SLOW DOWN.... seems like way tooooo much for each segment..

take the elephant ride up to amber fort--no jeep... but have your driver drive up the back side to meet you after tour... you are looking at a couple of hours here..

i don't think police will allow you to stop by government buildings, even for pics

Where are you traveling from? If it's North America, I'm a little concerned about jet lag. I also think since your husband likes peace and quiet, it would be great to substitute a rural location for either Delhi or Jaipur.

Thanks,

Don't know about exactly what our tour person ment about the buildings....he knows we like nice photo opts, history and calmer spaces if there is such a thing in India. We will see what the thought is.

I have some problems walking, so the plan is to see the best of the sites, not necessarily all of each site...that will depend on how I am doing with the activity.

I wonder if I can mamage the elephant ride...depends on how the seating works...hopefuly I can.

crosscheck,

Thanks for yor reply. I love your report and it has given me lots of ideas. I also contacted Louise...she is very nice and gave me several suggestions on how to do what I really want and at the same time give my husband some relief.

We did talk about going to some more rual areas, but DH wants to just spend long enough to see what I have dreamed of and leave.

We are coming from the States, but will break up the flight in Germany and will actually arrive the day before so the jet lag shouldn't be too bad, I hope! We are also stopping in AMS on the way home to do a river cruise seeing the tulips. We will then rent a house for a week or so....my husband's treat for going to India.

Your day in Jaipur is really packed. I have a feeling you can do the shopping OR the city palace, but not both. When I was there, we did just about everything you have on there, including block print museum and city palace, but had time for only a brief shopping stop. I was disappointed we didn't get to Gem Palace, but later discovered they had a branch in the Amarvillas. This was about 4 years ago.

The elephant seats are basically a flat wooden platform with a railing about 18 inches above the wood. you stick your legs off the platform and hang onto the railing. You get on by stepping down from a sort of "dock" that is higher than the elephants. It's a lot of fun, but I'd also recommend that you do a one-way up trip and have the jeep meet you for the ride down, especially with all you have on your list that day.

I was going to correct your spelling of the hotel chain and Amarvilas, but I see you figured out Oberoi mid-post!

Thankyou Icuy,

Your comments are exactly what I was hopping for.

The elephant info really helps...I think that is doable for me.

Actually looking back over the original suggestions from the tour planner, it was lunch at one of the palaces and my husband staying there while I go shopping alone. But he likes the color of bazars and gems so I know he will follow me, if for no other reason to control the spending LOL!

I did read that there are "branches" of the Gem Palace at all the Oberois, but I think the main store might be worth a stop for the WOW factor!

I know the Jaipur day is loaded and I would like to keep the last morning free to relax at the hotel. But if we miss something that we really want to do, we can always do it before heading back to Delhi.

I have fat fingers and make lots of mistakes plus I can't spell worth a hoot! Bear with me.

go to the main gem palace store... ask to see some of the old creations....

we were lucky enough to meet the owner and he showed us current things being worked on and his vintage car collection..

Neat, I just love to look at beautiful stuff!!!

That is what I love about Bangkok....Istanbul too. I had some great pieces made in Bangkok when we were there several years ago using the stones and pearls I picked up from other place around the world.

Thanks for your kind words about my report. Will be putting up photos this weekend.

I would try to build in at least 2-3 hours of relaxation time at each hotel, especially the Amarvilas - We spent almost a whole day doing nothing and would gladly have done that for several days.So maybe cut out at least activity a day (you can always put it back in if you get antsy):

Day 1 - Very Anokhi heavy - probably not needed because you'll also be going to the Anokhi in Jaipur. So you can skip Khan market - not worth it just for FabIndia. (The outlet is fine because it's right near Huyaman's tomb - get the quilts). I don't think you need too much photo op time for govt. buildings.)

Day 2 - This day seems crazy because of insane traffic everywhere. We were also there on a Friday. We liked the Red Fort (go in late p.m., less crowded) and its bazaar for cheap souvenirs. Didn't see much of the rest. Sorry we didn't get to Hauz Khaz.

Day 3- You will want some down time (pool/spa) at the Amarvilas. Try to get an early check in (or maybe arrive Friday pm) and spend two nights instead of two in Delhi. We only saw the exterior of Agra Fort - enough for us because we were also seeing the Red Fort.

Day 4 - We didn't do this drive (hope it's beautiful and rural) but this day seems okay to me if you don't spend too long at FS. You'll be finished with the Taj by about 10:00 - 10:30 am, but don't miss breakfast at the Oberoi.

