Sightseeing between Ranchi & Dharamsala Test Matches

Wednesday 28th February
On arrival at Delhi airport and you will be met by our representative and transfer to the Eros Hotel, Delhi (hotel website). Overnight stay at the hotel.

Thursday 29th February
After breakfast, full day city tour of Delhi.

Old Delhi unravels the old charm and speaks volumes about India’s history, culture and tradition, whereas fascinating New Delhi exhibits the picture of modern India.

The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone and marble by more than 5000 artisans. Later visit Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars and people. Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in 17th century. Also visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Proceed towards New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site – Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. It is made of red stone and marble covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur’an. Later visit the 16th century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style and a precursor of the Taj Mahal. The tour to Imperial Delhi will also include a drive past of India Gate, the 42 m high War Memorial Arch, the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Friday 1st March
After breakfast, drive to Agra (4 Hrs Approx.). Upon arrival check in at the DoubleTree by Hilton Agra Hotel (hotel website). Later, visit Agra Fort.

Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was renovated in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605) and is a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. Its palaces, grand mosques and elaborate public hall are crafted from pink-red sandstone and are testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly marked by influences from Persia, was at its height. Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal for his deceased wife, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort. He is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself built, with one of the most alluring views of the Taj Mahal.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Saturday 2nd March
Sunrise visit Taj Mahal (Closed on Friday).

The iconic Taj Mahal is not only an architectural masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – it’s also the enduring legacy of a royal love story. It was commissioned in the 15th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his third and favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, to serve as her final resting place and a symbol of his eternal affection for her. Combining Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian design elements, it’s an awe-inspiring structure of elegant domes and white marble, which changes colour along with the light – pink at sunrise, pearly white in the afternoon and silver-gold in the full moon.

Return back to hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur (5 Hrs Approx.) enroute visit Fatehpur Sikri.

A highlight in the province of Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri served briefly as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. This world heritage site is rated as one of the best-preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India. Surrounded by a six-kilometre wall, a day can be spent exploring the elaborate structures within. Marvel at the impressive Jama Masjid Mosque, the detailed palaces built for Emperor Akbar’s wives, the public and private discussion halls and vast ornamental pool; all of which took over 15 years to conceptualise and build.

Later continue drive to Jaipur. Upon arrival check in at the Hilton Jaipur (hotel website).

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Sunday 3rd March
After breakfast, enjoy a full day city tour of Jaipur and a Jeep Ride at Amber Fort.

Drive just outside Jaipur to the ancient capital of Amber to see the fabulous Amber Fort, en-route stopping for photo stop at the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. Later, visit the City Palace, an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved doorways. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armory, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings. Walk to the adjacent Jantar Mantar or Astronomical Observatory made by the Maharaja of Jaipur in the 18th century which is one of the five such astronomical wonders built by Sawai Jai Singh and makes accurate predictions even to this day.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Monday 4th March
After breakfast, transfer to Jaipur airport to board the flight for Amritsar.

Upon arrrival at Amritsar airport transfer to the Welcomhotel Amritsar (hotel website). Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Tuesday 5th March
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Amritsar. First, visit the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh Garden. The Jallianwala Bagh Garden is a fenced garden with several entrances, located in Amritsar, India. This public garden is home to a national memorial, which serves as a lasting tribute to an innocent crowd of peaceful celebrators who lost their lives during a massacre by the British army. Today, the garden is mostly visited by tourists to learn about the killings and to admire the vast greenery or simply for relaxation and meditation.

In the afternoon, head out to the Wagah Border to witness the retreat ceremony. The Wagah-Attari border ceremony happens at the border gate, two hours before sunset each day. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force (BSF), similar to the retreat ceremonies at Ganda Singh Wala/Hussainiwala border crossing and Mahavir/Sadqi International Parade Ground border crossing. A marching ceremony, known as the “Silly Walk ceremony”, is conducted each evening along with the flag ceremony. The ceremony started in 1986 as an agreement of peace, although there was not a conflict at that time. Other Middle Eastern nations have adapted similar ceremonies in recent years.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Wednesday 6th March
After breakfast, we will drive to Dharamshala (6 Hrs Approx.)

Upon arrival in Dharamsala, rejoin the rest of the group and check-in to your chosen hotel, ready for the Test Match on Thursday.

