DELHI - Capital of
India and a mixture of Hindu, Muslim and British architecture.
The city consists of 2 parts - Old Delhi which was the capital
of Muslim India between the 12th and 19th centuries and
New Delhi the imperial city created by the British.
MANDAWA - This small
town is situated at the beginning of the great Thar desert
which extends west towards Pakistan. Its position on the
camel routes between India and Central Asia brought great
wealth. The wealthy merchants built magnificent mansions
of golden/yellow sandstone which are known as "Havelis"
BIKANER - This desert
town was founded in 1488. The main attraction is the Jungarh Fort which has an elaborate
palace within.
JODHPUR - The impregnable
Meherangarh Fort sitting atop a sheer rocky outcrop totally
dominates the city which was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha
chief of the Rajputs. For many centuries the proud Rajputs
were the most feared and respected warriors - the many palaces,
temples and immense forts are reminders of their proud history.
The old city encloses a fascinating jumble of winding streets
and many markets and bazaars.
PUSHKAR - This small town
is one of the holiest Hindu sites in India. Its sacred lake
is dedicated to Brahma the Lord of Creation and is surrounded
by bathing ghats and temples. These temples
are home to the Sadhus who are spiritual people who have renounced
all wordly possessions and roam the sub continent seeking enlightenment.
Once a year during the full moon in November Pushkar is
transformed into the worlds biggest camel and cattle fair.
This fair is a gathering of many thousands
of the colourful and friendly Rajasthani villagers.
During the day camels are raced, paraded, bought and sold,
whilst at night the desert air is filled with the sounds
of the distinctive Rajasthani folk music.
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JAIPUR -
Known as the "Pink City" due to the distinctive
pink sandstone used in its construction. It was founded
by the great warrior and astronomer Jai Singh. It contains
many forts, palaces, bazaars and the famous astrological
observatory which is a wolrd heritage listed site.
SARISKA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
- Accommodation will be at the former Maharajas hunting
lodge which is a magnificent building set in 50 acres
with fine antiques and stately rooms. An afternoon or
early morning jeep ride into the wildlife reserve in
search of antelope, wild boar, hyena, blue bulls and the
elusive tiger.
BHARATPUR - The famous
Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary is nearby. An afternoon or early
morning boat ride through vast swamps to observe some of
the 328 different species of local and migratory birds.
AGRA - It has a magnificent
fort, a perfectly preserved but abandoned Moghul city called
Fatehpur Sikri and one of the most famous buildings in
the world - the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal was constructed by Emperor
Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal between 1632
and 1653. Although the Taj is amazingly graceful from almost
any angle its the close up detail which is really astounding.
Semi precious stones are inlaid into the marble in beautiful
patterns and with superb craftmanship. |