Day 5 - Maybe pick one sightseeing activity and the rest shopping. Haven't been to Jaipur, but the shopping seems to be what everyone loves.

Day 6 - Yes, leisure!!

one great fort might be enough.. i vote delhi

plus amber of course...skip agra

Thanks for the suggestions, crosscheck

Totaly agree about down time. We are not spa people, but do enjoy a swim in a nice setting or just enjoy a hotel's specialness.

We should have several hours in the afternoon at Amarvilas and we will definitely have breakfast there, plus the last morning at Rajvilas. Sometimes it is a real balancing act when we travel. During the daytime my type "A" DH likes to be on the move, and if we spend too long at one place he gets bored, antsy or both.

Like you. we normally go with just a carry on each also with DH carrying the camera case and me, the computer case. He hates to check luggage.

We spent 5 months going around the world three years ago (22 flights) and didn't check a thing. Made the mistake this fall on our two month trip to Europe taking two pieces of checked luggage...never again! Too hard to handle.

I though I would make my outfit tops more suitable to Spring in Holland. Then on first day, try to get some cool cotton tops to use while we are in India....that is why I have the FabIndia on the 1st day schedule. I love the styles and they are well suited for summer where we live...hot, some 100+ days with 90% humidity.

I have three daughters and they all love all sorts of linens so I hope I can find some neat stuff at the Anokhi Discount Store, it sounds great. Same reasoning behind the stop at the Cottage Industries. If I am lucky at those places, I won't bother with special shopping stops on day 2.

Actually day 2 is all Louise's idea. She said to skip the Delhi fort in favor of the one in Agra. She also didn't have many kind words for the Jaipur fort either. Our tour director says the two gardens, lunch and the rickshaw ride are easily doable including a shopping stop somewhere...guess I will trust their judgements and hope that I find what I want on day 1 so shopping can take a back seat.

The Anokhi Museum in Jaipur doesn't carry the stuff in the stores...it is the history/craft end. I hope to try my hand with a bit of printing.

We will probably do what we can of the Jaipur/Amber sites in the AM, fort, Museum, and the photo opts, and shop in the afternoon. Hmmm, DH can go to the observatory while I go to the markets. Then we can meet at the Gem Palace! I like that plan! Maybe we can eat lunch at the City Palace cafe, then have a drink at the Rambaugh Palace before heading to our hotel. That way get a peak at both.

Oh, am I getting excited!

rhkkmk,

Interesting!

I have read that the fort in Delhi is not being maintained well and is in poor condition, to skip it if going to Agra as it is much better! Also the Amber fort has had terrible restoration, with only a couple areas well restored and worth seeing. That is what Louise N told me anyway.

If we were staying longer in each city, I would want to go to them all, but.....

We will go to the Agra fort and the Amber fort, but Delhi is up in the air. DH doesn't really want to go to India period. Since Delhi is our first stop, guess I will have to see how far I can push the site seeing.

we did not go to agra because we were told it was too much duplication..

we thought amber was fab... delhi was decent..

make sure to see the baby taj on the other side of the river..

taj is quite something.. we went at 10AM because it was foggy earlier..

you will love anoki (sp)... we loved santuchi shopping in delhi too.. inside air force base... cottons was another good shopping experience...

we were not wild about the emporium--cottage industries..

we bought a dining room carpet in agra... very pleased with it... price included air shipment to usa---about $2000.

we did not see much linen.. some but nothing like the cottons..

Thanks rhkkmk, very helpful.


Check Check and Check..Baby Taj late afternoon 1st day in Agra then Taj at sun rise, then Amber Fort first thing in Jaipur!

Sounds like maybe I will be spending $$ a Anokhi!!! When I said linens, I was thinking cotton table wear and bed stuff.

I don't need another rug...said that in Turkey and came home with three, said it in China and came home with one.....maybe we better stay out of the rug shops!

Can't find a website for Cottons to get store locations. Where did you find their store?

it is right next to one of the well known restaurants...let me look it up

make sure to eat at niros in jaipur... we ate there twice and thought it the best meals we had...

cottons: hari bhawan; jacob rd; civil lines; jaipur Tel: 91 141 2223870/2225481

karen loved fab india in jaipur...

a good local restaurant not far from amber fort is maharaja foods: amber road, opposite brahmpuri police station...

the owners name at gem palace is: sanjay kasliwal... i just found his card in our diary..

