Reise 2
Posted on | Januar 1, 2010 | Kommentare deaktiviert
13 Days
Day 1. – Arrive Delhi, meet assist at air port and welcome with fresh flower garlands, transfer to
hotel. (Check in time 12 noon)
PM – Visit National Museum and National Gallery of Modern art.
National Museum: We visit the National Museum. It has an excellent collection of Indian
sculptural art representing all major regions, schools, and historical periods and these include stone
carvings, terracotta, bronzes, stucco figures, gold, silver, bone and ivory figures dating from 3rd
century B.C. to the 19th century A.D.
We will also visit the nearby National Gallery of Modern Art that primarily covers the evolution
of art forms from the latter half of the 19th century to modern Indian art. Also on the schedule will
be the Crafts Museum, designed by one of India’s leading architects, Charles Correa. It houses a
large and permanent collection of 20,000 items of folk and tribal arts, crafts and textiles. One part of
the Museum has an ongoing demonstration by craftspeople who are invited here to display their
special skill and handwork. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2. – Full day visit Old and New Delhi including GANDHI MUSEUM.
More About Delhi [The Capital of India]
Delhi offers a multitude of interesting places and attractions to the visitor,
so much so that it becomes difficult to decide from where to begin exploring
the city. In Old Delhi, attractions like
mosques, forts, and other monuments
that depict India’s Muslim history.
The important places in Old Delhi, the historical Chandni
Chowk, besides Raj Ghat and Shanti Vana, the last two being
modern structures constructed after India’s independence in
1947.New Delhi, on the other hand, is a modern city designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert
Baker. Delhi is a spacious, open city that houses many government buildings and embassies, apart
from places of historical interest. Notable attractions in New Delhi include the Rashtrapati
Bhawan, the one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial
raised in
honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war; the Laxminarayan Temple, built
by the Birlas, one of India’s leading industrial families; the Humayun’s Tomb, said to be the
forerunner of the Taj at Agra. Delhi’s most colossal and awesome fort; Qutab Minar, built by Qutub
– ud – din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty; and the lotus – shaped Baha’i Temple.
Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid or the Jami Masjid was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan
between 1644 to 1658 and is the final architecture piece built by him. It is situated in the Old Delhi;
this pride of the Mughal was built by five thousand artists. The mosque stands on Bho Jhala which is
one of the old Mughal capital cities of
Shahjahanabad. Originally called the Masjid –I-Jahanuma, or “mosque commanding view of the
world”, this magnificent structure is the largest and most exquisite mosque in India and is making up
if alternate vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble.
India Gate: The 42m high stone “Arch of Triumph”, erected in the memory of
the Indian soldiers who died in the First World War. This solemn moment was
built in memory of 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in world war. It was built
in 1931, designed by Lutyens, and was originally called the All Indian War
Memorial. The names of the soldiers are inscribed on the walls of the gate.
Later in 1971, an internal flame was lit in memory of the unknown soldiers
who died in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
Qutub Minar: The building complex dates back to the onset of Muslim
rule in India and fine example of Afghan architecture. The highest stone
tower in India, the Qutub Minar was built by Qutubuddin Aibak, the
defeater of Mohammed Gauri in 1192. The minar is a five story building
with a hight of 72.5 meters. The first story of Qutub Minar was completed
in lifetime of Qutubuddin. But his son-in-low Illtutumis completed remaining next four stories.
Rajghat: 4 km away from Janpath to the N-East of Feroz Shah near Delhi Gate at ring road on the
bank of Yamuna situated Rajghat. Jawaharlal Nehru road also end opposite Rajghat. On 31st January
1948, Mahatma Gandhi’s last rites were performed here. The memorial stones. His last word “HEY
RAM” is inscribed on it. Ordinary people, VIPs, foreign tourists all come here at Rajghat to pay their
homepage to him. On every Friday (the day of his death) a prayer is being held. Except Monday, a
regular feature of projecting Gandhi Philosophy in picture, sculpture and photos from 10-00 to 17-00
is being performed at Rajghat.
Gandhi Memorial Museum: This personal museum displayed the relics of Mahatma Gandhi. There
are original copies of his correspondence as well as Photostat of his letter and the journals he
published. These are further supplement by microfilms and a numbers of photographs which depict
the various aspects of his invaluable contribution to modern India.
Laxmi Narayan Temple: Commonly known as Laxmi Narayan Temple is a Hindu Temple,
constructed in the year 1938 by Raja Baldev Das Birla and it was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi.
