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No. 529/A, Second Floor, 18th MainHSR Layout, Bangalore. Ph: +91 9483958408, 9880388991, [email protected],www.takeabreak.in

BEST OF – - Desert Camp 5 nights & 6 days

JODHPUR

JAISALMER

SAM SAND DUNES P a g e | 2

Overview

Destination Nights Basis RO: Room only I SC: Self Catering I HB: Half Board I B&B: Bed and breakfast I Jodhpur 2 BB D, B&B: Dinner, bed and breakfast I FB: Dinner, bed, breakfast and lunch I

Jaisalmer 2 BB FB+: Dinner, bed, breakfast, lunch and activities daily I FI: Fully inclusive Desert Camp 1 BB HB – breakfast & dinner

PROGRAMHIGHLIGHTS: Jodhpur:, Jodhpur, Spice Paradise, Museum, , Mandore Gardens. Jaisalmer: Patwaon-Ki-, Gadsisar Sagar Lake,Jaisalmer War Museum, Sam Sand Dunes, Desert Camp: Camel walk, zeep ride

Day 1: JODHPUR

Jodhpur Founded by Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan in 1459, Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. It is divided into two parts - the old city and the new city. Jodhpur is known as the ‘Sun City’ for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys and also ‘Blue City’ due to the vivid blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The old city circles the fort and is bound by a wall with several gates. Jodhpur lies near the geographic centre of Rajasthan, making it a convenient base for travel in the region. The landscape is scenic, mesmerizing with rich history and many beautiful palaces and forts. Jodhpur is a perfect vacation spot for travellers who love rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, sand dunes, scrumptious food, art & craft. The beautiful historic buildings, monuments and scenic landscapes here have been featured in big Hollywood movies like The Dark Knight Rises and The Fall.

Day Notes  Arrive in /railway station  You will be met by our representative and drive to the hotel  Check-in to the hotel and relax  In the evening visit Umaid Bhawan and market  Return to the hotel by late evening  Overnight in Jodhpur

Included BB Visit to the below sightseeing points

Umaid Bhawan Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur is one of 's most imposing and recent palaces. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present owners of the palace, this monument has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family. The Palace is now segmented into the Royal residence, the Heritage Hotel and the Museum. The museum is well maintained, displaying an exclusive range of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family. Rajasthan's famous Umaid Bhavan Palace Museum is highly recommended for its display of items ranging from weapons to an array of stuffed leopards to antiques to some fascinating crockery to various trophies. The museum also houses a gallery showcasing the most exotic automobiles owned by the royals. P a g e | 3

Ghantaghar (Clock Tower) area Visit the famous Ghantaghar market area where one can see silver, textile, spice, bamboo, Indian sweets, and vegetable markets. These colourful markets with tiny shops dot the narrow lanes replete with woodcarvings, wrought iron, lacquer work, silver and ivory ornamentation and leather handicrafts. Every little shop presents interesting insights about life in this region of Rajasthan. Colourfully dressed men and women from adjoining rural areas flock to this market for their needs, so this walk also provides great opportunities for seeing different communities that make up the region. Walk around the colourful and bustling bazaars for personal exploration and shopping.

Day 2: JODHPUR

Day Notes  After breakfast proceed for sightseeing of Jodhpur  VisitMehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens,  In the evening free time for shopping in Jodhpur  Return to the hotel bylate evening  Overnight in Jodhpur

Included BB Visit to the below sightseeing points

Mehrangarh Fort Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is one of the largest and the most magnificent forts situated on a 120 m high hill and still run by the Jodhpur royal family, Mehrangarh is packed with history and legend. The battlements are 6m to 36m high, and as the building materials were chiselled from the rock on which the fort stands, the structure merges with its base. Seven gates which include Jayapol (meaning victory) and Fattehpol (also meaning victory) have to be crossed to reach the fort. The gates still bear the marks of the various battles fought in the bygone era. Its second gate still stands witness to canon ball hits by attacking armies of during wars.

Jaswant Thada To the left of the Mehrangarh Fort complex is the Jaswant Thada, a 19th century royal cenotaph built in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, the 33rd Rathore ruler of Jodhpur. A white marble memorial, built out of intricately carved sheets of marble Jaswant Thada is an example of architectural brilliance in India. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh displays portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. The main memorial has been built like a temple.

