Luxury India Holiday

On arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Delhi, India’s capital, stands out for its rich history and captivating tales. Over the years, it has drawn in people from all walks of life – Mongols, Turks, Persians, Afghans, Mughals, and the British – each leaving their mark on its vibrant past. Despite being deserted many times, its rulers kept coming back, rebuilding it at least seven times! Today, Old and New Delhi still fascinate both locals and tourists, serving as the cultural and political heart of the world’s largest democracy.

Accommodation: The Oberoi New Delhi

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, you will explore Delhi’s rich history, starting in Old Delhi, the heart of the Mughal Empire. You will begin your tour at Jama Masjid, an architectural gem commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Then, stroll through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, alive with vibrant colours and activity. Opt for a lively cycle rickshaw ride through these narrow streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to admire the grandeur of the Red Fort, a symbol of Mughal splendour.

Next, drive past iconic New Delhi landmarks like Sansad Bhawan and Rashtrapati Bhawan, reminders of India’s colonial past. Stop at India Gate, a poignant memorial honouring the sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Follow Rajpath, lined with government buildings, before reaching the historic Qutab Minar, a testament to India’s architectural legacy.

Accommodation: The Oberoi New Delhi

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will drive to Agra.

In the afternoon, explore the city at your own pace. Take a stroll through the serene Mehtab Bagh, offering stunning views of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River. For a taste of local culture, explore the bustling markets of Agra, where you can shop for intricate handicrafts and sample sensational street food.

Approximate travel time and distance: 4 hours, 243 km

Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra

Meals included: Breakfast

Early morning, embark on a mesmerising journey to the Taj Mahal as the sun rises. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a tribute to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this architectural marvel took 22 years and 20,000 workers to construct. Marvel at the flawless white marble sourced from 200 miles away, transported by a convoy of 1000 elephants. Take your time to admire the intricate marble inlays up close, truly a sight to behold.

Next, explore the majestic Agra Fort, a symbol of Mughal power and grandeur. Originally built by Akbar and later embellished by Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, this fortress stands as a testament to India’s rich history. Wander through its imposing walls, gates, and royal quarters, and don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Hall of Public Audience and Royal Pavilions.

Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, we will drive you to Ranthambore, stopping en route at Fatehpur Sikri (38 km from Agra) for sightseeing in the deserted capital of the Mughals.

Venture into Fatehpur Sikri, the abandoned red sandstone city built by the illustrious Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century as his capital. Shortly after its completion, the city was deserted due to the depletion of local wells, leaving it frozen in time for over 300 years, retaining much of its original splendour.

Approximate travel time and distance: 5 hours, 305 km

Accommodation: The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambore

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Go for an early morning and evening safari in Ranthambore National Park, the former hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Declared a game sanctuary in 1955, it became part of Project Tiger in 1972 and was designated a national park in 1980.

The park spans a total area of 1,334 km², with only the core area of 392 km² closed to the public. Nestled between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges, Ranthambore National Park’s deciduous forests were once part of the magnificent jungles of Central India. The terrain is rugged, featuring rocky ridges, hills, and open valleys with lakes and pools.

Accommodation: The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Enjoy another early morning safari by jeep inside Ranthambore National Park, where you may encounter the park’s famous Bengal tigers along with a diverse array of wildlife including leopards, deer, and exotic birds. The serene early morning hours offer the best opportunity for wildlife sightings and stunning photography.

In the afternoon, drive to Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, known as the Pink City for its distinctive terracotta-coloured buildings.

Approximate travel time and distance: 3.5 hours, 192 km

Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Meals included: Breakfast

In the morning, discover the Amer Fort (also known as Amber Fort), constructed by Maharaja Man Singh, the esteemed General under Mughal Emperor Akbar, during the 17th century. Surrounded by fortified battlements and commanding views of the Moat Lake, the fort sprawls over the Aravalli hills, with remains scattered across the landscape.

While returning to the city from Amer Fort, we will have a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds). The pink sandstone carvings of the structure are exceptionally detailed. A gentle breeze flows through its windows and latticed screens, offering a glimpse into the streets of the city, once observed by the queens of the court.

In the afternoon, wander through the City Palace Museum, an impressive complex featuring palaces, gardens, and art collections including manuscripts, weaponry, costumes, carpets, and paintings. Later, explore Jantar Mantar, the famed Royal Astronomical Observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh, a passionate advocate for astronomy and scientific progress.

Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a day at your leisure to discover the charms of Jaipur, including its bustling markets like Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of traditional Rajasthani textiles, jewellery, and vibrant fabrics.

Accommodation: Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we will drive to the Blue City of Jodhpur. Known for its vivid blue-painted houses, Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture.

