Jaipur (The Pink City)

Overview

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is renowned for its historic palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. It's known as the "Pink City" due to the color of the buildings in its old town.

Key Attractions

• Amber Fort: A majestic fort located on a hill overlooking the city. Known for its stunning blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture, the fort includes the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Mirrors) and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace).
• City Palace: A grand palace complex that serves as the residence of the royal family. It includes museums showcasing royal artifacts and a beautiful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
• Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): Famous for its façade with 953 small windows, allowing royal women to observe street life without being seen.
• Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, featuring large, accurate instruments for tracking celestial bodies.
• Jal Mahal: A beautiful palace situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. It appears to float on the lake and is an ideal spot for photography.

Activities

• Explore Local Markets: Jaipur’s markets, such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, offer a range of handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
• Cultural Performances: Attend traditional dance and music performances at venues like the Chokhi Dhani resort.

Ajmer

Overview

Ajmer is a historic city in Rajasthan known for its religious significance and historical sites. It is located about 130 km from Jaipur and serves as a major pilgrimage center.

Key Attractions

• Ajmer Sharif Dargah: The most famous attraction in Ajmer, this is the shrine of the Sufi saint Garib Nawaz (Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti). It attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world.
• Ana Sagar Lake: A scenic lake with a pleasant promenade. It offers boating and peaceful views.
• Taragarh Fort: An ancient fort situated on a hill, providing panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.

Activities

• Pilgrimage: Visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and participate in the spiritual activities and rituals.
• Local Exploration: Explore Ajmer’s bazaars and traditional markets for local crafts and cuisine.

Pushkar

Overview

Pushkar is a small town located about 15 km from Ajmer. It is famous for its sacred lake, temples, and vibrant camel fair. It’s a significant pilgrimage site and a hub for spiritual tourism.

Key Attractions

• Pushkar Lake: A holy lake surrounded by ghats (steps leading to the water) and temples. Pilgrims come here for ritual baths to cleanse themselves of sins.
• Brahma Temple: One of the few temples dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu creator god. The temple’s unique architecture and religious significance make it a notable site.
• Pushkar Camel Fair: Held annually in November, this is one of the largest camel fairs in the world, featuring camel trading, cultural performances, and local crafts.

Activities

• Temple Visits: Explore the various temples around Pushkar Lake and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
• Camel Safari: Enjoy a camel ride in the desert around Pushkar and experience the traditional lifestyle of local communities.
• Local Markets: Shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs in the vibrant markets of Pushkar.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit these destinations is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool.

Day 1: Jaipur

On arrival at Jaipur Airport/ Railway station to meet our representative and transfer to the hotel. Day at leisure. Evening proceed to Chokhi Dhani - Ethnic village restaurant. Later drive back to hotel in Jaipur for overnight stay. 

Day 2: Jaipur

After breakfast, visit the Hawa Mahal. It is a five-storey 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. Also visit Jantar Mantar - 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. Stay overnight at Jaipur.

Day 3: Jaipur - Ajmer - Pushkar

In the morning, drive to Pushkar. Enroute visit Ajmer Dargah (the burial place) of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, a famous Sufi saint. On arrival, transfer to hotel. Later, visit the famous Brahma Temple, said to be one of the few temples in the world dedicated to this deity. It is marked by a red spire, and over the entrance gateway is the hans, or goose, symbol of Brahma, who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as its site. Also visit the Pushkar Lake. Stay overnight at Pushkar.

Day 4: Pushkar - Jaipur

After breakfast drive to Jaipur to transfer to airport/railway station for your onward journey.