Indian Opulence: A Luxury Small-Group Tour

Take an eye-opening luxury nine-day tour through India, experiencing the country’s famed hospitality and opulent hotels, iconic monuments such as the Taj Mahal, Jama Mosque and Amber Fort, plus come face to face with beautiful Bengal tigers at Ranthambore National Park.

What You’ll Love…

The Accommodation – Experience India’s most opulent hotels, including a royal stay at Nahargarh Ranthambhore

Begin your tour in five-star comfort at Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel in New Delhi. Located in the heart of the CBD, this stunning property boasts five award-winning restaurants and bars, plus a fully equipped gym and tranquil Shangri-La CHI Spa. Enjoy world-renowned, signature Shangri-La luxury in a spacious Grand Deluxe Room with L’Occitane toiletries.

In Agra you will be perfectly positioned near the Taj Mahal at ITC Mughal, Agra – A Luxury Collection Hotel, set amidst 24 acres of sprawling gardens. Choose to dine across five bars and restaurants, make use of The Royal Spa and swimming pool or simply enjoy the luxurious comfort of your Mughal Chamber room.

A palatial sanctuary awaits you at Nahargarh Ranthambhore, a fascinating hotel built in a style reminiscent of the royal retreats that formerly housed Maharajas. Stretching across acres of land and encompassed by lush wilderness, this is one of the most indulgent properties in Rajasthan, just moments from incredible wildlife experiences and safaris. Experience world-class dining with a dinner at The Grand Dining Hall included. Replete with fine intricate mirror work and regal charm, this incredible restaurant offers an exquisite experience of dining like a royal.

Revel in timeless luxury at the multi-award-winning Fairmont Jaipur, an ode to the “Pink City” with its opulent décor inspired by the Mughal dynasty and royal Rajputs of yore. Guest services include a spa and four bars and restaurants.

The Experiences – Visit the Taj Mahal and go in search of Bengal tigers during game drives through Ranthambore National Park

Begin your Indian experience in Delhi, where you will explore Old Delhi, home to some of the city’s most magnificent monuments. Visit Jama Mosque, one of the largest mosques in India, and take an iconic rickshaw ride. Founded as the walled city of Shahjahanabad in 1639, Old Delhi was once filled with mansions and nobles and continues to be regarded as the symbolic heart of Delhi.

In New Delhi, try some of India’s best Kashmiri food – famed for its use of spices and dishes such as duma aloo spicy potatoes and yakhni meat in yoghurt – and experience the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Gandhi’s Smriti, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and a guided tour of the President’s Palace by a local historian. At Dilli Haat, a colourful outdoor market, admire everything from intricate jewellery and ceramics to beautiful rich textiles.

Travel to Agra, where you will experience the stunning Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset. Built by the Muslim Emperor Shah Jahan, of the Mughal dynasty, in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, it is considered the world’s most famous monument of love.

At Ranthambore National Park come closer to the stunning Bengal tiger with morning and afternoon game drives, guided by an expert naturalist. Alongside the tigers, keep watch for leopards, striped hyenas, sambar deer, jackals and sloth bears, as well as an abundance of birdlife.

In Jaipur, also known as the “Pink City”, you will have the option of joining a sunrise hot air balloon ride (charges apply) before exploring this unique city. Visit the 16th-century Amber Fort, known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim elements, and stop by the Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of the Winds”. This pink palace is considered the finest example of Rajput architecture.

A specially curated private tour of Jaipur’s City Palace awaits, covering areas closed to the general public. Visit a collection of private rooms and discover them in detail, away from the crowds.

Your Tour Includes:

• Eight nights’ luxury accommodation, including two nights at the stunning Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, located in the heart of the New Delhi, one night at the ITC Mughal in Agra – set over 24 acres of manicured gardens just moments from the Taj Mahal, two nights at the opulent Nahargarh Ranthambore – reminiscent of the former royal retreats that once housed the Maharajas, and three nights surrounded by timeless luxury at the award-winning Fairmont Jaipur
• Daily breakfast plus a selection of dining experiences at award-winning restaurants
• Sunrise and sunset tours of the Taj Mahal
• Rickshaw ride through the market streets of Old Delhi
• Tour through the President’s Palace and the Mahatma Gandhi Museum in new Delhi, guided by a local historian
• Morning and evening safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park, accompanied by an expert naturalist guide
• Guided tour of the private areas of the City Palace in Jaipur, visiting rooms usually closed to the general public
• Visit to the ornate Amber Fort in Jaipur, a 16th-century architectural masterpiece of Hindu and Muslim influences
• Tuk-Tuk ride through the colourful bazaars of Jaipur, offering everything from spices and textiles to precious gems and antiques
• Domestic flight from Jaipur to Delhi
• Private return airport transfers
• Expert English-speaking guides, insider experiences, private transportation, plus sightseeing and entrance fees throughout the tour itinerary

Udaipur Extension – Spend three days in the City of Lakes staying in a former royal palace overlooking Lake Pichola

Extend your time in India with a three-day trip to Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes”. Formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, this beautiful city is home to the tranquil Lake Pichola and charming, timeless streets housing opulent palaces, temples and traditional haveli residences.

