Delhi (02 Night) – Amritsr (01Nights) Jaipur (02 Nights)- Agra (01 Night)
Dive into the cultural and historical past of India while witnessing the incredible
architectural marvels of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Amritsar. The golden triangle provides
the traveller with an in-depth insight into the lives of the invaders and rulers of North
India and the beautiful testaments they left behind. At Amritsar, view a sharp contrast
between the awe inspiring Golden Temple and the massacre grounds at Jalianwala
Bagh and witness at the Wagah border the Beating Retreat ceremonies between India
and Pakistan.
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Tour’s Highlight:- |
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Amritsar
Delhi |
Beating Retreat Ceremony at Wagah Border, Golden Temple Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, , India Gate, President’s House ,Qutub Minar- Rickshaw Ride also visit Spice market in Old delhi |
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Jaipur |
Elephant ride to Amber Fort Palace , City Palace, Jantar Mantar (Observatory) & Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) |
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Fatehpur Sikri |
Akbar’s Residential complex, Mosque & Tomb of Salim Chisti |
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Agra |
Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, |
Upon arrival, you will be meeting with our representative at outside the airport and transferred to the
Hotel our representative will be holding placard of “Concord Exotic Voyages” with the guests name at exit gate inside the airport Lounge
DELHI, the capital of India, is home to 16 million people, making it the third largest city in India. The strategic location of the city made it an attractive location for invading armies, and it served as the capital for many great empires that ruled India. Many of these Empires built significant monuments, and whilst the Mughal and the British are the most visible, while driving through the city you will see ruins from previous capitals, the earliest dating back to the 12th century.
Upon arrival, Check into the hotel
Overnight at Hotel in Delhi
Packed Breakfast from hotel later transfer to New Delhi railways station to board train for Amritsar
Upon arrival at Amritsar railway station transfer to Hotel
Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India. It is an important seat of Sikh history, religion and culture. Being the gateway for travelers coming to India on the overland route from central Asia, it soon became the center of various commercial activities. There are various historical and religious sites, the most famous of them is the Golden Temple which was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas and completed by his successor Guru Arjan Dev. Amritsar is India’s leading exporter of goods to the Middle-East, leading distribution center of dry fruits, tea and condiments. It is also a shopper’s paradise and a gourmet’s delight.
In the evening visit the INDIA – PAKISTAN border for gate closing ceremony
Wagah, named Wahga in Pakistan, is a village near which the accepted Radcliffe Line, the boundary demarcation line dividing India and Pakistan upon the Partition of India, was drawn.[2] The village lies 600 meters west of the border. At the time of independence in 1947, the migrants from the Indian parts of the subcontinent entered the present day Pakistan through this border crossing. The Wagah railway station lies 400 meters to the south and only 100 meters from the border. Indian side it is known as Atari. Located at about 29 km from Amritsar on the Grand Trunk, Wagah border post has become famous for the ceremonial closing of gates and lowering of flags of India and Pakistan. BSF and Pakistani Rangers march towards the gates from their respective sides. After the gate is open, the soldiers salute each other and start lowering the flags. The flags are carefully folded and carried back. The ceremony reaches a crescendo with the soldiers returning to the border line for the final handshake and the blowing of the bugle marks the end of the ceremony. As the ceremony climbs to its apogee, cries of Jai Hind and Pakistan Zindabad render in the Air. You will be picked up from your hotel at 2:30pm and proceed to Wagah Border to witness the afternoon Parade ceremony after the parade ceremony, your driver will drop you back to your hotel. After arriving from Vagha Border you will be visit Golden temple – Palki Ceremony There is Palki sahib ceremony in the Golden temple which takes place twice in day. Palki sahib ceremony is when the holy book Guru Granth sahib is carried to a room for night stay. This is symbolic gesture
Overnight at Hotel in Amritsar
Breakfast at the hotel after breakfast proceeds for sightseeing of Amritsar following Jaliwala Bagh
On April 13, Brigadier General R.E.H. Dyer arrived from Jalandhar Cantonment, and virtually occupied the town as civil administration under Miles Irving, the Deputy Commissioner, had come to standstill. On Sunday, 13 April 1919, Dyer was convinced of a major insurrection and he banned all meetings; however, this notice was not widely disseminated. That was the day of Baisakhi, the main Sikh festival, and many villagers had gathered in the Bagh. On hearing that a meeting had assembled at Jallianwala Bagh, Dyer went with fifty Gurkha riflemen to a raised bank and ordered them to shoot at the crowd. Dyer continued the firing for about ten minutes, until the ammunition supply was almost exhausted; Dyer stated that 1,650 rounds had been fired, a number which seems to have been derived by counting empty cartridge cases picked up by the troops. Official British Indian sources gave a figure of 379 identified dead, with approximately 1,200 wounded. The casualty number estimated by the Indian National Congress was more than 1,500, with approximately 1,000 dead
Later transfer to Amritsar Railway Station to board Train for Delhi
Upon arrival at Delhi railway station transfer to Hotel
Overnight at Hotel in Delhi
Breakfast at the hotel after breakfast, Check out from the hotel followed by city tour of Old Delhi visiting Jama Mosque, Raj ghat and drive past Red fort with Russian speaking escort cum guide.