Located in heart of Delhi the shrine is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu. People of all
religion and faiths can worship in the temple but one can enter the temple only bare foot. The temple
incorporates numerous images and idols depicting several gods and goddess of Indian mythology.
Rashtrapati Bhavan: The official residence of the President of India stands at the
opposite’s end of the Rajpath from India Gate. Completed in 1929, the palace like
building is an interesting blend of Mughal and Western architectural style, the most
obvious Indian feature being the huge copper dome.
Day 3. – Delhi – Mathura (160 km & 3hrs)
After breakfast leave by bus to Mathura, on arrival transfer to hotel.
PM – Visit KESAVA DEO TEMPLE etc.
The city of Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, the nucleus of
Brajbhoomi, is located at a distance of 145 km south-east of
Delhi and 58 km north-west of Agra. Covering an area of
about 3,800 sq. km., today, Brajbhoomi can be divided into
two distinct units – the eastern part in the trans-Yamuna tract
with places like Gokul, Mahavan, Baldeo, Mat and Bajna and
the western side of the Yamuna covering the Mathura region
that encompasses Vrindavan, Govardhan, Kusum Sarovar, Barsana and Nandgaon.
The land of Braj starts from Kotban near Hotel about 95 km from Delhi and ends at Runakuta which
is known specially for its association with the poet Surdas, an ardent Krishna devotee. A long line of
picturesque ghats – with their steps leading to the water’s edge, arched gateways and temple spires
extending along the right bank of the River Yamuna, emphasise the sacred character of the town of
Mathura. The birth place of Lord Krishna, “the best known, best loved and most complex of Lord
Vishnu’s manifestations” – Mathura is today an important place of pilgrimage.
History An ancient city whose origins fade into the mists of history, Mathura’s strategic location at
the cross roads of various trade routes – that went westwards to West Asia and the Roman Empire;
northwards, via Taxila, Pushkalavati and Purushapur to Central Asia and the Silk Route and
eastwards to China – ensured its position as a centre of trade and a meeting point for varied cultures.
By the fifth century BC, during the time of Buddha, it was a major metropolis and the capital of the
Surasena Kingdom – one of the 16 Mahajanapadas of the period. Mathura saw its `golden age’ during
the rule of the Kushanas and the able governance of rulers like Kanishka, Huvishka, and Vasishka,
when the arts flourished and economic wealth grew. It remained a centre of power during the
Mauryan period, through the enlightened rule of Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BC) to the Gupta era
(4th century AD).
Radharamana TempleThis is the famous temple of Gopala Bhatta Gosvami. Radharamana means
“one who gives pleasure to Radha”, and is one of the many names of Lord Krishna. The seva puja of
Radharamana was established in 1542, after the Deity self-manifested from a saligram-sila. Also
kept iin this temple is the wooden sitting place (hoki) and shawl (chaddar) or Lord Chaitanya, that
He gave as a gift to Gopala Bhatta Gosvami. There is no deity of Radharani in this temple, but a
crown is kept next to Krishna signifying Her presence.
Jugal Kisore TempleThis is one of the oldest temple of
Vrindavana and was completed in 1627. After Emperor
Akbar’s visit to Vridavana in the year 1570, he gave
permission for four temples to be built by the Gaudya
Vaisnavas, which were Madana-mohana, Govindaji,
Gopinatha and Jugal Kisore. It is sometimes called the
Kesi ghata temple, as it is located next to this ghata.
Kesi Ghata This is the place where Lord Krishna killed
the Kesi demon who appeared in the form of a gigantic
horse and then took His bath in this very same ghata. This is also very famous bathing place in
Vrindavana. An arati to Yamuna Devi is held here every evening.
Rangji Temple This South Indian style temple was built by the wealthy Seth family of Mathura in
the year 1851, and is dedicated to Lord Sri Ranganatha or Rangaji – a form of Lord Vishnu lying
down on the Sesa Naga (celestial serpent). This temple has a traditional South Indian gopuram
(gateway) and is surrounded by high walls. It is one of Vrindavana’s largest temples. Once a year a
grand car festival (Ratha Yatra) is held known as Brahmotsava, during the month of Chait (March –
April), this festival lasts for 10 days.
Dwarkadish TempleThe Dwarkadish Temple, built in 1814, is a popular temple in the center of
town. This is the most visited temple in the center of town. This is the most visited temple in
Mathura. This temple is managed by followers of Vallabhacarya.
Once you enter this temple from the street, it is fairly interesting
architechually and there is a lot of activity inside. It is located in the
eastern part of Mathura, not far from the Yamuna River.
