The Grand Tour of India

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi, a city with a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Begin your tour at Rajghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Next, visit Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the vibrant atmosphere with a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi's busiest market. Drive past the Presidential House and India Gate in Edwin Lutyen's Delhi. Explore Humayun's Tomb, built in 1562 by his wife, Hamida Banu Begum. Conclude your day with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, commissioned by Qutbuddin Aibak. In the evening, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, our driver will transfer you to New Delhi airport to board a flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi Airport, our local driver will receive you and transfer you to your hotel in Varanasi. After settling in and freshening up, visit the iconic Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple. For foreign tourists, this visit is limited to viewing the temple from outside. Later in the evening, experience the enchanting Aarti ceremony along the serene banks of the River Ganges. After this memorable experience, return to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Early morning, embark on a peaceful boat ride along the River Ganges, where you can witness the sunrise and observe the spiritual rituals unfolding along the ghats. Following this tranquil experience, begin a guided city tour of Varanasi, exploring the sacred ghats and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a one-of-a-kind temple dedicated to Mother India.

Later, proceed to Sarnath, a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Discover the historic Dhamekha Stupa and delve into the region's rich heritage at the Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts. Conclude your visit to Sarnath with a stop at the Chaukhandi Stupa, an important historical landmark.

In the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, our driver will transfer you to Varanasi Railway Station, assisting you in locating your reserved seat aboard the Vande Bharat Express. Enjoy onboard meals as you journey back to New Delhi. Upon arrival at New Delhi Railway Station, our local representative will meet you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, set out for Mandawa in the Shekhawati region. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. Later, embark on a walking tour to discover Mandawa’s vibrant, painted havelis (palaces). Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Early in the morning, leave for Bikaner. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Later, visit Junagarh Fort, constructed by Raja Rai Singh between 1588 and 1593, and explore Lalgarh Palace, a heritage hotel built by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh between 1902 and 1926. Continue your exploration with a visit to Bhandasar Jain Temple, admired for its stunning wall paintings and intricate artwork, and then to the unique Karni Mata Temple, famous for its resident population of sacred rats. Finally, head to the National Research Centre on Camels to learn about these fascinating animals. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Jaisalmer. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, head to the Sand Dunes for a camel safari. Enjoy cultural activities, traditional folk music, and dance around a campfire at the dunes. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day guided tour of Jaisalmer. Start with the Jaisalmer Fort, built in 1156 and one of the few living forts in the world where nearly one-fourth of the old city's population still resides. Explore the beautiful Jain temples within the fort, the palace museum showcasing imperial dresses and royal artifacts, and the intricately designed Patwaon-ki-Haveli. Next, visit Gadisar Lake, a prominent city attraction, and the Bara Bagh Temples, featuring royal cenotaphs set against a mango grove, built by the Maharajas of Jaisalmer in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast, drive to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, head-out to explore the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha. Perched on a 150-meter-high hill, this grand fort is one of Rajasthan's most formidable and majestic structures. As you tour the fort, admire its seven gates, including Jayapol (Victory Gate), which Maharaja Man Singh constructed to commemorate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner. You can still see the battle scars on the fort's second gate. Next, visit Jaswant Thada, the elegant marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, and then explore Mandore Garden, Clock Tower, and Sardar Market. Conclude your day with a visit to the Umaid Bhawan Museum, located within the Umaid Bhawan Palace, the world's largest private residence built between 1928 and 1943. The palace is divided into a luxury hotel, royal quarters, and the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum. Overnight stay at the hotel in Jodhpur.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Kumbhalgarh, making a captivating stop at the Ranakpur Jain Temples en route. Dating back to the 12th century, these temples are renowned for their stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Marvel at the 1,444 unique marble pillars, each featuring a distinct design and theme. Later continue your drive to Kumbhalgarh. Upon arrival visit the Kumbhalgarh fort, built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. This fortress boasts the second-largest wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. It is also renowned as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kumbhalgarh.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey to Udaipur. Upon arrival, explore the mesmerizing Sahasra Bahu Temples, 10th-century Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located in Nagda. These temples are celebrated for their intricate carvings and remarkable architecture. Next, visit the revered Shri Ekling Ji Temple, an 8th-century marvel dedicated to Lord Ekling Ji, known for its spiritual significance and stunning craftsmanship. In the evening, unwind with a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola, soaking in the tranquil beauty of Udaipur's iconic landmarks. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Udaipur.

