Upon arrival at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), a dedicated staff member will greet you at the arrivals hall. You’ll be transferred to your hotel to begin your adventure in Delhi - India’s vibrant capital, which is an immersive blend of history and modernity. Explore the Red Fort and Qutab Minar, ancient monuments that echo Delhi’s grand past. Discover Chandni Chowk’s bustling markets, where the aromas and spices enchant the senses. Escape to the tranquil Lotus Temple for a moment of peace amidst the capital’s lively pace.

• Airport meet & greet with flower garland
• Night in your hotel in Delhi

DAY 2: DELHI - TRAIN TO AGRA - DHOLPUR

After breakfast, transfer to the railway station for a comfortable journey to Agra, famously home to the Taj Mahal and once the heart of the Mughal Empire. Beyond its iconic landmark, Agra unfolds as a gateway to Mughal architecture and history.

Taj Mahal: Explore this breathtaking tribute to love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. Marvel at intricate Quranic inscriptions and masterful designs crafted by artisans from Italy and Persia (closed Fridays).

Agra Fort: Visit this 1565 red sandstone fort, a blend of grandeur with its marble palaces and stunning courtyards, including Musamman Burj, where Shah Jahan spent his final days.

An afternoon transfer takes you to Dholpur (approx. 1 hour). Once a princely state, Dholpur is rich in heritage with a unique cultural tapestry and historical elegance.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Train ticket from Delhi to Agra 
• Night in your hotel in Dholpur

DAY 3: DHOLPUR - KALAKHO

Depart for Kalakho with a scenic 122 mile drive (approx. 3.5 hours). En route, visit Karauli Village, a revered yet peaceful pilgrimage site dedicated to Shri Madan Mohanji, an incarnation of Krishna. Karauli is a hidden gem, famed for its ancient Krishna temples, vibrant lac (resin) bracelets, and striking red sandstone quarries – a step into Rajasthan’s less-explored spiritual heritage.

Upon arrival in Kalakho, check into your hotel and enjoy lunch. Later, join your host family for an immersive walk through their organic gardens and dairy farm, where you’ll experience firsthand the rural charm and sustainability of local life.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Optional (at an extra cost): Join a host family for a cooking demonstration, followed by turban and saree tying, and dinner. 
• Night in your hotel in Kalakho

After breakfast, marvel at the Abhaneri Step Well—a stunning ancient structure renowned for its intricate geometric design and profound depth, symbolising the grandeur of Indian architecture. Later, journey to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, with an 86 mile drive (approx. 2 hours).

Rajasthan stands as a vibrant testament to India’s rich heritage, with its fortresses, ornate palaces, and vast desert landscapes. Known for its striking colours and contrasts, the region captures India's diverse spirit like nowhere else.

Upon arrival in Jaipur, explore the lively bazaars and enjoy an iconic rickshaw ride through the bustling streets, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and heritage.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Rickshaw ride in Jaipur
• Night in your hotel in Jaipur

DAY 5: JAIPUR

Start your day at Amber Fort, a remarkable creation by Maharaja Mansingh in the 17th century, perched above Moat Lake. Amber served as Jaipur’s original seat of power before the City Palace. Traverse courtyards adorned with intricate murals, gemstones, and mirrors; highlights include the Sheesh Mahal—where a single lamp illuminates a thousand reflections, a spectacle of Mughal artistry.

Spend the afternoon exploring Jaipur. Visit the impressive City Palace with its lush gardens and decorative art. Marvel at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of the Winds, where royal women once observed the city’s lively streets.

Continue to Jantar Mantar, the 1726 Astronomical Observatory, still renowned for its precision. End your visit with a stroll through Jaipur's vibrant local markets.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Jeep ride at Amber Fort
• Night in your hotel in Jaipur

Depart for Bundi, a scenic 135 miles (approximately 3 hours) through Rajasthan's captivating landscapes. Nestled in a narrow gorge, Bundi's palaces and forts resemble a fairy-tale setting, offering a picturesque scene reminiscent of a miniature painting, frozen in time. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, the city boasts a massive fortification with four gates.