Wednesday 28th February
On arrival at Delhi airport you will be met by our representative and transfer to the Eros Hotel, Delhi (hotel website). Overnight stay at the hotel.

Thursday 29th February
After breakfast, full day city tour of Delhi.

Old Delhi unravels the old charm and speaks volumes about India’s history, culture and tradition, whereas fascinating New Delhi exhibits the picture of modern India.

The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone and marble by more than 5000 artisans. Later visit Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars and people. Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in 17th century. Also visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

Proceed towards New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site – Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. It is made of red stone and marble covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur’an. Later visit the 16th century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style and a precursor of the Taj Mahal. The tour to Imperial Delhi will also include a drive past of India Gate, the 42 m high War Memorial Arch, the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Friday 1st March
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi airport to board the flight for Chandigarh.

Upon arrival at Chandigarh airport we will take the scenic drive to Shimla (3.5 Hrs Approx.).

Upon arrival check in at the Oberoi Cecil (hotel website). Overnight stay at the hotel.

Saturday 2nd March
After breakfast, enjoy the toy train ride from Shimla to Tara Devi. Started in 1903, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train is now listed as a World Heritage UNESCO site. It is known for lush green mountains with scenic, misty views. The Kalka–Shimla Railway was built to connect Shimla, the summer capital of India during the British Raj, with the rest of the Indian rail system. At the time of construction 107 tunnels and 864 bridges were built throughout the course of the track.

After lunch (own cost), head out on a tour of Shimla. Visit the Vice Regal Lodge, which once served as the seat of power, the century old church and temple located on the Mall Road. The Scandal Point, which is located at the end of the Mall Road in Shimla, attracts large number of tourists for its scenic and picturesque view. Later explore Shimla’s famous Mall Road. “The Mall” often described as the heart of the city is embellished with varieties of departmental stores, shops, showrooms and restaurants. It is also known as a shopper’s paradise.

Overnight stay at the Hotel.

Sunday 3rd March
Enjoy a free day in Shimla.

Monday 4th March
After breakfast, we will drive to Amritsar (6.5 Hrs Approx.).

Upon arrival check in at the Welcomhotel Amritsar (hotel wesbite). Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Tuesday 5th March
After breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Amritsar. Visit the Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh Garden. The Jallianwala Bagh Garden is a fenced garden with several entrances, located in Amritsar, India. This public garden is home to a national memorial, which serves as a lasting tribute to an innocent crowd of peaceful celebrators who lost their lives during a massacre by the British army. Today, the garden is mostly visited by tourists to learn about the killings and to admire the vast greenery or simply for relaxation and meditation.

In the afternoon you will be taken to Wagah Border to witness the retreat ceremony. The Wagah-Attari border ceremony happens at the border gate, two hours before sunset each day. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force (BSF), similar to the retreat ceremonies at Ganda Singh Wala/Hussainiwala border crossing and Mahavir/Sadqi International Parade Ground border crossing. A marching ceremony, known as the “Silly Walk ceremony”, is conducted each evening along with the flag ceremony. The ceremony started in 1986 as an agreement of peace, although there was not a conflict at that time. Other Middle Eastern nations have adapted similar ceremonies in recent years.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Wednesday 6th March
After breakfast, depart your hotel and transfer to Dharamsala (6 Hrs Approx.).

Upon arrival in Dharamsala, rejoin the rest of the group and check-in to your chosen hotel, ready for the Test Match on Thursday.

Wednesday 28th February
On arrival at Lucknow airport and you will be met by our representative and transferred to the Taj Mahal Lucknow (hotel website). Overnight stay at the hotel.

Thursday 29th February
After breakfast, full day city tour of Lucknow, including visits to the Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara.

The elegant Bara Imambara is a large historical complex that is an excellent example of the Mughal style of architecture with sophisticated ancient engineering that leaves one spellbound. Walls only support the ceiling of the large hall without pillars, and the walls have engraved channels that transmit even the smallest sound. The complex features a series of labyrinths, entangled corridors, a mosque and underground passages. Guided tours are offered, and visitors can take advantage of stunning photo opportunities.