After breakfast at the hotel, begin your day with a visit to Sahelion-Ki-Bari, a beautiful garden made for the royal ladies of Udaipur. Next, visit the Museum of Folk Art, where you can see traditional costumes, puppets, dolls, masks, ornaments, musical instruments, and paintings. Continue to the City Palace, the largest palace complex in India, built by several generations of Maharajas. Explore the palace museum, known for its peacock mosaics and detailed miniature paintings showing Indian culture. Just outside the palace, visit the historic Jagdish Temple, a famous 17th-century Hindu temple. Later, take a short walk through the nearby local markets to explore handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Pichola, admiring the scenic views of the city and palaces. Return to the hotel and relax. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, set off for Chittorgarh. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind. Later, delve into the rich history of Chittorgarh Fort, the largest fort in India and Asia, renowned for its demonstration of Rajput valor. The fort, which endured three major sieges between 1303 and 1568 by Mughal forces, stands as a testament to the fierce resistance of its Hindu rulers. Inside the fort, explore notable sites such as Rana Kumbha's Palace, the Kumbha Shyam Temple, and the towering Victory Tower. Visit the Meerabai Temple, the Tower of Fame, and Padmini's Palace, each telling its own story. Don’t miss the Chittorgarh Museum and the Jaimal and Patta Palaces for a deeper understanding of the fort’s grandeur and heritage. Enjoy overnight stay at the hotel in Chittorgarh.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Pushkar, Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel. Relax at the hotel, later visit one of the most sacred lakes in India - the Pushkar lake, surrounded by 52 bathing ghats (a series of steps leading to the lake) where pilgrims throng in large numbers to take a sacred bath. Afterwards visit Brahma Ji temple - the one and only temple of God Brahma in the world. Next you visit the cattle fair ground, where every year world Famous Pushkar Cattle fair is held. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling markets of the historic Pink City, where you can shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The market area reflects the rich heritage and traditional charm of Jaipur. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your exploration with Rajasthan's iconic attraction, the Amber Fort and Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by Raja Man Singh in 1592 using red sandstone and marble. This majestic fort complex is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of Maota Lake and the surrounding landscapes. Explore its extensive palace sections and intricate architecture, which blend seamlessly with the natural terrain. Following your visit to Amber Fort, continue your Jaipur sightseeing with a visit to Jal Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and the Albert Hall Museum. After an enriching day of sightseeing, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

After breakfast at the hotel, set out for Ranthambore National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your resort, where you can relax and refresh. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari through the park, known for its population of Bengal Tigers and diverse wildlife. This thrilling ride offers a chance to see these majestic predators in their natural habitat, along with other animals such as leopards, sloth bears, and various deer species. After the safari, return to the resort for dinner and overnight stay.

Start your day early with a morning jeep safari in Ranthambore National Park. As the sun rises, venture into the wilderness, where you might spot Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of deer species like sambar and chital. The park is also home to Indian wild boars, marsh crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. After the safari, return to the resort for a hearty breakfast. After breakfast at the resort, leave for Agra. On the way visit Fatehpur Sikri - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Akbar in the late 16th century. After sightseeing at Fatehpur Sikri, proceed to Agra for an overnight stay.

Early morning before sunrise our tour guide will pick you from your hotel and take you for a guided tour of the Taj Mahal and Mehtab Bagh. Later return to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast at the hotel, visit the exquisite Itmad-ud-Daulah and the majestic Agra Fort. Spend the evening exploring the local markets, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Early in the morning, our representative will transfer you to the Agra railway station for your express train to Jhansi (Train Timing: 07:50 AM - 10:30 AM, 2 Hours 40 Minutes). Upon arrival at Jhansi, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in Orchha. After checking in and relaxing at the hotel, set out to explore Orchha, once the capital of the Bundela Rajput kings. Start with a visit to the stunning Jahangir Mahal, then explore the Raj Mahal, Phool Bagh, Dinman Hardaul Palace, and Sunder Mahal. Don’t miss the well-preserved Ram Raja Temple and Chaturbhuj Temple. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, set off on a scenic drive to Khajuraho. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. Later, embark on a fascinating tour of Khajuraho, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples. Start with the Western Group of Temples, where the Kandariya Mahadev Temple stands out with its grand architecture and intricate sculptural details. While Khajuraho temples are famous for their erotic carvings, you'll discover that these constitute only about 15% of the imagery; the rest depict Hindu gods, goddesses, and celestial beings. Next, explore the Eastern Group of Temples, known for their distinct architectural style and serene atmosphere. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave to Bandhavgarh National Park. Upon arrival at Bandhavgarh, check-in at your resort. Rest of the day at leisure or indulge yourself in leisure activities such as taking a walk in the nearby area, enjoying the lush greenery around, interacting with the park's naturalist and so on. Overnight stay at the resort.