Upon arrival, explore Bundi Fort and Taragarh Fort. Ascend through a grand wooden gate to the Chittra Shala, where exquisite miniature paintings depict themes from the Raga mala and the Radha-Krishna legend. Marvel at the Bundi murals in the Chhattar Mahal and Badal Mahal. The partly overgrown 14th-century fort on the hilltop invites exploration, so bring a stick for support during your ascent.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Night in your hotel in Bundi

DAY 7: BUNDI - CHITTORGARH - UDAIPUR

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Udaipur, covering 168 miles (approximately 4 hours). En route, visit Chittoragarh Fort, one of India’s largest forts, steeped in tales of bravery and heritage. This impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on a rocky plateau features ornate palaces, temples, and towers that showcase Rajput architecture. From a distance, the fort's turrets rise majestically above its fortifications, with the Tower of Victory standing as a tribute to Rajput valor against the Muslim sultan.

Stop for lunch before continuing your journey to Udaipur. Arrive in Udaipur in the afternoon. Often dubbed the 'Venice of the East', Udaipur is renowned for its romantic charm, nestled in a valley surrounded by lush hills. The city sparkles like a jewel, with Lake Pichola reflecting its white palaces and vibrant streets lined with colourful stalls, gardens, and temples.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Night in your hotel in Udaipur

Begin your day with a visit to City Palace, a grand white fortress established in 1725, entered through the striking Tripolia Gate. Inside, don’t miss the Suraj Gokhada ('Balcony of the Sun'), where the rulers of Mewar would rally their people. This magnificent palace showcases the artistry and strength of Udaipur's royal legacy.

In the afternoon, explore Jagdish Temple, the largest and most revered temple in Udaipur, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Then, pass by Fateh Sagar Lake before strolling through Sahelion-ki-Bari (Garden of the Honoured Ladies), with intricate fountains and pavilions celebrating royal life.

Conclude the day with a serene evening boat ride on Lake Pichola. At Jag Mandir Palace, admire the marble pavilion, picturesque domes, and views of locals along the lakeside—capturing Udaipur’s timeless charm.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Boat ride on Lake Pichola
• Night in your hotel in Udaipur

DAY 9: UDAIPUR - RANAKPUR - JODHPUR

Travel from Udaipur to Jodhpur (170 miles, approx. 4 hours) with a memorable stop at Ranakpur Jain Temples, a remarkable religious complex nestled in Rajasthan’s rugged hills. These temples are celebrated for their grand architecture and intricate carvings, especially the 1,444 unique pillars and meticulously decorated ceilings. Built by Jain priests, the craftsmanship continues to this day, passed down through generations. (Temples open noon–4 pm, audio tours only).

Explore Jodhpur’s historic walled city, framed by a 10-km fortification with eight gates. Known for its vivid blue buildings, winding streets, and the origin of the famed jodhpurs riding trousers, this city offers a delightful blend of historic intrigue and cultural charm.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Night in your hotel Jodhpur

Start today with a visit to Mehrangarh Fort, a vast sandstone fortress high on a hill, with seven gates and countless bastions protecting a stunning maze of palaces and courtyards. The fort houses several museums showcasing royal artefacts, weaponry, and art.

Next, see Jaswant Thada, an exquisite white marble cenotaph honouring Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Travel to the sacred city of Pushkar (112 miles, approx. 4 hours), one of India’s oldest cities and a major pilgrimage destination. According to legend, the god Brahma formed Pushkar’s three lakes by dropping lotus petals, giving rise to this 'Rose garden of Rajasthan', famed for its export roses.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Night in your hotel in Pushkar

DAY 11: PUSHKAR - DELHI

A visit to the Brahma Temple, is first on the agenda today. It's the only one of its kind in the world, nestled in the stunning Pushkar valley behind Nangaparvat and Anasagar Lake. This marble temple is adorned with silver coins and features a striking red spire topped with a sacred image of a swan, symbolising Lord Brahma. After exploring the temple, take a moment to appreciate the Sacred Lake and wander through Pushkar's vibrant bazaar, rich with local crafts and culture.

