- 12 Days
- Delhi | Varanasi | Agra | Bishangarh, Manoharpur | Jaipur | Udaipur
“Trace India's past: Delhi, Varanasi and the holy Ganges, the iconic Taj Mahal, and Rajasthans’s forts, lakes and palaces“
Tour Highlights
Ancient Forts & Temples
Guided Street Food Tour
Visit to Ghats
Taj Mahal
Medieval Citadel
Pink City
about this tour
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.
Visit a local home in Jaipur for a hands-on cooking class centered around family-style Rajasthani dishes. In a welcoming kitchen setting, local chefs guide you through time-honored recipes, sharing stories, techniques, and the cultural roots behind each dish. You'll prepare a selection of traditional foods, learning the rhythm and flavors of everyday Rajasthani cooking. As you eat your creation, connect with your hosts over lively conversation, gaining insight into their daily life, regional customs, and the spirit of home-cooked hospitality.
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Arrival in DelhiYou 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.
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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: Touch of Faith, Philosophy & British IndiaVisit a Sikh place of worship called a Gurudwara or Temple. This shrine is the scene of constant devotional music, whose ethereal tones are relayed throughout the entire complex. A Sikh temple without a Community Kitchen or “Langar” is inconceivable. Food is serviced in the kitchen of the Gurudwara 24 hours to all visitors without any distinction of caste, creed, color or religion. All people, rich or poor sit in the same queue. Approximately 40,000 visitors share meals every day. A peek into the kitchen is a unique experience.
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Visit a Sikh place of worship called a Gurudwara or Temple. This shrine is the scene of constant devotional music, whose ethereal tones are relayed throughout the entire complex. A…3
Varanasi- The Holy CityThe 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. 11.35 hrs: Arrive Varanasi; you will be met and transferred to your hotel. 16.30 hrs: Guided visit at the Ghats; watch the evening Aarti - a devotional homage to the Mother Goddess Ganges and Lord Shiva - aboard a local boat. 19.30 hrs: Private Dinner at the terrace (Overlooking the Ganges river, Candle light with TDH menu). Overnight: Brijrama Palace http://www.brijrama.com/ OR Hotel Ganges View http://www.hotelgangesview.co.in/
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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 City tourEarly morning activities on the Ghats are best viewed from a boat. Enjoy a boat ride to watch the sunrise over the holy river Ganges. 08.00 hrs: Return to the hotel for breakfast. 11.00 hrs: Explores the city of Varanasi. Sarnath Buddhism rules Sarnath because this is where Buddha preached his first Sermon, thus making it one of the four holiest places to the Buddhist world. Sarnath is an important temple city of India. The town is relatively peaceful and green, and so also provides a welcome alternative to Varanasi as a place to stay for people visiting the Ghats along the Ganges. The Chaukhandi Stupa was built to commemorate the spot where Buddha first met his disciples. Ashoka Pillar: (also called the Sarnath Pillar) Carved out of stone with a height of 50m, it marks Emperor Asoka’s visit to Sarnath. Visit a local weaver’s community to witness the spectacular work done by them.