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Mandore Gardens The imperial architecture at Mandore Gardens houses numerous temples and memorials. Chief among the garden's highlights are a set of royal cenotaphs to honour those who ruled , with the dark-red structures emanating a regal atmosphere. Dating back to the 17th and 18th century CE, the cenotaphs each have their own features, including pavilions, forechambers, sculpted arches, spires, and landscaped garden areas. Set on a rocky outcrop, the garden offers many pleasant vistas of the surrounding scenery.

Kaylana Lake Kaylana Lake is located 8 km west of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. It is an artificial lake, built by Pratap Singh in 1872. The lake spreads over an area of 84 km2. In ancient times this region had palaces and gardens made by two rulers of Jodhpur - Bhim Singh and Takhat Singh. These were destroyed to make Kaylana Lake.The lake is situated between igneous rock land formations. It receives its water from Hati Nehar (translation: elephant canal), which is further connected to the Indra Gandhi canal. The natural vegetation here mostly consists of Babool trees (Acacia nilotica), and various migratory birds such as Siberian cranes are seen here in the winter season. The city of Jodhpur and all the surrounding towns and villages depend on Kaylana lake as a source of drinking water.

Day 3: JODHPUR –JAISALMER (304 km / 5hr 30min)

Jaisalmer Nicknamed "The Golden city", is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is located 575 kilometres (357 mi) west of the state capital Jaipur. It is a World Heritage Site. It was once known as . The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the houses and temples are finely sculptured. It lies in the heart of the (Great Indian Desert) and has a population of about 78,000. It is the administrative headquarters of .

Day Notes  After breakfast check-out the hotel and drive to Jaisalmer  Reach Jaisalmer by noon, check-in to the hotel and relax  In the evening visit Patwaon-Ki-Haveli and Gadsisar Sagar Lake  Return to the hotel by late evening  Overnight in Jaisalmer

Included BB & Dinner Visit to the below sightseeing points.

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Patwa Ki Haveli Patwa ki haveli is an interesting piece of architecture and is among the most important in Jaisalmer. This was the first haveli constructed in the city and is not a single haveli but a cluster of five small havelis.The havelis are also known as the 'mansion of brocade merchants'. This name has been given probably because the family dealt in threads of gold and silver used in embroidering dresses. Patwaon-Ki-Haveli remains a pristine example of classical Indian townhouse. Constructed by the Patwa family in the 19th century, the structure consists of five town homes, built for each of the five Patwa sons.Made from sandstone, the entire structure appears to glow with a golden hue, intensified in the early evening sun.

Gadsisar Lake Excavated in 1367 by Rawal Gadsi Singh, it is a scenic rainwater lake surrounded by the small temples and shrines of Amar Sagar. Earlier, this lake was used to be the main water source of Jaisalmer.The beautiful gateway that arches across the road down to the Lake was built by royal courtesan named Tillon in the end of 19th century, known as Tillon Ki prol (Gate of Tillon).Today the lake serves as an oasis that harbours many species of migratory birds, so carry a good pair of binoculars to have a closer look.

Day 4: JAISALMER

Day Notes  After breakfast proceed drive to sightseeing points  Visit Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmal Ki Haveli, Salim Sigh ki Haveli,Bada Bagh &Jaisalmer War Museum  Return to the hotel by late evening  Overnight at Jaisalmer hotel

Included BB Visit to the below sightseeing points.

Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan.Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by imposing crenulated sandstone wall 30 feet high; it has 99 bastions, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. Jaisalmer Fort was the focus of a number of battles between the , the Mughals of Delhi and the Rathores of Jodhpur. The fort displays a subtle fusion of and Islamic architectural styles. Till date one fourth of the old city’s population resides within the fort area. Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol are some of the must see points.

Nathmal Ki Haveli This Nathmal Ji ki haveli was commissioned to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The haveli is considered as the best in Jaisalmer in terms of grandeur.It has an extraordinary exterior, dripping with carvings and the 1st floor has some beautiful paintings using 1.5kg of gold leaf. The left and right wings were the work of two brothers, whose competitive spirits apparently produced this virtuoso work – the two sides are similar, but not identical. The P a g e | 6 haveli has two Elephants made of yellow stone. These life-size replicas have been put in front of the main entrance so that it looks as if they are guarding the Haveli.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli This 18th-century haveli has an amazing, distinctive shape. It’s narrow for the first floors, and then the top storey spreads out into a mass of carving, with graceful arched balconies surmounted by pale-blue cupolas. The haveli has a distinct architecture. The roof has been constructed in the form of Peacock and the front facet of the haveli resembles ship stern due to which it is sometimes referred as Jahazmahal.The haveli consists of as many as 38 balconies and they all have distinct designs for themselves.

