Colourful Camels at the Jaipur Festival

(Credit Tourism Rajasthan)

Rajasthan Deserts, Castles and Palaces

October 29 - November 18, 2016

21 Days • 54 Meals

Escorted by Donna Rombough

India has long fascinated world travellers for its immense diversity. All of the world’s great religions - Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian - live in relative harmony. Untold personal wealth shares the land with abject poverty. Modern industry and commerce contrast with traditional lifestyles that are unchanged from centuries past. Modern transportation contrasts with ox carts and camel trains. This very special journey has been designed to display this diversity, stretching as it does from the capital, Delhi, across the plains of Rajasthan to one of the world's most forbidding deserts. A definite highlight in 2016 will be the time spent attending the Pushkar Camel Fair visiting the Taj Mahal by the light of the full moon. This journey features a wonderful blend of modern and ancient, deluxe hotels and heritage properties that display the long traditions of Indian hospitality. Stay in restored palaces as well as a desert camp, sample home cooked food and the cuisine served to Rajasthani royalty. This is a unique opportunity to experience the lifestyles of both rural and urban India and to appreciate the diverse religious culture that is India. The journey is designed for adventurous travellers, who are willing to accept and to appreciate the cultural differences that they will encounter. Group will be strictly limited to 28 members - be sure to enrol early.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Old Delhi, with its history, forts, and markets plus New Delhi, the planned capital

Cruise to the Lake Palace on Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Visit the Temple of Ranakpur with its 1444 carved marble pillars

Royal Dinner in Hanwant Mahal, Jodhpur

Jeep Safari in Manvaar visiting tribal villages

Overnight in a camp in the Thar Desert

Camel ride amongst the dunes, Thar Desert

Stay in heritage and palace hotels in Rajasthan

Attend the Pushkar Camel Fair and religious festival

Dinner with local family in Jaipur

Ride an elephant to the fortress of Amber Palace

Attend a Bollywood movie in Raj Mandir Theatre

The ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri

The magnificent Taj Mahal at Full Moon plus Agra fort

INCLUSIVE FEATURES

Return economy non-stop flights to/from India on Air Canada plus domestic flight in India

Accommodations in carefully selected deluxe and first class resorts plus traditional palace and heritage hotels as indicated or similar

All 54 meals in India (shown as B - Breakfast, L - Lunch and D - Dinner) plus in flight meals

Services of our Canadian tour escort plus a professional English speaking tour guide in India

All gratuities and taxes for included services including all current air taxes & fees

India visa fee for Canadian passport holders

Airport transfer in Canada or equivalent value

TOUR ESCORT

Accompanying you on this wonderful adventure will be Donna Rombough, who recently retired from Craig Travel. Donna is a 25 year veteran of the travel industry and has held management positions as well as having escorted senior’s groups on tours and cruises to many parts of the world. Donna delights in showing her group members new cultures and experiences and is very much looking forward to sharing the history, sights and tastes of Rajasthan with you!

October 29, Saturday Depart Canada Group members depart for overnight flight to Delhi.

October 30, Sunday Arrive Delhi, India Upon arrival at Delhi in the late evening, we are met and escorted to our hotel where we will be greeted in the traditional Indian style. Kempinski Ambience Hotel (3 nights)

October 31, Monday Old Delhi Relax this morning as we adjust to the new time zone. Our tour of Old Delhi will begin with a visit to the chaotic laneways and shops of Chandni Chowk Bazaar followed by the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque designed by Shah Jahan. In complete contrast to Old Delhi, is Raj Ghat, a stunning memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Red Fort which dominates Old Delhi, was built in the 17

th Century by Shah

Jahan, only to be plundered by the marauding armies of Nadir Shah and British soldiers. BLD

November 1, Tuesday New Delhi Unlike the chaos of old Delhi, much of New Delhi was planned and built by the British. Highlights of our morning tour include the Qutab Minar, a towering stone monument built to symbolize the supremacy of Islam, and Humayun's Tomb, a wonderful example of Mughal architecture. Driving through the planned capital, we shall view broad avenues, India Gate, the Presidential Palace and Parliament. After lunch visit the massive Akshardham Temple, a 100 acre complex of beautiful gardens, water fountains and carved pavilions with 234 ornate pillars. BLD

November 2, Wednesday Delhi / Udaipur Our morning flight brings us to romantic Udaipur. Enjoy an afternoon cruise on Lake Pichola, surrounded by the splendid hills of the Aravalli range, magnificent palaces, and temples. At the heart of the lake is Jag Mandir, the Lake Palace where we will stop for a visit. The Lalit Laxmi Niwas Palace (2 nights) BLD

