Heritage of India on the Maharaja Express

This Tour features the following locations

AJANTA: Did you know that Ajanta Caves were abandoned for over a millennium, only to be re-discovered in the year 1819? Makes you wonder how something so unique could ever be forgotten! Carved into a horseshoe-shaped rock in the state of Maharashtra, Ajanta is one considered to host some of the finest examples of Indian art and architecture. Numbered from 1 to 29, these caves contain ancient masterpieces, colourful murals, depictions of the Jataka tales, statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas and wall paintings portraying scenes from everyday life. There’s an excellent viewing platform across the river as well!

UDAIPUR: Udaipur is considered to be the most romantic destination in India, and no matter how much you hear about this legendary city, it always manages to leave you stunned and speechless. The glittery Lake Pichola is as beautiful as they get and those temples, grand palaces, shimmering Havelis and colourful streets set the scene for one of the most memorable holidays of your life. You’d remember some of its sights from the 007 movie Octopussy when our hero swims up to a heavenly palace in the midst of an incredibly romantic lake. You’d expect a city so popular to lose its charm, but Udaipur holds onto its magic, that sense of mystery surrounding its monuments and palaces and the sense of tranquillity that simple boat rides on the lake are bound to offer. Udaipur also enjoys a lively arts scene, exciting shopping and delightful countryside destinations that promise memorable day tours.

JODHPUR: The magnificent Mehrangarh Fort is littered with beautiful palaces and ancient mosaics and is perhaps the best place to understand how different dynasties left their imprints on India’s architecture, history and culture. Sheesh Mahal, the Hall of Mirrors makes use of huge mirror pieces to create a mesmerising sight while the artistic treasures of Phool Mahal and Daulat Khana leave you speechless with their beauty and ingenuity. Once you’re done enjoying the best of architecture and 16th-century walls, dive into the city’s rich culture. Discover hidden hamlets of traditional Rajasthan in a desert safari, sip on some authentic masala chai (spiced tea) or just have a blast shopping in those labyrinth alleys of Sardar Market, striking bargains on everything from beautiful shoes to pottery pieces.

BIKANER: The dusty town of Bikaner often pales in front of the glittery forts and palaces of Jaipur and Udaipur, but this off-the-beaten-path adventure is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best camel safaris on the planet without ever having to distance yourself from the medieval splendour and royal residences that make Rajasthan so unique. Popular things to see in Bikaner include the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, Devi Kund, Camel Research Farm and the 600-year-old Karni Mata Temple. The weird thing about this temple is that it is full of rats that scamper freely within the premises and are also considered to be sacred by priests and devotees as reincarnations of ancestors.

JAIPUR: The Pink City, the largest city of Rajasthan, is an epitome of magnificence and vibrancy. This city was established in 1727 by Jai Singh II and is India’s first planned city. It is known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city.
The Pink City stands out as one of the most spectacular and vibrant destinations on the planet, its rich lineage, striking culture and beautiful architecture painting a vivid picture of Indian society. Missing out on The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Jaigarh or the Amber Fort is a big no-no, but make sure you reserve time for those chaotic bazaars and delicious cuisines. Jaipur is also known for its traditional handicrafts and unique souvenirs such as camel-leather slippers. The John Madden 2012 hit The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (You can link this to your Best Marigold tour) stole our heart presenting India in an entirely new light, one that suddenly catapulted some of its more exotic destinations like Udaipur and Jaipur to instant stardom.

RANTHAMBORE NP: Considered to be one of the best national parks in India to see the Bengal tiger in its natural habitat, and ideally accessed either by train from Delhi or fits in nicely during a Golden Triangle tour between Agra and Jaipur. Ranthambore National Park presents a secluded oasis full of tropical dry deciduous forests and some of the most beautiful creatures you’ll ever see. Other sightings include leopard, jackal, Indian wolf, sloth bear, fox, blue bull antelope, sambar deer, chital, langur, crocodiles and an incredible variety of birds. Safaris are restricted to the mornings and evenings, so you have enough time to explore the surrounding area, visit 10th-century fortresses, discover abandoned settlements or simply enjoy the amenities offered by your luxury resort. Don’t forget to capture vivid images of your experiences, for Ranthambore is also considered to be a photographer’s dream. It presents incredible wildlife sightings, offers luxurious accommodation and also has adequate internal transportation facilities. The Tigers sighted here have found their ways to several books and movies as have the countless ruins and structures surrounding the park.

FATEHPUR SIKRI: Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire for just 10 years, but it still presents a massive complex of temples, monuments, and mosques, which make it a historical delight, one of the greatest feats of Indian architecture. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is located at a distance of just 40 kms. from Agra. Popular attractions include the Diwan-I-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-Khana-I-Khaas (Hall of Private Audience), Turkish Sultana’s House and the Treasury. Fatehpur also hosts Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.

AGRA: Known for its stunning architecture, exotic history and magical views, the Taj Mahal attracts as many as 7 million visitors each year, and for a good reason. It is, after all, the monument of love! This iconic landmark is why people from all over the world visit Agra, but the city is also brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mughal mausoleums, tombs, a beautiful fort and ancient bazaars. You’d expect to feel underwhelmed due to all that hype, but this magical city is everything you expect it to be. 

DELHI: The largest mosque, the biggest temple, honky auto-rickshaws; it’s easy to distinguish Delhi. The city has been at the centre of the Indian civilisation for centuries and a major seat of power ever since the Mughals built their capital here. Modern Delhi presents a mix of colonial-era architecture, Mughal forts, and mausoleums, ancient bazaars, glitzy malls and world class restaurants. It often feels overwhelming, but given a chance, it always grows onto you. Be sure to visit Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal wonder inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal and Lodi Gardens, the best spot for sunsets in Delhi. There’s also the Hauz Khas Village, a throbbing hub that gained popularity with its Open Nights when those narrow alleys are transformed into cultural wonders, adorned with lights and decorated with streamers. There really is no better place to discover Delhi’s rich culture and mingle with its locals.