$799pp Twin Share for an 11-Day Golden Triangle & Pushkar Tour incl. Accommodation, Daily Breakfasts, Transfers, Guides & More (value up to $2,980)

Departure dates (based on arrival in Delhi):

2016:

• December: 2, 6

• January: 3, 17
• February: 7, 21
• March: 7, 21
• April: 4, 18
• May: 2, 16
• June: 6, 20
• July: 6, 18
• August: 8, 15
• September: 5, 19
• October: 3, 20
• November: 7, 21
• December: 6, 12

Includes:

• 10 nights’ twin share accommodation
• Daily buffet breakfast at the hotels as mentioned
• Air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers, excursions and sightseeing tours
• Lumle representative available for assistance at all arrival and departure transfers
• English speaking local guides
• Rickshaw ride in Delhi
• Train ride from Ajmer to Delhi
• Mineral water in vehicles throughout the trip
• Applicable hotel and transport taxes
• Government service tax of 3.60%

Excludes:

• Airfares
• Travel insurance
• Single supplement
• Entrance charges to monuments
• Elephant ride at Amber Fort
• Expenses of personal nature, gratuities, and any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions
• Any meals other than those mentioned
• Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi

Arrive at Delhi’s International Airport, where you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

In the morning, you will be taken on a combined city tour around Delhi. First you will visit the old part of Delhi, starting with Jamia Masjid, one of the oldest Mosques in Asia. Then you'll be taken on a rickshaw ride through the old narrow streets of Chandini Chowk, and to the spice Markets, then later, the Red Fort and the Rajghat. You are then free to have lunch at your leisure, then you will return to the hotel for the second part of the tour. After lunch, you will tour New Delhi, first visiting Rashtrapati Bhawan and its well-maintained Mughal Gardens, the Parliament of India and India Gate. Then you’ll visit the famous Humuyus Tomb, a replica of the Taj Mahal made from sandstone and marble. Later you will visit the tallest minaret (Qutub Minar) and return to your hotel.

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

After breakfast you will travel to Agra, an approximately five-hour journey. Upon arrival in Agra you will check-in at your hotel and a representative will assist you with the formalities. A thriving carpet industry, Agra is steeped in history and culture. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Agra

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a truly life-changing sight to behold. The Taj Mahal was built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen, and is believed to have taken 18 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Return to the hotel and enjoy your breakfast. Later visit the impressive Agra Fort, the seat and stronghold of the Mughal Empire for successive generations. The buildings within this sprawling fort complex represent the assimilation of different cultures, which was the mark of the Mughal period. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur

After breakfast, you will drive to Jaipur, visiting Fatehpur Sikri enroute. This deserted red sandstone city was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital. Ponder the mysterious desertion of this capital city that was mysteriously abandoned a few years after it was completed. After the visit, continue your drive towards Jaipur. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan province, and is renown for its arts and crafts, jewellery, hand-painted fabrics and stone sculptures. Upon arrival in Jaipur, you will be met and assisted by a representative for your check-in at the hotel. Evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 6: Jaipur

After breakfast, visit the Amber Fort. High above the city, the towers and domes of the Amber Fort are reminiscent of fairy tales. The palace itself is within the enormous fort complex and is resplendent with halls, gardens, pavilions, and temples. The Hall of Mirrors is not to be missed – one lit matchstick can illuminate the entire room. Elephants rides are available (at an additional cost). Later, proceed to visit the City Palace Museum where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art. Your tour also includes a photo opportunity at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) – a five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and overhanging windows with latticed screens, domes and spires. Later, walk through the colourful markets of Jaipur. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7: Jaipur - Pushkar

After Breakfast you will be driven to Pushkar, approximately a five-hour journey. Upon arrival, proceed for check-in at your hotel. The village of Pushkar lies on the edge of the desert. At its heart is one of India’s most sacred lakes, surrounded by 52 ghats and numerous temples. The Brahma temple attracts pilgrims all year round. Apart from its religious significance, Pushkar is known for its Cattle and Camel fair held every year in the month of Kartik (October/November). You can also witness the evening prayer meetings in the temples. Being a religious town, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are taboo. In the afternoon, you will be taken for a tour of the city. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 8: Pushkar

Explore the village of Pushkar with your guide today – visit Jagatpita Brahma Mandi, a Hindu temple situated at Pushkar close to the sacred Pushkar Lake. The temple is one of very few existing temples dedicated to the Hindu creator-god Brahma in India and remains the most prominent among them. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Pushkar - Ajmer and Ajmer - Delhi

Breakfast is at the hotel. Morning is free time. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to Ajmer railway station to board your train to Delhi. On your arrival at Delhi railway station, a representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 10: Delhi

Today is completely free for you to enjoy as you like. Do some shopping in the Delhi markets, or explore this vibrant, colourful city on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 11: Departure

You will be met by a representative at the hotel lobby who will transfer you to Delhi International Airport to board your homebound flight.