Flight to Delhi

Arrive Delhi. Meeting and assistance on arrival by our Novaturient representative. Then transferred to the Colonels Retreat for 3 nights.

After breakfast enjoy a Heritage walk of Old Delhi, passing through the hustle and bustle of Chandni Chowk – an incredibly busy shopping area of Old Delhi. Also explore the Jama Masjid, the great Mosque of Old Delhi and the Sheeshganj Gurudwara - the Sikh Temple where you can see the community kitchen preparing meals for thousands of people. Stop at one of the beautiful havelis and join the family for a cup of tea whilst listening to the history of the haveli. Many are over 200 years old and famed for their architecture, intricately carved arches, wooden doors, and panels.

Evening visit the UNESCO listed Humayun's Tomb. This magnificent garden mausoleum of Humayun, the second Mughal Emperor, was built upon the orders of his wife, Haji Begum. The grand dome is illuminated at night swathing the wonderful building in a surreal aura.

Morning walk through the Mehrauli village area which has witnessed, over the centuries, the transformation of Delhi from a sleepy village to a capital city.  Then walk to the Qutub archeological complex with its iconic 4^th C. iron pillar and numerous heritage buildings. The site is listed by UNESCO. Afternoon at leisure.

Morning drive to Neemrana. Check in at the 15^thC. Neemrana Fort Palace for 2 nights. In the afternoon take a walking tour of Neemrana village. The walk starts with a visit to the 18^th C. stepwell. Next explore the countryside passing villagers working in their fields. Watch a potter working on his wheel, and, in the village relax in a local home with a cup of chai.

After breakfast drive to Narnaul; a hidden gem in the state of Haryana with numerous medieval monuments.  It was once a small village, but like many others has grown over the years. Visits include the Chor Gumbad built by the Afghan ruler Jamal Khan, the 17^th C. Birbal ka Chatta, the Tombs of Shah Vilayat and Irahim Khan Suri and the Jal Mahal - -a Palace built in the centre of a water reservoir. Afternoon drive back to Neemrana Fort. 

Morning drive to Kesroli and check in at the Hill Fort for 2 nights. Afternoon walk through the local village and fields of Kesroli, watching the farmers tend their fields.

Morning drive to Alwar for a full day walking tour.  Visit the Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri – the cenotaph built in memory of the beloved Queen of the Maharaja of Alwar. Then visit the City Palace and museum.  Walk the path climbing up the Aravalli hills to reach Bala Quila (the young Fort). This is a gentle uphill walk through a forested area – look out for numerous bird species. The Bala Quila has amazing views of Alwar city and surrounding villages. Drive back to the hotel.

Morning drive to Sariska. Check in at the Vanaashrya Resort for 2 nights. Afternoon jeep safari. The reserve is home to the elusive tiger, leopard, caracal, chital, golden jackal, blue bull and four horned antelope. Birders can tick off 273 bird species from their ‘must see’ list!

This morning drive to Shankar Nath Yoga Ashram and then walk to Bhangarh Fort. The walk wanders through the countryside, along the road, down narrow pathways, past reservoirs and through farming villages. Explore the ruins of the supposedly haunted Bhangarh: stories of unrequited love and an angry Sadhu’s curse give rise to the tales! See the remains of the marketplace, Temples and quarters of the dancing girls. Drive back to Sariska. Afternoon at leisure.

Drive back to Delhi and flight home.