In the afternoon, embark on a journey back to Delhi, covering approximately 250 miles in about 6 hours. Enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way as you reflect on the spiritual experiences of the day.

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• Night in your hotel in Delhi

DAY 12: DEPARTURE 

After a final breakfast, you will be transferred to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) for your flight.

• Breakfast included

For a comfortable, tailor-made experience, you can choose from a selection of 4* hotels or a combination of 4* &  5* hotels:

4* hotels:

• Delhi: Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4* / Alivaa Hotel 4* / Rythm Gurgaon 4* or similar
• Dholpur: Raj Niwas Palace / Narsingh Bagh  or similar
• Kalakho: Umaid Palace – An Organic Retreat 4* or similar
• Jaipur: WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli 4* / Suryaa Villa - A Boutique Heritage Haveli 4* or similar
• Bundi: Classic Sapphire Ananta / Hadoti Palace 4* Deluxe or similar
• Udaipur: Pride Udaipur 4* or similar
• Jodhpur: Marugarh Resort / Zone by The Park / Radisson (Veg Hotel) 4* or similar
• Pushkar: Bamboo Saa Mulberry Resort / Greenhouse Resort / Rawai Luxury Tents 4* Deluxe or similar

4* and 5* hotels:

• Delhi: Novotel Aerocity / Le Meridien 5* or similar
• Dholpur: Raj Niwas Palace / Narsingh Bagh or similar
• Kalakho: Umaid Palace – An Organic Retreat 4* or similar 
• Jaipur: ITC Rajputana / Hilton 5* or similar 
• Bundi: Classic Sapphire Ananta / Hadoti Palace 4* Deluxe or similar
• Udaipur: Fateh Vilas by Fateh Collection / Trident 5* or similar
• Jodhpur: Welcomhotel By ITC / Novotel Jodhpur 5* or similar
• Pushkar: Pratap Mahal IHCL SeleQtion / The Westin Resort 5* or similar

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

Make the most of your local English-speaking guide as per the itinerary.

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

India is a land of immense cultural diversity, offering an intriguing blend of ancient traditions, regional flavours, and natural beauty. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to the spiritual rhythms of Varanasi, every region offers its distinct charm. India invites travellers to explore both its renowned landmarks and its hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Must-sees:

• The Taj Mahal in Agra is the epitome of Mughal architecture and eternal love.
• The forts and palaces of Jaipur, are where the opulence of Rajasthan's royal history comes alive.
• The markets of Mumbai, are a sensory delight of colours, sounds, and aromas, offering everything from textiles to spices.

Culinary culture:
Indian cuisine is a feast of contrasting textures and bold flavours. From the aromatic biryanis of Hyderabad to the street food of Delhi, the nation’s culinary scene is a vast mosaic of regional delicacies. Sample the famous chaat or a traditional thali, which offers an array of dishes to excite the palate. Spices like cumin, cardamom, and turmeric are integral, but each region brings its unique twist, from fiery South Indian curries to the milder, rich flavours of the North.

Dive deeper:

To truly understand India, immerse yourself in its lesser-known traditions. Visit the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Maharashtra, where ancient Buddhist paintings and sculptures reveal the spiritual history of the country. Engage with local artisans in Rajasthan’s vibrant craft workshops, or witness the understated beauty of a traditional Kathakali dance performance in Kerala. For those seeking tranquillity, a visit to an Ashram offers insight into India’s spiritual practices.

Good to know:

India is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is between October and March when temperatures are milder. The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), and most major cities have well-connected transport networks. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Be prepared for the sensory overload that characterises India’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes.