Arrive Delhi by an International flight. After completing Immigration and customs, proceed towards the arrival hall at the airport, where you will be met by our Representative and transferred to your hotel.

(Room check-in at 1400 hrs)

Delhi is a city that defies a one-line description as the capital of India or as the capital of the world’s largest democracy. Actually, Delhi is India in miniature; it is 3,287,263 sq. km of India’s fantastic variety compressed into 1,483 sq. km. Once a city of royal power, became the seat of colonial power. Later it was the seat of bureaucratic power. The seat of political power it has always been. Today it is emerging as an important centre for corporate power too. However, the most fascinating aspect of this city is its cosmopolitan nature.

Overnight in Delhi

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a guided city tour of Delhi. Begin with Old Delhi, driving past the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal grandeur. Stop at Jama Masjid (Closed on Fridays), India’s largest mosque, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Chandni Chowk with a cycle rickshaw ride, navigating its narrow, bustling lanes that have remained unchanged for centuries -offering an unforgettable glimpse into Delhi’s vibrant past.

Enjoy a typical Chandni chowk lunch at charming heritage Dharampura Haveli.

In the afternoon, visit Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a striking example of Mughal architecture. Built in the 16th century by Empress Bega Begum in memory of her husband, Emperor Humayun, this grand mausoleum set amidst lush gardens is considered the architectural precursor to the Taj Mahal.

Visit Qutub Minar, a 12th-century Tower of Victory with intricate carvings and the world’s tallest brick minaret.

Wrap up your day by driving through New Delhi, passing the colonial-era landmarks of British India, including the President’s House, North and South Blocks, Parliament House, and government offices.

Overnight in Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi, one of India’s most important pilgrimage sites and the holiest of holy cities for Hindus. Known also as `Kashi’ and `Benaras’, Varanasi is one of the world’s oldest living cities, and has been a centre of learning and culture for well over 2000 years.

Upon arrival, receive assistance and proceed to Sarnath, The place, where Buddha turned the Wheel of Law and delivered His First Sermon in the Deer Park. While at Sarnath, you will see the Chowkandi and Dhamek Stupas, the ruins of 9th and 10th century monasteries and temples – built by the Mahabodhi Society in 1931. The Museum at Sarnath is a delight – it also houses the Sarnath pillar whose capital forms India’s national emblem.

Later, transfer to the hotel for check-in and relaxation.

Evening, visit the “Ghats” or banks of the River Ganga. This is a fascinating experience as you can experience the cultural ethos that guides the life of the pious. A time when multiple temple priests and local residents unite in Prayer. Best done while seated on a boat mid River.

Overnight in Varanasi

Early morning, proceed on a boat ride at dawn down India’s most sacred river, The Ganges. Sunrise at the holy river is a truly tranquil and breathtaking sight with pilgrims standing waist deep in water, praying to the rising sun. Past these bathing ghats, see the ‘burning ghats’ where the Hindus cremate their dead. This is done with great religious fervour which makes for a moving experience. This is a time for personal prayer.

Return to the hotel enroute visiting the Old City, walking along the by lanes of this ancient city and see the famous Kashi-Vishwanath temple with its spires covered with gold, dedicated to Shiva, the presiding deity of the city.

After breakfast, check out and drive to Varanasi airport to board the flight to Khajuraho.

Khajuraho was built during the Candela dynasty, which reached its apogee between 950 and 1050 AD. Only about 20 temples remain; they fall into three distinct groups and belong to two different religions – Hinduism and Jainism. They strike a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture. The Assistance upon arrival and transfer to hotel and check-in.

Overnight in Khajuraho

After breakfast, guided visit to the Parsvanath temple of the Eastern group which is the group’s largest Jain temple. The themes depict, in charming detail, everyday activity. Architecturally the temples have some unique features. They stand on high platforms and do not have the customary enclosure. Each temple has a large number of spires in ascending order representing man’s aspirations towards spiritual goals. The sculptures describe the moments of truth, amazement and bliss in which one forgets  everything  and  surrenders completely to spiritual emotion. And this wonder is the elusive theme of the temples at Khajuraho.

Afternoon, visit to the Mahadeo temple of the Western group of temples, which is the largest dedicated to Shiva. The main shrine is exquisitely carved and features, in delicate detail, gods, goddesses, celestial maidens and lovers. Also visit the Chausat Yogini temple dedicated to Kali and Chitragupta temple dedicated to the sun-god Surya.

 This evening, attend the sound and light show organized at the Temples.

Overnight in Khajuraho

After leisurely breakfast, check out and transfer to Khajuraho railway station to board train to Agra: Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22469) (14:50-20:55/6hrs 5 mins).

Agra – an ancient city on the banks of the river Yamuna. Once the seat of power of the Mughals, three generations of Great Mughals ruled a huge empire from here. It was also a centre of learning, Culture, Art and Religious philosophies which produced some of the most renowned litterateurs and scholars.

Assistance upon arrival and transfer to hotel.

Overnight in Agra

After breakfast, visit the incomparable Taj  Mahal (Closed on Fridays).Experience the sublimity of the Taj Mahal at sunrise – a varying kaleidoscope of solitude, colour and mood. A tribute from a great emperor to the memory of his beloved wife, it was 22 years in the making and is a cerebral experience that defies description. Widely regarded as the earthly replica of radise, Taj Mahal is likened to “a vision, a dream, a poem and a wonder”.