I've been to all three forts plus Fatehpur Sikri. I'd do Agra and Amber for sure, and possibly Fatehpur Sikri. To me, Red fort was not nearly as interesting, and not as well maintained. It was also hard to get a feel for it with all the modern crowds.

Whichever ones you visit, I'd recommend guides as the history and architectural details are what give the structures life. The second time I went to Agra fort, I used only a book, and I had a hard time figuring out where I was. The forts have very poor signage. Agra sets the stage for the life (and death) of the shah, and you'll get some beautiful views of the Taj Mahal.

Amber fort has the elephants, the views, the huge walls that wander the hills, and the big courtyards, mirrored room and Water cooling systems. A good guide will point out where curtains hung and the function of each space.

I really enjoyed Fatehpur Sikri as well, but that was 8 years ago and I've heard it's gotten pretty crowded with aggressive touts.

If you are at all a fan of great engineering, don't miss Humayan's Tomb in Delhi. The irrigation system is absolutely amazing, and still in use. In October, the water levels should be at full capacity.

A nice spot for lunch when touring South Delhi is Thyme and Basil (or Basil & Thyme?) at Santushti Market. It's a "ladies who lunch" kind of place with great food. There is a small Anokhi and some other interesting boutiques in this walled compound.

I don't think I'd visit either Hauz Khaz or Dilli Haat at the start of your trip. Both are better for the things you want to take home once you've been comparing prices and quality elsewhere.

Cottage industries is where you go to find everything from crafts to clothes, housewares, furniture, Indian temp tatoos, jewelry, art and rugs. Things cost a bit more than out in the markets, but prices are labeled, quality is as stated, and they have an incredible array of things. You can wander through and get an idea of prices & quality at the start of your trip.

It is also pleasant in that it's air conditioned and has a snack bar. There are no salespeople bugging you, but the flip side is that you'll have to hunt for them for help. if you don't fill your suitcases along the way, come back here at the end.

Thanks rhkkmk for the address of Cottons, the Gem Palace owner's name and the eating places.

DH loves to try different foods and it is nice to know of places that others have found good. So maybe Maharaja Foods would be a good stopping spot for us or back to Niros.

Dick can eat anything, but I have real problems with heavily spiced food or food that is "hot" with spices. It can ruin the next day or two if you know what I mean.

What are some good dishes that aren't to spicy...or is there such a thing in India? I don't need meat though I eat it some..starches and veggies are fine with me. Any suggestions?

The more I learn about Jaipur, the busier our day gets!! We will definitely go to the Fort as early as we can get in and then on the the Anokhi Museum. Several years ago someone talked about really enjoying the experience. I will email them to be sure of the schedule as I would really like to try my hand with block printing. Some of the other places may have take a back seat to shopping there.

Icuy,

Thanks for your comments on the different forts. That is what I had read (between the lines) in the write ups and reviews of the four places. A crowd can ruin a place for DH...so I think I will stick with my original plan. If the touts are too bad at FS we will just move on...done that before too. Thanks

Humayan's Tomb is on our list....was told it was really interesting and good in the later afternoon for nice photos which DH likes. Sounds great.

Looks like Santushti Market needs to be added for food and shopping.

The Cottage Industeries is on my list for the first afternoon for just you comments!

Thanks for the suggestion on Hauz Khaz and Dilli Haat. I am having a hard time with narrowing down my shopping musts in Delhi while leaving time for some of the sites that appeal to us.

I do want to get some light cottons the first day for our time in India plus to enjoy during our muggy summer here at home. The whole trip plan requires that I have some cool weather clothes also...well that is a good excuse to shop!

Thanks!

I Jaipur, for shopping, i LOVED Soma. Much nicer clothes at the one there (hAVE never been to the one in New Delhi) than either Fabindia which i also love or Anokhi. It was lcoated in a small house, but i thind they have since changed location, so check.

Haus Khaz in ND is not a market per se it is a small shopping are that is sort of built to look like a village street/ Great, small , non-chain shops. Also,at the end of the street an marvelous archaeological site overlooking a lake. You will love it for the shopping and the photos ops. MUCH more charing than Khan Market, which is just a sort of square busy outdoor mall type place.

Abhaneri village and stepwell, worth the side trip. Lovely countryside/village on the way. fascinating Escher-like stepwell, and a great old small palace that was undergoing archaelogical dig when i was there a yr ago .Dont RUSH out of there. This is a village which is a lot more authentic (for lack of better word) than a lot of what you will see in some of your other stops. I was the only tourist there. There was a local guide there and he was terrific, so dont be certain you wont use a guide. With ANY guide in INdia,.if you are short on time,just let them know! this is a poor village, so any income (tip) at all is appreciated

View on the new Del to Agra highway?? Dont expect any.