Day 4. – Morning visit Archeological Museum.
Archeological Museum Mathura is not just a land of temples. It is also a great center of Buddhism.
In the museum of Mathura stands a powerful, impressive Bodhisttava, which belongs to the Kushana
period. Mathura stakes claim to the honors of having produced the first images of Buddha. The
Mathura school of art, which flourished during Kushana time, was influenced both by Buddhism and
Jainism and by the Scythians. The coins found during archaeological excavations in Mathura point to
Scythian influence, plaques depicting the cross-legged naked figures of Tirthankara in meditation
point to Jainism.
Later MATHURA – AGRA (40 km & 1 hrs)
Drive by bus to AGRA, after arrival transfer to hotel.
PM – Visit Taj Mahal and bazar.
More about : AGRA
The city of Taj was established in 1475 by Badal Singh.
Agra finds mention in the Mahabharata as Agraban. This
city in those days was considered to be the sister city of
Mathura which was more prominent than Agraban. Agra
came into its own when the Lodhi Kings chose this place
beside the Yamuna to be their capital city. Sikander
Lodhi made Agra his capital but Babar defeated the
Lodhis to capture not only Agra but also laid the foundation of the Mughal empire.In the mid 16th
century and earlier 17th century Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity and it was during this
time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built.
Agra Fort: While most people visit Agra to see Taj Mahal, Agra once the capital of all of India, has
to offer less than 2 kilometer
from the Taj Mahal, on the same river bank, you’ll find the
impressive Agra Fort. Agra’s history goes back more than 2500
years, but it wasn’t until the reigne of the Mughals that Agra
become more than a provincial city Humanyun, son of the founder of the Mogul empire, was offered
jewelry and precious stones by the family of the Raja of Gwalior, one of them the famous Kohinoor
the heydays of Agra came with the reign of Humayun’s son, Akabar the Great. During his reign, the
main part of the Agra fort was built. Construction of the fort started in 1156 and was finished in
1605. Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal, erected most of the buildings inside the fortress. The fort
is built alongside the Yamuna river and stretches almost 2.5 km. It consists of a wall built in red
sandstone and several buildings inside. The wall has 2 gates, the Delhi Gate and Amar Singh Gate.
Day 5 – AGRA – BHOPAL (Train)
After breakfast transfer to Railway station for train to BHOPAL dep. at 00:20 & arrive at 11:25.
Arrive BHOPAL, meet assist and transfer to hotel.
Day 6. – Visit SANCHI including Museum.
Sanchi Stupa The great Stupa in Sanchi looms above its hill-top, a few miles from Bhopal, in all the
impressiveness of its mass. It is in good order, and its surroundings are in immaculate condition.
Sanchi had many names in the past; initially Kakanayan or Kakanava, then kakanada-bota, later
Botha Sri Parvata and still later Sri Parvata or Santhi Sri Parvata. It obtained its present name from a
village near its hill. Though today it stands out among all the ancient Buddhist monuments, it was
not connected with Buddha’s life or ministry, and none of the Chinese pilgrims says a word about it.
The region near Sanchi is one of the richest in archaeological and historical remains in the entire
country. There are Stupas on many of the hills nearby. There is the site of the great ancient city of
Vidisa.The “Ramayana” says that Satrughna made his son, Subahu, a king ruling from that city. In
Buddha’s time, the sixth century B.C.,it was an important city. Then and later it was an emporium
connected with the great trade routes connenting Kashi, Pataliputra and Kausambi with Bharukkacha
(modern Broach) and Surparaka (now Sopara), both on the west coast, and with Pratisthana (Paithan)
in the Deccan. It was the merchants of Vidisa who paid for the making of many of Sanchi’s
monuments. On the Southern gateway of the great Stupa there is an inscription which states that it
was caved by the ivory workers of Vidisa.
Government Archaeological Museum has an impressive collection of sculptures from various parts
of Madhya Pradesh. Some of the important artifacts in the collection are paintings of various schools,
copies of paintings from the Bagh caves near Mandu and the statues of Alakshmi and the Buddha.
The museum is closed on Mondays.
Day 7. – Excursion to Bhim betka
Surrounded by the northern fringe of the Vindhyan ranges, Bhimbetka lies 46 km south of Bhopal. In
this rocky terrain of dense forest and craggy cliffs, over 600 rock shelters belonging to the Neolithic
age were recently discovered. Here, in vivid, panoramic detail, paintings in over 500 caves depict the
life of the prehistoric cave-dwellers, making the Bhimbetka group an archaeological treasure, an
invaluable chronicle in the history of man.
