India: Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle FACULTY LEADER

India: Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle A Train Journey aboard the Palace on Wheels October 30 to November 12, 2021

Experience northwest India’s state of Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle, bounded by Delhi, the country’s capital; the Pink City of Jaipur; and Agra, home to the majestic Taj Mahal.

FACULTY LEADER Scott Sagan Scott D. Sagan, the Caroline S.G. Munro Professor of Political Science and a senior fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, has been teaching in the political science department at Stanford since 1987, offering students courses covering topics such as international security, nuclear weapons, and the ethics and strategies of war. He has served as a consultant to the office of the Secretary of Defense and to the Sandia and Los Alamos national laboratories, and as a special assistant to the director of the Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Sagan is also a frequent contributor to academic journals, including Daedalus, International Security and Foreign Affairs. He has authored, co- authored and co-edited numerous books on issues dealing with nuclear weapons, the most recent being Insider Threats (Cornell University Press, 2017). He has won numerous awards for his teaching and his research into the risks of nuclear weapons and their proliferation. On this program, Professor Sagan’s lecture topics will include the British, American and Indian independences; and modern India and the global nuclear order. Scott’s grandmother and mother were born and raised in India as daughters of Methodist missionaries, and his understanding of the history of India during the colonial period is informed by that personal background.

• Senior fellow, Center for International Security and Cooperation at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Stanford University • Mimi and Peter Haas University Fellow in Undergraduate Education, Stanford University • Board member, science and security board, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists • Chair, committee on international security studies, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, since 2018 • Consultant, strategic nuclear policy branch of the nuclear and chemical division, Organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, 1985–1986 • Author, Inside Nuclear South Asia, Stanford University Press, 2009 • BA, government, 1977, Oberlin College • PhD, political science, 1983, Harvard University

ITINERARY

Saturday, October 30 Delhi, India Arrive in Delhi and transfer to our five-star hotel, located in the heart of the modern capital. TAJ MAHAL NEW DELHI

STANFORD TRAVEL/STUDY | FRANCES C. ARRILLAGA ALUMNI CENTER | 326 GALVEZ STREET STANFORD, CA 94305 | TEL: (650) 725-1093 | [email protected] INDIA: RAJASTHAN AND THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE October 30 to November 12, 2021

Sunday, October 31 New Delhi After an orientation briefing, spend the day exploring this British colonial city of wide boulevards and formal parks. Take a driving tour past Rashtrapati Bhavan, once the awe-inspiring residence of the British viceroys and now the presidential palace; the parliament building; and India Gate, built as a memorial to the Indian soldiers killed in World War I. Visit Gandhi Smriti, the sacred site where Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated in 1948 that is today a national memorial and museum commemorating his legacy. Discover the Mogul Emperor Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architecture of which was the first of its kind in India, setting a precedent for future Mogul mausoleums, culminating in the Taj Mahal. Gather this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. TAJ MAHAL NEW DELHI (B,L,D)

Monday, November 1 Old Delhi Embark on a tour of Old Delhi, former seat of the Mughal Empire for more than 200 years. After driving past the Red Fort, stop at Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, and embark on an exciting cycle- rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, a colorful bazaar and bustling business center. Visit Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Ghandi, then choose to take a guided expedition to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Qutub Minar, an elaborate 13th-century 238-foot-tall minaret, the tallest of its kind in the world, or devote the rest of the afternoon to leisure, perhaps browsing the modern boutiques and sipping a designer coffee at one of Khan Market’s trendy cafés, or simply relaxing at our peaceful hotel. TAJ MAHAL NEW DELHI (B,L,D)

Tuesday, November 2 Delhi / Jaipur Hop on a morning flight to Jaipur, the rose-hued capital of Rajasthan. Built in 1727 the city was painted pink (the traditional color of welcome) in 1876 to honor the visit of Prince Albert. Investigate the courtyards, audience halls and galleries of Jaipur’s City Palace and the 18th-century open-air astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar, with 90-foot-high sundial built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Today is Dhanteras, the first day of the Diwali festival. Admire the elaborate rangoli (designs made of flowers and colored powder) that are created on this day to decorate the entrances of homes and businesses, and the diyas (oil lamps), colorful lanterns and holiday lights that are first lit on this night in honor of Laxmi (goddess of wealth) and Dhanvantari (god of medicine), for whom this day of Diwali is named. JAI MAHAL PALACE (B,L,D)