Visit the Agra Fort – built 16th century AD, and added upon by 3 generations of Mughal emperors, it is a mix synthesis of military fortifications with delicate interior details. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son here.

Later check out, drive to Fatehpur Sikri – an exquisite city built by Akbar the Great in 1569, in red sandstone, with its forts, palaces and mosques, and abandoned after its creation due to political reasons.

Continue towards to Jaipur.

Assistance upon arrival and check in to the hotel.

Jaipur is a city where royalty still lives in the grandeur of its palaces, where fighting for the honour of the family has never been a need but a way of life. Jaipur got its name from its founder Sawai Jai Singh, who had the vision to create a meticulously planned city as his capital. As the houses in the old city are painted pink its popular name, the “Pink City”.

Overnight in Jaipur

After an early breakfast, embark on a guided excursion to Amber Fort, the former capital of Jaipur’s princely state, majestically perched on a hill. Explore its grand halls and palaces, showcasing exquisite Rajput architecture, and ascend the fort by jeep for a memorable experience.

Later, immerse yourself in Jaipur’s traditional block printing, a centuries-old art form passed down through generations, where intricate patterns are hand-stamped onto textiles using wooden blocks.

In the afternoon, return to the city and explore its architectural gems. Visit the City Palace, the former royal residence, followed by Jantar Mantar, an 18th-century astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh. Stop for a photo at the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) and enjoy some free time exploring the vibrant markets nearby.

In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration and enjoy a traditional dinner with an Indian family, offering an authentic cultural experience.

Overnight in Jaipur

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the Galta Ji Temple, an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site nestled in the Aravalli hills. Known as the Monkey Temple, this serene complex features, pavilions, sacred water tanks, and intricate architecture, offering a spiritual retreat away from the city’s hustle.

In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating jeep safari at Jhalana Leopard Safari Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Explore the rugged terrain of this protected reserve, home to elusive leopards, deer, hyenas, and various bird species. The thrilling safari experience provides a unique opportunity to witness Rajasthan’s rich biodiversity in its natural habitat.

Overnight in Jaipur.

After breakfast, drive to Jodhpur, the second largest city of Rajasthan, lies at the entrance to the Thar Desert. The massive Meherangarh Fort overlooks the city. Jodhpur is also called the ‘blue city’ because of the indigo-washed houses in the old town.

Upon arrival you will be assisted to check–in at the hotel.

 
Visit the Old city. Walk through the Old Clock Tower Market. Jodhpur is famous all over  the world for its handicrafts in wood, iron and camel bone. The market is bustling with vendors, shoppers, passers-by, all kinds of vehicles, from bicycles to herds of cows.

Overnight in Jodhpur

Morning, guided city tour of Jodhpur. Visit Mehrangarh Fort, one of the most impressive and formidable structures. Invincible from the outside, the fort has four gates approached by a winding road. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with marvellously carved panels and latticed windows. From here visit Jaswanth Thada – the blinding white marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Proceed to Rohet for lunch and continue in a village safari on jeep. Visit a charming rural village that offers a glimpse into the traditional life of Rajasthan’s Bishnoi community. Known for their deep-rooted conservationist values, the Bishnois are regarded as the first environmentalists of India, fiercely protecting nature and wildlife. As you traverse the rustic landscapes, witness herds of blackbucks, chinkaras (Indian gazelles), and desert foxes roaming freely. Experience the warm hospitality of the villagers, visit their traditional mud houses, and gain insights into their customs, art, and way of life. This immersive cultural experience provides a rare opportunity to understand the region’s rural heritage, making it a highlight of the journey.

Overnight in Jodhpur

After breakfast, drive to Udaipur (approx. 7hrs drive with stops) enroute visiting the Ranakpur Jain temples. Though over 500 years old, the temples here are superbly preserved in near-perfect condition. In the centre is the main “Chaumukha temple” dedicated to Adinath. The most distinctive features are the 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, of which no two are exactly alike.

Continue your drive to Udaipur.

Udaipur, the city of Dawn, is the Jewel of Mewar ruled by one family for over 12000 years. It’s a kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes strewn with stalls; that carry the flavour of a heroic past, epitomizing valour and chivalry. Udaipur is a city of shimmering lakes, marble palaces and verdant hills. Justifiably, it has been called the “Venice of the East”.

Upon arrival in Udaipur check in to the hotel.

Overnight in Udaipur

Morning, visit the City Palace – a conglomeration of courtyards, pavilions, terraces, corridors, rooms and hanging gardens. Also visit the Crystal gallery -whose collection includes a bewildering number of Crystal objects d’art, dinner sets, perfume bottles, decanters, glasses, washing bowls and even furniture.

Visit Jagdish temple and Saheliyon-ki- bari, the ‘Garden of the Maids of Honour’, with its rich foliage and intricately designed fountains.

Late afternoon, enjoy shared boat cruise on Lake Pichola in which the majestic Lake Palace Hotel is situated. See the ghats along the lake and the interesting buildings along the banks. The view of the city palace from the lake is spectacular.

In the evening, witness traditional Rajasthani dance performance and dinner at Bagore Ki Haveli featuring folk music, puppetry, and dynamic dance forms.

Overnight in Udaipur

After breakfast, transfer to airport to board midday flight to Mumbai. Assistance upon arrival at the airport to board International flight.

End of Tour