India Tour Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival / Delhi

Late night arrival. Meeting and assistance upon arrival as our representatives welcome you and escort you to your car.

Whilst the room keys and check-in is organized, our representative would introduce the tour to you and hand over the documents to you.

Welcome to India, or as we say ‘atithi devo bhava’ (the guest is an incarnation of God). Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you!

Overnight at Hotel Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar (Superior Room)
Day 02: Delhi

After a leisurely breakfast, we proceed on a guided tour of New Delhi, Visiting such sights as, Humayun’s Tomb (1586), the Qutab Minar 72 meters high and one of the most perfect towers in the Persian world. The Iron Pillar which has survived the vagaries of weather for over 1500 years. Continue with a drive through Embassy area, the Government buildings (1921-1930) and Connaught Place, the heart and main shopping district of the capital. We will also visit the India Gate.

Later we cross the city and into the walled gates of the Old city with visits to the Jamma Mosque (1650) and drive through the fabled area of Chandni Chowk (aptly translates to Moonlight Square) where the throngs of shoppers and vendors meet in the oldest area of Delhi. Visit the Raj Ghat and nearby ghats where the founder of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi and thereafter Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were cremated.

The highlight of this tour would be a ride on cycle rickshaws. Now these are 3-wheel cycles with a sofa seat at the back. The Rickshawala (Rickshaw driver) sits on a small cushion in the front and two passengers on the sofa seat behind. This is a remarkable way to explore and picture the hustle and bustle as well as the color of the narrow winding streets bursting with people and pavement shops selling wares of all description - including a laughing set of dentures. The ride would be accompanied by peals of laughter both from the passengers as well as the onlookers.

Overnight at Hotel Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar (Superior Room)
Day 03: Delhi / Neemrana (130 Kms) (02 ½ Hrs Drive)

After breakfast, ride out 122 kms to the obscure village of Neemrana which is dominated by the majestic Neemrana Fort, which is India's oldest heritage resort. Situated on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion-year-old Aravalli ranges, Neemrana fort Palace Heritage Hotel has 40 air-conditioned rooms. Each room has its own unique character and history. On the basis of theme the rooms have been named as the Malabar room, Barsat Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Mata Mahal, Surya Mahal, Gopi Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal.

This evening, we embark upon a heritage walk through the pristine town of Neemrana. The walk brings to the visitor the ethnic heritage of the region preserved and sustained over centuries. We have opportunities to witness traditional homes, fields and places of worship. The local temple would be a fascinating venue. We observe pilgrims and devotees arrive to pay their respects in traditional dresses. We will also have opportunities of observing the traditional crafts of Neemrana. A special mention would be a visit to homes that make fascinating cotton runners (durries) using traditional hand looms. Interesting and intricate patterns in different colours are made here. The other local craft would be viewed when we reach the potters village. Hand made pottery of various shapes and utilities are made here. We get to see potters working on their wheels making shapes from clay mounds. We also could see the intricate painting and designing perform on these clay articles. Another fascinating exploration would be visit to the jeweler’s compound. Here, we see the smelting of silver and the making of fascinating silver jewelry. We do get a chance to interact with the natives through the interpretation of our guide. The simplicity and the hospitality with which, the local deals with you would leave an indelible mark upon your heart. The walk continues to the famous step well of Neemrana. This was used by the royal family in the past. About hundred steps lead to the well, and, the stepwell has a grand entrance with ancient steps that meandered nine stories below the ground. Historically, this was used as a caravanserai by tired travelers as also for simply storing water. We will also witness the residence of the Royal family on our journey.

Following the walk, we will return back to our hotel.

Overnight at Neemrana Fort (Moonga Mahal)
Day 04: Neemarana / Jaipur (155 Kms) (03 Hrs Drive)

After breakfast we will drive to Jaipur

Upon arrival, check into Shahpura House. The Traditional Rajput architect, a mixture of Mughal and Indian, a facade with domes and frescoes. The House is a very fine example of Shekhawati frescos and architecture. Conceived as a traditional Indian palace, The Shahpura House showcases the rich heritage of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan with its rambling courtyards, gentle rippling fountains, reflecting pools and gardens. Interiors embellished with decorative domes, hand painted frescoes, intricate mirror work and beautifully crafted artifacts create an ambience of regal splendour. The family portraits, which add to the charm of this family hotel where tradition still runs strong.

After rest & relaxation, we explore the unending shopping options of Jaipur. An essential starting point for Rajasthan craftwork is block making and block printing and we will be exploring the process from start to finish in some of the popular stores here. The opportunity also exists here to tailor make outfits to your design and size.