Wednesday, November 3 Jaipur Following a photo stop at the ornate Palace of the Winds, set off to Amber Fort, a walled palace of massive ramparts and elaborate living quarters, including the dazzling Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). Today marks Choti Diwali, or “small Diwali.” This day’s rituals include taking a predawn oil bath, washing the hair, applying kajal, or kohl (black eyeliner) to ward off the evil eye and making offerings of a special sweet made with poha (rice flakes). This afternoon is free for independent exploration of the Pink City, perhaps to shop for the fine jewelry and hand-printed textiles for which Jaipur is renowned. One of the traditions of Diwali is to buy new clothes and jewelry, and there is no better place to engage in this pastime than Jaipur! JAI MAHAL PALACE (B,L,D)

STANFORD TRAVEL/STUDY | (650) 725-1093 | [email protected] FRANCES C. ARRILLAGA ALUMNI CENTER | 326 GALVEZ STREET | STANFORD, CA 94305 INDIA: RAJASTHAN AND THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE October 30 to November 12, 2021

Thursday, November 4 Jaipur / Embark Palace on Wheels The third day of Diwali, Laxmi Puja, is the most important of the five-day festival. After a morning at leisure, walk through Jaipur’s bazaar to observe people making their final purchases and preparations for the holiday, then participate in a puja (worship ceremony), led by a local pandit (Hindu priest). Ride an auto-rickshaw through the streets to see the ritual lighting of houses and to experience the festive atmosphere as fireworks explode in a celebration of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Board the Palace On Wheels, our home on the rails for these next five nights. Savor our first dinner on board as our train departs for an overnight journey to Ranthambore National Park. PALACE ON WHEELS (B,L,D)

Friday, November 5 Ranthambore National Park / Chittorgarh Begin the day on an adventurous note with an exciting early-morning safari. Originally the private hunting ground of the maharajas, Ranthambore was declared a national park in 1980. Look for chinkara, chital, sambar, hyena, jackal niglai, sloth bear and wild boar. If we are fortunate, we may even spot the elusive tiger or shy leopard. Return to our train and relax on board as we make our way to Chittorgarh, which boasts the largest fort in India. Wind through the majestic fort’s vaulted passageways and wander among the numerous courtyards and reservoirs of this massive hilltop complex, whose food and water storage were built to support an army of 50,000 for four years without replenishment. PALACE ON WHEELS (B,L,D)

Saturday, November 6 Udaipur Arise this morning in charming Udaipur, popularly known as the City of Lakes. Visit the remarkable City Palace, Rajasthan’s largest palace complex, which includes Mor Chowk, a courtyard with lavish peacock mosaics, the exquisite Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) and Jagdish Temple, a three-storied structure noteworthy for its idol of Lord Vishnu carved from a single piece of black stone. Take a boat ride on scenic Lake Pichola to the Lake Palace. Once the 18th-century summer resort of the Mewar rulers, the palace, its black-and-white marble walls encrusted with semiprecious stones, is constructed to the exact dimensions of the four-acre island upon which it stands, making it appear to float. Stroll among the fountains and marble elephants at Saheliyon-ki-Bari, or Garden of the Maidens, a verdant oasis in otherwise dry Rajasthan. PALACE ON WHEELS (B,L,D)

Sunday, November 7 Jaisalmer The scenery changes dramatically today, as we arrive at the heart of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert. Roam around the citadel of Jaisalmer, the Golden City, so named for the way the sun reflects off the ocher sandstone from which its buildings, including 800-year-old Jaisalmer Fort, are constructed. Explore the fort, one of the largest fortifications in the world, within whose walls almost one quarter of the city’s population still resides. Venture to the fort’s seven-storied royal palace; Laxminath Temple; and ornate havelis, stately mansions built by wealthy Rajasthani merchants, many of which the descendants of their original owners occupy. Stop by Patwon Ki haveli, a complex of five exquisitely decorated 19th-century mansions that housed a family of brocade merchants specializing in gold and silver embroidery thread. Late this afternoon drive into the desert to Sam Sand Dunes for a sunset camel ride against a dramatic backdrop. PALACE ON WHEELS (B,L,D)

