Overview:
Embark on an unforgettable journey through India’s greatest treasures as you visit iconic landmarks, experience the country’s rich wildlife, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. During this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the majestic Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most renowned monuments, and seek out the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat.
But this tour is not just about sightseeing; it’s also about experiencing India’s spirituality and traditions. You’ll witness a holy rite beside the sacred Ganges River, a powerful spiritual experience that will stay with you forever.
Highlights:
- Witness the timeless beauty of the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most renowned monuments
- Seek out the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat on a wildlife safari
- Experience a powerful spiritual rite beside the sacred Ganges River
- Stay in luxurious palaces-turned-hotels for a true royal experience
- Explore the vibrant culture of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ranthambore, and Varanasi with expert guides
Advantages:
- Private Tour.
- The tour can start on any date that suits you.
- Top VIP Treatment.
- Enjoy luxury accommodations in former palaces, including the iconic Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur and the grand Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, for an unforgettable experience.
- Experience a private sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola, followed by a refreshing cocktail, creating a truly memorable moment.
- Marvel at the breathtaking Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset for a truly unforgettable experience.
- Go on private safaris in Panna National Park, home to the elusive Bengal tiger, and learn about conservation from a member of the local Pardhi community, adding an educational aspect to the tour.
- Observe the awe-inspiring aarti ceremony performed by priests on the banks of the Holy Ganges in Varanasi, immersing yourself in the spiritual culture of India.
- Discover the diverse attractions of India’s great cities, from the fast-paced and colorful Mumbai to the blend of old and new in Delhi, influenced by British colonialism.
ITINERARY:
DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN MUMBAI, INDIA
On your arrival in Mumbai, representative will meet you and transfer you to your iconic hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace.
DAY 2 MUMBAI | THE GATEWAY OF INDIA
Explore the classic sites of Mumbai including The Gateway of India, a monument that reflects India’s Muslim and Hindu traditions. Visit the Prince of Wales Museum and Mani Bhawan, a museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi. Witness the world’s largest open-air laundry at Dhobi Ghat. End the day with a welcome dinner.
DAY 3 UDAIPUR | CRUISE TO JAG MANDIR
Fly to Udaipur and settle into your stunning palace hotel located in the middle of scenic Lake Pichola. Take a private cruise past Jag Mandir, a marble palace on an island in Lake Pichola. Enjoy a Scenic Sundowner followed by dinner while admiring the sunset from your island hotel.
DAY 4 UDAIPUR | SPLENDORS OF THE CITY PALACE
Visit the City Palace, a marble complex offering unforgettable views of the lake. Continue to the Crystal Gallery in Fateh Prakash Palace. Stroll through the Sahelion Ki Bari, a garden before returning to the hotel.
DAY 5 JAIPUR | GARDENS & TEMPLES
Fly to Jaipur and check in to your hotel, Rambagh Palace, which was once the residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace, an arresting complex of palaces, pavilions, gardens and temples. Visit the Mubarak Mahal, which contains textiles including the royal formal costumes, Sanganeri block prints, Kashmiri pashminas and silk saris. Then, visit Jantar Mantar, an open-air array of astronomical instruments.
DAY 6 JAIPUR | DESIGN YOUR DAY
View the Palace of the Winds which was built so that the women of the royal household could observe street life without being seen. Explore the Mughal-style Amber Fort, a red sandstone and marble palace that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, you can choose from one of the following activities:
- Practice yoga during a private session at historic Rambagh Palace.
- Visit Digantar Vidyalay to interact with the students at an innovative school supported by A&K Philanthropy.
- Discover the bazaars of Jaipur, taking in the vibe of local life and shopping for keepsakes from your journey.
Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.
DAY 7 AGRA | VISIONS OF THE TAJ MAHAL
Drive to Agra, observing the colorful rural life of Rajasthan on the way. Upon arrival, catch your first glimpse of the breathtaking Taj Mahal from your luxurious room. Visit the Taj Mahal in the late afternoon when the setting sun bathes it in a soft orange glow.