The tour will begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. He is also famously known as the “father of the nation”.
Continue your tour to Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaws, one of Asia’s largest mosques. People stream in and out of the mosque continuously and the presence of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet. Enjoy the rickshaw ride at Old Delhi peddling through the narrow by lanes of Chandani Chowk
After noon sightseeing of New Delhi including Qutub Minar, and drive past India Gate, the parliament buildings and drive past Presidential house,
Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. Qutub-Minar in red and buff sandstone is the highest tower in India. It has a diameter of 14.32 m at the base and about 2.75 m on the top with a height of
72.5m. Qutbu’d-Din Aibak laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 for the use of the mu’azzin (crier) to give calls for prayer and raised the first floor, to which were added three more floors by his successor and
Son-in-law, Shamsu’d-Din Iltutmish (AD 1211-36) All the storeys are surrounded by a projected balcony encircling the minar and supported by stone brackets, which are decorated with honeycomb design, more conspicuously in the first floor.
Later drive to Jaipur
Arrive hotel in Jaipur and check into the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel in Jaipur
Jaipur- A labyrinth of fascinating bazaars, opulent palaces and a futuristic observatory, Jaipur was the inspiration of the ruler Sawai Jai Singh, who moved the capital from Amber in 1727. Jaipur was designed by a young architect from Bengal and together they planned a city along the ancient Hindu treatise of “Shilpa Shastra”, a science similar to the better known Feng Shui. Jaipur is laid out in a geometric grid of streets and squares making it one of the earliest planned cities in India. In honor of the visit of the Prince Edward, then the Prince of Wales, the City was painted in rich terracotta, a tradition which has continued through the years. This is the reason why Jaipur is often called the “pink city”. Today it serves as the State capital for Rajasthan
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast at the hotel start a sightseeing tour of Jaipur.
Full day sightseeing of Jaipur visiting Amber fort, City palace, Observatory and Windsor palace
You will also be experiencing Elephant ride while ascending the Amer fort.
(Elephant ride is subject to availability failing Jeep ride will be provided)
Amer Fort Palace – Amer is the classic romantic Rajasthan fort palace. Its construction was started by Man Singh I in 1592, and completed by his descendent Jai Singh I. Its forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate expression.
City Palace – A delightful blend of Mughal and traditional Rajasthani architecture, the City Palace sprawls over one-seventh of the area in the walled city. It houses the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum. Jantar Mantar or Observatory – This is the largest and the best preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II in different parts of the country. This observatory consisting of outsized astronomical instruments is still in use. Hawa Mahal or Windsor Palace – The ornamental facade of this “Palace of Winds” is a prominent landmark in Jaipur. It is a five-storied structure of sandstone plastered pink encrusted with fine Trelliswork and elaborate balconies the palace has 953 niches and windows. Built in 1799 by Pratap Singh, the Mahal was a royal grandstand for the palace women.
The Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, or the Birla Mandir, as it is more popularly known as, is located at the base of Moti Dungari. Built on an elevated platform, this comparatively modern temple is built entirely of white marble and dominates the skyline of south Jaipur. The temple was commissioned and built by renowned Indian industrialists, the Birla’s, in 1988. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also called Narayan, and his companion, Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and good fortune. The temple is a work of art and has a marvelous display of exquisite carvings and sculptures covering many mythological themes. The eye is drawn to the images of Laxmi and Narayan, carved as they are, from one piece of marble. The top of the temple has three domes, each representing the three religions followed in India. This is designed to pay homage to secular India. The temple looks spectacular at night when it is lit up.