Take a sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola, a stunning artificial lake with island palaces, and visit the incredible City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings added by various Maharana.

Marvel at the Crystal Gallery, which houses a rare collection of Osler crystals, and visit the Maharana Vintage and Classic Car Museum. Learn the art of blending rich spices to create perfectly balanced favours at a Rajasthani cooking class, hosted by a local in one of the beautiful Udaipur homes.

Delve deeper into Udaipur’s history at Eklingji temples, believed to be the ruling deity of the once Princely State of Mewar. The beautifully sculpted temple complex includes 108 temples, with the main building dating back to the 15th century.

Your extended tour includes three nights at the Fateh Prakash Palace, a former royal palace still owned by the royal family and part of the City Palace complex set on the banks overlooking the famous Lake Pichola.

Your Udaipur Extension Also Includes:

• Three nights of royal luxury at the Fateh Prakash Palace, the former Palace of the Maharana Fateh Singh, built at the turn of the 19th century
• Daily breakfast and special dining experiences
• Domestic flight from Jaipur to Udaipur
• A sunset boat cruise on the famous Lake Pichola
• Guided tours of the City Palace and Crystal Gallery
• Indian cooking class in a local home, followed by lunch
• Visit to the Eklingji Temples and the ruins of Nagda

VIP Package – Indulge with upgraded rooms at all hotels plus Shangri-La and Fairmont club access

At Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel in Delhi, stay in a Horizon Club Deluxe Room, offering panoramic views of the city and exclusive services at the Horizon Club Lounge. Located on the 19th floor of the hotel, the Horizon Club Lounge offers upgraded guests complimentary evening cocktails and snacks, all-day soft drinks, a wake-up service with hot drinks delivered to your room, daily breakfast in the club lounge, ironing and shoe-shine services and more.

At ITC Mughal, Agra – A Luxury Collection Hotel, you will be upgraded to a Royal Mughal Suite. Part of the exclusive ‘Khwab Mahal’ or Palace of Dreams section of the hotel, these luxurious suites offer a generous living area and separate bedroom. Also enjoy privileged lounge access with daily cocktails and hors d’ouvers served in the evening.

At the Nahargarh Ranthambore live like royalty in a Super Deluxe Room, much larger in size and featuring antique furniture, intricately carved four-poster beds and modern amenities.

Indulge with a Fairmont Gold Room at the Fairmont Jaipur with exclusive Gold Lounge access. Throughout the day, benefit from complimentary tea and coffee, an honour bar, a daily royal afternoon tea experience, evening canapés, and VIP breakfast served in the lounge every morning.

Extension VIP Package: At Fateh Prakash Palace in Udaipur, enjoy an upgrade to a Dovecote Premier Suite, offering a palatial bedroom and living area, a lake view and indulgent jacuzzi.

Your tour starts and ends in Delhi. The extended tour starts in Delhi and ends in Udaipur. Private return airport transfers are included on the first day of the tour only. Please book your flight to arrive into Delhi by 1pm on Day 1. Your room will be available from 3pm onwards.

Note: The 9 Day tour includes a flight from Jaipur to Delhi on Day 9. Your included flight is scheduled to arrive into Delhi Airport at 14:25 hours. If you are booking an international onward connection, please do not book your flight before 18:00 hours. On the extended tour, you can leave at any time after breakfast on Day 12.

Your international flights are not included in your package. Flights to Delhi from Australia will typically take approximately 12.5 hours direct (or approximately 16 hours with one stopover), departing from most major cities with Air India, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and more.

You MUST complete your booking form within 48 hours of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements you may wish to make, including assistance with international flights, with no booking fee to you.

A visa may be required to the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visa Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI

Welcome to Delhi! Your Luxury Escapes experience starts on arrival as you are met off the aerobridge by a local representative and escorted through immigration to a private car that will transfer you to your luxury hotel located in the heart of the city.

Step inside the luxurious Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel, situated in the beating heart of New Delhi and a short drive from the Presidential Estate, meaning you are easily connected to all this fascinating city has to offer.

