ROYAL RAJASTHAN

Introduction to Culture of Rajasthan

Recognized as the land of brave kings, Rajasthan occupies a unique place in the world map due to its exotic forts, ancient temples and heritage Havellies. The most important feature of Rajasthan is its culture which depict the picture of ancient Indian life style. Infact it is the people who make Rajasthan a lively place. The versatile culture of villages is marked as thy symbol of state. Folk music is an important mark of Rajathani culture.

The folk dances like Ghoomar and Kalbaliya are internationally appraised by the people and have blessed them with an international recognition. The Kathputali dance, Bhopa, Chang, Teratali, Ghindar, Kachchhighori, Tejaji etc. are few illustrations of folk music and folk instruments. One can feel the essence of bravery and love stories in the folk songs known as ballads sung by the local singers.

The devotional songs called as Bhajans and Banis are also sung in traditional way by the artists with use of traditional musical instruments like sitar, dholk or sarangi.

The cultural heritance can be seen in the traditional dresses of man and woman. The females mostly wear the clothes having mirror work and embroidery on their dresses. The traditional dress of women is long skirt and a small top often called as Lehenga and Cholli. The traditional dress of man is dhoti and kurta, however most of man also put turban also known as pagadi or safa on their head to protect them from heat, the pagadi or safa is also regarded as the symbol of respect and honor.

The most fascinating feature of Rajasthan is the feeling of fraternity found in its people. The spirit of fraternity can be seen during the celebration of festivals. Festive seasons bring cheerfulness among the people and they share unforgettable moments with their friends and relatives with a sense of cordiality. All the major festivals whether it is Deepawali, Holi, Idd, or Christmas each festival is celebrated equally by all the communities. The local festival of Rajasthan like Teej, Gangaur, or Goga naumi are also celebrated with full joy and happiness.

These cultural traits of Rajasthan make it to stand a step ahead when compared to other cultures.

Itinerary

Day-01: Nagpur-Train journey.

               Departure from  Nagpur by Mysore-Jaipur Exp. At 11:00 a.m. for Jaipur.

Day 2 : Jaipur
            Arrival at Jaipur Check –in to the hotel .After lunch  Full day sightseeing of Jaipur which includes places of interest like the City Palace, Jaigarh Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar and Amber Fort. The steep approach to the Amber Palace gives you an opportunity to enjoy an elephant ride up the hill like a King and a Queen with a scintillating view of the lake below surrounded by hills. Late evening free for shopping. On at the hotel in Jaipur.

Day 3 : Jaipur – Ajmer - Pushkar (145 km from Jaipur, 6-7 hrs drive)
             After breakfast proceed on Pushkar via Ajmer. On the way to Pushkar visit the famous Dargah Shariff, Shah Jahan's mosque and Taragarh fort at Ajmer.  Go for a delightful adventurous Camel Safari in Pushkar. Night stay in Pushkar.

Day 4 : Pushkar – Udaipur ( 285 km from Pushkar, 5-6 hrs drive)
             In Pushkar visit Brahma temple (said to be one of the few temples in the world dedicated to this deity) Pushkar Lake, Man Mahal and Savitri temple. Proceed on to Udaipur enjoying the forts and palaces enroute. Arrival in Udaipur by late evening and relax at the hotel.

Day 5 : Udaipur
             Morning city sight seeing tour of Udaipur. The city is built in 1559 A.D. by Maharaja Udai Singh and has been described as the most romantic spot on the continent of India by Col. James Todd. Visit the City Palace museum, the Jagdish temple, Sahelion Ki Bari (Queen’s resort for their friends) Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir (Folk art museum) and the Pratap Memorial. Rest of the day at leisure. Night stay in Udaipur.

Day6: Udaipur – Mount Abu (185 kms from Udaipur, 4-5 hrs drive)
           After breakfast proceed by road to Mount Abu. Arrival in Mount Abu and evening at leisure. Night stay in Mount Abu.

Day7: Mount Abu-Jodhpur. (228 Kms from mount abu,5-6 hrs drive)
           Today you do a half day sightseeing tour. You see the amazing Dilwara temple, do a boat ride in Nakki lake and go to have some beautiful view from some serene view point. Night halt in Jodhpur.

