DURATION: 11 or 13 nights

BEST FOR: Cultural immersion

PACE: Active

Explore Rajasthan

Journey through the heart of northern India on an unforgettable adventure that blends timeless monuments, royal cities and authentic cultural encounters. From the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal to the tranquil lakes of Udaipur and the colourful bazaars of Rajasthan, each day reveals a new chapter of India's remarkable heritage. Stay in carefully selected hotels and experience the warmth, history and vibrant spirit that make this one of the country's most captivating journeys.

Choose the length of your stay:

11-night itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
• Day 2: Delhi → Agra
• Day 3: Agra → Karauli
• Day 4: Karauli → Jaipur
• Day 5: Jaipur
• Day 6: Jaipur → Bundi
• Day 7: Bundi → Chittorgarh → Udaipur
• Day 8: Udaipur
• Day 9: Udaipur → Ranakpur → Jodhpur
• Day 10: Jodhpur → Pushkar
• Day 11: Pushkar → Delhi
• Day 12: Departure from Delhi

13-night itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI

Your Indian adventure begins on arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), where a representative will welcome you before your transfer to the hotel. Delhi unfolds as a fascinating meeting point of ancient traditions and modern energy, with historic landmarks woven into the rhythm of everyday life. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, easing into the city's atmosphere before the journey ahead.

Included:

• Transfer from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
• Night at Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4*, Best Western Maharani Bagh 4*, Crowne Plaza Okhla 5* or Vivanta Dwarka 5*

DAY 2: DELHI → AGRA

Following breakfast, travel south to Agra, home to some of India's most celebrated Mughal treasures. Wander through the serene gardens of the Taj Mahal, where changing light plays across its gleaming marble façades, before exploring the vast Agra Fort, a striking complex of fortified walls, elegant palaces and beautifully crafted courtyards. As evening falls, settle into your hotel and reflect on a day immersed in the splendour of India's imperial past.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch at a local restaurant and dinner
• Transfer from Delhi to Agra
• Guided visit to the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays)
• Guided visit to Agra Fort
• Night at Howard Plaza 4*, Fairfield by Marriott Agra 4*, SAURA, a Club Mahindra Hotel 5* or Jaypee Palace 5*

DAY 3: AGRA → KARAULI   

After breakfast, travel into the quieter heart of Rajasthan as you make your way to the heritage town of Karauli. Following lunch, explore its atmospheric old citadel and wander through the colourful bazaar, where local artisans continue the tradition of crafting vibrant lacquer bangles by hand. Later, discover the beautifully preserved 14th-century City Palace before experiencing the uplifting evening Aarti ceremony at the revered Madan Mohan Ji Temple, surrounded by the sounds of bells and devotional chants.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI

Your Indian adventure begins on arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), where a representative will welcome you before your transfer to the hotel. Delhi unfolds as a fascinating meeting point of ancient traditions and modern energy, with historic landmarks woven into the rhythm of everyday life. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, easing into the city's atmosphere before the journey ahead.

Included:

• Transfer from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
• Night at Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4*, Best Western Maharani Bagh 4*, Crowne Plaza Okhla 5* or Vivanta Dwarka 5*

DAY 2: DELHI

After breakfast, discover the captivating contrasts of Delhi as you explore both its historic and modern quarters. Begin in Old Delhi with visits to Raj Ghat, a drive past the magnificent Red Fort, and an exterior view of the bustling Jama Masjid, where centuries of history unfold amid lively streets and markets. Following lunch at a local restaurant, continue to New Delhi to admire the soaring Qutub Minar, before passing the grand India Gate, the Parliament House and the Presidential Residence, each reflecting the city's elegant colonial legacy.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch at a local restaurant and dinner
• Full-day guided tour of Old and New Delhi
• Night at Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4*, Best Western Maharani Bagh 4*, Crowne Plaza Okhla 5* or Vivanta Dwarka 5*

DAY 3: DELHI → AGRA

Following breakfast, travel south to Agra, home to some of India's most celebrated Mughal treasures. Wander through the serene gardens of the Taj Mahal, where changing light plays across its gleaming marble façades, before exploring the vast Agra Fort, a striking complex of fortified walls, elegant palaces and beautifully crafted courtyards. As evening falls, settle into your hotel and reflect on a day immersed in the splendour of India's imperial past.

At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected 4* or 5* hotels.