Bada Bagh Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (literally Big Garden) is a garden complex about 6 km north of Jaisalmer.It was commissioned by Maharawal Jait Singh in the early 16th century and completed by his son Lunakaran after his death.The site has three different things to watch, a garden, a tank and a dam.Other interesting monuments in the vicinity are the Cenotaphs. These cenotaphs also known as chattris and were constructed by the various Bhatti rulers. One cenotaph has been erected for each ruler. The oldest among them is the cenotaphs of Maharawal Jait Singh who reigned from 1470-1506.

Jaisalmer War Museum Trace India's past military operations and inspect uniforms, artifacts, and other paraphernalia, including some of the combat vehicles and aircraft used in battles. Absorb a documentary in the audiovisual room, and contemplate the ultimate sacrifice made by many for the country. The cafeteria serves up refreshments and food, and the gift shop stocks a range of military- themed souvenirs.

Day 5: JAISAMER –SAM SAND DUNES (40 km / 35 min)

Sam Sand Dunes The wonders of the Thar Desert and all its mysteries at Sam Sand Dunes, an increasingly popular tourist attraction just at the edge of Desert National Park. Rent a jeep with a professional guide to explore the dunes, or do it old-school by going on a camel safari. Sink your feet into the warm sand and observe the wildlife that survives in this beautiful yet harsh environment. Tea shops and restaurants can be found around the dunes, but if you want an authentic desert experience, go on a camping trip and gaze at the star-spangled sky in an area largely free of light pollution.

Day Notes  After breakfast check out from hotel and drive to Sam Sand Dunes  Check-in to the desert camp and relax  Rest of the day at leisure. P a g e | 7

 In the evening you may wish to go on a desert safari. In the night free time to enjoy the cultural activities organized at the camp site  Overnight at desert camp

Included BB

Desert Safari The surrounding desolate landscape of Jaisalmer evidences a stark, austere beauty. One can see the long stretches of sand dunes as far as the eyes can go. The golden crests and troughs provides with the sense of limitlessness. To experience the deserts one can indulge in desert safaris. Spend a whole night or an evening in the Thar Desert at Jaisalmer and enjoy Camel Safari, Musical evening, Rajasthani Mujra and pure Rajasthani food in a desert camp under the clear sky of Jaisalmer’s desert.

Day 6: SAM SAND DUNES – JODHPUR (325 Km / 5hr 30min)

Day Notes  After breakfast check-out from the campsite and drive to Jodhpur  Drop to Jodhpur airport/railway station for return journey

Included BB

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PRICE No. of Guest Standard Category Deluxe Category

2 Adults Rs.26,500/- per adult Rs.33,000/- per adult

Child with Additional Mattress Rs.14,150/- per child Rs.17,050/- per child

Child without Additional Mattress Rs.6,780/- per child Rs.8,150/- per child

HOTEL INFORMATION Destination Standard Category Deluxe Category

Jodhpur Kothi Heritage www.thekothiheritage.com Hotel Ranbanka www.ranbankahotels.com

The Golden House Jaisalmer www.thegoldenhousejsm.com Fort Rajwada www.fortrajwada.com

Jaisalmer Desert Camp Desert Springs Camp www.desertsprings.in Desert Camp www.jaisalmerdesertcamp.com

INCLUSIONS  Accommodation on double occupancy in well rated 3* or 4* properties  Breakfast plan on all days  Usage of hotel/ resort facilities  Transportation by chauffer vehicle for 6 Days (Includes Fuel, Toll, Parking, Taxes & Driver allowance)  Sightseeing as per the itinerary  All govt. taxes as on date

EXCLUSIONS  Airfare  Railway fare  Expense of personal nature  Meals other than specified in the inclusions  Additional guest requests, orders and services  Additional Activities taken up at the resort  Transport for personal use  Exigency cost – in case of emergency  Travel Insurance  Entrance fee & camera fee at sightseeing points  Gratitude’s & Portage

Note The Above cost is calculated based on 2 adults travelling together. Any change in the total no. of guests travelling with result in change of rates. In case of non-availability of the above properties, similar properties will be considered. Most of our programs are customised and we work in line with the requirements of our clients and hence the final detailed itinerary is prepared 5 days prior to the travel date based on the weather conditions and feasibility of visiting places during sightseeing. All sightseeing’s are subject to weather conditions, political conditions & traffic conditions in the destination. Any sightseeing missed due to natural calamities / weather conditions is non-refundable.