Day 8 : Jodhpur-Jaisalmer. (285 kms from Jodhpur, 5-6 hrs drive)
              Morning city sight seeing tour. Jodhpur, stronghold of the fierce Rathore clan, was founded in 1459 by Prince Jodha. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, situated on a low sandstone hill. Within the fort, visit Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal. Also visit Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph, built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant singh II around 1899 and Umaid Public gardens. Night stay in Jaisalmer.

Day 9: Jaisalmer - Jaisalmer               

        After breakfast go for a small city tour visit the fort and the famous Patwon ki havelis.,and proceed for a camel safari. at the rolling sand dunes of Sam. Lunch & dinner enroute on camel safari. Night stay in Jaisalmer. 

Day 10 : Jaisalmer – Bikaner (330 kms from Jaisalmer, 6-7 hrs drive)
               After breakfast proceed by road to Bikaner enjoying the small villages and rural sights of Rajasthan with its sand dunes. Night stay in Bikaner.

Day 11 : Bikaner –Jaipur. (330 kms from Bikaner 6-7hrs).
               After breakfast visit the Junagarh Fort, constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Jai Singh, a general in the Mughal Emperor Akbar's army and the Karnimata Temple at Deshnok. Also visit the prestigious camel breeding farm in the evening. Night stay in Jaipur.

Day12:Jaipur-Nagpur.

            After Breakfast day rest for packing baggage, lunch at hotel .Arrival railway station at 6pm.

Day 13: Nagpur.

              Arrival at Nagpur Tour End.

Tour Cost: Rs.16500/- per person

­  Tour Includes :

1.Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner,Tea/Coffee(2 times).

2. Deluxe Hotel Accomodation with sharing basis.

3. Transportation by3x2 or 2x2 Coach Luxury Bus.

Itinerary

Day:-1 Arrival Jaipur

Pick up from Jaipur Railway Station. Check in to the Hotel. Evening free for shopping Overnight stay at the hotel. 

Day:-2Jaipur

After Breakfast Full day Jaipur sight seeing (visit city palace, Jantar mantar, Birla Mandir and on the way hawa mahal and Jal mahal. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

.Day:-3 Jodhpur (350 kms | 8 hrs)

After Breakfast proceed to Jodhpur.Check in to the hotel. Evening free for shopping Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

 Day: - 4 Jodhpur-Udaipur (295 kms | 8 hrs)

Take a full day sightseeing tour and visit: - Ummaid Bhawan Palace, Meharangarh Fort mandor garden and Jaswant Thada. After sight seen proceed to Udaipur Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

 

Day:-5 Udaipur

Take a full day sightseeing tour and visit the City Palace, Saheliyon ki Badi, Maharana Pratap Samarak and Pear Hill. Overnight stay at the hotel. ((B)

Day: - 6 Udaipur to Mount Abu (195 kms | 3 hrs)
From Udaipur, transfer to Mount Abu Check into the hotel on arrival. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

 

Day:-7 Mount Abu
Take a full day sightseeing tour and visit Dilwara Jain Temples, Prajapita Brahmakumari Ashram and University, Gurusikhar and Nakki Lake. Overnight stay at the hotel. (B)

 

Day: - 8 Mount Abu
Morning breakfast at hotel. Intime check out from the hotel and transfer to Abu Road Railway Station. (B)

 

SIMLA-MANALI-DALHOUSI

www.dhanlaxmitours.com Day 01: Arrival at Delhi & transfer to Shimla. Overnight stay at Shimla. Day 02: After Breakfast, full day excursions to Kufri, Bird sanctuary & local sightseeing. Overnight stay in Shimla. Day 03: After Breakfast, Depart to Manali, at 10:00 hrs. Check in hotel. Overnight stay at Manali.  Day 04: After Breakfast, local sightseeing-visit Hidamba temple, club house, Nagar castle, Vashista bath, Jagat Sukh once capital of Kullu. Overnight stay at Manali. Day 05: After Breakfast, full day excursion to Rohtang Pass, Gateway to Lahol valley, Rahal fall, Solang valley & Overnight stay at Manali. Day 06: After Breakfast, Depart to Delhi, Check in Hotel. Overnight stay at Delhi. Day 07: After Breakfast, local Sightseeing of Delhi- Red Fort, Jumma Masjid, Chandani Chowk, Birla temple, Jantar Mantar & depart to Mumbai or respective places

 Shimla

The British empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes linger on in Shimla (2130m). As the 'summer capital' of the British in India.
This was the country's focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, its well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of India's most popular hill resorts. Placed in the tower ranges of the Himalaya mountains, it is surrounded by pine deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Towards the north lie the snow covered high-ranges, while the valleys broad whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are a host of splendid colonial edifices,quaint cottages and charming walks. Shimla holds a variety of shopping,sport and entertainment.