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Early morning activities on the Ghats are best viewed from a boat. Enjoy a boat ride to watch the sunrise over the holy river Ganges. 08.00 hrs: Return to…5
Taj MahalFor centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colour and song. Since the 17th century, travellers have crossed continents to come and see this ultimate memorial to love, and few have been unmoved by its incomparable beauty. Taj Mahal stands in the city of Agra, in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was built in the memory of the beautiful Arjumand Bano Begum, who won the heart of a Mughal prince. She was married at 21 to Emperor Jahangir's third son Prince Khurram and stayed loyally by his side through good times and bad: in the luxurious royal palaces of Agra as well as the transient tents of war camps. A labour of love ~ Work on the mausoleum began in 1633 and 20,000 workers laboured for 17 years to build it. The most skilled architects, inlay craftsmen, calligraphers, stone-carvers and masons came from all across India and lands as distant as Persia and Turkey. The master mason was from Baghdad, an expert in building the double dome from Persia, and an inlay specialist from Delhi. Intricacy in design ~ what is most amazing about the Taj Mahal is the fine detailing. The coloured inlay is never allowed to overwhelm the design, as carvings done in relief sensitively balance it. The ornate pietra dura and relief carvings are of floral, calligraphic and geometric designs. However, flowers remain the main decorative element as the tomb depicts a paradise garden. The skill of the inlay worker is so fine that it is impossible to find the joints, even when as many as 40 tiny pieces of semi-precious stones have been used in the petals of a single flower. Some of the best calligraphy of Koranic verses can be seen around the entrance arches and on the two headstones. The colours of the Taj ~ Taj Mahal changes its moods with the seasons and the different times of the day. At dawn, the marble has a delicate bloom in shell pink, by noon it glitters majestically white, turning to a soft pearly grey at dusk. Monsoon clouds give it a moody blue tint and it appears and disappears like a mirage in the drifting mists of winter. It can be solid and earthbound, fragile and ethereal, white, amber, grey and gold. The many faces of Taj Mahal display the seductive power of architecture at its best.
For centuries, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colour and song. Since the 17th century, travellers have crossed…6
Bishangarh FortThis morning, visit the Taj Mahal to see this monument by the light of the rising sun. It is said that the world is divided into two parts; those who have seen the Taj Mahal and those who have not. A flawless architectural creation, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, painters and musicians to try and capture its elusive magic in word, colour and song. The many faces of Taj Mahal display the seductive power of architecture at its best. Return to the hotel for breakfast. 10.00 hrs: Check out from the hotel and drive to Bishangarh, en-route visiting Chand Baori at Abhaneri. 13.00 hrs: Arrive Abhaneri and visit to Chand Baori, one of the largest step wells in India. Stepwell were used as places of relaxation, as pools for ritual cleansing before a temple visit and as a water supply during dry weather. 13.30 hrs: Lunch at Aagman Abhaneri Village Safari Camps. 14.30 hrs: Continue drive to Bishangarh. 17.00 hrs: Arrive Bishangarh & check into the hotel Alila Fort.
Alila Fort Bishangarh welcomes you at Haveli courtyard with its luxurious green lawns, pool, pool terrace and juice bar, where you can also discover an organic garden, a fruit orchard and a greenhouse amid the ravines. 19.00 hrs: Make your evening perfect under the stars with dinner at Nazzara, featuring Shekhawati and Bishangarhi cuisine.
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This morning, visit the Taj Mahal to see this monument by the light of the rising sun. It is said that the world is divided into two parts; those…7
Jaipur Day TripAmber – The Medieval Rajput Citadel “I have seen many royal palaces, but for varied and picturesque effect, for the richness of carving, for wild beauty of situation and the strangeness of finding such a building in such a place and country, I am able to compare nothing with Amber.” Bishop Heber, 1824. Amber, the former capital of Jaipur state is stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake which reflects its terraces and ramparts. Amber is a fortified complex of many splendid palaces evolved over a period of six centuries. Next, we drive past the highly ornamented 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. Visit the imposing City Palace now a museum 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. Also visit the ancient Observatory & drive past the picturesque bazaars of the walled city.
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Amber – The Medieval Rajput Citadel “I have seen many royal palaces, but for varied and picturesque effect, for the richness of carving, for wild beauty of situation and the…8
Discovery of the city of JaipurProceed to the highly ornamented 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. Later visit the imposing City Palace now a museum 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 armory of the Mughals and Rajputs. Also, visit the ancient Observatory & drive past the picturesque bazaars of the walled city. We also have the option to embark on an adventure of discovery of the city of Jaipur as we take bi-cycle rickshaws to the narrow and winding lanes of the city markets experiencing the various interesting sights and sounds, thereafter walking tour through the bustling bazaars. Free time for souvenir shopping -Jaipur is renowned for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving, semi-precious stones, and local crafts which still thrive from the day of Maharaja Jai Singh’s patronage when he designed special areas in the city for the ‘bandhanas’, the ‘cheepas’ and the ‘meenakari’ workers.
