BHOPAL WITH THE TAJ   

DAY 01: BHOPAL

Arrival at Bhopal Airport, assistance upon arrival and transfer to hotel / resort, get freshen up and move for Sightseeing / Visits in Bhopal as per the timings,

Bhopal the ‘City of Historic Grandeurs and Lakes’ the life of this 200 years old city swirls around its heritage and culture. located in the central part of India, Surrounded by lakes and hills, famous for its natural beauty and one of the greenest cities in India, also known as the ‘city of lakes’ due to its various natural and artificial lakes and, the city offers an amazing unique heritage cultural experience. It is home to the largest mosque in India and one of the largest mosques in the world, founded by famous Raja Bhoj, the history of royal city dates back to the 11th century and the present city established by an Afghan soldier, Dost Mohammed, in the 18th century. Interestingly, unlike any other princely state in Indian history, Bhopal was ruled by the generation of Begums (women rulers) for more than 100 years and popular as ‘Bagum Bhopal’. With its stunning heritage sites and numerous cultural hubs, the green city of Bhopal still bears the stamp of the Bagums of Bhopal who ruled the city for long time 

Taj-ul-Masajid ‘Crown of Mosques’ considered one of the largest mosques in the world, this grand mosque built by Shah Jehan Begum, the eighth ruler of the place and Bhopal’s third female ruler. The excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture and art, a pink facade, tall minarets, arched roofs, three huge domes, marble flooring, massive pillars, ornate ceilings and a huge central hallway. With an interior area of about 430,000 square feet, the mosque has capacity of 175,000 people. 

Moti Masjid ‘Pearl Mosque’ built in 1862 by the ruler of Bhopal Sikander Jahan Begum. Crafted with beautiful, pure white marble, the architecture of the mosque holds a striking resemblance to the historic Jama Masjid in Delhi. The dazzling white facade of the monument has earned it the name ‘Pearl Mosque’, which has a grand courtyard that opens a window to some of the most amazing views of the city

Gohar Mahal is undoubtedly one of the most historically beautiful places to visit in Bhopal. Built-in 1820 by first female ruler of Bhopal Qudsia Begum, the palace is ornamented with intricate interior carvings and beautiful decorations on the exterior. The palace also serves as an exemplary site of the Indo-Islamic architectural style. The great hall chaperones the idyllic lake, while the interiors of the hall host numerous ancient paintings and intricate woodwork and art.

The Kamlapati Palace built in 1722; the palace takes the name of the widow of Nizam Shah Gond Queen Kamlapati. Perched along the banks of Upper Lake in Bhopal, the palace is a clear reflection of the Mughal and the modern architectural styles fused into a graceful art that adorns the face of the building

Lakes of Bhopal Upper Lake of Bhopal locally referred to as ‘Bhojtaal’ is the oldest man-made lake in India. Dating back to the 11th century, the lake is believed to have been built by famous Raja Bhoj. The lake is overlooked by a grand royal garden, which is another tourist attraction of the city. The Lower Lake localy referred to as “Chhota Talab”, is separated from the Upper Lake by a bridge known as Pul Pukhta or the Lower Lake Bridge. Lower Lake also dates back to the 11th century and has fallen under the rule of countless kings. Lakes are bathed in an aura of blissful quiet and tranquillity, making it perfect for nature lovers and one of the most picturesque places in Bhopal with Arch Bridge adding feathers                                        

DAY 02: BHOPAL   

After breakfast move for Sightseeing / Visits in Bhopal – Evening free for leisure 

The Tribal Museum in the city of Bhopal displays the unique work of tribal including their roots in the tribal heritage and culture. The museum complex carefully segregated into 6 galleries, each of which is dedicated to the tribal culture, life, art, and mythology. If you’re a history buff or a mythology enthusiast, this place is meant for you

National Museum of Mankind is seated atop the Shymla Hills, along with the Upper Lake in Bhopal. The anthropological museum presents a beautiful illustration of the evolution of mankind, with reference to India. It also displays a variety of prehistoric rock shelters, which is something few other museums in India can boast about. Installed as a tribute to the tribal communities and folks of the state, the museum also has a well-stocked library, along with remarkable audio-visual archives.

