We Love —
- Experiencing an unforgettable blend of enchanting landscapes, vibrant city life, and thrilling adventures.
- Observing magnificent tigers roaming freely in Ranthambore National Park on exhilarating jeep safaris.
- Discovering the history and culture of Rajasthan and soaking up its charm by visiting sumptuous monuments such as Amber Fort and the Taj Mahal.
Customer reviews —
Your itinerary in brief —
Immerse in the rhythm of India on a private journey shaped around landmark cities, sacred sites and varied landscapes. The trip begins in Delhi, where historic quarters sit beside lively neighbourhoods. From here, the route moves through Jaipur’s grand architecture, the calm forests of Ranthambore and the quiet, enduring beauty of Agra.
You can also choose the 9-night itinerary, which has a stay in Nepal, perfect for experiencing both India’s lively streets and the open landscapes of its Himalayan neighbour.
Your 7 night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Day 2: Delhi
Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur
Day 4: Jaipur
Day 5: Jaipur - Ranthambore
Day 6: Ranthambore
Day 7: Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
Day 8: Agra - Delhi - Departure
Your 11 night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Day 2: Delhi
Day 3: Delhi - Mandawa
Day 4: Mandawa - Nagaur - Jodhpur
Day 5: Jodhpur - Pushkar
Day 6: Pushkar - Jaipur
Day 7: Jaipur
Day 8: Jaipur - Ranthambore
Day 9: Ranthambore
Day 10: Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
Day 11: Agra - Delhi
Day 12: Departure
Your 9 night itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Delhi
Day 2: Delhi - Ranthambore
Day 3: Ranthambore
Day 4: Ranthambore
Day 5: Ranthambore - Agra
Day 6: Agra - Delhi - Kathmandu
Day 7: Kathmandu - Chitwan
Day 8: Chitwan
Day 9: Chitwan
Day 10: Chitwan - Kathmandu - Departure
Please note that the order of activities may be adjusted without affecting the overall itinerary.
Experience authenticity... If you crave far-flung destinations, untouched beauty, and soul-enriching cultural immersion, this exceptional expedition promises a truly authentic experience. In certain regions, accommodation is refreshingly no-frills, offering you the opportunity to embrace the culture of each destination. Our unwavering dedication to excellence means that each location has been meticulously selected, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Your itinerary in detail —
7-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI
India's capital and a major gateway to the country, New Delhi is a bustling metropolis that successfully combines the ancient with the modern. Among the rapidly spiralling skyscrapers, vestiges of a bygone era stand as silent testimonies to the region's former glory. The first impressions for any visitor arriving from the airport are of a spacious, leafy city, lined with trees and dotted with many beautiful parks.
- Arrive at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
- After passing through customs, immigration, and luggage reclaim, you'll be met by a Yatra representative.
- You'll be escorted to your transfer vehicle after you exit the Arrivals Hall.
- Enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you'll be assisted with check-in.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
DAY 2: DELHI
The division between New Delhi and Old Delhi also marks the division between the capitals of the British and the Mughals, respectively. The old city is steeped in tradition, and it's there that you'll discover life in all its facets, colours and charms. New Delhi, on the other hand, is a city that's striving to meet the 21st century, full-on.
Your Imperial Delhi tour today will include a visit to the Qutub Minar, India's tallest stone tower, built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1199. You'll also pass the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President's residence.
- After breakfast, set off on a combined tour of old and new Delhi.
- Begin by visiting Old Delhi. The tour will begin with Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Drive past the Red Fort (closed on Mondays and national holidays). This World Heritage Site is considered one of the most spectacular examples of Mughal architecture.
- Continue to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosques (view from the exterior only).
- After visiting Old Delhi, you will be taken to New Delhi, which reveals the legacy left by the British, including architecture, infrastructure and a cultural imprint.
- Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
- Return to the hotel after a very exhilarating sightseeing tour.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 3: DELHI - JAIPUR (180 MILES - 5 HOURS)
Jaipur, in the state of Rajasthan, is a vivid showcase of India’s history and culture. The region is filled with majestic forts, stunning palaces, sweeping sand dunes, and peaceful lakes. Rajasthan captures the many contrasts of India like no other region, making it the country’s most colourful and fascinating destination.
- After breakfast, you will proceed to Jaipur.
- Upon arrival, check in to your hotel.
