We Love —
- Immersing yourself in India's vibrant culture and Rajasthan’s storied landscapes, where palaces, fortresses, and bustling markets bring history to life.
- Wandering through Jaipur and Jodhpur, ride a rickshaw through vibrant bazaars, and embark on a jeep safari to explore majestic forts and rich heritage.
- Marvelling at the Taj Mahal at sunrise, then journey to Varanasi for the serene Ganga Aarti as the river glows at dusk.
Your itinerary in brief —
This journey through the royal heart of Rajasthan unveils a world of colour, culture, and architectural splendour.
Beginning in Delhi, where centuries-old traditions meet modern energy, the route winds through vibrant cities such as Jaipur, the ‘Pink City,’ and Jodhpur, famed for its blue-hued houses and imposing forts. Along the way, immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life—drifting through bustling markets by rickshaw, ascending to Amber Fort by jeep, and stepping into rural villages where time seems to stand still. No visit to Rajasthan is complete without witnessing the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a moment of quiet grandeur in Agra.
For those seeking a deeper connection, a stopover in Varanasi offers a glimpse into India’s spiritual soul. Here, the sacred waters of the Ganges reflect the flickering flames of the evening Aarti, as the city’s timeless rituals unfold along its storied ghats.
Choose from the following itineraries:
8 night trip:
- Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Day 2: Delhi
- Day 3: Delhi – Mandawa
- Day 4: Mandawa – Jodhpur
- Day 5: Jodhpur – Jaipur
- Day 6: Jaipur
- Day 7: Jaipur – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra
- Day 8: Agra – Delhi
- Day 9: Departure
10 night trip (including optional stopover in Varanasi):
- Days 1 - 7: Identical to the 8-night tour
- Day 8: Agra
- Day 9: Agra – Varanasi
- Day 10: Varanasi
- Day 11: Varanasi – Delhi – Departure
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
- Your journey begins with a flight to Delhi, India’s dynamic and vibrant capital.
- Upon arrival in the evening, you will be warmly greeted at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and transferred to your hotel.
- Take the time to unwind and relax, preparing for a trip filled with discovery and exploration.
Overnight stay in Delhi at Ashtan Sarovar Portico / Park Plaza 4* or Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka / WelcomHotel Dwarka 5* (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 2: DELHI
- After a delightful breakfast, your exploration of Old Delhi begins.
DAY 5: JODHPUR TO JAIPUR (210 MILES / 6.5 HOURS)
DAY 5: JODHPUR TO JAIPUR (210 MILES / 6.5 HOURS)
- After breakfast, depart for Jaipur, the Pink City and capital of Rajasthan.
- Known for its striking city walls, vibrant markets, and cultural treasures, Jaipur offers a wealth of exploration.
- Upon arrival, you can either relax or venture out to explore the colourful bazaar.
- Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Jaipur at WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli / Holiday Inn Express 4* or Marriott / Hilton 5*, (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 6: THE ROYAL JAIPUR
- Today is dedicated to discovering the royal wonders of Jaipur.
- We suggest:
- Marvelling at the graceful facade of the Hawa Mahal, the famous Palace of Winds.
- Visiting the impressive Amber Fort, perched on a hill and accessible by jeep or elephant, where you’ll find a labyrinth of palaces and a mirror hall.
- Conclude your day with a visit to Jantar Mantar, an astronomical marvel, followed by a rickshaw ride through the old city.
Overnight stay in Jaipur at WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli / Holiday Inn Express 4* or Marriott / Hilton 5*, (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 7: JAIPUR TO AGRA VIA FATEHPUR SIKRI (200 MILES / 6 HOURS)
- Today, travel towards Agra, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned capital of Emperor Akbar.
- We recommend admiring the blend of Indo-Islamic and Hindu architecture at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- And in Agra, visiting the imposing Agra Fort, a historic structure with deep significance.
- Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in your hotel.
Overnight stay in Agra at Fairfield by Marriott / Grand Mercure 4* Courtyard by Marriott / Jaypee Palace 5*, (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 8: THE FAMOUS TAJ MAHAL AND RETURN TO DELHI (127 MILES / 4.5 HOURS)
- To begin the day we would recommend visiting the world-famous Taj Mahal, an awe-inspiring monument of love (closed every Friday) .
- After this unforgettable experience, head back to Delhi, where you can relax in your hotel or continue to explore the city.
Overnight stay in Delhi at Ashtan Sarovar Portico / Park Plaza 4* or Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka / WelcomHotel Dwarka 5* (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 9: DEPARTURE
- After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to India.
- You will be transferred to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in time for your return flight, carrying with you lasting memories of this remarkable journey through Rajasthan.
10 night trip (including optional stopover in Varanasi)
DAY 8: LEISURE AFTERNOON IN AGRA
- After your morning activities in Agra, the afternoon is at your leisure.
- Relax in your hotel, take advantage of the hotel's facilities, or enjoy a stroll through the city.
- Prepare for the next day, when you will depart for Varanasi.
- Conclude your day with a delightful dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.
