HIGHLIGHTS - DISCOVER NORTH INDIA
- A mix of activities in both Old and New Delhi
- A rickshaw tour of Old Delhi including Chandani Chowk market
- Enjoy a small group experience only for solo travellers
- Highlight 5-star hotel stays
- Visit old bazaars and local markets
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort
- A guided tour of the mighty Taj Mahal in Agra
- The annual Holi Festival
- Visit Fatehpur Sikri, the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty
- A jeep safari to Bishnoi village, a community rich in the culture of Rajasthani life
- Enjoy a hosted dinner by a local family and a cooking demonstration
- Tour the magnificent Amber Fort & City Palace, Jaipur
- Visit The Birla Temple of Jaipur
- Exploring the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur
- A stay in Pushkar with a city tour
- Visit Mehrangarh Fort that dates to the 15th century
- The ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur
- Visit Ranakpur, an incredible Jain temple
- Relax on a boat tour on Lake Pichola, Udaipur
- Dinner overlooking the famous lakes and palaces of Udaipur
- Travel to the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur
SPECIAL NOTES:
If you have an onward flight/journey that does not coincide with the group transfer time in the afternoon, a private transfer can be arranged from the group hotel to the airport (service fee applies). There is also the option to forfeit the morning activities if you have an earlier flight today.
DAY 1
Arrive To New Delhi
Welcome to India. Arrive to Delhi Indira Gandhi (IGI) International Airport.
You will be greeted and transferred to our group hotel in New Delhi, the bustling capital city of India. The afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Meals: N/A
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Airport to transfer to group hotel
FREE TIME EXTRAS:
Optional Tour - Local Delhi Sightseeing Tour with Lunch
Pick Up: 12:00PM
USD: $55
Option available for passengers that have opted to arrive the day prior or before, or otherwise on flights that have them arrive to the hotel prior to this departure time.
Your guide will meet you at the hotel and depart for a local lunch. There will be a shopping visit to 'Fab India', a store where you can browse and shop for local fashion, and it’s comfortable attire to wear on tour. Then continue for an early evening visit The Qutub Minar, is a minaret and "victory tower" consisting of 399 steps and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in the city. Qutab-Minar in red and buff stand stone is the highest tower in India.
DAY 2
Explore NEW DELHI
Start the day by enjoying breakfast at your leisure at the hotel. This will be followed by a group briefing. It's an opportunity to discuss tour details, meet your tour leader, and ask any general questions.
Today you will be taken back in time to the ancient walled city of Old Delhi, also known as Shahjahanabad, which dates back to the 17th century. Visit the spectacular Jama Masjid or ‘Friday Mosque’, built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor also famous for constructing the Taj Mahal. Look out for the iconic red sandstone minarets and breathtaking marble domes.
From Jama Masjid, continue on a rickshaw tour of Old Delhi, the highlight being a visit to the sprawling Chandni Chowk market. Once flanked by canals to reflect the moonlight, the market is now bursting with exquisite Indian fabrics, gold and silverware, and aromatic spices. Enjoy the colours and scents of Old Delhi from your traditional cycle rickshaw — a comfortable and immersive way to experience the area.
Also included is a visit to Raj Ghat, the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, set on the banks of the Yamuna River. This revered pilgrimage site is marked by a black marble tomb and an eternal flame, surrounded by peaceful lawns. Drive past: Red Fort, India Gate, and government buildings.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Morning group tour briefing
- Visit Old Delhi
- Explore the spectacular Jama Masjid
- Rickshaw tour of Old Delhi
- Visit Raj Ghat, the resting place of Mahatma Ghandi
- Dinner at hotel
DAY 3
Delhi – Agra
After breakfast, you’ll depart for Agra, known as the City of the Taj. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Later, visit the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the sister monument to the Taj Mahal — essentially a walled city built of red sandstone. Also visit Sadar Bazaar and local textile showrooms, where you can experience the best of local Indian arts, crafts, and food. The bazaar features aromatic sweet shops, leather handicrafts, and beautiful marble work, said to be among the finest in India.
In the evening, enjoy a walk along the serene banks of the Yamuna River for a view of the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh, a peaceful vantage point before tomorrow’s full visit.
HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Later in the evening, attend the Holika Dahan ceremony
Holi is a Hindu festival that begins with a bonfire lit to celebrate the burning of the demoness Holika, symbolising the victory of good over evil. This ceremony precedes Holi, the festival of colours that welcomes spring. According to legend, Holika was the sister of Hiranyakashipu, who had been granted immunity from fire. She attempted to kill her nephew Prahlada — a devout follower of Lord Vishnu — by holding him in a fire. However, she perished, and Prahlada was saved. The Holika Dahan procession takes place on the evening before Holi.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Travel by road to Agra 222
- Tour Agra Fort
- Visit Sadar Bazaar & textile showrooms (optional)
- Early evening walk for a view of the Taj Mahal
- Local Holi Dahan ceremony
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 4
Agra / Holi Celebration
After breakfast at our hotel we transfer to a small village near Agra to visit a local temple. On arrival, participate in a short ritual, followed by a Holi celebration with locals. Later, return to the hotel for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is free for leisure activities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Holi celebrations
- Lunch and dinner together
DAY 5
Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Jaipur
Get ready for an early morning entry to the Taj Mahal to beat the crowds and explore this 17th-century masterpiece on a guided tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site allows time to admire the delicate inlay work and gardens said to be modelled after Paradise. We return for breakfast at our hotel.
Today we depart for Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan and famously known as the Pink City. En route, stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the imperial city built by Mughal Emperor Akbar. Once a thriving capital, the site offers remarkable architecture and a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal dynasty. On arrival in Jaipur, visit the Birla Temple (also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple), located below Moti Dungri Fort. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the temple is built from pure white marble and combines traditional reverence with modern elegance.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Visit Taj Mahal @ dawn with a guided tour
- Travel to Agra (estimated 6 hours drive time)
- Visit Fatehpur Sikri the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty built by Akbar
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 6
Jaipur
Start the day early with a visit to Amber Fort, set atop a hill in the town of Amer, just outside Jaipur. Overlooking Maota Lake, the fort is famous for its Hindu Rajput architecture and is part of the UNESCO-listed Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
Later, take a guided tour of the City Palace, a magnificent complex of palaces, courtyards, gardens and museums that reflect Jaipur’s royal heritage. After the City Palace, enjoy some time at leisure.
In the evening, visit the old city bazaars, located within the ancient walls of Jaipur. These bustling markets are known for jewellery, textiles, metalwork, traditional footwear, and pottery — and bargaining is all part of the experience!
For a special cultural treat, join an Indian cooking demonstration. Learn about the use of local ingredients and the preparation of classic dishes — followed by a delicious dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at Indian family home, with cooking demonstration)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- A visit to Amber Fort
- Guided tour of City Palace
- Visit the old city bazaars
- Home cooking demonstration with dinner
DAY 7
Jaipur – Pushkar
After breakfast, drive to Pushkar, one of the most sacred towns in India and an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Later, enjoy a city tour including a drive around Pushkar Lake, believed to have been formed by a lotus dropped by Lord Brahma. Visit the Brahma Temple (view from the outside), one of the very few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Travel to Pushkar by road (estimated 3.5 hours drive time)
- Visit the Birla Temple
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 8
Pushkar – Jodhpur
Today we depart Pushkar for Jodhpur, known as the Sun City for its year-round sunshine and the Blue City for its distinctive blue-painted houses, especially visible around the Mehrangarh Fort. On arrival, check in to the hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a market visit, where you’ll have the chance to browse vibrant textiles, traditional handicrafts, and colourful Rajasthani footwear.
Later in the evening, set out on a Jeep safari to Bishnoi Village, home to the Bishnoi community, renowned for their strong commitment to nature and wildlife conservation. During this memorable experience, visit various traditional villages and see local artisans at work — including shoemakers, potters, and hand weavers. Observe men in traditional dress and women adorned in ancestral silver jewellery.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Travel to Jodhpur by road (estimated 4 to 4.5 hours drive time)
- Local market visit
- Jeep safari to Bishnoi Village
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 9
Jodhpur
Start the day with a visit to Mehrangarh Fort, dating from the 15th century. Perched atop a rocky hill, the fort offers panoramic views over the city. Inside, explore beautifully preserved palaces, courtyards, and a fascinating collection of artefacts that reveal the fort’s historic and architectural importance.
In the afternoon, visit Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum, one of the world’s largest private residences and still home to the Jodhpur royal family. The museum displays royal memorabilia, vintage cars, and heritage furniture, offering a unique glimpse into regal life. Later, there’s another chance to enjoy the local markets, rich in textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani style.
Highlight Dinner
Tonight’s dinner is a special experience at a heritage hotel restaurant overlooking the illuminated Mehrangarh Fort.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Visit Mehrangarh Fort
- Visit Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
- A local market visit
- Highlight dinner, overlooking the Fort
SPECIAL NOTES:
At Ranakpur guides are not allowed inside the temples but audio guides are available at the entrance (a small fee for the audio guide is payable directly to the temple).