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Proceed to the highly ornamented 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…9
Udaipur ~ The Venice of the EastUdaipur, often called the "Venice of the East" is the most romantic city in the state of Rajasthan. Udaipur nestles like a gem in a valley surrounded by green hills, reflected smooth and white in the clear blue waters of Lake Pichola. The city is a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples. Walk to the City Palace jetty and enjoy a Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Pichola visiting the Jagmandir Island – situated in the middle of this romantic lake. It commands a magnificent view of the City Palace, Lake Palace and Sajjangarh Fort, on its own island, and it is where Prince Khurram was given refuge in the 17th century. After that, transfer to Bagore Ki Haveli to enjoy a traditional dance show. Spend an evening at Bagore Ki-Haveli – a traditional Rajasthani folk dance performance walking distance from our hotel.
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Udaipur, often called the "Venice of the East" is the most romantic city in the state of Rajasthan. Udaipur nestles like a gem in a valley surrounded by green hills,…10
Explore UdaipurBegin with the tour of the city known for a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces, and temples. Visit the City Palace within which are several architectural and artistic highlights known for its stunning peacock mosaics and a series of wall paintings. The City Palace was once the home of the Mewar rulers. Most of the Palace is converted into a museum and a luxurious hotel. Wander through the markets and bazaars to get a feel of the city situated close behind the City Palace. Visit the Jagdish Temple built in 1651 ornamented with excellent carvings and a bronze figure of the Garuda. Proceed to the “Sahelion ki Bari” or Garden of the Maids of Honor. Constructed in the early 18th century, this was used as a venue for royal parties.
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Begin with the tour of the city known for a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces, and temples. Visit the City Palace within which are…11
Architecture of UdaipurProceed for a city tour of Udaipur. The guide will meet you in the hotel and lead the walk to the City Palace complex (approx. 10 min waking) The city is a kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples. Visit the City Palace within which are several architectural and artistic highlights known for its stunning peacock mosaics and a series of wall paintings. The City Palace was once the home of the Mewar rulers. Most of the Palace is converted into a museum and a luxurious hotel. Wander through the markets and bazaars to get a feel of the city situated close behind the City Palace. Visit the Jagdish Temple built in 1651 ornamented with excellent carvings and a bronze figure of the Garuda. A short visit to the Monsoon Palace (Sajjan Garh). Built by Maharaja Sajjan Singh in the year 1884, Monsoon Palace (Sajjan Garh) in Udaipur is built along the Fateh Sagar Lake. The palace is built at a height of about 1100 ft and gives an astounding view of the landscape around.
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Proceed for a city tour of Udaipur. The guide will meet you in the hotel and lead the walk to the City Palace complex (approx. 10 min waking) The city…
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FAQs
1. What do we do on the street food tour in Delhi?
In Delhi you join a guided street food walk through busy markets and lanes. You stop at trusted stalls to taste snacks like chaats, kebabs, and sweets while your guide explains what each dish is and how locals eat it.
2. What are the main temple and ghat activities in Varanasi?
In Varanasi you visit important temples and walk along the ghats by the Ganges. You can take a boat ride to see the riverfront from the water and watch daily rituals and evening aarti ceremonies from a respectful distance.
3. What do we see at the Taj Mahal and in Agra?
In Agra you visit the Taj Mahal with a guide, walking through the gardens and around the marble terraces while hearing the story behind it. You also have time to see Agra Fort, which shows another side of Mughal history.
4. What are the activities in Jaipur, the Pink City?
In Jaipur you tour forts such as Amber Fort, visit city landmarks, and walk or drive through the old pink-painted streets. There is free time to browse markets for textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.
5. What do we do in Udaipur?
In Udaipur you visit lakeside palaces and old streets, with time for a gentle boat ride on the lake if included in your final plan. The pace is slower here, giving you time to enjoy the views and reflect on the trip.
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