The remainder of the day is leisure to relax and unwind before you join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at the hotel’s award-winning Tamra Restaurant, showcasing five interactive live kitchens and taking the culinary experience to another level with its exciting “world on your platter” concept.

Accommodation: Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel

Meals: Welcome Dinner

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DAY 2: DELHI

After breakfast venture to explore Old Delhi, home to some of the city’s most magnificent monuments. Founded as the walled city of Shahjahanabad in 1639, it was once filled with mansions and nobles and continues to be regarded as the symbolic heart of Delhi. Visit Jama Mosque – one of the largest mosques in India – built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1644 and 1656. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the busy streets of the old city and stop at the Khari Baoli, Asia’s largest spice market, to sample the sights, colours and fragrant spices of the stores that have filled this area for hundreds of years.

Head for lunch at Chor Bizarre for Kashmiri & Indian cuisine, noted as serving India’s best Kashmiri food by The New York Times. Following lunch, head to New Delhi where you will take a guided tour of Humayun’s Tomb, built in 1565 AD and now a protected UNESCO site. Later, drive past the famous India Gate and stop at the President’s Palace for a tour with a local historian before continuing to Gandhi’s Smriti, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Your final stop is Dilli Haat – a large outdoor market where local artists from across the country come to exhibit and sell their beautiful creations. From elaborately decorated textiles to beautifully crafted jewellery and ceramics, you will get the opportunity to meet the artisans and pick up a memorable souvenir.

Accommodation: Shangri-La’s Eros Hotel

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

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DAY 3: DELHI – AGRA

After breakfast you will be transferred by private vehicle to Agra, home of the world’s most famous monument of love – the Taj Mahal.

Check into your luxury hotel with time to relax before heading out this afternoon for a special sunset tour of Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal. This spectacular monument was built by the Muslim Emperor Shah Jahan, of the Mughal dynasty, in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who gave him 14 children but died in the last childbirth. Disconsolate at her death, the Shah Jahan ordered construction of the Taj Mahal as a posthumous gift and lasting monument to his love.

Take in the stunning site as the sun sets against its white marble domes and minarets. Time permitting, this evening you will visit Agra’s Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa’s home for under privileged and orphaned children.

Accommodation: ITC Mughal Agra – A Luxury Collection Hotel

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 4: AGRA - RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK

This morning rise early to visit the Taj Mahal when it is at its most peaceful and watch the sunrise.

Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Ranthambore National Park, a former royal hunting ground of the Maharaja’s, now a vast wildlife reserve famous for its Bengal tiger population. En route, stop for a guided tour of Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent fortified ancient city and the former capital of the Mughal empire, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy lunch at a charming local restaurant before boarding the train to Ranthambore National Park. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your stunning hotel, built in a style reminiscent of the royal retreats that formerly housed Maharajas. Stretching across acres of land and encompassed by lush wilderness, this tranquil experience will create wonderful lasting memories.

Before dinner in the opulent Grand Dining Hall, enjoy a talk by an expert naturalist on Ranthambore National Park and the conservation efforts being made to protect the Royal Bengal tigers and other wildlife.

Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhore

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 5: RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK

Today enjoy morning and afternoon game drives through the Ranthambore National Park accompanied by an expert naturalist guide. Go in search of the elusive Bengal tigers and other wildlife including leopards, striped hyenas, sambar deer, jackals and sloth bears, as well as an abundance of birdlife.

Between game drives, retreat to the beautiful grounds of your hotel and enjoy your day like royalty past. Spend time at one of the two outdoor pools, admire the stunning hotel grounds, or reinvigorate your senses at the Tattva Spa, offering traditional Indian Ayurveda and aromatherapy treatments (extra charges apply).

Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhore

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

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DAY 6: RANTHAMBORE - JAIPUR

Choose to enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing at your hotel or alternatively join an optional visit to the 10th century Ranthambore Fort, which towers over the forest as if protecting its habitants from danger. Inside the fort there are three Hindu temples dedicated to Ganesh, Shiva and Ramlalji constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries from red Karauli stone. The view of the forest from the top of the fort is breathtaking.

Return to the hotel for lunch before driving approximately 3.5 hours to Jaipur – the famous “Pink City”, capital of India’s Rajasthan state and home to the royal family that once ruled the region in 1727.

On arrival, transfer to the stunning and multi-award-winning Fairmont Jaipur, an ode to the Pink City with its awe-inspiring architecture and décor inspired by the Mughal dynasty and Royal Rajputs of yore. This evening is at leisure to enjoy one of the award-winning restaurants on your own or relax in the opulence of your room.