Approximate travel time and distance: 6 hours, 336 km

Accommodation: The Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set out to explore Mehrangarh Fort, known as the ‘citadel of the Sun’, capturing the essence of the Rathores, the dominant Rajput clan of the region. Wander through its palaces adorned with intricate friezes and visit the museums showcasing the royal family’s treasures.

Adjacent to Mehrangarh Fort lies Jaswant Thada, a marble memorial dedicated to the revered ruler Jaswant Singh II (1878-95), renowned for eliminating bandits, implementing irrigation systems, and stimulating the economy. Nearby are cenotaphs of subsequent members of the royal family, while predecessors are commemorated at Chhatris in Mandor. This southern vantage point offers the best view for capturing the imposing Mehrangarh Fort towering above the rocky plateau.

Accommodation: The Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Udaipur with a visit to the Ranakpur Temples en route.

Embark on a picturesque journey through the rugged, forested hills of Rajasthan to reach the Ranakpur Jain Temples, nestled in the Aravalli Valley. These temples are renowned as one of the most remarkable complexes of the Jain religion, celebrated for their monumental architecture and lavishly adorned ceilings, walls, and 1,444 intricately crafted pillars. The temple designs have been meticulously passed down through generations of priests, who continue this legacy of craftsmanship. Later, continue the journey to Udaipur.

Approximate travel time and distance: 6 hours, 270 km

Accommodation: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, a sightseeing tour of Udaipur City, also known as the City of Sunrise, awaits.

Embark on a morning boat ride at Lake Pichola, followed by a visit to the majestic City Palace, constructed in 1725. Explore its intricate architecture, adorned with balconies, windows, and glasswork. Don’t miss the Jagdish Temple within the palace complex. Later, immerse yourself in the bustling ambiance of Udaipur’s old market.

Accommodation: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udhaipur

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be taken to Udaipur Airport for your flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Mumbai, a vibrant metropolis on the Arabian Sea, seamlessly blends the essence of old and new India. Amid towering skyscrapers and historic architecture, cricket matches take place in lush parks, while bustling streets are filled with taxis and families enjoying seaside strolls. Nearby, Asia’s largest slum stands in stark contrast to the city’s glamour. Along Colaba’s lively high street, Western brands like Levi’s and Adidas share space with local storefronts, embodying Mumbai’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Accommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you will embark on a sightseeing adventure through Mumbai. Explore the magnificent Prince of Wales Museum, an architectural marvel in Indo-Saracenic style. Cruise along Marine Drive, the city’s beloved seaside promenade, and admire the scenic Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens nestled in the Malabar hills, offering panoramic views of Marine Lines and Chowpatty Beach. Discover the Jain temple, Mani Bhawan where Mahatma Gandhi once resided, and the bustling Dhobi Ghat. Drive past iconic landmarks including Flora Fountain, the vibrant Crawford Market, and the historic Victoria Terminus Train Station. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Accommodation: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Meals included: Breakfast

You will be transferred to the International Airport to board your flight home.

Meals included: Breakfast

Pricing and Inclusions

The price guide for this 16 day Luxury India Holiday tour is

• £4990 in low season
• £7990 in high season

The prices do not include flights.

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.

This is a private tour and can be tailor-made to meet your exact requirements. Prices will vary depending on the number of people, length of tour, accommodation & season. Reductions are normally available for groups of three or more. Some hotels operate an additional peak pricing rate during busy times which is normally from mid December to mid January.

Please get in touch with your dates and we will be pleased to provide you with your personal itinerary and accurate quote.

Included with this Luxury India Holiday tour package are the following:

• Authentic India Tours meet & greet assistance on arrival
• All transfers and sightseeing tours using air-conditioned Toyota Innova
• Accommodation for 15 nights on twin sharing basis
• Standard category rooms at all hotels unless otherwise mentioned
• Meal Plan: The Oberoi Vanyavilas on full board; bed and breakfast elsewhere
• Mineral water on all days of travel

Price does not include:

• International flight tickets
• Travel insurance and visa
• Expenses of personal nature like laundry, tips, beverages etc
• Meals other than mentioned in the above meal plan
• Camera & video fees at national parks, museums & monuments

Prices mentioned above are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. The prices which were valid at the time of publication may be subject to change, based on your date of travel and local market fluctuations. You will be informed of any price differences prior to booking.

For a quote based on your dates of travel, any alternative accommodation or changes to this itinerary, please call us on 01792 315499 or email us at info@aitholidays.com

Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and this North India tour is just an example to help inspire you.

For more information please email info@aitholidays.com or call our India specialists on 01792 315499.

ABTA and ATOL Protected Tour Package

Authentic India Tours is a member of ABTA and ATOL. All the holidays on this website are ABTA protected. If you would like us to arrange your holiday including flights we will be happy to provide a quote and your holiday will also be ATOL protected.