- Spend the rest of the day at leisure, discovering this unique city.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 4: JAIPUR
Prior to the construction of the City Palace in Jaipur, Amber was the seat of power. Maharaja Mansingh, the most successful general of the Mughal emperor Akbar, began construction of the Amber Fort in the seventeenth century.
Many rooms have charming murals, with precious stones and mirrors inlaid into the walls. Perhaps the most fascinating is the Sheesh Mahal (hall of mirrors), where a single lamp is reflected in the many mirrors, illuminating the room.
On the way to the Amber Fort, you'll stop to see the 'Wind Palace', also known as the Hawa Mahal. It's actually an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court watched the daily comings and goings in the street below. A cool breeze blows through the windows and latticework in its facade, through which the queens of the court once silently observed the city streets.
Jaipur's Jantar Mantar is the most famous of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. A great admirer of progress and research in science and technology, he was also passionate about astronomy.
- Visit the Amber Fort in the morning, making the ascent and descent to the fort by jeep.
- Once at the top, wander around the vast complex of courtyards and halls.
- In the afternoon, visit the City Palace, an overwhelming complex of exquisite palaces, gardens and courtyards, decorative art and carved gates. The palace museum houses collections of rare manuscripts, armour, costumes, carpets and miniature paintings.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 5: JAIPUR - RANTHAMBHORE (111 MILES - 4 HOURS)
Ranthambore National Park was the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. It was declared a hunting reserve in 1955 and became a national park in 1980.
Ranthambore Park lies between the Aravalli and Vindhya mountain ranges and boasts a total area of 515 square miles / 1334 sq. km. In 1972, it was incorporated with 'Project Tiger', which has the objective of increasing the dwindling tiger population in India.
The park's terrain is rugged, featuring rocky ridges, hills and open valleys with lakes and ponds. Its deciduous forests were once part of the beautiful jungles of central India.
- After breakfast at the hotel, set off on the drive to Ranthambhore.
- Check into your hotel upon arrival.
- Enjoy an afternoon of leisure.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 6: RANTHAMBHORE
- Today you'll set off on an early morning safari in Ranthambhore National Park.
- Return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast and perhaps a mid-morning snooze.
- After lunch, depart for an afternoon safari in the park and enjoy comparing your sightings, made at different times of the day.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 7 : RANTHAMBHORE - FATEHPUR SIKRI - AGRA (145 MILES / 6 HOURS)
Unique and must-sees on your trip include the immense but elegant Fort of Agra, the delicate artistry of Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb, the magnificent Taj Mahal and the abandoned capital of Akbar - Fatehpur Sikri.
Agra, in terms of ambience, is still associated with its Mughal period. The Mughals, as well as being great rulers, were also great builders. It would seem that they decided to reserve their most important architectural wonders for Agra and its surroundings.
The city has many wonderful monuments, the largest of which, the Taj Mahal, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture in all its splendour.
- After a tasty buffet breakfast, depart from Jaipur for Agra, visiting Fatehpur Sikri en route. It's an extraordinary place to walk around with its near-perfect buildings.
- Continue on to Agra and upon arrival, check in at your hotel.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 8: AGRA - DELHI - DEPARTURE FROM DELHI (150 MILES - 4 HOURS)
The Taj Mahal is everything that's been said about it and more. It took 22 years and some 20,000 men to build, the white marble being quarried some 200 miles away and transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants.
Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as an expression of love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal in the mid-17th century, the Taj Mahal is truly one of the wonders of the world.
Although 'the Taj' looks astonishingly perfect from almost any angle, it's the intricate marble inlay work that's truly stunning when viewed up close.
- Waste no time this morning, and after breakfast, set off on a half-day sightseeing tour of Agra, visiting the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays).
- You'll also visit the Agra Fort, an outstanding example of Mughal architecture. It was the seat of the Mughal Empire. Visit its public audience hall and royal pavilions.
- In the afternoon, drive to Delhi’s international airport to board your return flight home, taking with you the unforgettable memories you made during the trip.
Breakfast included.
11 NIGHT TOUR
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI
India's capital and a major gateway to the country, New Delhi is a bustling metropolis that successfully combines the ancient with the modern. Among the rapidly spiralling skyscrapers, vestiges of a bygone era stand as silent testimonies to the region's former glory. The first impressions for any visitor arriving from the airport are of a spacious, leafy city, lined with trees and dotted with many beautiful parks.
