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Hi,
There are often questions on The Tree about itineraries covering a two to three week period, so we've decided to try and put a few tailor made itineraries for the two/three week tourist, covering the destinations, mode of travel, approximate distances involved and a few ideas on places to eat. These aren't in depth, so any queries on the various ideas are welcomed, where possible we'll include a couple of links to photos, which we find is a good way to a feel for the place! We attempt to give a variety of ideas that cover more than the well trodden destinations and a rounded view of what India has to offer.
we've stayed away from hotel suggestions, as the choice/budget is endless and taste is a very subjective idea. However if you have a favorite hotel in these destinations let us know!
The travel cost are approximate only!
CLICK ON THE RED DESTINATION HEADINGS FOR MORE INFO
Delhi - Amritsar - Haridwar - Rishikesh - Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Bharatpur - Deeg - Ranthambore - Bundi - Delhi
Travel
This tour will take you to the unique Golden Sikh temple at Amritsar, The holy Ganga at Haridwar and Rishikesh, Birthplace of krishna; Mathura, The epitome of love at the Taj Mahal in Agra, the exquisite ruins of Fatehpur Sikri,The Bird Park at Bharatpur, Tiger hunting in Ranthambore, The step wells of Bundi before returning once more to Delhi, the capital!
You'll find other options on the Indian Railways Website Click on the train fare accommodation link and simply enter your departure/arrival points.
If you have queries on this, please feel free to ask, or have a look at the informative Gone India Trains
Delhi - Amritsar
Distance : 447 Kms
2013 AMRITSAR SHATABDI NEW DELHI dep 16:35 arr AMRITSAR JN 22:30 (daily All food drink and newspapers included in the price)
Cost
1st class AC Chair Class 1200 Rupees
Ordinary AC Chair Class 645 Rupees
Amritsar - Haridwar
Distance : 411 Kms
2054 ASR HW JAN SHATABDI AMRITSAR JN dep 07:00 HARIDWAR JN arr 13:55 (daily except Thursday, food not included in price)
Costs
AC Chair Class 450 Rupees
2nd Ordinary 137 Rupees
Haridwar - Rishikesh
Distance : 40 kms
Rishikesh is best reached by Bus or Taxi
Costs
Bus 18 - 20 Rupees
Taxi 250-300 Rupees (from Swarg Ashram)
Haridwar - Agra
Distance : 451 Kms
8478 +KALINGAUTKALEXP HARIDWAR JN 06:00 AGRA CANTT 16:00 (daily, food not included)
Costs
2 tier AC 751 rupees
Agra - Fatehpur Sikri
Distance : 40 Kms
Fatehpur Sikri is best reached by Bus or local Taxi
Costs
taxi 250-300 rupees
bus 18- 20 Rupees
Fatehpur Sikri - Bharatpur
Distance : Here 25 Kms
Bharatpur is best reached by Bus or local Taxi
Bharatatpur - Sawai Madhopur (for Ranthambore)
Distance : 183 Kms
2060 KOTA JAN SHATABDI BHARATPUR JN dep 15:48 SAWAI MADHOPUR arr 18:00 (Daily except Sunday, no food included)
Costs
Chair Class 275 Rupees
2nd Class 87 Rupees
Sawai Madhopur - Kota (for Bundi)
Distance : Here 117 kms
2060 KOTA JANSHATABDI *SAWAI MADHOPUR 18:05 KOTA JN 19:40 (Daily except Sunday, no food included)
From here it's about 45 minutes to Bundi By taxi or 1 hour by Bus 35 kms
Costs
Chair class 220 rupees
2nd class 72 Rupees
Kota - Delhi
Distance 458 kms
2059 KOTA JAN SHATABDI KOTA JN dep 06:00 H NIZAMUDDIN(Delhi) arr 12:25 (daily except Sunday, no food included)
Costs
Chair Class 475 Rupees
2nd Class 142 Rupees
Total Distance
Destinations
Delhi
The capital city of Delhi or Dilli is chock a block with monuments temples and bazaars for everyone's shopping needs. The Red Fort, Qutab Manir, Raj Ghat, Humayun's Tomb, Chandi Chowk all warrant a visit, Take an afternoon stroll in lodhi Gardens, or visit the last residence of that famous man of peace Gandhi Ji.
See the remnants of Luyten's Delhi at Connaught Place, or catch the freak show on Paharganj, main bazaar, meeting place for the backpackers and hippies traveling India.
Have a meal A karim's in the shadow of the Jama Masjid Mosque, or taste the snacks and sweets at Halidrams on Chandi Chowk, On Janpath there's the famous Chennai Chain; of Sarowar Bhavan offering delicious set meals or Thalis from Southern India, visit Dilli Haat for crafts and cuisine from all over India!