November 3, Thursday Udaipur / Nagda Venture into the countryside to Nagda, to see the exquisite carvings of the Sas-Bahu Temples, the ancient Palaces of Mewar (6th Century AD) and the celebrated temple complex of Eklingji (built of red sandstone and marble in 734 AD). Nathdwara is an important Hindu pilgrim centre noted for the delicate Pichwai paintings. Back in Udaipur we shall visit the impressive City Palace, the focal point of the city, Fateh Prakash Palace containing the world’s largest collection of crystal, and the Jagdish Temple, with its imposing sculpted figures and heavily ornamented interiors. Visit the Sahelion ki Bari (Garden of the Maidens), built by the Maharana, for the 48 maids of her dowry. BLD

November 4, Friday Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur The Temple of Ranakpur, built in the 15

th Century is one of

the five holiest places for Jains with over 1444 hand carved marble pillars, each unique and exquisite. One pillar, carved from a single stone has 108 snake heads and bodies. Continue to the blue city of Jodhpur, a desert centre that surrounds a massive mountain top fortress. Ranbanka Palace (Heritage) Hotel (2 nights) BLD

November 5, Saturday Jodhpur Travel by 4x4 jeep on a safari to Bishnoi Village, whose people are arguably the first ecologists of the world, protecting the trees and animals of their land and worshiping the magnificent black buck as an incarnation of Lord Krishna. Overlooking Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort is surrounded by 10 km of walls with soaring archways and containing a series of palaces, each decorated with carving, lattice and mirror work. Below is the old city whose dominant colour is the blue of the Brahmin caste. Other highlights include Jaswant Thada, the Clock Tower and the bustling Sardar Market, known for its spices. Dinner is at the Hanwant Mahal; a part of the royal residence which offers majestic views of Jodhpur city. Served on Royal Thaal, dinner will be a symphony of culinary specialties of Rajasthan made with the original recipes. BLD

November 6, Sunday Jodhpur / Indian Thar Desert Heading west from Jodhpur we drive into the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert where we will overnight in a permanent camp. Manvaar is located on the dunes offering a rare opportunity to experience desert life, culture, wildlife and beauty. In the late afternoon enjoy a camel ride

amongst the dunes and dinner will be highlighted by local folk music and kalbelia dances as we dine under the stars. Thar Oasis Deluxe Camp (1 night) BLD

November 7, Monday Indian Thar Desert / Jaisalmer Be sure to rise early to enjoy the desert sunrise. Enjoy a jeep safari to visit tribal villages, see desert wildlife, watch local craftsmen at work and enjoy the beauty of the desert. Sit back and enjoy the panorama of life on the desert as we drive to Jaisalmer, one of the most impressive castle cities in the world. Its golden crenulated walls and narrow streets lined with exquisitely carved havelis (private mansions) are sure to impress. Fort Rajwada Hotel (2 nights) BLD

November 8, Tuesday Jaisalmer The Golden Fort, rising as it does from the desert, encloses Haveli decorated with delicate jali (lattice worked screens) and elegant flora carved doors, and elaborately carved Jain temples. Walk through the narrow streets of the fort, visiting a number of the ornate haveli, explore the local bazaars and venture outside the walls to the oasis of Gadi Sagar. After lunch we tour Lodurva, the ancient capital of Bhattis Rajputs and once a flourishing city. Lodurva is also known for its Jain temples that are made of bright yellow sandstone. Though in ruins, the splendors of these Jain temples are clearly visible. BLD

November 9, Wednesday Jaisalmer / Bikaner A long morning drive brings us to Bikaner, a true desert market town where the principal transport is provided by camels and where caravans rested on their journeys across the desert. En route we will visit Gajner Palace. Spread over 6000 acres, it was a hunting resort used by the Maharajas and visiting British dignitaries during the days of the Raj. Laxmi Niwas Palace (1 night) BLD

November 10, Thursday Bikaner / Khimsar Bikaner is encircled by imposing battlements, and dominated by Junagarh Fort, known for its exquisite stone carvings and palaces. The outer wall, built of light red sandstone is surrounded by a moat, and within are beautifully designed palaces with balconies, kiosks, fine jali or lattice work screens with richly decorated interiors. The Badal Mahal in the fort has walls covered with stories from the life of Krishna, while the walls of the oldest palace, the Lal Niwas, are elaborately decorated in red and gold. After lunch we drive to Khimsar. Set on the very edge of the desert, this fort turned heritage resort was a most welcome place to stay. Khimsar Fort (1 night) BLD

November 11, Friday Khimsar / Pushkar After a leisurely start to enjoy our surroundings, we drive to the medieval town of Nagaur, in the heart of which is Ahhichatragarh Fort, dating from the 12th century and one of the most beautiful in Rajasthan still in use today. After lunch in Ranvas we continue to Pushkar, home of the annual Camel Fair. While most visitors will camp in the fields around the fair grounds, we have secured rooms in Dera Masuda (2 nights) BLD

November 12, Saturday Pushkar The fair coincides with full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik (October / November). This quiet city comes alive as the annual camel and cattle fair begins. Thousands of colourfully-dressed villagers arrive from all over Rajasthan to bathe in the holy lake and to attend the annual camel

CT RATING 3.5 - Challenging: India offers opportunities to experience different cultures but also requires a special

understanding from those willing to experience the

differences. Travel conditions will be more difficult than in

most destinations, sometimes facilities will be limited, and

standards will differ from those in Canada. Road traffic and conditions can be relatively chaotic and this tour includes

long travel days. This tour features very comfortable first

class and heritage hotels. While food will satisfy Canadian

travellers (most meals will be buffets), members may find

some dishes spicy. Due to the physical and cultural demands,

all members should be in good physical health and capable

of handling themselves and their luggage, if needed.

Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars (per person)

Land Only* ............................................................... $4,095 Toronto ...................................................................... $5,785 Ottawa / Montreal ..................................................... $5,895 Halifax ....................................................................... $5,995 Winnipeg ................................................................... $6,095 St. John’s .................................................................. $6,095 Regina / Saskatoon .................................................. $6,175 Edmonton / Calgary / Vancouver .............................. $6,095 Victoria ...................................................................... $6,175 Single Supplement .................................................... $1,665

Land Only* price includes the internal flight - join and leave in Delhi. Prices are based on a minimum of 15 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective November, 2015. Prices are subject to change due to factors beyond our control.

Note: Members will require a Visa to visit India. Cost of the Visa is included for Canadian passport holders. In some instances, individuals will be required to obtain their own Visa (with our full assistance).

The above prices DO NOT INCLUDE the cost of comprehensive insurance which is available on an optional basis and is strongly recommended. Insurance premiums vary with the cost and length of the trip as well as the traveler’s age. For passengers up to and including 74 years on departure date premiums will range from $360 - $430pp. Cost supplements apply for members aged 75 - 85. This insurance is effective from the date of purchase and carries limitations on pre-existing medical conditions. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Check our website for the most current information. Refer to enrolment form for general information and conditions.

Final payment will be due August 22, 2016

Deposit payment is $600 per person

To reserve your spot on this tour, simply complete the enclosed enrolment form, indicating your destination, departure date and your personal information, and forward it with your deposit to:

CRAIG CANADIAN GROUP TRAVEL LTD

1092 Mount Pleasant Road Toronto ON M4P 2M6

416-484-0926 or 1-800-387-8890 / Fax: 416-484-8143

tours@craigtravel.com

www.craigtravel.com

REV20NOV15

and cattle fair. The fields will be full of camels, horses and cattle while the fair grounds will be full of people. In the village in traditional dress they gather and pray at the temple. This will be the way to experience the real India. BLD

November 13, Sunday Pushkar / Jaipur Rise early to experience village life at the temple and then spend the morning watching camels and locals alike. After lunch we set out for Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, known as the pink city for the dominate colour used in the historic city. Royal and rustic, Jaipur is home to several beautiful forts, palaces and temples. This evening we have a special treat, dinner with a local family, an opportunity to understand the living traditions of modern India. Jaipur Hilton Hotel (2 nights) BLD

November 14, Monday Jaipur Ride an elephant (subject to availability) to the fortress of Amber Palace, known for its many delightful rooms including the Jag Mandir and the famous Sheesh Mahal. Pause for photos at the elegantly carved Hawa Mahal - the Palace of Winds. After lunch at Surabhi Restaurant (with a visit to the Turban Museum) we will explore the Maharaja's City Palace, with exhibits dedicated to weaponry, textiles and costumes and the Jantar Mantar, the largest stone observatory in the world. A walk through the busy markets will bring us to the Raj Mandir, an art deco theatre and symbol of modern Jaipur, where we shall see a Bollywood Movie. BLD

November 15, Tuesday Jaipur / Agra via Fatehpur Sikri Enjoy lunch at the Bagh in Bharatpur. Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and deserted just 14 years later. This 'Ghost City' speaks of the grandeur and splendour of the Mughal Empire. This evening we are in Agra and visit the Taj Mahal under the Full Moon (a very special treat). Built by Shah Jahan in 1630 for his queen Mumtaz Mahal, this architectural masterpiece, is truly a 'Love Poem in Marble'. Agra Radisson Hotel (2 nights) BLD

November 16, Wednesday Agra Early this morning enjoy a tonga ride (horse carriage) to see the Taj in all its glory. Later we continue to Agra Fort built by Emperor Akbar, highlighting the Mughal talent for military design and architectural beauty. View the Taj Mahal from Itmad-ud daulah, across the River Yamuna. This evening there will be an option to attend Mohabbat, a play about love and the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal era. BLD

November 17, Thursday Mathura / Delhi A short distance from Agra we find Mathura, the birthplace of Sri Krisna, one of the most important Gods of Hinduism, felt by many to be the supreme deity. As such this region is one of the five most sacred cities in India and a very popular pilgrimage site. ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Conscience) is building the world’s tallest temple here and there are a number of other very important sites to be explored: Dwarkadhish Temple, Krishna Janambhoomi and Rangbhoomi. Later we will continue into Delhi for dinner. BLD

November 18, Friday Delhi / Canada Departing very early this morning we fly Air Canada non stop to Toronto with connections to our homes.