Breakfast at the hotel

Morning proceed for guided sightseeing tour of Delhi. (0830 - 1500 Hrs)

After breakfast, visit the Gurdwara Bangla Sahib (a temple of the followers of the Sikh religion) in time for the lunch served here. The Sikhs are one of the country’s most recognizable communities. Beards and turbans give them a distinctive look. They believe that everyone, regardless of his or her station in life, should do “seva” (render social services at Gurdwara). This resulted in the “Langar” or community kitchen, where free food is served. People consider it an honor to come and put in a couple of hours cooking food or rendering other services (serving, cleaning, chopping – there is a host of activities one may opt for).

After visiting Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, enjoy short Metro ride from Shivaji Stadium to Aerocity (India Gandhi International Airport) (Approx 17 Kms / 32 minutes)

Upon arrival at Aerocity metro station, your driver will meet you and proceed for MGF MALL, GURUGRAM. Enjoy The Hidden Hour a Real Life Escape Game. (Timing 1200 – 2100) Lunch at the food court. Choose your pick from different options such as Pizzas, Noodles, Bakery products and Indian food. (Lunch on direct payment basis)

Not recommended for children under 8-years old. Minimum 2 participants required for this activity and parents can join as well.

A room will be allocated based on the interest of the children where the family will be locked in a room for 60 minutes under mysterious circumstances. The objective is to accomplish the mission by finding hidden objects (treasure hunt), answering riddles and solving puzzles by connecting the missing links.

Back to hotel (Approx 25 Kms one way / 45 min depending upon the traffic)

Later in the evening (Approx. 1700 Hrs / 01 ½ hours) drive past some famous landmarks, including Rajpath (Kingsway), the imposing approach to New Delhi and also the venue for the Republic Day parade every 26th January; India Gate (the national War Memorial); Parliament House; and the grandest of them all; Rashtrapati Bhawan, which is the official residence of the President of India.

Overnight at the hotel

Early morning transfer to railway station to board train for Agra.

0750 Hrs Arrive Agra

Upon arrival you will be met by our representative and transfer to hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel

Morning at leisure for independent activities.

Later in the afternoon, proceed to visit Taj Mahal (Approx 1200 – 1400 hours)

(Entry ticket is valid for 03 hours ONE TIME VISIT ONLY)

The world-famous Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum, built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in the memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal (meaning ‘the chosen one of the palace’). Constructed by Indian artisans and artisans from neighboring Islamic countries, it was aptly described by the Nobel laureate poet, Tagore, as “A tear on the face of eternity”. Prayers are said and passages from Koran are constantly recited in the mosque and cenotaph chamber. The Taj Mahal and its grounds are perfect for clicking memorable family pictures. (Taj Mahal is closed on Friday)

After sightseeing tour of Taj Mahal, return to hotel and enjoy in-house facilities like swimming pool, spa, and kids’ games area etc.

Later in the evening, enjoy magic show at your hotel.

OPTIONAL: In the evening, visit a local Indian family and experience some warm hospitality. The family is most likely to narrate some thoroughly amusing stories and legends, before serving a delectable dinner. Guests are welcome to watch the cooking demonstration and even join in to learn the intricacies of preparing some Indian dishes Timing: 19:00 to 21:30 hours.

OPTIONAL: Visit Agra Fort / 02 hours - depends on your interest.

Not recommended for Children 06 year of age.

Enjoy an afternoon trip to Agra Fort. This is the first architectural venture of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. He rebuilt the fort as a beautiful fort palace. The work was completed by his son and grandson, highlighting the Mughal’s ability to blend defensive and decorative architecture. Richly decorated with marble and mosaic, it was in a part of this fort that Shah Jahan spent the last years of his life, imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb. His private quarters, where he was confined, command stunning views of the Taj Mahal across the river Yamuna. (Approx. timing: 15:00 – 17:30 hours)

Overnight at the hotel

After breakfast (Approx 0730 hour) on this day leave for Lalsot. En-route visiting Bharatpur.

Visit Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur on the way from Agra to Lalsot.

(Approx. 56 Kms / 01 ½ hours from Agra).

Bharatpur is most famous for its UNESCO-listed Keoladeo National Park, a prominent wetland bird sanctuary of India. Keoladeo National Park has well-defined paths that can be covered either on foot, or by cycles and rickshaws (depending upon the client’s interest). The park management has trained the rickshaw pullers in bird watching and they make for extremely knowledgeable guides. The park is recognized as one of the world’s most important bird breeding and feeding grounds.

Lunch at Bharatpur local restaurant or hotel. (On direct payment basis)

Continue your drive to Lalsot and check in to the hotel. (Approx. 181 Kms / 04 ½ hours)

Overnight at the hotel

After breakfast (Approx. 0730-0800 hours), proceed to visit local village.