 Shimla was once part of the Nepalese kingdom and called Shyamala. In 1864 Shimla became the summer capital of India. Following independence, Shimla was initially the capital of the Punjab, then became the capital of Himachal Pradesh in 1966. Today, Shimla is a pleasant, sprawling town, set among cool pine-clad hills with plenty of crumbling colonial charm. High season is mid-April to mid-July, mid-September to late October and mid-December to mid-January. The best time to visit is mid-September to late November
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 Manali                                                                                                                                        

One day, Vaivasvata, tha seventh incarnation of Manu found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion for one day it would do him a great service. Vaivasvatatava cared for the fish till the day it grew so huge that he released it into the sea before departing, the fish warned Manu of an Impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a sea-worthy ark. When the flood came. Vaivasvata and the Seven Sages were towed to safety by Matsya the fish-which is regarded as the first avatara of Lord Vishnu. As the waters subsided the seventh Manu's ark came to rest on a hillside and the place was named Manali (2050 m) after him. As the earth slowly dried. Here arose a place of breath taking natural beauty - which was only appropriate, for it was at Manali that life began again. And today this legendary cradle of all human kind is a prime holiday destination. There are high mountains surrounded by silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forest full of cool breezes and bird song. There are fields of wild flowers, smell picturesque hamlets and fruit laden orchards.
At the northern end of the Kullu valley sits the ancient site, but modern town, of Manali. It is a pleasant, if overdeveloped, town with lovely forests and orchards nearby for hiking, and good facilities for visitors. In the 1970s and 1980s, Manali was very much a 'scene'. In summer, the town would attract numerous western hippies and travellers drawn by the high quality marijuana that grows in the area. High season is mid-April to late June, mid-September to early November, mid-September to early November, Christmas and new year. 

 

Dalhousi

 



                             
                                                At the foot of the main spurs of the Dhaula Dhar whose dark, pine covered, mountain-side     reaches towards the upper peaks that  soar  into the region of eternal show is a  scenic  British built hill station' where a young and prematurely ageing  British peer sought peace, tranquility and respite from the wars he was embroiled in. This is Dalhousie, gateway to Chamba, the "vale of milk and honey'', sparkling and impetuous streams. The  north western Himalayas, comprising Himachal Pradesh  and the Kangra  district  of the Punjab,  are  a  kiker's  paradise, surrounded, as he is, by lovely valleys and towering mounting  in their  wildest and most magnificent aspects, From  the  beautiful valley of Kangra, one rises to steeply rising mountain, where the great rock wall of Daular Dhar towers above the towns in the foot hills. In the rough country-side, as contrasted with luxuriant Kullu 
and Kangra valleys, a narrow winding road, an off shoot  of the main road to Pathankot, leads to the lovely  scenic hill resort of Dalhousie, where the Daula Dhar Range just  begins to dip into the river Ravi. Built around and upon five little hills, covered with a  thick growth  of  ban oak, conifers and a large variety  of  trees  and shrubs, in nestles amidst stately oaks and pines. Skirting  these hills are a number of good roads of which the Upper Bakrota  Mall is the finest. Nearly 5 km in length, the road commands a double-barrelled panorama of the plains to the south and the  snow capped mountains  to  the north. Comprising of  five  districts,  Balun, Kathioang,  Portreyn, Tehra and Bakrota, at heights  ranging  from 1,525  metres (5,000ft) and 2,738 metres (7,800  ft)  Dalhousie's natural  beauty,  invigorating  air,  warm  sunshine  and   quiet surrounding  add, enchantment to its open and colourful  valleys, level  walks and treks amidst the dense forests. On a clear  day, once  can see the rivers - Chenab, Beas and Ravi,  meandering  down the  rose grey  vista of the valley hills while  the  snow capped ranges  of  Dhaula  Dhar rise to awe-inspiring  height  of  5,490 metres (18-20,000 ft) to 6,405 metres (21,000 ft). Over  120  years old, it owes its name to Lord  jemes  Romsey
 