- Arrive at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
- After passing through customs, immigration and luggage reclaim, you'll be met by a Yatra representative.
- You'll be escorted to your transfer vehicle after you exit the Arrivals Hall.
- Enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you'll be assisted with check-in.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
DAY 2: DELHI
The division between New Delhi and Old Delhi also marks the division between the capitals of the British and the Mughals, respectively. The old city is steeped in tradition, and it's there that you'll discover life in all its facets, colours and charms.
Your Imperial Delhi tour today will include a visit to the Qutub Minar, India's tallest stone tower, built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1199. You'll also pass the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President's residence.
- After breakfast, set off on a combined tour of old and new Delhi.
- Begin by visiting Old Delhi. The tour will begin with Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Drive past the Red Fort (closed on Mondays and national holidays). This World Heritage Site is considered one of the most spectacular examples of Mughal architecture.
- Continue to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosques (view from the exterior only).
- After visiting Old Delhi, you will be taken to New Delhi, which reveals the legacy left by the British, including architecture, infrastructure and a cultural imprint.
- Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
- Return to the hotel after a very exhilarating sightseeing tour.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
DAY 3: DELHI - MANDAWA (155 MILES - 6 HOURS)
The ruler Rajput of Mandawa built a fort in 1755 to protect this trading post, which stood on the ancient caravan routes linking China and the Middle East. The town that grew up around the fort attracted a large community of traders who settled here. When caravan traffic ceased at the end of the 18th century, the traders established trading empires in other parts of the country but returned to Mandawa to build palatial mansions in their hometown.
- After breakfast, depart from Delhi for Mandawa - a remote feudal principality in the centre of the Shekhawati region.
- Upon arrival, you'll check in at your hotel.
- In the afternoon, explore this fairytale town, renowned for its colourful frescoes on a wide variety of subjects (ranging from the religious to the erotic, to witty social satires), done in the inimitable style of local artists. Every house here is adorned with cheerfully painted frescoes that illuminate the barren landscape.
Overnight stay at your selected hotel.
Breakfast and dinner included.
9-night tour
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN DELHI
India's capital and a major gateway to the country, New Delhi is a bustling metropolis that successfully combines the ancient with the modern. Among the rapidly spiralling skyscrapers, vestiges of a bygone era stand as silent testimonies to the region's former glory. The first impressions for any visitor arriving from the airport are of a spacious, leafy city, lined with trees and dotted with many beautiful parks.
- Arrive at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL).
- After passing through customs, immigration, and luggage reclaim, you'll be met by a Yatra representative.
- You'll be escorted to your transfer vehicle after you exit the Arrivals Hall.
- Enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you'll be assisted with check-in.
- Overnight stay in Delhi.
DAY 2: DELHI – RANTHAMBORE
Ranthambore is one of the few places on Earth where tigers still roam freely. Once the hunting grounds of Indian royalty, this wild landscape became a sanctuary in 1959, joined the first phase of Project Tiger in 1972, and was declared a National Park in 1981. Today, its forests and grasslands offer some of the best chances in India to encounter tigers in their natural habitat. With a little luck, you may spot one in broad daylight, slipping through the tall grasses, watching over its cubs, or moving with quiet power on the hunt.
- After breakfast, transfer to the Nizamuddin Railway Station to board the train for Ranthambhore.
- Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
- Spend the evening at leisure exploring the fascinating tiger reserve.
- Overnight stay in Ranthambore.
DAY 3: RANTHAMBORE
Your day begins early with a thrilling morning safari into Ranthambore National Park. After the adventure, return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, set off on a second safari, accompanied by expert naturalists who help you spot the park’s remarkable wildlife, from leopards and crocodiles to brilliantly colored birds darting between the trees. The atmosphere in the park shifts throughout the day, making every safari a fresh and captivating experience.
- Early morning safari at the Ranthambhore National Park.
- Return to the hotel for breakfast.
- After lunch, embark on a second safari at the park.
- Dinner included.
- Overnight stay in Ranthambore.
DAY 4: RANTAMBORE
Another early start rewards you with an exhilarating morning safari. The cool air, golden light, and chorus of birdsong create a magical backdrop as you explore the vast wilderness. After returning for breakfast, enjoy some time to relax before heading out again for an afternoon safari. This is yet another opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife of Ranthambore, and perhaps catch sight of the majestic Bengal tiger, the true icon of India’s wild heritage.
