cc cupolas, towers, and balconies which are adorned with mirror-work, marble work, coloured glass, ornamental tile-work, murals, wall-paintings etc. The palace terrace offers a fascinating view of Lake Pichola which is truly a feast for the eyes. This is the largest palace complex in the entire state of Rajasthan; a large part of it is now a museum.

Saheliyon ki Bari :Lying on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, Saheliyon ki Bari is an alluring garden famous for its natural beauty. The garden was built by Maharana Sangram Singh in the 18th century and gifted by the Maharana to his wife as a retreat to relax. The striking rain fountains, marvellous marble elephant structures and a museum of beautiful paintings and artifacts are the major attractions of this garden. A leisurely stroll around this velvety and lush garden adorned with splendid architecture makes it a perfect tourist spot to enjoy some tranquility.

 Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum :Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum is one of the most famous museums in Udaipur showcasing the royal history and heritage of Rajasthan under one roof. The museum features a vast compilation of traditional dresses, ornaments, puppets, masks, dolls, folk musical instruments, folk deities, and paintings gathered over 44 years by the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal. Upon entering the premises the visitors would first come across the folk theatre objects along with tribal musical instruments. One could also enjoy the puppet shows running at the museum at regular intervals.

 Boat Ride to Jag Mandir Palace

About Activity

"Get set for an exciting boat ride to the grand Jag Mandir Palace. Make your way through Lake Pichola and admire the picturesque backdrop of the ghats and iconic landmarks. Spot the City Palace, Bagore ki Haveli and Sajjangarh. Reach the palace and take in the stunning view. Wander in the lush gardens or enjoy a cup of coffee from the on-site shop. Note: The duration of the boat ride is 1 hour."

Check out from Udaipur hotel, proceed to Udaipur Airport