For Shopping visit Dilli Haat, for crafts state by State or the Government Emporium on Janpath, with three floors of goodies, Khan Market offers, deals on books and DVDs for those bollywood films, Palika Bazaar is truly Delhi, with all sorts of "Grey market goods" and cocky salesmen herding you into the various shops!
All in all, if you give this sprawling city a chance you won't be disappointed!
Getting around is easy and with the advent of the spanking new Metro system getting easier all the time.
For more background on this amazing city have a look at the Delhi Forum
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Amritsar
Amritsar to the west of Delhi, nestles close to the Border with Pakistan, in the State of Punjab & Haryana.
the name is derived from Amrit which means nectar & sar, which is a short form of sarovar, meaning lake, the holy tank that surrounds the fabulous Golden Temple
The city is dominated by the Sikh religion and positively bristles with Sikh temples or Gurdwaras. The most famous of which, is the Harmandir Sahib or Golden Temple! This beautiful complex is expansive and the center piece is a a glistening golden mandir set in a lake which mirrors it's majesty.
It was here that Sikh militants took shelter in 1984, the ensuing battle between Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale's men and Indian army cost many lives and ultimately the life of the then Premier Indira Gandhi.
The complex is open to non Sikhs, but photography of the Golden Mandir is forbidden, both men and women are expected to cover their heads within the temple, ciggies and Alcohol are forbidden. There is basic accommodation available open to non pilgrim. this is free but do make a contribution!
Jallianwala Bagh (Garden) is a short 5-minute walk from the Golden Temple, and is the site of the 1919 Amritsar massacre. On April 13 of that year, British Indian Army soldiers opened fire on an unarmed gathering of men, women and children. The firing lasted about 10 minutes and 1600 rounds were fired, killing more than a thousand.
Amritsar is famous for it's Punjabi cuisine and a walk along Lawrence Road should acquaint you with all sorts of goodies like Amritsar kulcha or Amritsari fish at "Makhan Dhaba" Fresh fish fried with a batter flavored with Ajawain.
Near to Amritsar is Wagah a ceremonial border, where, each evening, armed soldiers from each side of the India - Pakistan border enact a particularly hostile parade. while lowering their respective flags to the sounding of bugles. It's a very dramatic scene, though a little comical for outsiders. You can see a video HERE This city is known for it friendly disposition and well worth a visit
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Haridwar
Haridwar, roughly translated means gateway to God, As this is the place where the holy Ganga enters the Plains from her abode with the gods of the Himalaya.
An important pilgrimage place for Hindus for centuries, it is also one of the Kumbh towns and once in 12 years this frenetic little town, sees throngs of devotees descend on it. The numbers counted in the millions, it is the largest gathering of human beings anywhere on the planet, in 2003 the numbers over the duration of the festival, reached an astonishing 70 million. Visitors comment on the sheer noise generated by this!
The town is a constant flurry of religious activity, and a walk along the ghats is interesting, head for the Har-ki-Pairi with chattering excited pilgrims bathing away their sins to the accompaniment of baring though soothing Mantras.
The hilltop temple of Mansa Devi Mandir offers great views across the Ganges and to the not so distant Himalayan foothills!
Though the Kumbh Mela is by far the most famous festivals, Haridwar also hosts many annual religious festival! You'll find a list HERE
For food you can try the famous Chotiwallah, for set meals from around India, good value!
An interesting town, that offers a good insight to the people of India and their unshakable faith
Rishikesh
Rishikesh just north of Haridwar, is on first sight, a non descript kind of place. However if you head out of town to the North, you'll get to Swarg Ahram which is a a whole different kettle of fish. The opposite bank is laden with ashrams where Indians come to refresh both the physical and the spiritual. Cross the bridge or Jhula (cradle) to get there. The tiny market street meanders along the banks of the Ganges, past grand doors that protect the ashram dwellers from the noise and distractions. The book shops here are a great place to pick up material on Hinduism and the spiritual, from Osho to Yoga. The music shops are also good places to find mantras and classical Indian music.
The small road continues on down the river bank and makes for an interesting evening walk! As the tiny oil lamps of the faithful float by on the Ganga!
Heading North from Swargashram about two kilometers away you'll find laxman Jhula, a little village dominated by the Trayambakeshwar Temple, with it's ding dong bells, an imposing structure it stands overlooking the Ganga.
Sadhus are a constant here, as elsewhere in Rishikesh, these wild looking aesthetics, come from far and wide to visit this place of the Rishies and often stay for long periods.
The walks up the Ganges from here are sublime, the golds and green of the surrounding hills off set the milky blue of the Ganges. Silt beaches on the river side offer peaceful retreats for a bit of book reading. There are various small waterfalls along this road, usually opposite little tea shops selling snacks, ask the locals, they'll point you in the right direction.
for eats there's again a Chotiwallah, or try Mukti's place near the taxi stand on the Rishikesh town road!