- Early morning safari at the Ranthambhore National Park.
- Return to the hotel for breakfast and leisure time to relax.
- After lunch, embark on a second safari at the park.
- Dinner included.
- Overnight stay in Ranthambore.
DAY 5: RANTAMBORE - AGRA
Today, set off for Agra, a city that still echoes with the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take in the atmosphere of a place shaped by powerful rulers, visionary architects, and centuries of history. Agra is home to some of India’s most extraordinary monuments, including the iconic Taj Mahal, the most celebrated masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
Later in the day, discover the impressive Agra Fort, built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar. Within its red sandstone walls lie elegant palaces, audience halls, and the Musamman Burj, the tower where Shah Jahan spent his final years. Every corner of this vast complex reveals another story from a remarkable past.
- After breakfast, continue your journey with a transfer to Agra.
- Upon arrival, check into your hotel.
- In the afternoon, visit the Agra Fort.
- Overnight stay in Agra.
DAY 6: AGRA - DELHI - KATHMANDU
Today, you'll visit the Taj Mahal (closed on Fridays), the world-famous symbol of eternal love. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, its perfect symmetry, luminous marble, and intricate Quranic calligraphy make it one of the greatest artistic achievements on Earth. After the visit, return to Delhi for your flight to Kathmandu. On arrival, you are greeted by a local representative and transferred to your hotel.
- Breakfast included.
- Morning visit to the Taj Mahal.
- After the visit, return to Delhi for your flight to Kathmandu.
- Upon arrival, transfer and check into your hotel.
- Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
DAY 7: KATHMANDU – CHITWAN
After breakfast, depart for Chitwan, one of Nepal’s most beautiful natural regions. The journey takes you along mountain slopes, river valleys, and traditional villages, with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Nepal’s lush countryside. Upon arrival in Chitwan, check in at your hotel and enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, take a guided walk through a Tharu village, where you will learn about the culture of this indigenous community. Their traditional mud-and-thatch houses, vibrant clothing, and warm hospitality offer a fascinating glimpse into local life. In the evening, attend an engaging presentation by a naturalist on the wildlife of Chitwan National Park, home to rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, and an impressive variety of bird species.
- After breakfast, depart for Chitwan.
- Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a delicious lunch.
- In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk to Tharu Village.
- In the evening, wildlife presentation by an experienced naturalist.
- Overnight stay in Chitwan.
Please note: Part of the route to Chitwan is currently under construction. As a result, traffic may be slower and certain sections uneven, potentially causing delays.
DAY 8: CHITWAN
Today, embark on a three-hour jeep safari through Chitwan’s dense jungle. With luck, you may spot rhinos, deer, wild elephants, and a wide range of tropical birds. While tiger sightings are rare, the thrill of tracking signs and sounds of the forest adds to the excitement. Depending on your lodge, you will also visit the crocodile breeding centre, dedicated to preserving species like the rare Gharial, or the elephant breeding centre, where young elephants are cared for and protected.
After lunch, enjoy a tranquil canoe ride along the Rapti River, observing river life, birds, and crocodiles from a wonderfully peaceful perspective. In the evening, attend a traditional Tharu dance performance, where rhythmic movements and colourful costumes bring local culture vividly to life.
- Breakfast included.
- In the morning, enjoy a three-hour safari.
- Depending on your lodge, visit a crocodile breeding centre or an elephant breeding centre.
- After lunch, set off for a tranquil canoe ride along the Rapti River.
- In the evening, attend a traditional Tharu dance performance.
- Overnight stay in Chitwan.
DAY 9: CHITWAN
After breakfast, head out on a guided jungle trek, one of the most immersive ways to experience the park. Your naturalist guides will help you interpret animal tracks, plants, and the many sounds of the forest. Later, enjoy another jeep safari, offering a final opportunity to observe the park’s wildlife in its natural habitat. The guides know the terrain intimately and ensure a safe and memorable experience. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a special “Sundowner” by the Narayani River. Sip a refreshing drink while the sun sets behind the horizon, bathing the landscape in warm, golden hues, a magical finale to your time in the wild.
- Breakfast included.
- Morning guided jungle trek and jeep safari included.
- Enjoy a special sundowner by the Narayani River.
- Dinner included.
- Overnight stay in Chitwan.