Overnight at Hotel in Jaipur
Breakfast at the hotel
After breakfast drive to Agra en-route visit en route we will visit Fatehpur Sikri (Ghost Capital), the political capital of India’s Mughal Empire under Akbar’s reign, from the year 1571 until 1585, when it was abandoned, ostensibly due to lack of water. Visit Emperor Akbar’s Residential complex, Mosque & Tomb of Salim Chisti, Further we continue our drive to Agra, beautifully situated on the banks of river Yamuna. It achieved prominence as the capital of the Mughal Emperors from 1526 to 1628, remains major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era monuments,
Agra – This was the seat of the mighty Mughal Empire before it shifted its capital to Delhi, and it is home to some of their most inspired architectural creations including the Taj Mahal. In the 16th and 17th century, the Mughal Courts were at their most powerful, and were great patron of the arts, and Agra attracted artisans, poets and musicians from across India as well as Persia and Central Asia, transforming Agra into a cultural and architectural paradise
After noon visit Agra Fort – The red sandstone structure is surrounded by chahar-bagh, a four-square formal garden. Built by the famed Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 AD, the fort is predominantly of red sandstone. Ensconced within is the picture perfect Pearl Mosque, which is a major tourist attraction. It lies on the bend of the river Yamuna, almost in the heart of the town. Akbar built it as his citadel over the years 1563-73 in the finest architectural style. It has imposing gates and walls of red sandstone and a moat
Overnight at Hotel in Agra
Breakfast at the hotel
Taj Mahal- Little needs to be said about this architectural wonder which is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist’s visit to Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed, and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes, intricately vehicleved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen (Taj Mahal Closed on Friday)
Later drive to Delhi, upon arrival transfer to airport for own destination
We hope that you will find this over view useful – should you need more detailed information on subjects that are mentioned or anything else that we may be able to assist with please do let us know.
Currency India’s currency is ‘Rupee’, abbreviated as ‘Rs’. One Rupee is equal to 100 paise. Coins are in various small denominations of 10, 25, 50 Paisa (these are rarely in circulation these days) & 1, 2, & 5, Rupees. Notes (Bills) are in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 & 1000 Rupees.
You cannot purchase Indian Rupees outside India. Therefore we suggest that you carry some cash in Dollars, Pounds or Euros which can be changed upon arrival in India at the airport (where you will find a fair exchange rate). Please ask us for any further assistance or guidance on this.
Dress / Packing suggestion
Most of the hotels are smart but not hugely formal and the smart casual label is the best description for suggested dress code. Do carry a warm coat/jersey for early morning starts and especially for any train journeys and safaris. Places of religious worship should be respected by covering shoulders and above the knee – it is therefore advised that on any days when you are out sightseeing or exploring that you follow this guide line to be on the safe side. It is strongly advised that you carry a hat when there is chance you will be out in the sun in the middle of the day. Ladies will always find a shawl or Pashmina very useful. If travelling in the hotter times of the year, it is important to wear light cotton clothing and to keep your head covered when out in the heat of the day. (Its very easy to dehydrate, so a note here is to ensure you keep fluids up and consider carrying rehydration salts.)
Dress Code for National Parks / Packing suggestion
Please wear appropriate colours when in any National Park or Tiger Reserves – these should be muted earthy colours. We would also suggest a sun hat and sunglasses for game drives.
Please note from mid-November until end February, the early morning and evening games drives can be very cold – this is attributed largely to the wind factor of the ‘open air’ jeep. We highly recommend you to carry fleeces, jackets, hats, gloves and scarves. By about 8/9am, the sun is out and you will begin ‘de-layering’ and be comfortable in a t-shirt for the majority of the midday.
Electricity in India voltage is 220 volts AC, 50 cycles, though some areas also have DC supplies. Visitors are advised to check the voltage before using electrical appliances. Socket sizes vary, so it is as well to take a set of plug adapters, available from most electrical stores.
Foreign Exchange
Visiting foreigners can exchange money at international airports where 24-hour exchange facilities are available, through banks and approved moneychangers. Or, one may change money at the big city hotels.
One can also change money at national or international banks such as Standard Chartered, Citibank, Bank of America, Hong Kong Bank and others in the major metro cities. Most of these have 24-hour ATMs. American Express and Thomas Cook offices may be found in major metros and tourist cities.
Bank timings are usually from 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs on weekdays and 1000hrs to 1400 hrs on Saturdays. Please remember that not all banks will exchange foreign currency or travellers cheques particularly in small towns.
Exchange money only through authorized banks or Money Changers. Insist on a receipt/encashment certificate when changing money. Retain all receipts to facilitate re-conversion of unspent money on departure from India. Current exchange rates of British Pound and US Dollar are: 1 US $: Rs 50 / 1 GBP: Rs 95
Inoculations/Vaccinations:
Before traveling to India it is advised that you get vaccinations for tetanus, malaria, hepatitis, rabies and typhoid. Consult your doctor before taking them / also take advice on other vaccinations for meningitis and tuberculosis. Most vaccination courses are completed within four weeks, best taken before the trip. Malaria preventive course may be taken before your trip, but again this should be consulted with your doctor.