Getting around is best done by foot in the Swarg Ahsram/Lakshman Jhula area, though shared jeeps do ply between the two. Getting into the main town can be done by bus, Auto Rickshaw or shared tempo
Not far from Rishikesh is the Rajaji National Park which offer the chance of seeing wild elephants!
If you're brave, you can organise a rafting trip down the Ganges which is a truly gorgeous experience!
N.B. though not really part of this itinerary a day trip to Mussoorie is possible from Rishikesh
Agra
Where to start with this city, it's so chock full of monuments, it holds no fewer than two world heritage sites. Mughul architecture reached it's peak here, with successive Mughal rulers intent on leaving their mark. The jewel in the crown is undoubtly the exquisite Taj Mahal, Once described as a "teardrop on the cheek of eternity" this mausoleum fashioned in white marble, dances with your senses, throughout the day as it displays it's different hues and shades.
Built by emperor Shah Jahan in Honor of his favorite wife, the romance sits well with this testament to Indian artisanship
and is an unmissable part of the "Golden triangle"
Other wonders of Agra include the menacing Agra fort, sturdily constructed of red stone, it sits on guard along the banks of the Yamuna river. Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb, or as it's sometimes known Baby Taj. who's garden layout and use of white marble, inlay designs and latticework emulate many elements of the Taj Mahal.
Jama Masjid. A huge mosque thought to have been commissioned by Princess Jahanara Begum, built in 1648 during the reign of her father Shah Jahan. Its has an unusual dome and the absence of minarets is quite unique.
Getting around Agra can be done by the local tours organised by the State tourism department, taxi or rickshaw, if using taxis or auto rickshaws be prepared for some verbal fencing. The taxi drivers here are notorious for the hard bargain they drive.
Agra is a sprawling town with some of the most persistent touts and sellers in India, pack your sense of humor for this incredible town, you'll need it
Food wise, there's plenty to choose from, Bagh-e-Bahar (Mughal Sheraton) The Grand Buffet (Jaypee Palace)
Capri, Hari Parvat, Ram Babu Parantha, Belanganj are just a few!
There are sevaral places of note around Agra, if you have the time!
Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra, 10 km north of Agra on the Agra Delhi highway The tomb of Akbar lies here in the centre of the large garden. Four red sandstone's gates lead to the tomb complex: one is Muslim, one Hindu, one Christian and one is Akbar's patent mixture. In keeping with his respect for all religions (largely due to his many wives)
Mariam's Tomb, due west from Akbar's Tomb on Agra-Delhi highway. Constructed by Jahangir in the memory of his mother Mariam Zammani, largely ruined it still warrants a visit.
City map
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Fatehpur Sikri
The remarkably well preserved buildings of Fatehpur Sikri are a must if you're in the area, this township was to be Akbar's new home for both him and his courtesans. He is said to have built this town on this particular spot after a local Sufi Saint blessed him with a son. the inhabitance of the town was to be short lived due to chronic water shotages, which perhaps accounts for the well preserved feel of the place.
Built of the local red rock, the gardens are flanked by wonderful examples of Mughal architecture, flag stoned courtyards give it an expansive feel and the interesting blend of Hindu, Muslim and Christian elements weaved into the stone carving, point once again to the interesting character of Akbar.
Entrance through the mighty Persian influences Buland Darwaza gate, leads to a massive square usually teeming with school kids tasting their heritage. In the right hand corner lies the grave of Salim Chisti, the Saint who started it all and further generations of his family. Tie a thread here, on the lattice work windows and make a wish!
The buildings continue on different levels, some of the highlights include the Panch Mahal, and Diwan i Khas where Akbar held Private Audiences , its remarkable central pillar with thirty-six vaulted brackets supporting a circular platform for Akbar.
The whole complex was once ensconced within a huge, now crumbling perimeter wall.
Ftper Kiri, is probably one of the best preserve monuments in all India and as such a living look at India's great heritage.
The town itself has little else to inspire and we think it is better seen as a day trip from Bharatpur, where there is a far better choice of Hotels. The journey takes about half an hour by bus or taxi!
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Bharatpur
The provincial town of Bahratpur is probably best known for the Keoladeo National Park this man made lake, hosts a myriad of both indigenous and migratory birds, it's also one of the few parks in India which can be visited on foot or by bicycle. November through until February is the best time for the migrating birds from all over the world. The stork nurseries are alive with the desperate cries for food from the young offspring. Cormorants, Spoonbills, Gannets and Cranes are just some of the birds who come here to breed. If you're lucky you may spot the rare Siberian Crane, though they haven't been sighted here for a few years, you never know. Blue Moor hens, Yellow legged Green Pigeons, Pygmy woodpeckers, Crested Serpent Eagles and Dusky Eagle Owls are just some of the birds you'll find on display here as well as Night jars, Scopic Owls and several types of Kingfisher and Sun bird!