Enjoy two exciting jeep safaris inside Bandhavgarh National Park—one in the early morning and another in the afternoon for birdwatching and tiger tracking. The park is home to around 150 species of avifauna, offering a chance to spot vibrant birds such as the Bay Backed Shrike, White Eyed Buzzard, Indian Moorhen, Olive Backed Pipit, Black Headed Oriole, Yellow Crowned Woodpecker, Barred Button Quail, White Browed Fantail Flycatcher, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Alexandrine Parakeet, and more. Also, visit the historic Bandhavgarh Fort, perched atop a hill at an elevation of approximately 811 meters above sea level. Believed to be over 2,000 years old, this magnificent fort houses 39 caves, each with its own historical significance. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Bandhavgarh.

After breakfast at the resort, leave for Kanha National Park - one of the most well-maintained national parks in Asia. This park was an inspiration behind the popular novel by Rudyard Kipling - The Jungle Book. Spread in 940 sq. km of land, this national park has Indian wild dogs, Royal Bengal Tiger, sloth bears, leopards, and barasingha in good numbers. Upon arrival at the national park, check-in at the resort. Rest of the day at leisure, indulge yourself in leisure activities such as taking a walk in the nearby area, enjoying the lush greenery around. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.

Enjoy early morning and afternoon jeep safaris inside Kanha National Park, immersing yourself in its rich biodiversity. Discover the park's exotic wildlife and lush flora, including over 1,000 species of flowering plants. During your safari, you may spot a variety of animals and birds, such as the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, chousingha, nilgai, mouse deer, jackal fox, sambar, gaur, peafowl, mongoose, leopard, python, spurfowl, ring doves, kingfishers, finches, woodpeckers, flycatchers, pintails, pond herons, rock pigeons, papihas, cuckoos, parakeets, and green pigeons. Visit Bamni Dadar, also known as Sunset Point, a major attraction within the park offering breathtaking views of the landscape. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.

After breakfast at the resort, our driver will transfer you to Jabalpur airport to board the flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival at Mumbai, our local driver will receive you and transfer you to your hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Visit the iconic Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea, followed by a photo stop at the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Explore the Prince of Wales Museum (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) to learn about India’s rich heritage. Drive past the UNESCO-listed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and enjoy a scenic drive along Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace. Continue to Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi, and visit the Hanging Gardens for city views. Return to the hotel in the evening for a relaxing overnight stay.

Today early in the morning, our driver will transfer you to Mumbai to board a flight to Aurangabad. Upon arrival at Aurangabad Airport, our driver and tour guide will welcome you and take you to explore the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring an extraordinary collection of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain rock-cut temples, including the magnificent Kailasa Temple. Next, visit Daulatabad Fort, a formidable medieval fortress renowned for its strategic defenses and breathtaking panoramic views. After sightseeing, we will transfer you to your hotel in Aurangabad for an overnight stay.

Please Note: The Ellora Caves are closed every Tuesday. If you start you tour on Tuesday, we will explore Ajanta Caves, instead of Ellora Caves.

After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit the Ajanta Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its ancient Buddhist murals and intricate sculptures. After exploring the caves, we will drive to Bibi Ka Maqbara, often referred to as the 'Baby Taj' due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal. Overnight stay at the hotel in Aurangabad.

Please Note: The Ajanta Caves remains closed on every Monday. If you start you tour on Monday, we will explore Ellora Caves, instead of Ajanta Caves.

After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Aurangabad airport to board a flight to Chennai via Mumbai. On arrival at Chennai airport, our local driver will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day guided tour of Chennai. Visit Marina Beach and enjoy the sea breeze, followed by San Thome Church and Kapaleeshwarar Temple. Later, visit Kalakshetra and the Theosophical Society. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive towards Mahabalipuram with a stop at Kanchipuram, one of the seven sacred cities of India, famous for its ancient temples and silk weaving tradition. Visit the Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kailasanathar Temple, the oldest temple in the city, known for its fine carvings. Also visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, an important Vishnu temple admired for its grand architecture. Later, continue your drive to Mahabalipuram and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay in Mahabalipuram.

After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ancient rock-cut monuments built by the Pallava dynasty. Visit the Shore Temple, the Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas), the impressive stone relief of Arjuna’s Penance, and Krishna’s Butterball, a giant natural rock balanced on a slope. Later, drive to Pondicherry. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Auroville, an international township focused on peace and sustainable living. Visit the Matrimandir (viewed from outside). Later, return to Puducherry and explore the French Quarter, known for its colonial charm. Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and walk along the Seaside Promenade. The evening is at leisure to relax or explore local markets. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After an early breakfast and check-out, drive to Chidambaram and visit the Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Cosmic Dancer. Continue to Darasuram to see the Airavatesvara Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate stone carvings. Later, drive to Thanjavur. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Thanjavur.

After breakfast, visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Chola architecture, known for its massive tower and detailed sculptures. Later, drive to Gangaikonda Cholapuram (approx. 70 km / 1.5 hours), the former capital of the Chola dynasty, and visit its grand Shiva temple. After sightseeing, return to Thanjavur in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel in Thanjavur.