Sadar Manzil a royal building that used to be the hall of public audience for the rulers of Bhopal. The monument is set amidst picturesque and well-laid out gardens and reflects Oriental traces of Indo-Islamic architecture. The building used as the main courtyard by nawabs (rulers) of Bhopal in meeting with the masses here, and address them on important occasions. The charm of the Sadar Manzil has withstood the test of time, and even today one can see intricate carvings in the ceilings and archways that hint at its former grandeur and opulence

DAY 03: BHOPAL – BHIMBETKA / BHOPAL   

After breakfast move for Day Excursion trip to Bhimbetka – Evening free for leisure

Bhimbetka an archaeological treasure, cave paintings dating back to approx. 30,000 years, the Rock shelters that were home to humans, millennia ago. Situated around 45 km from Bhopal city, a rich flora and fauna surrounding these, indeed, make Bhimbetka a gift to us from our earliest ancestors. The Bhimbetka Rock Shelter has the oldest-known rock art in India, as well as is one of the largest prehistoric complexes to be seen. This place has around 243 rock shelters and has earned the honour of UNESCO world heritage site. A walkthrough these ancient naturally carved rocks surrounded by dense forests of Bhimbetka will bring alive child-like wonder in you. The paintings found in the rock shelters here have a striking resemblance to the ones discovered in Kakadu National Park in Australia; to the cave paintings of Bushmen in Kalahari Desert and Upper Palaeolithic Lascaux cave paintings in France 

The Chowk Bazaar in Bhopal is the heritage colourful bazaar that reflects the old charm of heritage city, most of the places and shops with a touch of the old world through the mosques and havelis that are a beautiful blend of Indo-Islamic architecture lined up along it. The shops promise to be a sheer delight for anyone interested in traditional arts and crafts, silver jewellery or embroidered work. In the same vein, the street food is definitely worth a bite or two and then some more

DAY 04: BHOPAL – DELHI / AGRA 

After breakfast transfer to Bhopal Airport to Board at Morning Flight to Delhi – Arrival at Delhi, assistance upon arrival and proceed to Agra – Arrival at Agra transfer to hotel / resort, get freshen up and move for Sightseeing / Visits as per the timings 

Heritage city Agra the prominent tourist destination, one of the most visited places in the world, home of three world heritage sites and one of those heritage sites which the world has chosen to be the ‘Wonder of the World’. Symbolising the eternal love, incredible paragon of Indo-Islamic architecture and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage ‘The Taj Mahal’. Agra was founded in the beginning 16th century by Sultan Sikandar Lodī, the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. After the Sultan’s death, the city passed on to his son, Sultan Ibrāhīm Lodī. He ruled his Sultanate from Agra until he fell fighting to Mughal Emperor Bābar in the battle of Panipat fought in 1526 

World heritage site The Taj Mahal “The Jewel of Indo-Islamic architecture” and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage”. Regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history. It was declared a winner of the New 7 Wonders of the World (2000–2007) initiative. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632. The construction project employed some 20,000 artisans under the guidance of a board of architects

DAY 05: AGRA – DELHI  

Morning Visit at Taj Mahal and get an amazing view at Sun rise, The cool breeze with shade of sun lighht on white Taj Mahal get you the wonderful view of Taj Mahal, drive back to hotel / resort get freshen up and After breakfast move for Sightseeing / Visit in Agra – by late afternoon drive continue to Delhi – Arrival at Delhi as per the timings 

World heritage site Agra Red Fort sprawling over an area of 380,000 sq m, the great fortress is situated on the right bank of river Yamuna. This amazing monument linked with many rulers and wars. After the first battle of Panipat in 1526, Babur stayed in the fort, in the palace of Ibrahim Lodi. The historian, Abul Fazl, recorded that this was a brick fort known as ‘Badalgarh’. It was in a ruined condition and Akbar had it rebuilt with red sandstone. Architects laid the foundation and it was built with bricks in the inner core with sandstone on external surfaces. Some 4,000 builders worked on it daily for eight years, completing it in 1573. It was also known as the ‘Qila-i-Akbari’

Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb one of the most beautiful Mughal tombs. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Jahangir, this tomb comprises cenotaphs of Mirza Ghiyas and Asmat Begum, who were parents of Mughal Empress Nur Jahan. Many believed this monument is considered to be the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal. For this fact it is known as the ‘Baby Taj Mahal’ 

Sikandra Tomb the mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Akbar.  Interestingly Akbar himself selected the site of the tomb, planned the structure, completed and laid out a beautiful garden during his lifetime. However, the topmost portion of mausoleum in marble was constructed by his son, Mughal Emperor Jahangir

DAY 06: DELHI

After breakfast move for Sightseeing / Visits in Delhi – We will take you to some different kind of tour Walking and Car Tours in Delhi. These tours have been designed by people with a deep understanding of the ‘Real’ Delhi 

Old Delhi the walled city has been the capital of numerous empires that ruled India, where you will get the sights of eye-catching monuments and unique structures and sounds of the colourful bazaars.  You will experience at one the busiest and oldest areas of the world. This ancient part of the city is a labyrinth of tiny lanes crowded with rickshaws and lined with crumbling 17th-century haveli, temples and mosques. The theme of these tours is the pre-Shahjahanabad period and we will introduce you to the culture, food and people, as well as a look at and feel of some valuable ancient traditions

World heritage site Red Fort (Lal Qila)

Built by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. The Palace fort of his capital Shahjahanabad, famous for its massive red sandstone walls, which stand 75 feet (23 metres) high. This monument represents the grandeur of the Mughal Court, which was constructed during the 17th century. The construction of this fort took over 10 years to complete the work in 1648. It was originally called as ‘Qila-i-Mubarak’, Meaning ‘The Blessed Fort’ listed as UNESCO world heritage site 

World heritage site The Humayun’s Tomb The Tomb of Emperor Humayun the second Mughal ruler to ascend the throne stands as a magnificent testament to the style of Mughal royal mausoleums. This tomb, built in 1560, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal. The construction of this tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s wife Hamida Banu Begum, Makbara-e -Humayun is one of the best preserved Mughal monuments and listed as UNESCO world heritage site 

Akshardham Temple complex comprises of the main temple, beautifully laid out gardens, exhibitions, open courtyards and water bodies, each section presenting an intriguing aspect of Hindu religion and spirituality. Built as per unique ancient Hindu architectural style, follows the traditional Vastu shastra as well as Pancharatra Shastra. The entire complex beautifully displays intricate carvings of flowers, animals, musicians, dancers and Hindu deities. Akshardham Temple stands majestically with a height of 141.3 feet. It comprises of around 234 pillars, 9 elaborately adorned domes along with 20 quadrangle peaks. There are around 20,000 idols related to Hinduism at the temple 

Qutub Minar ‘the victory tower’ named after the religious figure Sufi Saint Hazrat Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki was begun by Qutb-ud-din Aibak. It was continued by his successor Iltutmish (a.k.a. Altamash), and finally completed much later by Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq, a Sultan of Delhi from the Tughlaq dynasty in 1368 AD. It is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site along with surrounding buildings and monuments 

Evening timings get another picture of Delhi with modern culture and traditions. New Delhi OR Modern Delhi, the capital of British India, was built after 1911 AD as a symbol of British dominance over the Indian subcontinent. The intent was to create a grand, monumental, larger-than-life city space, which would inspire awe and be symbolic of the implied socio-cultural, architectural and political superiority of the British Empire few of them are War Memorial India Gate, Passing by President House, Parliament Street and Raj Path

Connaught Place one of the main financial, commercial and business centres in India, a major shopping, nightlife and tourist spot in New Delhi. The area was originally named after the Duke of Connaught, the third son of Queen Victoria of Britain, Prince Arthur. It was developed as a showpiece of Delhi. Connaught Place’s Georgian architecture is modelled after ‘The Royal Crescent in the city of Bath’ England, that designed by the architect John Wood the Younger and built between 1767 and 1774, which is among the greatest examples of Georgian architecture to be found in the United Kingdom

DAY 07: DELHI 

After breakfast move for Optional Visits in Delhi and transfer to Delhi Airport as per the timings,