DAY 8 AGRA | SPECTACULAR AGRA FORT
Return to the Taj Mahal the next morning when the rising sun lends a warm pink tint to its marble face. Visit the Agra Fort, which was once the prison of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who built the Taj Mahal after the death of his beloved wife.
DAY 9 PANNA NATIONAL PARK | INTO THE WILD
Take a train to Jhansi and then head to remote Panna National Park after lunch. The park is a sanctuary for India’s wildlife, and you’ll check in to your wilderness lodge upon arrival. Enjoy an exclusive experience with a member of the local Pardhi community to learn about their efforts to restore the Bengal tiger population in the park.
Accommodation: Pashan Garh, Panna National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10 PANNA NATIONAL PARK | TIGER TRACKING
Embark on a 4×4 game drive in Panna National Park early in the morning to spot crocodiles and search for tigers. Discover how the park’s tiger population has grown through a conservation program, increasing the chances of a sighting. Return to the lodge for a Chef’s Table experience, including an Indian cooking demonstration, as the chef prepares local cuisine for lunch. Another game drive follows before dinner at Pashan Garh.
Accommodation: Pashan Garh, Panna National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11 KHAJURAHO & VARANASI | INDIA’S HOLIEST CITY
Drive to Khajuraho and marvel at the intricate depictions of life on the 85 Hindu and Jain temples. Continue by flight to Varanasi, one of India’s holiest cities with over a thousand temples and shrines revered by Hindus and Buddhists. In the evening, witness the aarti ceremony by the Ganges River, where lantern-bearing priests offer prayers and rhythmic drumming fills the air.
Accommodation: Taj Ganges, Varanasi Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12 VARANASI & DELHI | PRIVATE SUNRISE RIVER CRUISE
Wake up early for a private sunrise cruise along the Ganges River to observe daily life and spiritual cleansing rituals on the ghats. Later, take a flight to Delhi for a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: The Oberoi, New Delhi Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 13 DELHI | EXPLORING THE OLD & THE NEW
Visit the Jama Masjid, India’s most important mosque, completed in 1656. Then, take a rickshaw ride through the narrow alleys and bustling stalls of Chandni Chowk bazaar, one of the oldest markets in Old Delhi. After lunch, explore New Delhi, including Humayun’s Tomb, the resting place of a 16th-century Mughal emperor and an architectural precursor of the Taj Mahal.
Accommodation: The Oberoi, New Delhi Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 14 DEPART DELHI
Transfer to the airport early in the morning for your flight home, or start your post-tour extension to Kathmandu.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions:
- Accommodation in luxury hotels and wilderness lodges
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- All transfers and transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
- All activities and sightseeing as per itinerary, including entrance fees
- English-speaking guides and naturalists
- Domestic flights as per itinerary
Exclusions:
- International flights to and from India
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and tips
Pricing Information:
Prices $12000per person based on double occupancy.
Accommodation Plan:
ARRIVE MUMBAI, INDIA: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
UDAIPUR : Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
JAIPUR: Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
AGRA : The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
PANNA NATIONAL PARK: Pashan Garh, Panna National Park
KHAJURAHO & VARANASI : Taj Ganges, Varanasi
VARANASI & DELHI : The Oberoi, New Delhi
Tips and Advice for Travelers:
- India is a culturally rich country, so it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
- Carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper, as public restrooms may not have these amenities.
- Stay hydrated and avoid drinking tap water. Only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.
- Be careful when purchasing food from street vendors. Make sure the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot.
Trip Notes:
- This tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness as it involves walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of vehicles.
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
- The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 12.
- Travelers should check the latest health and safety guidelines before booking the tour.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to India? A: Yes, travelers to India need a valid visa. We recommend obtaining a tourist visa in advance of your travel dates.
Q: What is the best time to visit India? A: The best time to visit India is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier.
Q: Are meals included in the tour? A: Yes, daily breakfast and select meals are included in the tour. Please refer to the itinerary for more details.
Q: Is travel insurance included in the tour? A: No, travel insurance is not included in the tour. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your trip.
Q: Can I customize the tour to my preferences? A: Yes, we offer customization options to suit the needs of our travelers. Please contact us for more information.