India - Splendours of Delhi, The Taj Mahal & Rajasthan

Depart for Delhi, for a once in a lifetime experience to India.

Following our arrival in Delhi, we will be transferred with guide assistance to our hotel where we will spend the next two nights.

In the afternoon (subject to flight schedules, this excursion might take place the following day), we embark on a guided tour of New Delhi. Explore the awe-inspiring 12th Century Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, soaring to an impressive height of 100 metres! This intricately carved monument has withstood the test of time for over 1,500 years.

Following our excursion, we return to the hotel in time for dinner. 

Dinner is included each evening of your 10-night stay in India.

Join us for an unforgettable guided excursion through the vibrant highlights of Delhi. We begin our adventure in bustling Old Delhi with an exhilarating cycle rickshaw ride through the city's lively streets. Following this, we visit Raj Ghat, the serene memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, where an eternal flame marks the place of his cremation.

Next, we admire the impressive Jama Masjid Mosque (from the outside) and explore the Bangla Sahib Sikh Temple. There's also an opportunity to hunt for souvenirs and local treasures at the vibrant and colourful Chandni Chowk market.

In the afternoon, we head to New Delhi to marvel at Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning 16th Century mausoleum dedicated to Emperor Humayun. Our journey continues with a drive past the iconic India Gate, a war memorial honouring Indian soldiers, the President's residence, and a striking blend of Victorian-era architecture.

Please note, this can be a full-day excursion if the half-day tour isn't possible on arrival day due to flight timings. We return to our hotel after a day full of discoveries.

After our adventure we enjoy some free time to relax and unwind after a day of uncovering the highlights of Delhi

This morning, we depart Delhi and transfer by coach to Agra, home to the iconic Taj Mahal! The journey will take approximately four hours (210km). We spend one night in Agra.

Join us for a guided excursion to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s most impressive Mughal forts. Built in the 11th century, this red sandstone fortress has stood witness to centuries of history, including the significant India Rebellion of 1857.

After delving into the fort’s rich past and architectural splendour, the day continues! We unwind with a rejuvenating cup of tea, enjoying the breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal as our backdrop, as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over this iconic monument. An experience to remember.

Afterwards, we return to our hotel to relax for the evening. Tomorrow, we have an early start! Prepare for an unforgettable visit to the timeless symbol of love – the Taj Mahal!

This morning, we depart early for a guided excursion to witness the breathtaking sunrise at one of the world’s greatest monuments to love – the Taj Mahal. The soft morning light provides the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs of this iconic structure, making the experience even more magical.

Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is a highlight for many visitors to India, and it's easy to see why. After soaking in the beauty of this remarkable mausoleum, we return to our hotel for breakfast.

After breakfast, we depart Agra for Jaipur, famously known as the "Pink City". Today’s journey will take approximately seven hours (235km), with comfort stops along the way. En route, we explore the deserted red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri on a guided excursion. Located 40km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and served as the Mughal Empire's capital from 1571 to 1585.

We arrive in Jaipur in the evening and check into our hotel, where we will spend the next two nights.

Today, we embark on a full-day guided tour of Jaipur, famously known as the Pink City. Our first stop is the magnificent Amber Fort, a stunning Hindu fortress overlooking the serene Lake Maota. Next, we visit the City Palace Museum, where you can admire the beautiful former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.

In the afternoon, we visit the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar, a remarkable collection of astronomical instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial. Our final stop is the iconic Hawa Mahal, or the ‘Palace of Winds’, renowned for its intricate façade.

After a day filled with the splendours of Jaipur, one of India’s true gems, we return to our hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure.

Today, we transfer by coach to the village of Chanwa in Luni, located in the Jodhpur district, the second largest city in Rajasthan. The journey takes approximately six and a half hours (330km), with breaks along the way.

Welcome to Luni! For those looking to stretch their legs, we offer an optional leisurely walk through the village of Chanwa. During this walk, we immerse ourselves in the rhythms of everyday life in India, learning about the local community and their traditions as we stroll through the village.

Afterwards, we return to our hotel to unpack and relax for the evening.

Today, we embark on a guided tour of Jodhpur, the historic home of the Rathore rulers of the princely state of Rajasthan. We explore the awe-inspiring Mehrangarh Fort, an imposing structure perched on a hill, famously featured in the film The Dark Knight Rises. Our tour also includes a visit to Jaswant Thada, a stunning monument crafted entirely from white marble.

After our morning visits, we return to our hotel.

This afternoon, we come together for an exciting safari through the rustic and rural landscapes of Rajasthan. Venturing off-road, we search for wildlife and bird species native to the area. Our adventure continues with a visit to local communities, including the Bishnois, Rajputs, Raikas, and Brahmins, where we have the chance to interact with villagers and learn about their traditions.

The villages are home to skilled craftsmen, such as potters and weavers, going about their daily work. We conclude our excursion at a picturesque lakeside, where we enjoy a traditional Rajasthan Shikar dinner. Once a celebrated hunting feast, this is the perfect way to end our unforgettable evening.

Today, we transfer by coach to Udaipur, famously known as the "City of the Lakes". This picturesque city is often referred to as the "Venice of the East", with its centrepiece being the stunning Lake Palace, situated in the middle of Lake Pichola.

En route to Udaipur, we make a stop at Ranakpur to explore one of the largest and most beautiful Jain temples in India. Today’s journey is a full day, taking approximately six hours (269km), before we arrive in Udaipur, where we will spend the next two nights.

This morning, we embark on a guided excursion to explore the beauty of the City Palace Museum, before soaking up the serene atmosphere of Saheliyon-ki-Bari. This spectacular garden is adorned with lotus ponds, marble elephants, and gushing fountains, offering a truly tranquil experience.

Later in the afternoon we take a leisurely boat cruise on the serene and beautiful Lake Pichola (boat ride is subject to availability of water in the lake).

Today, we bid farewell to Udaipur and transfer by coach to the airport for our internal flight to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi Airport, we transfer to our hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relax.

Please note, flight tickets and flight information will be given locally by your guide.

Today our Splendours of India tour finishes, we say farewell with fond memories of our journey and newfound friends. Transfer by coach to Delhi Airport for your return flights home.