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The Taj Mahal, temples and tigers – experience all the spice of India.
Here are some great highlights that focus solely on the magnificence of Northern India.
1. Delhi – capital city that sports a rich history spanning over 2,000 years.
Visit Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.
Explore Old Delhi’s narrow streets by rickshaw, the traditional mode of transportation.
Tour New Delhi, visiting Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world.
2. Udaipur known as the ‘city of lakes,’ and for its variety of exquisite palaces
Visit the City Palace and its main entrance, Tripolia, which was built in 1725.
Set off to see the largest temple in Udaipur – Jagdish Temple – dedicated to Lord Vishnu after its construction in the 16th century.
Cruise along Lake Pichola and take in views of the Jag Mandir Palace and the City Palace.
As a hub for performing arts and crafts, be sure to carve out time to shop!
This city is well-known for its miniature paintings that tell detailed narratives of royal festivities commissioned by the Rajput kings in the 16th century.
3. Jaipur – the color of its old city walls nicknamed this destination, the “Pink City.”
Be in awe of the 953 windows façade of Hawa Mahal, home to a former Maharaja (great king).
Ascend to the top of the imposing Amber Fort by elephant.
Stroll through a flower market for a glimpse into the art of making garlands used in traditional Indian welcome ceremonies.
4. Ranthambore - one of the largest national parks in Northern India.
Experience game drives in Ranthambore National Park in search of tigers, hyenas, and crocodiles.
Within the park is the Ranthambore Fort, which was built in the 10th century. The fort was popular among rulers due to its location between north and central India.
It is home to one of the first nine Tiger Reserves issued in 1973. Named Project Tiger, this reserve is now one of 27 with a total population of 1,498 tigers.
5. Agra – home to the Taj Mahal.
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of his love and respect for wife Mumtaz Mahal.
This work of art is an architectural blend of Persian, Indian, and Islamic styles that took 22 years and 20,000 men to build.
6. Varanasi – deemed to be one of the oldest living cites in the world.
Visit the Ghats – the banks of the river – witnessing the illuminated Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Cruise along the River Ganges past various Ghats where you’ll see people ritually cleansing themselves of their sins, hoping for salvation.
Go to Sarnath where Siddarth Gautama, later known as Buddha, gave his first sermon on a quiet grove in the 6th century BC.
If you are interested in discovering incredible India, contact your local travel agent or call leading U.S. tour operator Collette Vacations at 800.340.5158 or visit www.collettevacations.com.
October 2, 2023