DAY 10: CHITWAN – KATHMANDU – DEPARTURE
After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu, arriving in the afternoon. You are then transferred to the airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of the nature, culture, and warm hospitality of India and Nepal.
- Breakfast included.
- Transfer back to Kathmandu for your flight back home.
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.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
For your comfort, you'll stay in Standard Rooms in 4* or 5* hotels and boutique establishments.
4* hotels & boutique establishments:
- Delhi: Ashtan Sarovar Portico 4* / Fortune Park East Delhi 4*
- Mandawa: Vivaana Culture Hotel (11-night tour)
- Jodhpur: The Marugarh Resort / Zone by the Park (11-night tour)
- Jaipur: WelcomHeritage Traditional Haveli / Suryaa Villa - A Boutique Heritage Haveli (7- and 11-night tours)
- Ranthambore: Nivaas 4* / Ranthambore Regency 4* / Ananyamaya Nature Lodge 4*
- Agra: Grand Mercure / Fairfield By Marriott 4*
- Kathmandu: Ramada By Encore Thamel 4* (9-night tour)
- Chitwan: Tiger Land Safari Resort 4* (9-night tour)
5* hotels & boutique establishments:
- Delhi: Vivanta New Delhi Dwarka 5* / WelcomHotel Dwarka 5* / Crowne Plaza Okhla 5*
- Mandawa: Vivaana Culture Hotel (11-night tour)
- Jodhpur: Indana Palace / Novotel Jodhpur (Veg Hotel) (11-night tour)
- Jaipur: Holiday Inn City Center 5* / Radisson City Center 5* (7- and 11-night tours)
- Ranthambore: The Tigress 5* / Aamaghati Resort 5*
- Agra: Courtyard By Marriott 5* / Jaypee Palace 5*
- Kathmandu: Aloft Kathmandu 5* (9-night tour)
- Chitwan: Kasara Jungle Resort 5* (9-night tour)
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity: 3 adults OR 2 adults + 1 child Single rooms available at extra cost.
Your dining choices
During your tour, you'll enjoy board as follows: For the 7 night tour: Daily American breakfast and dinner, with breakfast on day 2 to day 8, except for the stay in Ranthambhore, which is full board. For the 11 night tour: Daily American breakfast and dinner, with breakfast on day 2 to day 12, except for the stay in Ranthambhore, which is full board. For the 9 night tour: Daily breakfast and dinner starting from day 2, except for the stay in Ranthambhore and Chitwan, which is full board.
Planning a trip for the festive period? Guests booking to stay on Christmas Eve (24th December) or New Year’s Eve (31st December) have a gala dinner included in their booking.
Included extras —
3GB included mobile internet data, to make your journey easier
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.
Optional services —
Optional full board upgrade (for the 7 or 11 night tour)
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 journey to Rajasthan —
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 —
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.
Jaipur
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.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu, the captivating capital of Nepal, offers a remarkable fusion of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. Nestled in a valley, the city is an intricate blend of cultural landmarks, where Hindu and Buddhist influences coexist harmoniously. As you stroll through its streets, you will experience the rich aroma of incense, the bustle of local markets, and the profound spirituality that fills the air.
Must-sees:
- Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): A UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views of Kathmandu, rich in both religious significance and wildlife.
- Durbar Square: A historical hub, home to royal palaces, ancient temples, and the iconic Kumari Palace, where the Living Goddess resides.
- Patan Durbar Square: A showcase of Nepalese craftsmanship, with intricately carved temples and a tranquil courtyard.
Culinary culture:
Kathmandu’s food scene reflects its diverse population and geographic influences. Sample dal bhat, a traditional lentil and rice dish, or enjoy freshly made momos, steamed dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables. Chatamari, often described as Nepalese pizza, offers a delicious savoury treat unique to the Newar community. In the city’s bustling markets, street food like samosas and sel roti provide a taste of local life.
Dive deeper:
Kathmandu is home to hidden gems beyond the well-known landmarks. Explore the vibrant Thamel district, where lively cafes and artisan shops line narrow alleyways. For an immersive cultural experience, visit the Patan Museum to see Nepalese art in a beautifully restored palace setting. Alternatively, take a day trip to Nagarkot, a hill station offering stunning sunrise views over the Himalayas.
Good to know:
The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is the main international gateway. Public transport is available, but taxis or private vehicles are recommended for more comfortable travel around the city.