LOCAL VILLAGE CULTURE

Talabgaon has inherited the rich culture of the Rajasthan region reflecting the ancient Indian way of life. Discover the traditions and intricate craft that the region is famous for. Here you will get a taste of rural India including home visits and also enjoy tea with village folks. (Duration approx. 30 - 45 minutes from hotel side)

After local village visit, proceed for Ranthambhore and check in to the hotel.

Ranthambore National Park, set at the junction of the Vindhya and Aravalli hills and covered in scrub forest, is interesting both as a wildlife reserve and a place of historical significance. The park offers sporting chances of spotting the elusive Bengal Tiger. Ranthambore is also home to leopards, deer, nilgai (blue bull), wild boar and lots of other wildlife. Three artificial lakes are part of the biosphere and one may spot crocodiles. The area also attracts a large number of local and migratory birds.

Lunch at hotel

Afternoon game drives at Ranthambore National Park by open canter shared vehicle

(Tentative timings; 14:30 hours – 17:00 hours).

Preparing for the Jungle safaris

• Dress in layers. It will be cold in the mornings but gets progressively warmer during the day

• Avoid bright coloured clothing as the wildlife may get distracted. It is better to opt for comfortable clothing with soothing colours - grey, forest green, brown, which blend with the colours of the foliage.

• Apply suntan lotion / mosquito repellent.

• Carry a cap/hat, sun glasses etc. so that you are protected from the heat.

• Don’t forget to take your cameras.

In the evening, enjoy a bonfire with your family. The setting is also perfect for narrating thrilling stories and sharing some special family moments.

Overnight at the hotel

Breakfast at the hotel

After breakfast proceed to visit Ranthambhore Fort and Trinetra Ganesha Temple.

A trek (Approx. 250 steps one way) to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ranthambore Fort, which was built by Chauhan rulers in the 10th century. The fort has witnessed many sieges and battles, notably the siege by Ala-ud-din Khalji, the Sultan of Delhi. The royal ladies of the fort committed Jauhar (self-immolation), when Khalji reached here. This fort is an architectural marvel, characterized by temples, tanks, massive gates and huge walls. A major highlight is the Trinetra Ganesha Temple, where local families offer prayers and seek divine blessings. Here, you may watch all the rituals while offering prayers. Five aartis (religious ceremonies) are held at the temple every day. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the Hindu god of wisdom.

After temple visit, return to hotel

Lunch at hotel.

Later, proceed to visit Dastkar Village.

Dastakar Village

A society for crafts and craftspeople Dastkar-Ranthambore is a registered society, which strives to enhance the economic status of craftspeople in the village and nearby villages of Ranthambore. To this end, the society promotes the survival of traditional crafts. The crux of this programme is to encourage Ranthambhore’s craftspeople, especially women, to leverage their unique traditional craft skills for employment, income generation and overall economic self-sufficiency.

Kids can try their hands at craft making and get a handcrafted toy animal as a gift.

(Monday - Saturday 0900 - 1700 hrs)

Later in the evening, enjoy short “Tiger talk” interactive session with wildlife naturalist followed with short documentary. A Surprise gift awaits children.

Overnight at the hotel

Breakfast at the hotel

After breakfast (Approx. 0730-0800 hours) leave for Jaipur, which is approx. 180 KMS / 4-hour drive.

On arrival, check in to the hotel.

Late afternoon, at approx. 15:00 hours, spend few hours at the beautiful boutique hotel, “Dera Mandawa”. A warm traditional welcome awaits you. A Turban will be tied on your head as a welcome gesture and you will be escorted to the terrace. Here, you will learn the exciting art of kite flying. This is highly popular amongst children. Learn how to harness the kite with the specially made string and watch your kite soar up in the sky. Spend the next few hours in gay abandon as you learn to handle the kite. Enjoy a cup of tea and some light refreshments, before you finally drive back to your hotel. (02-03 HOURS DURATION) Not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

Overnight at the hotel

After breakfast, approx. 08:30-09:00 hours visit Amber Fort (Short jeep ride, Indian model jeep). The rugged, time-ravaged walls of the fort may not look beautiful from the outside, but the interior is a virtual paradise. Beautiful miniatures adorn the walls, while precious stones and mirrors are embedded into the plaster. Inside the Fort, visit the Jag Mandir or the Hall of Victory. Also, check out the famed Sheesh Mahal - a room with all the four walls and ceiling completely embedded with glittering mirror pieces, which were specially imported from Belgium during that period.

Drive past Hawa Mahal or ‘Palace of Winds’. Built in 1799, its ornate pink facade corresponds to a honeycomb with its 953 small windows called ‘jharokhas’, each decorated with intricate latticework. The original intention of the lattice was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen, since they had to observe strict purdah (veil). Dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna, from a distance it looks like the ‘mukut’ (crown) that adorns the deity’s head.

During the sightseeing tour visit the textile factory where you can try your hands in block printing on T-shirt and take it with you as memories. (Duration approx. 30-45 minutes, depends upon the client’s interest).