Insurance
While traveling in India it is important that you obtain good personal travel insurance from an insurance agent in your country. A suitable policy will include an unlimited amount for medical, hospital and additional health associated costs. Most policies cover loss of baggage, personal money (usually limited) delay and curtailment. Do make sure your policy covers you for unexpected cancellation of your trip in this unlikely event you will then be covered for financial cost. You should carry your insurance policy with you at all time, preferably in your relevant details in a separate place, with your passport photocopy.
Meet and Greet
On arrival in India at the international airport, when you disembark the aircraft please move promptly to the immigration counter as large queues can build up at this point.
You will first pass through immigration control, and then collect your baggage and pass through customs before the Concord Exotic Voyages representative meets you. He/She will be carrying a paging board with your name on it. This procedure will be followed for domestic flights, albeit without the customs & immigration.
Once you have exited customs you will find a large number of people including taxi tout. Please move very slowly so that you can spot the Concord representative. In the rare event that the Concord representative is not to be found please call up Concord’s emergency number (found on Contact Details).
Payments All foreign nationals must pay their hotel bills in foreign currency (cash, Traveler’s Cheques or even by Credit Cards). This can be paid in Rupees if the visitor has a receipt to show as a proof of currency exchange.
Passport
You must be in possession of a valid passport, which will not expire for at least six months after your journey is due to end. It should have to clear pages for entry and exit stamps as well as your visa. A wise precaution is to carry a photocopy of your passport kept separately, extremely useful in the event of loss or theft.
Photography Visitors to India find varied subjects for photography including people, monuments, wildlife, festivities, and landscapes. Note, however, these formalities, in respect of photography:
Special permission of the Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi, is required for use of tripod and artificial light on monuments.
Special permission of Government of India is required for any photography for the purpose of publicity and commercial use.
Photography is prohibited in tribal areas.
Taking photographs of airports, railway stations, bridges, military installations, and from the air is prohibited.
Prohibited Articles
The import of prohibited articles such as dangerous drugs, live plants, gold/silver bullion and coins, not in current use, is either totally prohibited or restricted. The law provides heavy penalties for the infringement of this restriction, and in some cases punishment can extend to the death sentence. Also, by law, visitors are banned from taking antiques and wildlife products out of the country – any infringement is punishable by fines and imprisonment
Shopping
India can be described as a shopper’s paradise with products such as hand-woven rugs, inlaid marble, semi-precious stone jewelry, silk fabrics, brassware, etc. India’s diversity is expressed though the creation of master craftspeople. Each state has a unique handicraft to proudly reflect the inherited and improved skills to near perfection. Souvenir shops and art & craft emporiums are to be found everywhere. Consult your guidebook or the local guides and people. Usually the “pavement markets” do not guarantee the products and they do not accept credit / debit cards. Genuine products can only be guaranteed at a government showroom or branded showroom. Shopping can be one of the ways to interact with a local. For people who like to bargain, shopping is a true pleasure. For others, fixed priced stores are a relief. Whatever transaction you prefer, we hope your purchase that was made in India, will remind you of your trip. Yes, the guides do take you to shops and showrooms, while you are on tour. You can say “no” when you don’t want to visit the shops or not interested in shopping with a guide. But when you do visit the store with the guide, you do not necessarily pay a higher price for a substandard product. As this is a worldwide phenomenon, we accept it too with its “blues”. What we have done is, selected a few stores both privately owned & government owned (but in both cases Government recognized) at important destinations, where we are sure of two things;
1) Quality of the product 2) The product if too heavy should be delivered at your doorstep without any extra cost even if the extra cost needs to be added to the price of the product. As for price, some are fixed price & some are bargain shops. So go ahead and enjoy the shopping – and please ask our advice at any time.
Travelers Cheques/Credit Cards
Travelers’ Cheques should be of well-known brands like Thomas Cook, American Express and Visa. Large establishments generally accept Major Credit Cards like American Express, Master Cards, Diners Club, Visa, etc, including hotels, shops and airlines.
Unless we have informed you separately you are NOT travelling to a restricted area and it is best to apply for a multiple entry 6 month visa.
They have been known so far to change the details required from time to time, therefore if you have any questions whilst going through the application please do let us know – therefore it is advisable to complete the process during the working day so you can call to clarify anything during the process rather than having to start again.
Visiting Places of Worship
Removing one’s shoes before entering temples, mosques or Gurudwara (Sikh Temple) is essential. Avoid taking leather goods of any kinds (bag, belt etc.) and cigarettes into places of worship, as these are often not permitted. Do not wear shorts or sleeveless tops in places of public worship.