Monday, November 8 Jodhpur Exchange the golden palette of Jaisalmer for that of Jodhpur’s indigo-hued buildings as we delight in the Blue City today. Walk past the Old Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar) to Sardar Market and historic havelis, then to Jaswant Thada, cremation ground of Jodhpur’s rulers and home to the dazzling 19th-century white-marble memorial to Jaswant Singh II. Head to the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort to tour its various palaces and temples, admire its priceless collection of jewels and miniature paintings and take in the stunning view from its ramparts of the azure tint of the city below. Browse the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, part of a spectacular complex built in the 1930s that includes the primary residence of the Jodhpur royal family, a luxury hotel and an eclectic private collection consisting of vintage clocks, art deco furniture, classic cars, quirky household items and a flag given to a former maharaja of Jodhpur by Queen Victoria. PALACE ON WHEELS (B,L,D)

Tuesday, November 9 Bharatpur / Disembark Palace on Wheels / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra Upon arrival in the town of Bharatpur, disembark and bid farewell to the Palace On Wheels. Participate in a bird-watching expedition in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, originally a private hunting preserve for the local maharajas and today a major wintering ground for more than 300 species of migratory birds including aquatic fowl from Afghanistan and Turkmenistan and the rare Siberian crane. After having visited so many of Northern India’s great cities, gain an understanding of small-town life on a guided walk through the village of Pakka Bagh, then attend a cooking demonstration in a kitchen located in a 19th-century royal garden. Drive to Agra, stopping en route at the fabled deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built by Emperor Akbar as his capital in the late 16th century, the complex blends Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Continue to Agra, checking in to our hotel this evening. ITC MUGHAL (B,L,D)

Wednesday, November 10 Agra Rise early for a predawn excursion to the Taj Mahal, one of India’s most enduring symbols. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this pure-white marble mausoleum is arguably the finest example of Mughal architecture, which combines elements of Islamic, Persian, Indian and Ottoman styles. After breakfast explore Agra Fort, a Mughal-era complex. Return to the Taj Mahal this evening as the sun sets over one of the world’s great architectural triumphs. Celebrate the culmination of our India adventure at a farewell reception and dinner this evening. ITC MUGHAL (B,L,D)

Thursday & Friday, November 11 & 12 Agra / Delhi / Departure After breakfast drive to Delhi and settle in to our hotel. Depart on late-night or early-morning flights back to the U.S., arriving on Friday. RADISSON BLU PLAZA (B,L,D—11/11; B—11/12

INFORMATION

Covid-19 and Travel With travel requirements and local Covid-19 conditions changing weekly, travel protocols for specific destinations will be shared with confirmed travelers closer to departure. To read more about Travel/Study’s approach to ensuring traveler health and safety, visit our Covid-19 Travel page.

Palace on Wheels India’s first luxury train, the recently renovated 82-passenger Palace On Wheels recalls the gracious age of rail travel. Featuring amenities including compartments with a personal attendant, private bathroom, large picture windows and a wireless internet connection, the train also houses two dining cars, two bar lounges and a spa car. Note that all deluxe cabins are 120 square feet and have two separate beds.

Size This trip requires a minimum of 18 participants and is limited to 34. Travel/Study is committed to providing a low-density experience on all programs and will implement protocols to do so, including social distancing on transportation as well as during lectures, meals and excursions. Single accommodations are limited—please call for availability.

Cost* $10,995 per person, double occupancy $14,995 per person, single occupancy *Stanford Alumni Association nonmembers add $300 per person.