Later, proceed to visit the Maharaja's City Palace, the former royal residence, part of which is converted into a museum. A small portion is still used by the royal family of Jaipur. Built in the style of a fortified campus, the palace covers a fine part of the city. One of the major attractions in the museum is the portion known as Armoury. It houses an impressive array of weaponry-pistols, blunderbusses, flintlocks, swords, rifles and daggers. The royal families of Jaipur once used most of these weapons.

Visit Jantar Mantar (Here your local guide will also show some of his astrology skills during your observatory visit) which is the largest stone and marble crafted observatory in the world. Situated near the gate of the City Palace, the observatory has around 20 large instruments, many of them still in working condition. Some of these remain the largest ever built in their categories.

Lunch at Surbhi restaurant along with the visit of Turban Museum and also enjoy Turban tying demonstration. It houses a collection of turbans from across three states of India, namely Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. A turban is usually a long plain unstitched cloth, with a length ranging from 3 meters to 22 meters. Learn, how different turbans indicate the wearer’s social status, caste, region, and the occasion it is being worn for. Yes, there are different turbans for different occasions such as weddings, births and deaths. After this visit, you will even be able to identify turbans used in various different regions.

Approx 16:30 hours, back to the hotel.

Evening at leisure for independent activities

Overnight at the hotel

Breakfast at the hotel

In time, transfer to the airport to board flight for Mumbai.

The commercial capital of India is a vibrant, confident metropolis and radiates high energy, which is almost palpable. It’s a city of striking contrasts, where skyscrapers stand next to stately Victorian buildings, government housing complexes, fishing villages and slums with noisy traditional bazaars near new glittering shopping malls. Mumbai is also home to Bollywood, the nerve centre of India’s film industry.

Upon arrival you will be met by our representative transfer to hotel.

Rest of the day at leisure for independent activities.

Overnight at the hotel

Breakfast at the hotel.

Later proceed for Bollywood tour (appropriate for children aged 10 years & above)

Duration: approx. more than 04 hours.

Pick up from hotel at approx. 10:00 hours.

Representative “guide” from Bollywood tour will receive you at your hotel.

SHOOTING SITE

(STUDIO/LOCATION)

Arrival at Shooting Site

Escort to a specially created studio

Visit a live shooting set

Watch filming at shooting set

Peek at the behind-the-scenes activities of movie making

See the technicians at work

If possible, look into the star`s makeup rooms

If possible, have your picture taken with a Bollywood actor

DANCE HALL

(LIVE BOLLYWOOD STYLE DANCE)

Arrive at Bollywood Museum where you will get a glimpse of famous Bollywood actors’ posters and photographs and then you will be escorted to an air-conditioned Dance Hall with decorated stage and music system in Bollywood style.

Watch 2-3 Live Bollywood Dance Shows performed by professional dancers.

Professional dancers, including 2 ladies and 2 gents.

Performance no. 1

Bollywood Dance (Hindi latest Song)

Performance no. 2

Bollywood Dance (Hindi latest)

Performance no. 3

Bollywood Dance (Punjabi Song)

(Here, guest will get a chance to participate in dance on the stage)

Performance End

IMPORTANT NOTE:-

Please don`t compare this tour with Universal studio tour at Hollywood amusement park, studios size in India are smaller comparatively to Hollywood.

The Bollywood activities in Mumbai are not centralized at one place and scattered at different places.

Photo shots are strictly not allowed until and unless permission is given. (Professional cameras are not allowed at the sets, until permission granted)

Most of the studios are at distant places from downtown and as such may take considerable time to reach, kindly bear with such unavoidable time consumption.

Request you to please keep your mobile on silent mode during the shooting in action.

SECURITY- We need your cooperation wherever the personal frisking and checking of baggage is mandatory. Except for your valuables, hand baggage is not allowed at location shooting.

Back to hotel for free time.

OPTIONAL - In the evening set out on an exploration to taste, or simply see different varietties of Indian Ice cream – Kulfi, Kala Khatta, Rustoms Sandwich ice cream and Naturals fruit ice cream. Needless to say, children simply love this tour.

Breakfast at the hotel

OPTIONAL : Visit the open air laundry called “Dhobi Ghat”. Even, if you have no interest in other people's dirty laundry, you'll be fascinated by the dhobi ghat. Each morning, laundry from all over Mumbai is brought here and the next day, these are returned in neat and tidy bundles. The secret that keeps the operation running smoothly is the coded symbol that each dhobi-wallah (washer man) places on every item. Invisible to the untrained eye, this mark ensures that nothing will be lost.

Stop by Colaba Causeway Market, a narrow, busy street filled with shops and Indian designer boutiques. Souvenirs such as trinkets and handicrafts are a highlight of this particular area and it is often referred to as a delightful visual introduction to the sights and sounds of ‘Maximum-City Mumbai’. (Approx. 15 Kms / 30 minutes, depending upon the traffic conditions)

In time transferred to Mumbai International airport to take flight back home with some great STORIES OF INDIA.

      END OF THE TOUR