Overnight stay in Agra at Fairfield by Marriott / Grand Mercure 4* (depending upon your hotel category selection).
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 9: AGRA TO VARANASI (7 HOURS)
- Early in the morning, board a comfortable train to Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India.
- Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel to rest.
- In the evening, experience the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges.
- Watch as priests honour the river with lamps and chants while hundreds of small lights are placed on the water, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Varanasi at Rivatas By Ideal 4*.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 10: EXPLORING VARANASI AND SARNATH
- Start your day early with a boat ride on the Ganges, where you’ll witness pilgrims performing their sacred rituals at the Ghats, offering a serene glimpse into this ancient morning tradition.
- After breakfast, we suggest exploring the city, by visiting the Bharat Mata Temple, the Durga Temple, and the impressive Aurangzeb Mosque.
- In the afternoon, we highly recommend taking a trip to Sarnath, one of the most significant Buddhist centres in the world, where Buddha delivered his first teachings and established the Dharma.
Overnight stay in Varanasi at Rivatas By Ideal 4*.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 11: RETURN TO DELHI (530 MILES / 12 HOURS)
- After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning to unwind.
- Later, you will be transferred to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) for your flight back to Delhi, from where you will catch your international return flight.
- Take with you the wonderful memories of Varanasi, a fitting end to your unforgettable journey.
Important information about your tour and visits:
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
During your trip, you will stay in the following hotels (or similar), which have been carefully selected for your comfort and convenience:
Superior category hotels:
- Delhi : Ashtan Sarovar Portico / Park Plaza 4*
- Mandawa : Vivaana Culture Hotel (boutique)
- Jodhpur: Indana Palace / Bal Samand Lake Palace 5*
- Jaipur: WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli / Holiday Inn Express 4*
- Agra: Fairfield by Marriott / Grand Mercure 4*
Deluxe category hotels:
- Delhi : Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka / WelcomHotel Dwarka 5*
- Mandawa : Vivaana Culture Hotel (boutique)
- Jodhpur : Indana Palace 5*
- Jaipur: Marriott / Hilton 5*
- Agra: Courtyard by Marriott / Jaypee Palace 5*
Hotels for the 10-night tour (Varanasi stopover):
- Agra: Fairfield by Marriott / Grand Mercure 4*
- Varanasi: Rivatas By Ideal 4*
Please note: If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Please note that check-in is at 2pm and check-out is at noon at all hotel.
It is possible to stay in a single room for an additional fee. The maximum occupancy in a room is 3 adults or 2 adults + 1 child.
Your dining choices
For an ideal balance between freedom and tranquility, you'll enjoy a half board dining package (excluding drinks). This includes breakfasts and dinners (excluding drinks) from breakfast on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 9, and from dinner on Day 8 to breakfast on Day 11 for the Varanasi stopover. Alternatively, you can opt to upgrade to the the full-board option (excluding drinks) for added convenience.
Treat yourself to a full board stay and upgrade at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Your included extras —
English-speaking guide as per itinerary
For a seamless holiday experience, take advantage of an English-speaking guide as per the itinerary.
Complimentary 1GB of mobile data
Stay connected on your travels with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your complimentary eSIM and stay connected wherever you go. Share your hotspot, keep in touch with home, and explore without worrying about roaming charges. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
Your optional extras & excursions —
Additional 2GB of mobile data
Choose an additional 2GB and stay connected on the go. Share your data via your hotspot, have easy access to maps, or find the best local spots to eat. Perfect for modern travellers who value effortless connectivity, without worrying about roaming charges. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
Your journey to India —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
India
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.
New Delhi
New Delhi, a vibrant fusion of ancient spirituality and modern dynamism, invites visitors to explore its bustling bazaars, wide boulevards, historic mosques, and temples. A city rich in contrast, New Delhi is as much a hub of energy as it is a haven for reflection and culture, offering diverse experiences for every traveller.
Must-sees:
- Qutub Minar: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this towering sandstone minaret marks the start of Muslim rule in India.
- Rashtrapati Bhavan: A stunning blend of British and Indian architecture, this presidential residence is a symbol of the nation's power.
- Raj Ghat: The peaceful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, a place of solemn reflection in the heart of the city.
Culinary culture:
New Delhi's food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity. Street food lovers can indulge in chaat at local stalls, while fine dining establishments serve a range of North Indian and Mughlai dishes, such as butter chicken and biryani. Traditional markets like Chandni Chowk offer authentic local flavours, from parathas to sweets like jalebi. For a more refined experience, the city’s diverse dining options incorporate regional specialities and global influences.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the well-known landmarks, New Delhi offers hidden gems that provide a deeper understanding of its history. Visit the Lodhi Gardens, an expansive park housing tombs of the 15th-century sultans, or explore Dilli Haat, a lively open-air market that showcases traditional handicrafts and cultural performances. These lesser-known sites offer a chance to connect with the city's diverse heritage and local life.
Good to know:
The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March. Public transport is convenient, with the Delhi Metro offering an easy way to navigate the city, which is helpful due to varying levels of air quality, as pollution levels can be high, especially during winter months.