Included ● 8 nights of deluxe hotel accommodations ● 5-night journey aboard the Palace On Wheels ● 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners ● Welcome and farewell receptions ● Gratuities to guides, drivers and train crew for all group activities ● All tours and excursions as described in the itinerary ● Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and departure days ● Internal flight from Delhi to Jaipur on 11/2 ● On-tour quarantine-related trip-cancellation, -interruption and -delay insurance coverage ● General medical, accident and evacuation insurance ● Educational program with lecture series and predeparture materials, including an education resource list and travel information ● Services of our professional tour manager to assist you throughout the program

Not Included ● Your personal flights to and from the program ● Passport and visa fees ● Immunization costs ● Meals and beverages other than those specified as included ● Independent and private transfers ● Nonquarantine-related trip-cancellation, -interruption and -delay insurance coverage ● Baggage insurance

● Personal items such as internet access, telephone calls, laundry and gratuities for nongroup services

Air Arrangements You are responsible for booking and purchasing airfare to the start location and from the end location of the program. These air purchases are NOT included in the program cost. To assist you in making these independent arrangements, we will send you details with your confirmation materials on when to arrive and depart.

What to Expect We consider this program to be moderately strenuous and at times physically demanding and busy. Participants should be able to walk unassisted on extended excursions (typically two to three hours) over uneven, unpaved surfaces and up and down narrow staircases during periods of high heat and humidity. When visiting archaeological ruins, forts and palaces, you must be able to walk up and down steep, dark staircases without handrails. Drive times range from one to four hours over badly rutted, though paved, roads. Although the train and all the hotels and motor coaches are air-conditioned, other traditional means of conveyance and most of the museums, temples and ruins we visit are not. The train ride can be noisy and bumpy, with the train often starting and stopping as it travels throughout the night. Participants should feel comfortable walking without assistance along narrow corridors and between train cars while the train is moving, which requires stepping over pivoting raised plates and opening heavy doors between the cars. Participants must be physically fit, active and in good health. We welcome travelers 15 years of age and older on this program.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Deposit, Payments and Cancellations A $1,000-per-person deposit is required to reserve space on this program. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Deposits and any payments are fully refundable until 90 days prior to departure. After that date, refunds can be made only if the program is sold out and your place is resold, in which case a $1,000-per-person cancellation fee will apply.

Insurance Stanford Travel/Study provides all travelers who are U.S. or Canadian citizens with minimal medical, accident and evacuation coverage, as well as on-tour quarantine-related trip-cancellation, -interruption and -delay insurance coverage, under our group-travel insurance policy. Our group policy is intended to provide minimal levels of protection while you are traveling on this program. You may choose to subscribe to optional nonquarantine-related trip-cancellation, -interruption and -delay insurance coverage and/or baggage insurance. Information offering such insurance will be included in your confirmation materials. The product offered includes special benefits if you postmark your insurance payment within 14 days of the date your welcome email was sent.

Eligibility We encourage membership in the Stanford Alumni Association as the program cost for nonmembers is $300 more than the members’ price. A person traveling as a guest paid for by a current member will not be charged the nonmember fee. To purchase a membership, call (650) 725-0692 or visit alumni.stanford.edu/goto/membership.

Responsibility The Stanford Alumni Association, Stanford University and our operators act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transportation and train arrangements and exercise every care possible in doing so. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity in connection with the service of any automobile, motor coach, launch or any other conveyance used in carrying out this program or for the acts or defaults of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the program. We cannot accept any responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, force majeure or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger as tour rates include arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to make such alterations to this published itinerary as may be deemed necessary. We reserve the right to cancel any program prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded without further obligation on our part. We also reserve the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the program. No refund will be made for an unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entirely. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance. Neither the Stanford Alumni Association, nor Stanford University nor our operators accept liability for any carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket in connection with the tour. Program price is based on rates in effect at the time the brochure is published and is subject to change without notice to reflect fluctuations in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel charges. As a condition of participation, all confirmed participants are required to sign an Assumption of Risk.

California Seller of Travel Program Registration #2048 523-50

STANFORD TRAVEL/STUDY | (650) 725-1093 | [email protected] FRANCES C. ARRILLAGA ALUMNI CENTER | 326 GALVEZ STREET | STANFORD, CA 94305