Impressions of India Discover India’s heritage, wildlife and royal charm.

Arrive Delhi. On arrival, you will be greeted and assisted by our representative and transferred to the hotel.
(Rooms will be available from 1400 hrs)

DELHI - It is a city that bridges two different worlds. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several rulers and many empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed and then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers and then as creators.

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. Begin with a photo stop at the magnificent Red Fort, followed by a cycle-rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling lanes of Old Delhi.

Continue to New Delhi, driving past Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. Stop for photographs at India Gate, an impressive war memorial.

Later, visit Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful Mughal garden tomb renowned for its architecture. Conclude your sightseeing at Qutub Minar, the iconic 73-metre-high minaret, and explore its historic complex.

After Breakfast, morning free or you can roam around Karolbagh market.

Later in afternoon, transfer to the New Delhi Railway station to bord the Train for Varanasi.

“Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together”, wrote the American novelist Mark Twain.Referred to as the oldest living city in the world, Varanasi, situated between Rivers Varuna and Assi, in Uttar Pradesh derives its name from its location.A city of thousand temples, it is also known as Kashi which stands for “the city of light”.According to Hindu mythology, Varanasi is the cosmic center of the universe. The British referred to Varanasi as Benaras or Banaras and the Banarasi sari of this region is as popular as its temples and traditions.

On arrival in Varanasi, transfer to hotel.

After breakfast, explore Varanasi, visiting Bharat Mata Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple and Banaras Hindu University, including its Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

In the afternoon, enjoy an excursion to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Archaeological Museum, home to the renowned Ashoka Lion Capital. The museum remains closed on Fridays.

In the evening, experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges.

Early morning, enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganges, watching the sunrise and the rituals along the ghats.

Return to the hotel for breakfast. Rooms are available until 12:00 noon. After checkout, take an optional walk and cycle-rickshaw ride through Varanasi’s colourful markets.

Later, transfer to the railway station to board the Poorva Express at 18:55, arriving at 02:48 hrs. Overnight on the train.

Please check: Tundla Railway Station and the train timings need to be confirmed for the journey from Varanasi to Agra.

Early morning arrival in Agra, pickup at station and transfer to hotel.

Agra: Located in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of River Yamuna, Agra is a slow paced, quiet town. Also known as the city of the Taj Mahal—one of the seven Wonders of the World—Agra’s significance as the political centre of the Mughal Empire ended when Shah Jahan transferred his capital to Delhi. However, Agra’s architectural legacy has found it a place in the pages of history. The architectural splendour of the fort, mausoleums, and the palaces here are a reminder of the opulence and artistic taste of the Mughal Empire. Agra is also famous for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen, who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals.

After breakfast, enjoy sightseeing of Agra including the following.

Taj Mahal - Muted but Soulful, Taj Mahal popularly known as Crown of Palaces is a white marble mausoleum and a UNESCO world heritage site. As a testament to his love, the magnificent structure was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Situated in the Mughal city of Agra, Taj Mahal looks the same from all the four sides and endorsed as "The Jewel of Muslim art in India". Commissioned in 1632, it took approximately 22 years in the making of this marvellous structure and an estimated 20,000 workers to build this masterpiece that reflects different colours under the canopy of sun. Purely ecstatic and iconic, it attracts (7 to 8) million annual visitors every year. (It remains closed on Fridays). Note: Taj Mahal is a World Heritage Site and hence requires some maintenance and restoration work routinely.

Agra Fort - A UNESCO World Heritage site, Agra Fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty till 1638, before the capital was shifted to Delhi from Agra. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise as it comprises of several exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khaas – the audience halls, Musamman Burj - where Shahjahan died in 1666 A.D., Jahangir's Palace; Khas Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. The massive Agra fort is considered as the predecessor of the Red fort in Delhi.

Ranthambore - Ranthambore One of the largest and most popular national parks in North India, Ranthambore National Park is named after the historic Ranthambore fortress that is located within the park’s premises. With the Banas River to its north and Chambal River to its south, Ranthambore lies at the edge of a plateau and covers an area of 392 square kilometres. A visit to Ranthambore National Park can be a rewarding experience for a wildlife enthusiast. Home to several fascinating wildlife species, one can spot leopards, striped hyenas, chitals, chinkaras, sambars, langurs, civets, and sloth bears in the park.

On arrival in Ranthambore transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Early morning, enjoy a shared safari in the national park.

Game ride in Ranthambore National Park is a rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts and for the nature lovers. The national park is surrounded by Aravalli’s hills and is home to several fascinating wildlife species. One can spot leopards, striped hyenas, chitals, chinkaras, sambars, langurs, civets, and sloth bears in the park. The park’s pride, however, lies in the number of tigers that can be found prowling in their natural habitat.

After safari drive back to the hotel for breakfast.

After lunch, enjoy another shared safari in the National Park.

After breakfast, Drive to Jaipur.

JAIPUR - The fascinating capital of the marvellous state of Rajasthan.

Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City, thanks to the colour of its buildings. It was built in 1727 A.D by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, followed a grid system, which made it the only planned city of its time. A young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya designed the city in accordance with Shilp Shastra - an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture. There are innumerable sagas and stories of culture, traditions, practices, and valour. This diverse land of rich cultural heritage is a royal treat for tourists all over the world.

On arrival, check-in at the hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City.

Visit the magnificent Amber Fort, set amidst the Aravalli Hills, and enjoy a jeep ride to the fort. Explore its courtyards, ornate halls and beautiful mirror work, reflecting a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

Stop for photographs at Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, famous for its pink sandstone façade and intricate windows. Continue to the City Palace, a beautiful complex of courtyards, gardens and museums that offers a glimpse into Jaipur’s royal heritage.

Visit Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a remarkable collection of historic astronomical instruments.

In the evening, join a local family for a cooking class and dinner, and discover the flavours and traditions of Rajasthani cuisine.

After an early breakfast, drive to Jodhpur, Rajasthan’s famous Blue City. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

Later, visit the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which overlooks the city and houses ornate palaces, royal artefacts and an impressive armoury. Continue to Jaswant Thada, a graceful marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Afterwards, explore the Clock Tower market and old town at your own pace. Try a refreshing lassi and local specialities such as Mawa ki Kachori, Piyaz Kachori and Mirchi Wada. Guide services are not included for the market walk.

After breakfast, drive to Udaipur.

En-route visit Ranakpur, the wonderful 3 temples of the Jain sect dating back to the 14th/15th century. The unforgettable main temple is dedicated to Adinatha, the first Tirthankar (1439) built-in marble that took 65 years to complete.

On arrival in Udaipur, check-in at the hotel.

After breakfast, explore Udaipur, the beautiful City of Lakes.

Visit the magnificent City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola. Explore its courtyards, balconies and towers, and admire the views of the lake and surrounding city.

Continue with a walk past Jagdish Temple towards the Clock Tower, stopping to photograph the temple and explore the local markets. You will find shops selling silver, textiles, vegetables, spices and everyday goods.

Visit Sahelion Ki Bari, a charming garden known for its fountains, marble pavilions and peaceful surroundings.

In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola, taking in views of the hills, palaces, ghats and temples along the lakeshore.

After breakfast, transfer to Airport and connect the flight to Delhi.

Transfer to the international airport to board the flight back home.