The park also hosts some large mammals like Spotted Deer, Jackals, Jungle cats, Nilgai and Samber Deer, pythons and porcupines can also be found with a good guide. The best time to visit is early morning when the wildlife is foraging.
it's probably the best 200 rupees you'll ever spend. the park is quite big and although it can be seen on foot we recommend hiring a bicycle!
Hiring a guide will only add to your experience.
The food here isn't outstanding but many hotels can scrape together a half decent meal. Try the local carrot sweet if it's fresh and bhala; a Potato fritter with spicy sauce and dhahi (yogurt) is a local favorite.
A visit to the old town is worth a few hours, the walled town contains some fine new temples and the old Iron Fort.
The Teej festival is celebrated with great gusto here.
Bharatpur is a great base for visiting the monuments at Fatehpur Sikri (30 minutes) and Deeg (1 hour)
Getting around the twon can be done by the somewhat ramshackle, Auto Rickshaws!
A great wee park, well worth a detour on your trip!
Deeg
Deeg is a small village not far from Bharatpur and is well worth the hour needed to get there. The old crumbling fort greets you, as you arrive on the bus and the Jal Mahal Deeg Palace will certainly have you clicking away on the camera!
This place sees few tourists and it shows. You will generate an enormous amount of interest from the locals, unused to western tourists. Getting there will take you through a collection of villages and hamlets stuck in time. Goats block the road and tractors rub shoulders with buffalo ploughs!
You can catch the bus to deeg from the main Bus Stand Bharatpur.
Ranthambore
Ranthambore has a well deserved reputation as a place to see tigers. Despite the recent poaching scandals there remains a fairly good chance of sighting one of these majestic animals. Though this is by no means the only animal on show. The park is home to an impressive list of creatures large and small.
Many of these can only be seen if you are willing to invest a lot of time in the park with an experienced guide, animals have no respect or idea of itineraries, worth remembering.
Nonetheless the list is worth mentioning for the wildlife enthusiast out there.
Tigers, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Samba deer, Chital, Nilgai, Common or Hanuman langurs, Macaques, Jackals, Jungle cats, Caracals, Sloth bears, Black bucks, Rufoustailed Hare, Indian Wild Boar, Chinkara, Common Palm Civets or Toddy cat, Coomon Yellow Bats, Desert Cats, Fivestriped Palm Squirels, Indian False Vampires, Indian Flying Foxes, Indian Foxes, Indian Gerbilles, Indian Mole Rats, Indian Porcupines, Longeared Hedgehogs, Ratels, Small Indian Mongoose, Small Indian Civets and Common mongoose.
Pretty impressive huh.
Even on a bad day the park is scenic enough and your sure to see something
Photographers are advised that the light is often weak in the winter months of December- January.
Trips to the park by cantor (open top bus) or jeep can be arranged by your hotel.
As well as the national park the hill top fort at ranthambore is certainly worth some of your time, the winding cobbled lanes and ancient building are a joy to explore. A word of warning, watch out for the Monkeys near the Ganesh temple, they ar a bunch of marauding scoundrels, intent on relieving you of any foodstuff you may have about your person.
If you don't like rats you may want to avoid the temple altogether, Hindu mythology tells us that ganesh rode on a rat, as such they are revered around the temple and swarm all over the place and aren't in the least scared of human beings!
the fort offers good views over the park and is well worth some of your time.
food at Ranthambore (or Sawai Madhopur) isn't particularly noteworthy but the hotels so their best and you won't starve, At the Park end of the main hotel road on the left is a little place that does good basic fair like chicken masala and some veggie food!
This may not be the best park in India but it certainly deserves your attention if you're in the area!
Bundi
Bundi is a step back in time, and a less frequented destination in Rajasthan. The old town spreads up the hill to wards the fort and palace, protected by sturdy gates. Old havalis lean over the streets, some beautifully painted in the traditional style. Life is slow here and almost timeless, old men peer at you from doorways and the many kite sellers furnish the local youth with new lengths of string for the local sport of kite duals!
The hilltop fort is a labyrinth, so you may need some of that kite string to find your way back to the fort entrance. the smell of bat droppings permeates the Air and the mostly ruined fort is a childlike adventure as you mount old stairs nd hunt through the musty rooms.
Baoris or step wells are a big attraction here, the Rani step well is almost Gothic in design and is a very decorative example of a Bari!
Bundi is as of now still a gem of a place and the people friendly.
Food wise again nothing special but a hunt around should dig up some OK meals!
of all the fort towns this one has that special feel, don't miss it!
Related links
Rajasthan Tourism
Uttar Pradesh Tourism
Map Of Rajasthan
Visa Atm
Mastercard ATM
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