Executed mainly in red and white with the occasional use of green and yellow, with themes taken
from the everyday events of aeons ago, the scenes usually depict hunting, dancing, music, horse and
elephant riders, animals fighting, honey collection, decoration of bodies, disguises, masking and
household scenes. Animals such as bisons, tigers, lions, wild boar, elephants, antelopes, dogs,
lizards, Hunting scene – a popular motif with rock painters crocodiles etc. have been abundantly
depicted in some caves. Popular religious and ritual symbols also occur frequently.
PM – Transfer to Railway Station for over night train to AURANGABAD dep. at 00:20 hrs.
Day 8. – Arrive AURANGABAD at 11:25, meet assist and Transfer to hotel.
Day 9. – Excursion to ELLORA.
Ellora The Ellora caves, 34 in number, are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill, 30 kms from
Aurangabad. The finest specimens of cave – temple architecture, they house elaborate facades and
exquisitely adorned interiors. These structures representing the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism
and Jainism, were carved during the 350 AD to 700 AD period. The 12 caves to the south are
Buddhist, the 17 in the centre dedicated to Hinduism, and the 5 caves to the north are Jain.
Day 10. – Excursion to AJANTA.
Ajanta Caves It was only in the 19th century, that the Ajanta
group of caves, lying deep within the Sahyadri hills, cut into the
curved mountain side, above the Waghora river, were discovered.
A group of British officers on a tiger hunt, stumbled on these
ancient works of art. They depict the story of Buddhism, spanning the period from 200 BC to 650
AD.
The 29 caves were built as secluded retreats of the Buddhist monks, who taught and performed
rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas, the ancient seats of learning, and nerve – centres of the Buddhist
cultural movement. Using simple tools like hammer and chisel, the monks carved out the impressive
figures adorning the walls of these structures. Exquisite wall – paintings and sculptures speak
volumes of the India of yore. Many of the caves house panels depicting stories from the Jatakas, a
rich mine of tales of the several incarnations of the Buddha. Images of nymphs and princesses
amongst others are also elaborately portrayed.
Cave 1 houses some of the most well – preserved wall paintings which include two great
Boddhisattvas, Padmapani and Avalokiteshvara. Caves 2 , 16 and 17 also contain amazing paintings,
while Caves 1, 4, 17, 19, 24 and 26 boast of some of the most divine sculptures. The flying apsara, of
Cave 17, and the image of Buddha preaching in Cave 17, are a couple of unforgettable works of art.
The Ajanta caves and the treasures they house, are a landmark in the overall development of
Buddhism as such.
Day 11. – City tour including caves visit.
Aurangabad is ostensibly on the itinerary of any tour to Mumbai.
Morning transfer to Aurangabad. After reaching the city check in
at the hotel. Aurangabad is named after the Mughal Emperor
Aurangzeb. It serves as the gateway to the world famous rock-cut
temples of Ajanta and Ellora. Full day excursion tour to the
Ajanta and Ellora caves, the finest sculpture sites in India.
Kailashnath Temple, the main attraction of Ellora, is chiseled
by hand of a massive rock. Dedicated to the Lord Shiva, the temple was built by was built by
Krishna I (757-783 A.D.) of the Rashtrakuta dynasty of South India. This world famous rock-cut
temple is the witness to the excellence of Dravidian art. Return to the hotel and have dinner.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 12. – AURANGABAD – BOMBAY (Flight)
After breakfast transfer to airport for flight to MUMBAI. Flight no. 9W3104 dep. at
08:45 and arri. at 09:45.
Arrive MUMBAI, meet assist and transfer to hotel.
PM – City tour including Prince Wales of Museum.
Gateway of India, the principal landmark of Mumbai,
was the principal port when the visitors came to India by
ship. The gateway was conceived, following the visit of King George V
to India in 1911, and was officially opened in 1924. Its architecture is
akin to the conventional Arch of Triumph, with elements derived from
Muslim styles of 16th century Gujarat. Near the gateway is the Colaba
Causeway, which extends to the end of Colaba promontory, the
southern end of Mumbai Island. Sassoon dock is always interesting to
visit at dawn, when the fishing boats come in and unload their catch.
The area north of Colaba is known as Mumbai Fort, since the old fort
was once located here. There are a lot of impressive buildings from
Mumbai’s golden period here. St. Johns church, dedicated to the soldiers, who laid down their lives
in the Sindh campaign of 1838, and the first Afghan war of 1843, is also worth a visit. The Prince of
Wales Museum, built to commemorate King George’s V visit to India, was opened in 1923. It is
modelled on the Indo – Saracenic design, and has sections for art and paintings, archaeology, and
natural history. The Jehangir Art Gallery is within the compound of the Museum, and displays
paintings of modern Indian artists. Flora Fountain is also nearby, and is the business centre of India,
housing many of the major banks and offices. It was erected in 1869 in honour of Sir Bartle Frere,
who was governor of Mumbai from 1862-67. Close to the fountain is the Cathedral of St. Thomas
begun by Gerald Aungier in 1672, but formally opened in 1718.
One of the most popular promenades of Mumbai is the Marine Drive, built on land reclaimed during
1920, and runs along the shoreline of Back bay, starting at Nariman point, and sweeping around by
Chowpatty beach upto Malabar hills. Chowpatty beach is one of Mumbai’s famous beaches, and is
a popular spot for people seeking evening outs. It is also a scene for the vibrant annual Ganesh
Chaturthi festival. A major landmark of this vibrant city is the VT or Victoria Terminus which was
designed in Italian Gothic style by F. W. Stevens. The first train to steam out of Mumbai was from
here to Thane in 1853.
Taraporewala Aquarium is also on Marine drive, and has both fresh water and saltwater fishes. On
top of the Malabar hills are the Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park, which offer superb
views over Mumbai. Some distance away from Malabar Hills is Mahalaxmi Temple, the oldest
temple in Mumbai, dedicated to the Goddess of Wealth. Haji Ali tomb and mosque is located
nearby, and can be reached by a long causeway, which can be crossed at low tide. Other attractions
of Mumbai include the Juhu beach and the Nehru Planetarium.
Day 13. – Excursion to Elephanta Caves
Island.
Elephanta Caves Located nine kilometers by
sea from the Gateway of India, are the Elephanta
Caves, a place you must include in your
excursion itinerary. The Elephanta Caves are
characterized by rock temples carved out of two
hills that emerge from the centre of the island. It
is said that the Portuguese named this island after
the stone elephant they found here. At Elephanta
you can see the cave shrine of Lord Shiva, which belongs to the sixth century, and a massive threeheaded
sculpture representing Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer.
You can also find the other interesting sculptures which foretell the marriage of Shiva and Parvati.
Midnight transfer to airport for flight back to EUROPE.
PRICE INCLUDES:-
¨ Welcome on arrival with fresh flower garlands.
¨ Meet assist at arrival / departure.
¨ 11 night’s hotel accommodation at hotels in twin / double.
¨ 12 breakfasts.
¨ 01 over night in A/C sleeper class train with bedding.
¨ Check in / check out time 12 o’noon.
¨ All transfers, sightseeing and excursion as per itinerary by private A/C vehicle.
¨ Entrance fee at monuments as per itinerary.
¨ AGRA – BHOPAL A/C class train tickets with tea/coffee and snacks on board.
¨ Kathakali dance show at theater.
¨ English speaking local guides during sightseeing, where necessary.
¨ All present State & Central Govt.Tax.
¨ 4.896% service Tax & Vat.
¨ Hotels to be used:-
DELHI: –
GRAND INTER CONTINENTAL
Web-www.interconti.com
OR
LE – MERIDIAN
Web-www.lemeridien-newdelhi.com
OR
THE PARK
Web-www.theparkhotels.com
MATHURA: –
BEST WESTERN RADHA ASHOK
Web-fhrai.com; www.mathura-vrindavan.com
OR
MADHUBAN
Web-indiamart.com; www.madhubanhotel.com
AGRA: –
TRIDENT HILTON
Web-www.oberoihotels.com; www.hilton.com
OR
JAYPEE PALACE
Web- www.jaypeehotels.com
BHOPAL: –
NOOR-US-SABAH PALACE
Web-www.welcomeheritage.com
OR
JEHAN NUMA PALACE
Web-www.hoteljehanumapalace.com
AURANGABAD: –
WELCOMHOTEL RAMA INTERNATIONAL
Web-www.fhrai.com; www.welcomehotelrama.com
OR
AMBASSARDOR AJANTA
Web-www.fhrai.com; www.ambassadorindia.com
BOMBAY: –
HOTEL MARINE PLAZA
Web-www.hotelmarineplaza.com
OR
SEA PRINCESS
Web-www.seaprincess.com
OR
RAMADA PLAZA PALM GROVE
Web-www.fhrai.com; www.krahejahospitality.com
Or similar category hotels if any mention hotel not available at the time of booking