DAY 10
Jodhpur – Ranakpur – Udaipur
Depart Jodhpur early for the journey to Udaipur — a longer travel day, but with rewarding stops en route.
Visit Ranakpur, home to one of the most spectacular Jain temples in India, known for its intricate marble carvings and serene atmosphere. (Note: Guides are not permitted inside the temple, but audio guides are available at the entrance for a small fee, payable directly.)
Stop for lunch set in peaceful surroundings. In the evening, drive up to the Monsoon Palace, perched high above Udaipur with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and lakes. James Bond fans may recognise it from the film Octopussy.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Travel to Udaipur
- Visit the famous Jain Temple ‘Ranakpur’
- Visit Monsoon Palace
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 11
Udaipur
Begin with a morning guided tour of the City Palace complex, the former royal residence of the rulers of Mewar. Explore its ornately decorated interiors, balconies, and courtyards, all offering stunning views over Lake Pichola.
Later, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, passing landmarks like Jag Mandir and Lake Palace, set against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills. There will also be time to explore local markets and bazaars, known for colourful handicrafts, miniature paintings, and textiles.
Highlight Dinner
This evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner at the Sunset Terrace, Hotel Karohi Haveli, with panoramic views of the palaces and lakes — a beautiful setting to reflect on your journey through India.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Tour the City Palace complex and adjoining museums.
- Boat tour on Lake Pichola
- Market and bazaar visit
- Highlight dinner overlooking the palaces and lakes of Udaipur
DAY 12
Udaipur – Delhi By Flight
After breakfast, the morning is free for leisure activities or final shopping. Later, transfer to the airport for a flight to Delhi. On arrival, visit the spectacular Akshardham Temple, known for its remarkable stone carvings and blend of architectural styles from across India. Don’t miss the Musical Fountain Show in the temple gardens.
Fun fact: Akshardham was built entirely without the use of steel. It features 234 intricately carved pillars, 9 domes, and over 20,000 statues and sculptures of deities, dancers, and animals.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (at hotel)
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- One way flight to Delhi
- Akshardham Temple, Delhi
- Dinner at our hotel
DAY 13
Depart Delhi
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. The morning and this afternoon for travellers with a later departure head out for lunch together. Following lunch, visit the Lotus Temple, also known as the Bahá’í House of Worship — an architectural marvel resembling a blooming lotus. Made of white marble, it is often referred to as the Taj Mahal of the 20th century. Visitors from around the world come here to experience peace, meditation, and reflection.
After the visit, transfer to the airport for your return flight or onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
SNAPSHOT – WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- One way flight to Delhi
- Lunch
- Visit Lotus Temple
OPTIONAL EXTENSION: VARANASI 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
DAY 13
New Delhi - Varanasi
Transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport for a short domestic flight to Varanasi, India's holiest city in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism and Jainism and is also said to be where Buddha founded Buddhism.
On arrival, the group is met and transferred to our hotel. Later, enjoy a traditional North Indian Thali dinner featuring an assortment of local delicacies, including curries, yoghurts, and chutneys.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 14
Varanasi
Start the day early with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to witness the morning bathing rituals and cremation ceremonies—an unforgettable highlight of the tour. Afterwards, return to the hotel for breakfast.
Later, embark on a walking tour of Varanasi’s old city, weaving through bustling markets, narrow laneways, and cultural landmarks. Discover the city's renowned silk industry, Benaras Hindu University—one of Asia’s largest residential universities—and the tradition of ‘paan,’ a betel leaf preparation enjoyed for its stimulant effects.
In the afternoon, visit a silk and textile weaving showroom to observe the intricate craftsmanship behind Varanasi’s exquisite fabrics.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 15
Varanasi
After breakfast, take an excursion to Sarnath (9 km away), where Buddha delivered his first sermon following enlightenment. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Aarti Fire Ceremony on the Ganges, where flickering torches and candle offerings illuminate the river in a sacred Hindu ritual.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 16
Varanasi to Delhi (by air)
Transfer to Varanasi airport for your flight to Delhi. On arrival, stop at a local shopping mall for lunch (at your own expense) before transferring to the international airport for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
FREE TIME EXTRA
Take the option to begin the day with a Surya Namaskar yoga session at the Varanasi Ghats, where devotees gather to bathe and worship in the sacred waters. The participation fee is direct to your guide and minimum numbers are required for the yoga to be offered. Fee: USD35 per person
Itineraries may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. If there is any itinerary change prior to departure of significance, we aim to inform you prior to travel. Itinerary changes while on tour will be informed by your tour leader/guide while on tour.