GOLDEN ABU-DHABI  
                                     

      INTRODUCTION                                                                                                    

Abu Dhabi offers more than just perfect sandy beaches and year-round sun. In fact, the range of choices can be overwhelming. As the official airline of the United Arab Emirates, it's our mission and our pleasure to ensure you enjoy your stay here. That’s why we’ve created this quick guide. In it, we’ll share some of our favourite sights in Abu Dhabi with you. Whether you’re travelling to the UAE for a quick stopover, a business trip or an extended holiday, the perfect adventure is waiting. What's more, in 2011 Etihad Airways launched our “Essential Abu Dhabi” destination marketing campaign. Designed to enhance Abu Dhabi’s place as a top tourist and MICE destination, the campaign has brought all the major tourism operators in the emirate of Abu Dhabi together under one showcase umbrella to promote the very best the UAE’s capital has to offer. Hotels, tour operators, dining outlets, shops, adventure parks, cultural attractions and sports facilties are providing a range of offers to entice tourists and business travellers alike to spend time in Abu Dhabi with a wide range of fantastic discount offers and deals. Visitors flying into Abu Dhabi on Etihad simply present their Etihad boarding card at participating outlets to redeem the offers within seven days of arriving in Abu Dhabi.

Desert safari

Locals will tell you that if you only do one thing in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, it should be a desert safari. Choose either the adrenaline-packed dune-bashing variety, where you assault sand dunes at high speed in 4-wheel drives, or the more sedate camel trekking. Tours often include dinner at a Bedouin campsite, belly dancing, a traditional henna artist, a falconry demonstration and the chance to try out sandboarding - snowboarding on sand. A multitude of operators offer these trips, so be sure to compare prices.

Where: Abu Dhabi, Dubai
How: Call +971 2 617 7810/11 or email:                 Sheikh Zayed Mosque                       

                                                   

 One of the largest and newest mosques in the world, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque, is as breathtaking as it is large. Take a tour and you will be dazzled by the Swarovski crystal chandeliers, 24 carat gold and precious stonework, the endless white marble domes and columns, and the largest hand-woven Persian carpet in existence.

Remember that this is a working place of worship and a holy site for Muslims. Women are expected to wear headscarves, and no shorts or bare skin is allowed.

Where: Abu Dhabi 

   Dhow cruise

                                      

Experience life the way it was lived here before the discovery of oil by taking a trip on an authentic Arabic sailing boat – while enjoying panoramic views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. Several companies in Abu Dhabi offer sunset Dhow cruises that include traditional food and drink, and Dhows may be chartered for larger private parties. Ask at your hotel’s concierge desk for a reputable operator.

Where: Mina Port, Abu Dhabi.

The Corniche

Arguably the most picturesque part of Abu Dhabi, the Corniche is a coastal promenade dotted with manicured gardens and fountains, against an impressive skyline. There are trees for shade, play areas, a new beach with “softer sand” and bicycle rentals for the more adventurous. In the distance, you’ll notice what was once the tallest unsupported flagpole in the world - until Jordan and Turkmenistan built bigger ones. All in all, the Corniche is an ideal place to kick back and relax while enjoying the view.

High tea at the EmiratesPalace Hotel                                                                                    

Many people don’t realize that Abu Dhabi has its own seven-star hotel: the enormous Emirates Palace. Lavishly appointed and set upon an impeccably manicured lawn at the end of a long drive, the Emirates Palace Hotel  is a favourite of celebrities and football stars. If staying here is a bit out of your budget, you can still experience its famed luxury by booking yourself in for its decadent high tea. You’re also likely to chance upon one of the many fascinating exhibitions which are regularly held here.