Your 4* hotels (or similar):

• Delhi: Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4* or Best Western Maharani Bagh 4*
• Agra: Howard Plaza 4* or Fairfield by Marriott Agra 4*
• Karauli: Bhanwar Vilas Palace or Suroth Mahal
• Jaipur: WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli 4* or The Fern Residency 4*
• Bundi: Classic Sapphire Ananta 4* or Hadoti Palace 4*
• Udaipur: Kaner Bagh 4*, The Jagat Hotel 4* or Boheda Manor 4*
• Jodhpur: Ranbanka Palace 4*, Marugarh Resort 4* or Vega by The Ozone 4*
• Pushkar: Brahma Horizon 4* or Vesta Avtar Resort 4*
• Delhi: Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4* or Best Western Maharani Bagh 4*

Your 5* hotels (or similar):

• Delhi: Crowne Plaza Okhla 5* or Vivanta Dwarka 5*
• Agra: SAURA, a Club Mahindra Hotel 5* or Jaypee Palace 5*
• Karauli: Bhanwar Vilas Palace or Suroth Mahal
• Jaipur: Hilton Jaipur 5* or Holiday Inn Jaipur City Centre 5*
• Bundi: Classic Sapphire Ananta 4* or Hadoti Palace 4*
• Udaipur: Fateh Vilas by Fateh Collection 5* or Trident Udaipur 5*
• Jodhpur: Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels 5* or Novotel Jodhpur 5*
• Pushkar: Pratap Mahal, IHCL SeleQtions 5* or The Westin Pushkar Resort & Spa 5*
• Delhi: Crowne Plaza Okhla 5* or Vivanta Dwarka 5*

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

Immerse yourself in India's rich culinary heritage with a cooking class, preparing an authentic local dish using traditional recipes and fragrant spices.

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.

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.

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city of grandeur and rich history, often referred to as the Pink City. Built in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, its distinctive pink-hued architecture and regal charm have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status, making it a must-visit destination in northern India.

Must-sees:

• Amber Fort: A majestic hilltop fort blending Hindu and Mughal styles, with stunning views of the Maota Lake.
• Hawa Mahal: The iconic Palace of Winds, featuring intricate lattice windows designed for royal ladies.
• City Palace: A splendid complex of courtyards, gardens, and museums showcasing royal artefacts.

Culinary culture:

Jaipur’s cuisine is a feast for the senses. Savour traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, a hearty lentil-based meal served with wheat dumplings and sweet crumble. Street food lovers can indulge in kachoris and mirchi vadas, while dessert enthusiasts must try ghevar, a honeycomb-like sweet soaked in syrup. Many heritage hotels and rooftop restaurants offer a dining experience fit for royalty.

Dive deeper:

Explore Jaipur’s artistic heritage through its vibrant bazaars. Johari Bazaar is renowned for its exquisite jewellery, while Tripolia Bazaar offers intricate handicrafts and textiles. Delve into the city’s astronomical history at Jantar Mantar, a collection of monumental instruments used to measure time and celestial events.

Good to know:

The ideal time to visit is: October to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable. Jaipur’s well-planned streets make it easy to navigate, whether by auto-rickshaw or private car. For a unique experience, attend the annual Jaipur Literature Festival, celebrating global literature and culture in an opulent setting.

Agra, situated just 200 kilometres south of Delhi, is renowned for its breathtaking Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of eternal love and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This enchanting city draws millions of travellers each year, eager to witness its architectural marvels.

Must-sees:

• Taj Mahal: The world-famous marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, renowned for its intricate beauty and serene surroundings.

• Agra Fort: A majestic red sandstone fort showcasing Mughal architecture, with stunning views of the Taj Mahal from its ramparts.

• Fatehpur Sikri: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this former Mughal capital offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the empire through its well-preserved palaces and courtyards.

Culinary culture:

Agra’s cuisine is a blend of Mughal and traditional Indian flavors. Savor dishes like petha, a sweet made from pumpkin, and enjoy Mughlai delights such as kebabs and biryanis. Street food enthusiasts can indulge in chaat and aloo tikki, while local eateries offer a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Dive deeper:

Agra’s vibrant markets are full of treasures, from intricate marble inlay work to colorful textiles and jewelry. Explore the bustling Sadar Bazaar for handcrafted souvenirs, or visit the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the ‘Baby Taj,’ showcasing early Mughal architectural style.

Good to know:

The best time to visit Agra is from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The Taj Mahal is a must-see at sunrise for breathtaking views, and local rickshaws or private cars are ideal for exploring the city’s many wonders. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend the Taj Mahotsav, a cultural festival celebrating music, dance, and crafts.