The imposing Chota, with its grand architecture, is a reflection of the Mughal era. The complex served as an Islamic congregation hall and has a notable collection of Chandeliers from foreign countries and exquisite glass works. The tomb of the Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah and some of his family members are housed here. Also featured are a dome, large halls, a crafted mural of the whole Koran, a bath chamber and well-manicured gardens.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Friday 1st March
After breakfast, transfer to Agra (4.5 Hrs Approx.). Upon arrival check in at the Trident Agra (hotel website).

This afternoon, visit Agra Fort. Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605) and is a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. Its palaces, grand mosques and elaborate public hall are crafted from pink-red sandstone and are testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly marked by influences from Persia, was at its height. Emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal for his deceased wife, was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in Agra Fort. He is said to have died in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself built, with one of the most alluring views of the Taj Mahal.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Saturday 2nd March
Today, enjoy a surise visit to Taj Mahal. The iconic Taj Mahal is not only an architectural masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – it’s also the enduring legacy of a royal love story. It was commissioned in the 15th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan after the death of his third and favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, to serve as her final resting place and a symbol of his eternal affection for her. Combining Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian design elements, it’s an awe-inspiring structure of elegant domes and white marble, which changes colour along with the light – we will get to see it pink at sunrise.

Return to the hotel for breakfast and checkout before our drive to Ranthambore (Approx. 4 Hrs).

Upon arrival in Ranthambore, check into the Ranthambore Regency. Enjoy an evening at leisure.

Sunday 3rd – Monday 4th March
Enjoy early morning and afternoon Canter Safaris at Ranthambore National Park.

Ranthambore Canter Safari is a jungle excursion organised within the Ranthambore National Park. Known for the best sighting of majestic wild tigers the park is highly revered for its rising population of endangered tigers. The canter safari is authorised for tourists to explore the beauty of flora and fauna of the Ranthambore forest. Tourists will have the opportunity to experience the adventure of being in the natural home of dangerous predators like tigers, jungle cats, leopards, and striped hyenas.

Tuesday 5th March
Enjoy the final early morning Canter Safari, before returning to the hotel for breakfast and transfer to Delhi (Approx. 5.5 Hrs). Upon arrival check-in the the Eros Hotel (hotel website).

Overnight stay at the hotel.

Wednesday 6th March
After breakfast, depart your hotel and transfer to Delhi airport for your flight to Dharamsala.

Upon arrival in Dharamsala, rejoin the rest of the group and check-in to your chosen hotel, ready for the Test Match on Thursday.

Wednesday 28th February
Check out of your Ranchi hotel and transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Mumbai. Check-in to the Trident Nariman Point (hotel website) for your one-night stay.

Thursday 29th February
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Goa. Upon arrival, check into the Zuri White Sands Resort (hotel website) and settle in!

The Zuri White Sands Goa Resort reflects all that is Goa. The award-winning, five-star beach resort sits on the scenic, picturesque white-sand Varca beach. The 38 acres of paradise boasts a meandering pool and a spectacular view of the sea from the Goan-style luxury rooms. Guests can enjoy dining at the six onsite restaurants which offer authentic Goan, European, and Pan Asian cuisine. Hotel amenities include a spa, free Wi-Fi and fitness centre.

Friday 1st – Monday 4th March
Relax and enjoy your time in Salcete!

Salcete is a taluka (district) in the state of Goa on the west coast of India. This region is home to the culturally-rich city of Margao, as well as some of South Goa’s most lovely beaches. Don’t miss the bustling Pimplapedd (Closed Market) or the grand Holy Spirit Church in Margao, before heading to Salcete’s celebrated coastline. This region of Goa – though still highly popular – is less frenetic than the north, with fewer party destinations on offer, and quieter, cleaner beaches. Choose from up-market Cavelossim, laid-back Benaulim and Colva (which offer diving and snorkelling opportunities), or the even more relaxed destinations of Agonda, Palolem and Patnem. Though swimming and sunning are the most popular activities in Salcete, there are also great walking trails available in the green Goan countryside.

Tuesday 5th March
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Chandigarh. Upon arrival, transfer to the Taj Chandigarh (hotel website) for your one-night stay.

Wednesday 6th March
After breakfast, depart your hotel and drive to Dharamsala (Approx. 5 Hrs).

Upon arrival in Dharamsala, rejoin the rest of the group and check-in to your chosen hotel, ready for the Test Match on Thursday.