We also explore one of the chief attractions of Jaipur - its jewelry, which offers a variety that ranges from chunky tribal jewelry to enameled gold to modern diamond jewelry. Kundan (art of stone setting) and enamel jewelry has been a specialty of Rajasthan, particularly that of Jaipur. The stones are embossed into decorative shapes & patterns and embellished with delicate enamel ornamentation in the champeve (raised field) technique. Jaipur is well known for its gold and silver enameling. Colorful bangles made of lac and set with semiprecious stones make an inexpensive buy. The craftsmen take great pains to embed the hundreds of stones into the lac. The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur carve enchanting little animals and birds from rock, crystal, jade, smoky topaz and amethyst. Intaglio beads & buttons and crystal scent bottles are also available

Overnight at Shahpura House (Suite Room)
Day 05: Jaipur

Morning, we proceed on a guided tour of the Amber Fort. Set on the dry wrinkled Aravali Hills, the Fort is a superb example of Rajput (Medieval Hindu) style of architecture. A slow elephant taxi takes us to the top of the Fort, which houses several graceful buildings.

We will ride up to this hilltop palace on a caparisoned, painted elephant, passing through the ancient main gate where Maharajas of Jaipur have entered for four hundred years. Our guide will elaborate on the history of this architectural masterpiece with its mirror-studded alcoves, dazzling mosaics and water-cooled swings that delight today’s visitors as they did their former royal residents.

We shall visit the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the Winds, a five-storied structure of pink sandstone with semi-octagonal and delicately honeycombed windows overlooking the main street of the old city. It was built in 1799 so that veiled royal women could peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.

Later, we proceed for a guided tour of the City Palace & Observatory. The City Palace in the heart of the old city is a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The center of the palace is a seven-storied building called Chandra Palace, with fine views over the gardens and the city. Next stop the City Palace is the Solar Observatory - an astronomical treasure house, with solar device that gives accurate predictions till date. We also visit the temple of Govind Dev Ji. It is one of the most sacred and famous tourist destinations in India. The temple is located in the City Palace complex, of Jaipur.  The idol of Govind Dev Ji is strikingly beautiful for its complete resemblance with Lord Krishna, and the temple is placed between Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal in the City Palace complex. Every day, various 'Aartis' and 'Prasad' or 'Bhogs' are offered at the temple, at seven different times

Overnight at Shahpura House (Suite Room)
Day 06: Jaipur / Fatehpur Sikri / Agra (245 Kms) (06 Hrs Drive)

Morning we drive to Agra, stopping at deserted Capital City of Fatehpur Sikri. This abandoned capital of the Mughals is a perfectly preserved city at the height of the empire’s splendour. The city divided into religious and secular parts has interesting well-sculpted buildings. From here we continue our ride to Agra

Upon arrival, check into Hotel Radisson

Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, perhaps the most photographed monument in the world. However, there is a degree of enigma about the Taj. Once you hear about a building so much and once you see so many pictures of a building your expectations are real high; and this is the enigma about the Taj Mahal. No matter how many pictures you have seen or no matter how high your expectations are the Taj never lets you down - the unparalleled glory and beauty of the building surpasses beyond all human imaginations. At sun set we visit the Taj Mahal to witness this spectacular monument built for love. Besides perfect symmetry in every aspect of its construction, the inlay work of semi precious stones into marble in pietra dura style is absolutely remarkable.

Overnight at Hotel Radisson (Superior Room)
Day 07: Agra / Jhansi (Bhopal Shatabadi – 0802 / 1043 Hrs) / Khajuraho (180 Kms) (03 ½ Hrs Drive)

Morning, transfer to the train station for a short ride on India’s premier train service to Jhansi.

Meeting & assistance upon arrival at Jhansi train station & we will drive to Khajuraho

Upon arrival, check into your Hotel Radisson

After wash & change we proceed on a tour of Eastern group of Temples .If pictures speak a thousand words, then the temples of Khajuraho form a magnum opus... an expression of Indian sculptors of yore. These temples of Khajuraho were built by the Chandela kings following the tradition of Tantric art. Although famed for their erotic sculptures, the philosophy behind the temples is much more vast and encompassing. They are in fact a celebration of life!

Sound & Light Show: -
Evening, we visit temple complex to enjoy Sound & Light Show, where the history of the temples is narrated through the medium of Sound & Light. This fascinating Son-et-Lumiere spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10th century to the present day. Amitabh Bachhan, the Indian Super Star, narrates the story of Khajuraho in his mesmerizing voice

Overnight at Hotel Radisson (Deluxe Room)
Day 08: Khajuraho / Varanasi (AI 405 – 1600 / 1655 Hrs) (Operates only on Monday, Wednesday & Saturday)

This morning, proceed on a tour of the world famous western group of temples depicting erotic sculptures of love making images of Gods and Goddesses and celestial Nymphs. The sexual fantasies displayed in the sculptures are mind-boggling. It speaks very highly of the artistic creativity and imagination of the sculptors. The frank depiction of uninhibited sex does hint towards a liberated society and times where people believed in dealing openly with all aspects of life. The graphic and realistic illustrated scenes of lovemaking elaborated on the Tantric texts

(Though the check out time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges - subject to availability)

Later, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Varanasi.

Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Varanasi and transfer to The Rivatas by Ideal

Varanasi is quite possibly the world’s oldest living city. Religious artifacts link it to the sixth century B.C. Said to be founded by Shiva; Varanasi’s Vedic affiliation goes back to the beginning of time. It is also a city of many names. The present name, Varanasi (derived from the names of two nearby rivers) is mentioned in the Mahabharata. The ancient name is Kashi, the City of Light. To the devout it is also called Kashika, the shining one, referring to the light of Shiva. Many others prefer the anglicized Benares. Revered by Hindus, Buddhists and Jain alike, Varanasi is considered the holiest city in all of India. It is presided over by Shiva in his manifestation as Vishwanatha, Lord of the Universe. Buddha delivered a sermon in nearby Sarnath and Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, lived in Varanasi. As a result, more Indians will make a pilgrimage to Varanasi in their lifetime than any other place.

Evening, we visit the ghats of Varanasi to witness the performance of Ganges Aarti. We enjoy a special evening cruise on the Ganges. See the Hindu devotees performing the "Puja" with lighted lamps. The view is very mesmerizing and the ambience is spectacular in the backdrop of the beating of cymbals and bells as well as the incessant chantings.

Overnight at The Rivatas by Ideal (Deluxe Room)
Day 09: Varanasi (Sarnath Temple is closed on Fridays)

At dawn we visit the sacred Ganges for a boat ride. Every morning at dawn hundreds of worshippers can be seen bathing in the sacred waters. The great river banks are lined with an endless chain of stone steps—the ghats—that stretch from one end of the city to the other. The Ghats form an impressive part of the religious landscape of the city. Proceeding downstream at a leisurely pace, you would be pointed out the significant temples and buildings as well as the changing architectural style. Life and death go hand in hand in Varanasi. While young people seek prosperity and protection from harmful influences, the older generation comes to Varanasi to cleanse their souls in the forgiving waters in preparation for their ultimate dissolution. Believing that anyone who dies in the river of life in Varanasi gains freedom from the cycle of birth and death, the City of Light has become a haven for the sick and aged waiting out their final days. The smoke that billows from the crematoriums on the edge of the river gives testimony to their final release from life’s earthly confines. We would dock our boat at Manikarnika (Cremation) Ghat. On any given day, anywhere from a few dozen to a few hundred corpses are cremated here; the ghat is assiduous with activity as the cremated bodies threw up smoke and fire.

Following the boat ride we set off on foot to explore the inner city. Through a twisted maze of narrow alleys, home to numerous shrines and pilgrim shops, we walk back a few centuries. Life here has stood still for years. The homes, the shops and even the cattle have not changed over the centuries. It is a brilliant nostalgic experience of timelessness!

Afternoon, we will visit several temples and the Hindu University at Benares. First stop would be the Bharat Mata (temple of Mother India). Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, it features a huge marble map of India on the ground floor. Next up, the Durga Temple. Known for its bright red color and the playful, if sometimes aggressive, monkeys that run amok there, the Durga Temple is one of the most imposing architectural monuments in Varanasi tours to India.

The university, which occupies a large piece of land at the southern end of town, is also home to the New Vishwanatha Temple. The New Temple is modern in design and open to Hindus and non-Hindus alike. Surrounded by palm trees, it is a splendid white marble structure that shines in the afternoon sun against a pale blue sky. Inside, the temple is spacious and airy. The interior walls are covered with Vedic art above inscriptions from the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads. In the center of the first floor is the Shiva linga.

This evening we take a short trip to the Buddhist city of Sarnath .It is here that the Buddha preached his first sermons after attaining enlightenment.

Overnight at The Rivatas by Ideal (Deluxe Room)
Day 10: Varanasi / Delhi (6E 481 – 1450 / 1620 Hrs)

Morning is at leisure for independent activities. You might choose to visit the banks of the Ganges or walk along the narrow meandering lanes of the old city to witness the performance of various rituals.

(Though the check out time is 12 noon, every effort would be made to retain rooms till as late as possible without additional charges.)

Afternoon, transfer to the airport to connect your flight to Delhi

Meeting and assistance upon arrival in Delhi & transfer to Hotel Crowne Plaza

Overnight at Hotel Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar (Superior Room)
Day 11: Delhi / Departure

Transfer to the International airport to board your onward flight.

No Hotel Quoted for this day

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