On outskirts of jaipur (as you enter coming from Agra direction)try to see Galta Ji, the Monkey Temple. Your driver should know how to get up the hill to the main entrance. YOu will pass a village going up to it. The walk up the hill is NOT bad (i noted that you have some trouble walking.) you will see, besides the monkeys of course, local people bathing in the holy pool

sorry, just reread your original post--you said *via* not *view* on road Del to Agra.

Totally agree with Louise and was just about to say, SKIP Red Fort and go to Agra Fort instead. a GREAT guide is key. Ours painted word pictures of life at the time, the markets in the fort courtyard, the community mtgs, the hidden nooks for the ladies` jewelry, the shower, etc. One of the highlights of any trip i have made to India (loved it despite 110 F heat at the time)!

Have a great trip!!!!!

FS is well worth a couple of hours bet. jaipur and agra...

we did not find the food that "hot"... its easy to pick things that are not.. avoid curries..

soups are fab.. chicken/beef korma or shrimp korma...

some chicken dishes cooked in the fast oven--

ask them to leave spices off..

kulfi ice cream is good..

stay away from buffets, except at breakfast...

dal is fab...

naan bread, esp ones with fruit and nuts..

It all sounds so great! Our visas should arrive tomorrow. I, too, plan to buy clothes the first day. Cotton tunics so much better than tee shirts. Will take all these pages printed out from Fodors with us.

We are working with Legends and Palaces and Mr. VP Singh has been perfectly responsive to our needs. He has made recommendations which will made our trip so much better. He notes that flights have resumed between Varanisi and Agra saving us flying back to Delhi and then been driven to Agra.

I.an just hoping neither DH or I get the flu in these last few weeks.

CaliNurse,

Thanks for your suggestions, especially on Abhaneri...the info I found made it sound like our kind of place. Will be on the lookout for a some one willing to show us around there. I understand what you are saying about guides. Good ones can really bring things to life.

Will add the Monkey Temple back as a possible....had read that it was a climb to get to so didn't think I could do it though it does sound interesting.

I have visions of a new summer wardrobe dancing in my head! May have to check an empty suitcase after all...wonder if Dick will notice!

Thanks for the food suggestions rhkkmk. I will add them to my list.

Elainee,

When are you leaving? Wish I could have talked my husband into a little longer stay...would have liked going to Shimla on the "toy train" for a few days.

That he is even going, is feat! I have been trying to get him to visit for 15 years. In 2009 we spent a month of our five month trip in Africa because he made me take India out of the around the world plans mid planning! Africa was great but....

Now the funny thing is since I bought the air tickets last fall, he is making some positive oomments...like, well, there are some other historical places I would like to see.....if this works out...hmmmm no pressure for me!

We just started the visa process today. I talked with several tour providers and also worked with our regular travel agent who handles cruises for us...actually this trip was, at first part, of a set pre-cruise package on a month long cruise Mumbi to Rome, but with the unrest last fall, I canceled the cruise, but not before I already had the air so.....now we are India bound for a week then back to Europe for spring time.

After many emails and much thought, we went with a very well priced Oberoi hotel package and a car and driver for the six travel days. We are very independent travel types and like to be really flexible plus the cost of the trip going through a agent for the hotels I wanted was very much more expensive. Guess I will see how this goes.

We are going Feb. 6 for 19 nights in India. No Shimla, not enough time. My DH will get a long trip to Italy in return for this trip.

I did the visa myself. The hard part for me was just basic computer stuff...where to put the photo I took so I could find it to upload to the form. But uploading the photo and signature is not required. It just takes an extra two days..not a big deal.

Who else will be in India our dates?

Cwn, I've done Oberoi packages before. I think you will be very pleased. You really don't need an agent in India, though they can be helpful for first timers.

My third time to India, I was taking my husband for the first time and he was only going to make me happy. I wanted the trip to be as smooth as possible. I purchased an Oberoi adventure package at Wildflower Hall (with horseback riding, white water rafting, massage, etc), and there was a discount for Amarvilas in Agra as well.

On two other trips I used their "eight nights" packages that you can spread out among different Oberois. These included airport/rail transfers, various meals and spa treatments. They were very well priced, especially in relation to the regular room rates. I highly recommend them, even though I tend to stay in more off-beat spots now. Udaivilas is still my favorite hotel anywhere in the world.