Accommodation: Fairmont Jaipur

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

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DAY 7: JAIPUR - THE PINK CITY

Rise early this morning and take to the skies with an optional hot air balloon ride over Jaipur (extra charges apply)*. Float gently above the city as it wakes beneath you, taking in the colour and amazing sites of this incredible city.

Enjoy breakfast before heading out on a guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your day with the visit to the 16th century Amber Fort, known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. Later, stop by the Hawa Mahal, also known as the “Palace of the Winds”. This pink palace is considered the finest example of Rajput architecture and its lattice-like exterior of sandstone and stained glass is one of the area’s most eye-catching icons.

Savour lunch at the Baradari City Palace Café, located inside the City Palace, and enjoy the royal ambience before a tour of this amazing monument. The City Palace and its museum house a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury of the Mughals and Rajputs, including swords, antiques and other artefacts. A highlight today; a specially curated private tour of the City Palace, covering areas closed to the general public, where the royal family still reside. Visit a collection of private rooms and discover them in detail, away from the crowds.

Next, visit Jantar Mantar Observatory, built to compile astronomical tables and predict the time and movement of the sun, moon and planets, before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

*Hot air balloon ride is weather dependent and does not operate April - June. This can be arranged locally by your local guide while on tour and payable direct.

Accommodation: Fairmont Jaipur

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

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DAY 8: JAIPUR

Today enjoy a full day of leisure, relaxing in the surrounds of your luxury resort. From the exciting outdoors to the lavish indoors of the hotel – a choice of luxurious options awaits. Unwind by the outdoor pool, indulge in a therapeutic massage (extra charge) or get fit at the state-of-the-art Health & Fitness centre.

Alternatively, join your group this afternoon for an included optional Tuk-Tuk ride in the colourful bazaars of the old city. You will have plenty of time for shopping, with everything from local gems, jewellery and antiques to colourful saris on offer. Meet the skilled artists behind your treasures and learn the local art of block printing, tie-dye and blue pottery.

Return to the hotel late this afternoon in time for a special farewell dinner at one of the hotel’s award-winning restaurants.

Accommodation: Fairmont Jaipur

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

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DAY 9: JAIPUR - DELHI

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to the airport for your included early afternoon flight to Delhi*. Your Indian adventure comes to an end on arrival at Delhi Airport.

*Note: Your included flight is scheduled to arrive into Delhi Airport at 14:25 hours. If you are booking an international onward connection, please do not book your flight before 18:00 hours.

Meals: Breakfast

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UDAIPUR EXTENSION

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DAY 9: JAIPUR - UDAIPUR

After an early breakfast, transfer to the airport for your included flight to Udaipur, the “City of Lakes”, founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your luxury hotel, a former royal palace still owned by the royal family and part of the City Palace complex, set on the banks overlooking the famous Lake Pichola.

Enjoy time to relax before an afternoon walk around the old city of Udaipur, followed by a sunset boat cruise on Lake Pichola.

Accommodation: Fateh Prakash Palace

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 10: UDAIPUR - THE CITY OF LAKES

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of the City of Lakes. Visit the incredible City Palace, a conglomeration of buildings added by various Maharana, which manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design. You will also visit the Crystal Gallery, which houses a rare collection of Osler crystals. Enjoy a short walk in the city, where you will visit an ancient Hindu temple for a blessing by the head priest. Conclude the tour with a visit to the Maharana Vintage and Classic Car Museum.

End the day by visiting one of the beautiful local houses where you will join your host for a cooking class of traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Learn the art of blending rich spices to create perfectly balanced favours as you discover the secrets of Indian cooking. Enjoy the efforts of your class over lunch.

Return to your royal residence, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

Accommodation: Fateh Prakash Palace

Meals: Breakfast, Cooking Class & Lunch

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DAY 11: UDAIPUR

Today, visit the Eklingji Temples, believed to be the ruling deity of the once Princely State of Mewar. The beautifully sculpted temple complex includes 108 temples, with the main building dating back to the 15th century. Continue to Nagda, now in ruins, once the scene of frequent Muslim invasions. It has two 11th-century temples ornamented with unusual carvings.

Return to Udaipur and enjoy a special lunch at Raas Devigarh. Once an 18th-century palace located on the Aravalli Hills of the Udaipur area, this luxury hotel offers superb dining with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and the Aravalli hill range.

This afternoon is at leisure to wander the streets of Udaipur on your own or retreat to your palace accommodation.

Accommodation: Fateh Prakash Palace

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

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DAY 12: DEPART UDAIPUR

After breakfast, an included transfer will take you to Udaipur Airport, where your tour comes to an end.

Meals: Breakfast