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Trace India's past: Delhi, Varanasi and the holy Ganges, the iconic Taj Mahal, and Rajasthans’s forts, lakes and palaces

from US $ 9860 pp

Tour Highlights

Ancient Forts & Temples

Guided Street Food Tour

Visit to Ghats

Taj Mahal

Medieval Citadel

Pink City

about this tour

This authentic tour visits some of India's most historically significant cities. Starting in Delhi, the capital of India, with the imposing Red Fort, a Mughal-era monument, visit the hectic markets overflowing with spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Varanasi, the holy city on the banks of the Ganges River, renowned for pilgrims performing centuries-old religious ceremonies along the sacred river; explore ancient temples that stand as testaments to India's rich spiritual traditions. On to Agra and the iconic Taj Mah, a white marble mausoleum, considered to be one of the wonders of the world. This breathtaking monument serves as a lasting symbol of love and devotion. Jaipur, the "Pink City," is the next stop. This bright city is known for its well-preserved forts, including the Amber Fort, offering a glimpse into Rajput military history. Jaipur's markets are overflowing with colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and intricately carved elephants. The tour concludes in Udaipur, a city of serene lakes and majestic palaces. Udaipur provides a window into Rajasthan's royal heritage, showcasing the architectural marvels built by Rajput rulers. This enchanting city offers a peaceful conclusion to this tour of India's diverse cultural and historical treasures.
  • 1

    Arrival in Delhi

    You will be welcomed in the arrivals hall by your driver for your private transfer to your accommodation. Your first day in Delhi is a chance to unwind after your flight. Relax at your conveniently located hotel, situated right next to the bustling Connaught Circus. This famous circular market offers a great introduction to Delhi's energy, with its shops, cafes, and street food vendors all within easy reach. Spend the day exploring the area at your own pace, or simply rest up before diving into the city's many sights in the coming days.

    You will be welcomed in the arrivals hall by your driver for your private transfer to your accommodation. Your first day in Delhi is a chance to unwind after your…
  • 2

    New Delhi Tour

    This busy day in Delhi starts with a visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, a historic Sikh shrine offering a glimpse into Sikh culture, including their tradition of free community meals served to all visitors. Continuing to Old Delhi, a drive past the imposing Red Fort leads to Jama Masjid, Asia's largest functioning mosque. A guided street food tour through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk follows, starting with savory snacks and chaat, then continuing with parathas, traditional sweets like jalebi and kulfi, and concluding with a hot cup of masala chai. Take a visit to Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market, and then a fun rickshaw ride through the narrow streets. New Delhi offers a distinct perspective, see the towering Qutab Minar, a historical landmark often compared to iconic structures around the world. Humayun's Tomb, a magnificent red sandstone and white marble mausoleum considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, awaits next. Finally, a drive to Raisina Hill showcases the city's colonial influence with a glimpse of the President's House and the imposing India Gate war memorial.

    This busy day in Delhi starts with a visit to Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, a historic Sikh shrine offering a glimpse into Sikh culture, including their tradition of free community…
  • 3

    Varanasi – The Holy City

    The north Indian city of Varanasi, or Benares, is regarded as holy by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Situated in the fertile Ganga valley and on the banks of the Ganges, Varanasi is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, who come to bathe in the holy river. Known as the City of Temples and a beacon of culture, Varanasi has produced many renowned writers. It’s also a center of silk weaving, so practice haggling at the chaotic bazaar for some beautiful souvenirs. Rickshaws are the best way to get about. Upon arrival Varanasi; you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Guided visit to the Ghats; watch the evening Aarti - a devotional homage to the Mother Goddess Ganges and Lord Shiva - aboard a local boat. In the evening enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the River Ganges.

    The north Indian city of Varanasi, or Benares, is regarded as holy by Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Situated in the fertile Ganga valley and on the banks of the Ganges,…
  • 4

    Varanasi Tour

    Varanasi offers a unique experience. Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the early morning activities on the Ghats. After breakfast, explore the city itself. Sarnath, a peaceful and green temple city just outside Varanasi, is one of the four holiest places in Buddhism. Here, Buddha delivered his first sermon, establishing Sarnath's significance. Visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, built to mark the spot where Buddha met his disciples, and the Ashoka Pillar, a 50-meter tall pillar commemorating Emperor Ashoka's visit. You can also witness the work of local weavers before enjoying lunch at the Shree Shivay restaurant.

    Varanasi offers a unique experience. Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the early morning activities on the Ghats. After breakfast, explore the…
  • 5

    Varanasi to Agra

    Transfer from Varanasi by plane to Delhi and private transport onward to Agra. The rest of the day is at leisure to visit Agra, with the visit to the iconic Taj Mahal on tomorrow's itinerary. Agra offers other historical attractions like the Agra Fort, a Mughal era fort that was the seat of power for almost 100 years. You can also visit the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, a white marble mausoleum known as the "Baby Taj" for its resemblance to the more famous monument. For a scenic perspective, take a stroll through Mehtab Bagh, a Mughal era garden complex that offers a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River, particularly at sunset.

    Transfer from Varanasi by plane to Delhi and private transport onward to Agra. The rest of the day is at leisure to visit Agra, with the visit to the iconic…
  • 6

    Taj Mahal - Bishangarh

    To make the most of the cooler morning temperatures, begin the day early with a visit to the Taj Mahal. This allows you to appreciate the monument's intricate details and white marble exterior in a comfortable environment. Following your tour, you will take a scenic drive to Bishangarh. Along the way, there is a stop en route at Abhaneri to explore Chand Baori, a historically significant stepwell which extends approximately 30 meters into the ground. Afterwards, you can enjoy a relaxing lunch at Aagman Abhaneri Village Safari Camp before continuing your journey to Bishangarh, and your hotel, the Alila Fort hotel, a luxurious heritage resort nestled within a 233-year-old fort. Filled with opulence, Alila Fort Bishangarh has a stunning courtyard with luxurious green lawns, pool, terrace and juice bar, where you can also find an organic garden, a fruit orchard and a greenhouse amid the ravines. Enjoy a perfect evening under the stars with dinner at Nazzara, featuring Shekhawati and Bishangarhi cuisine.