After breakfast at the hotel in Thanjavur, drive to Tiruchirappalli (Trichy). Upon arrival, visit the Srirangam Temple, one of the largest and most important Vaishnavite temples in South India. Continue to the Jambukeshwara Temple, a Shiva temple known for its unique water element. End your sightseeing at the Rock Fort Temple, located on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the city. After sightseeing, continue your drive to Madurai. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Madurai.

After breakfast, explore Madurai, one of the oldest living cities in India. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple, known for its towering gopurams and intricate sculptures. Continue to Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th century structure reflecting royal heritage. Later, visit Koodal Azhagar Temple, an important Vishnu temple. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Madurai.

After breakfast at the hotel, drive to Kanyakumari, the southernmost tip of India. Upon arrival, visit the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built on the rock where Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated. Continue to the Shri Bhagavathy Amman Temple,  a 3,000-year-old shrine dedicated to Goddess Kanya Kumari. Later, see the Triveni Sangam, where the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean meet, and visit the Gandhi Mandapam, built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi. If time permits, visit the Suchindram Temple, known for its fine carvings and musical pillars. In the evening, check in at your hotel for an overnight stay in Kanyakumari.

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Kovalam. Upon arrival check-in at the resort. After freshening up, head out to explore the local attractions. Visit the Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium to see an array of marine life, and the Fishing Harbour to experience the local fishing culture. Explore Vizhinjam Village, Samudra Beach, and the Rock Cut Cave. Enjoy the serene waves of the Arabian Sea and the sunset from the lighthouse near Kovalam Beach. Overnight stay at the resort.

After breakfast at the resort, head-out to explore Trivandrum. Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple - built in an intricate fusion of the Chera style and the Dravidian style of architecture, featuring high walls, and a 16th-century gopura. After that visit Napier Museum, an art and natural history museum. Also enjoy some quality time on the Shankumugham Beach - the scenic beach is also a holy festival site, which is considered as the Arattukadavu of Sri Ananthapadmanabhan - the presiding deity of the city. Also visit Halcyon Castle - built in 1932 in the princely state of Travancore, in the modern-day state of Kerala. Overnight stay at the resort in Kovalam.

After breakfast at the resort, proceed to Kumarakom, a peaceful backwater destination set along Vembanad Lake. Upon arrival, check in at the resort and relax. Later, visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, known for its variety of birdlife including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. In the evening, you may enjoy a short backwater boat ride or simply unwind by the lake. Return to the resort for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the resort, drive to Alappuzha, known for its traditional houseboat cruises through Kerala’s backwaters. Check in to your houseboat around 12:00 PM and begin a relaxing cruise along tranquil canals and lagoons. Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard as you pass paddy fields, village homes, and coconut-lined waterways, offering a glimpse into local life. By evening, the houseboat anchors in a quiet spot, allowing you to unwind and take in the peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

After breakfast at the houseboat, leave for Thekkady. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax. Later, visit Kumily, a lively border town known for its spice gardens. Walk through a plantation and learn how pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon are grown in this region. In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore the local market or opt for cultural activities. Overnight stay at the resort in Thekkady.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring Periyar Tiger Reserve in the Western Ghats. Enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, offering a chance to observe wildlife along the forested shores. The reserve is known for elephants, sambar deer, and rich birdlife, though sightings depend on timing and luck. Also enjoy Kathakali Show in Thekkady. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings. Return to the resort for an overnight stay.

After breakfast at the resort, leave for Munnar. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel. After some time to relax, step out to explore the rolling tea estates spread across the hills of the Western Ghats, where neatly lined plantations stretch as far as the eye can see. Watch local workers carefully plucking tea leaves and take in the fresh mountain air that gives Munnar its distinct character. Later, return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Munnar.

After breakfast, visit Eravikulam National Park (Rajamalai), home to the rare Nilgiri Tahr and rolling grassland hills. Later proceed to Mattupetty Dam, known for its scenic reservoir and boating views, followed by Echo Point, famous for its natural echo phenomenon. Continue to Kundale Lake, a peaceful spot surrounded by hills. If time permits, visit Top Station, offering panoramic valley views. After sightseeing, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, depart for Kochi. Upon arrival, begin your sightseeing at Jew Town, visiting the Paradesi Synagogue (closed on Fridays, Saturdays, and Jewish holidays). Continue to St. Francis Church, India’s first European church, followed by Mattancherry Palace (closed on Fridays), known for its murals and royal history. Spend some time exploring the local shops before heading to Fort Kochi to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Later, check in at the hotel for an overnight stay.

Optional activity: In the evening, guests can opt for a Kathakali dance performance followed by a traditional martial arts performance (on request basis at an additional cost).

After breakfast or earlier as per your flight timing, our driver will transfer you to Cochin International Airport for onward journey.