Camel racing                                                                                                                             

No visit to the desert is complete without seeing camels, and if those camels are galopping at speeds up to 65 km/hr (40 mph), so much the better. A visit to the camel racetrack near Abu Dhabi allows you to experience this traditional Middle Eastern sport. Admission is free, so what do you have to lose?

Where: Al Watba Camel Racetrack, 45km outside Abu Dhabi, on the road to Al Ain.
When: Races are held early on Thursday and Friday mornings from 20 August – 19 February.

                                              

Al Jahili fort                                                                                                                                

Located about 2 hours from Abu Dhabi in Al Ain, Al Jahili fort is a must see for anyone interested in the history of the region.

One of the largest and most impressive forts in the country, Al Jahili dates from 1891. Built by Sheikh Zayed the First, it has served as both defensive fort and royal summer residence. Having recently undergone an extensive renovation, the fort contains a visitor information centre, a temporary exhibition space and a spellbinding permanent exhibition about the noted British explorer and travel writer Wilfred Thesiger, also known as Mubarak bin London.

Thesiger crossed the Empty Quarter in the 1940s, a notoriously dangerous and inhospitable desert, not once but twice. Many of his photographs are on display in the museum, providing a fascinating look into Abu Dhabi’s past.

Over and above the exhibitions is the chance to take a look around the fort itself. Most of the rooms and towers are open to the public and may be explored at will.

Falconry – the sport of Sheikhs                                                                                             

Originally used by the Bedouins for hunting small game, falconry enjoys a long and exalted history in Abu Dhabi. A popular sport among the ruling class, it is not uncommon to see these birds being carried into Etihad Diamond First Class cabins at the height of the hunting season. Experience the noble art of falconry for yourself at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

Guided tours include a visit to the Falcon Museum, a falcon show and lunch in a Khaima, a traditional Arabian tent. Reservations should be made two days in advance for individuals and a week in advance for groups. You can reserve your place by contacting the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital.

For those who would prefer something more modest, the Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi also occasionally offers falconry demonstrations.

Sougha – Handmade handicraft                                                                                            

In partnership with Etihad Airways, Sougha is an initiative launched by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development to preserve the ancient and much-cherished tradition of Emirati handicraft. Each of the unique products available through Sougha has been skillfully handmade by a team of dedicated craftwomen from across Abu Dhabi, the Western Region and Northern Emirates, using a wealth of techniques perfected over the generations. With the word ‘sougha’ actually translating to ‘souvenir’ in English, why not treat yourself or a loved one to something special, from exquisite handbags, purses and pouches to eye-catching bracelets, key chains and pillows?

Where: Sougha products can be purchased on-board your next Etihad Airways flight, or at the Etihad shops in Marina Mall and Madinat Zayed Mall in Abu Dhabi, the Sougha kiosk in Abu Dhabi’s Central Market Souk, at MORE cafés in Dubai, and through Sougha booths at various exhibitions.

Watch: take a look at this video about Sougha, shot in the Etihad Airways headquarters.

Liwa Date Festival                                                                                                                       
Fancy a date at a beauty competition? Look no further than the annual Liwa Date Festival in Al-Gharbia, the Western Region of Abu Dhabi. The festival is a celebration of the age-old tradition of date production, and usually runs in July but check with your hotel or tour guide for specific dates.

Did you know there are around 120 different types of date? Typically, more than 3,500 farmers enter their best 250 dates in this beauty competition for six varieties of dates: khallas; Dabbas, Abu Maan, Fardh, Nukhba and the Khanizi. Winners receive vehicles and cash prizes of up to AED 5 million. Dates are big business in the UAE!

Alongside the date festival are lectures on agriculture, special educational sessions for children, poetry evenings and Islamic cultural celebrations. Camel, horse and falcon races also set pulses racing at the festival in Liwa, organized by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH).

Where: Liwa, about 150km south-west of Abu Dhabi
When: July
Participants: 3,500+ farmers, 80,000+ visitors
Area: 52,000 square metres.

Scuba-diving

Abu Dhabi offers year-round diving and a wide variety of dive options. Reefs, wrecks, night diving – they’re all here. Although not as spectacular as the better known east coast, there’s plenty to hold your interest if you’re only in town for a few days and don’t feel up for the three-hour drive to Fujairah or Mussandam. Snorkelling trips are also available. The main hotels have facilities