    To make the most of the cooler morning temperatures, begin the day early with a visit to the Taj Mahal. This allows you to appreciate the monument's intricate details and…
  • 7

    Jaipur Tour

    After breakfast, there will be an early departure for a day tour of Jaipur. Amber, the former capital of Jaipur state is stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake which reflects its terraces and ramparts. Amber Fort is a fortified complex of many splendid palaces evolved over a period of six centuries. Next, visit the highly ornamented facade, the Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, built in 1799 which has no less than 953 little windows and balconies. It is a stunning example of Rajput artistry and was originally built to enable ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life in the streets below through the delicately honeycombed sandstone windows without being seen. Continuing on to the imposing City Palace, this was the former royal residence built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal styles which now houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of the Mughals and Rajputs. Finally the tour continues to the ancient Observatory before some free time to explore and visit the many bazaars of the walled city.

    After breakfast, there will be an early departure for a day tour of Jaipur. Amber, the former capital of Jaipur state is stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a…
  • 8

    Discover Bishangarh

    Experience authentic Bishangarh by meeting local craftspeople – jewelers, potters, and carpet weaver Gunita Devi, who makes lovely rugs using an old-fashioned loom, cotton, and wool. Afterward, Visit Daya and Ramutar Yadav and their family, who grow various grains, herbs, spices, and vegetables on their farm. Enjoy the smell of traditional Rajasthani food cooking on a brick and mud stove, taste millet bread with chili chutney, and drink fresh homemade buttermilk. Lunch in the Organic Garden. Learn about organic farming and pick fresh vegetables for the chef to make a special dish. After lunch, relax with a spa treatment and talk with your spa host. In the evening, savor the flavors of Rajasthan with a 3-course Dinner at Amarsar.

    Experience authentic Bishangarh by meeting local craftspeople – jewelers, potters, and carpet weaver Gunita Devi, who makes lovely rugs using an old-fashioned loom, cotton, and wool. Afterward, Visit Daya and…
  • 9

    Udaipur ~ The Venice of the East

    After breakfast, there is a transfer to Jaipur airport for the flight to Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East", the most romantic city in Rajasthan. Udaipur sits like a jewel in a valley surrounded by green hills, reflected clearly in the blue waters of Lake Pichola. The city has narrow streets with bright shops, gardens, lakes, palaces, and temples. Upon arrival in Udaipur; your private transport will be waiting to go straight to your next hotel. Later there is a Sunset Boat Trip on Lake Pichola with a visit to Jagmandir Island – in the middle of this romantic lake. It has a beautiful view of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Sajjangarh Fort, on its own island, where Prince Khurram stayed in the 17th century. This is followed by a traditional Rajasthani fold dance show near the hotel.

    After breakfast, there is a transfer to Jaipur airport for the flight to Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East", the most romantic city in Rajasthan. Udaipur sits like…
  • 10

    Tour of Udaipur

    Start the day with a guided walk around Udaipur. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you to the City Palace, a short ten-minute stroll away. You will have a chance to explore the city's narrow streets, markets and bazaars, filled with colorful shops, green spaces, grand palaces, and holy places. The City Palace was once home to the Mewar kings. Inside, there are beautiful peacock designs and detailed wall paintings. Much of the palace is now a museum and a luxurious hotel. From the Palace, walk on to see the Jagdish Temple, built in 1651, with its fine carvings and a bronze statue of Garuda. Then, go to the Monsoon Palace (Sajjan Garh), built in 1884 by Maharaja Sajjan Singh. The palace offers stunning views from its 1100-foot height. The afternoon is yours at leisure to take a look around and spend some time haggling and shopping.

    Start the day with a guided walk around Udaipur. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you to the City Palace, a short ten-minute stroll away. You…
  • 11

    Gangaur Ghat

    This morning, discover the heart of local life. Meet your guide at Gangaur Ghat and journey by tuk-tuk to a nearby village. Engage with local artisans, gaining firsthand knowledge of their crafts. Enjoy a leisurely meal in a three-hundred-year-old house. Afterward, wander through the Jagdish Chowk market, exploring the jewelry shops, fresh food stalls, and a local temple. This enriching experience spans five to six hours. As evening descends, travel by tuk-tuk to Ambrai restaurant for dinner. The restaurant offers stunning views of Lake Pichola.

    This morning, discover the heart of local life. Meet your guide at Gangaur Ghat and journey by tuk-tuk to a nearby village. Engage with local artisans, gaining firsthand knowledge of…
  • 12

    Departure Day

    After checking out of your hotel, private transport will take you to Udaipur Airport for the flight to Delhi, from there to the International Airport to board your flight for homeward journey. We trust you have enjoyed an authentic experience in Northern India, safe travels!

    After checking out of your hotel, private transport will take you to Udaipur Airport for the flight to Delhi, from there to the International Airport to board your flight for…

Why Book With Us?

Selected luxury hotels that deliver exceptional service in authentic local style.

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Our in-country expert

With over 25 of experience in varied aspects of travel and most recently 15 years in creating the finest travel itineraries, Mona brings to the organization a spectrum of experience, strong relationships and a passion for showcasing the best of India and the subcontinent. A people’s person with a zeal for travel in India and … Read more

Mona Kapour
Mona Kapour
India local Expert

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