Northern India: Riverside Safaris, Ancient Fortresses & the Taj Mahal

Delhi, the vibrant capital of India, offers a captivating blend of rich history and modern tradition that charms every traveller. Set out on foot to discover a treasure trove of iconic landmarks such as the majestic Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Humayun’s Tomb and the intricate architecture of the India Gate, each narrating a story of India’s diverse heritage. Delhi’s bustling markets, divine cuisine and warm hospitality provide an immersive cultural experience, making it the perfect destination for the start of your trip.

Join your CEO on a walking tour of some of the oldest parts of Delhi, through ancient ruins and diverse religious sites. In the afternoon, discover Old Delhi and its narrow bylanes of Kinari Bazaar and the old havelis of Chandni Chowk. Wander through bazaars, spice markets and even ride a rickshaw to dive straight into daily life in India’s biggest city.

Namaste Delhi Walking Tour (approx. 3 hours)

Visit G Values Fund project, Namaste Delhi. Start your walking tour of Qutab Complex and the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Go back in time as you walk through the oldest parts of historical Delhi and explore ancient ruins, monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through a park scattered with time-ravaged tombs and mosques.

Old Delhi Guided Walk (4 hours)

Visit historic Old Delhi. Explore Jama Masjid, the ‘Great Mosque’, and enjoy its massive courtyard, which can hold up to 25,000 worshippers. Also, visit the ancient Sikh temple of Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, which was established in 1783.

No India itinerary is complete without a stop at two of the most iconic spots in the world, let alone India. The Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort are just a train ride away for today’s adventure. The Taj Mahal is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a world-renowned symbol of love and craftsmanship. And the legendary Agra Fort stands as a testament to the significance of India’s grand Mughal Empire. We make sure these two world-famous stops are checked off your India bucket list today.

After riding the train to Agra, visit both sites with your CEO and local guide. In the evening, drive to Dholpur and check into your OMG Stay – a tranquil set of stone cottages that feels a million miles away from the busy atmosphere of Delhi.

Train to Agra (2–3 hours)

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Agra Fort Visit (1–3 hours)

Enjoy a visit to this impressive Mughal fort made of red sandstone and white marble.

Taj Mahal Guided Tour (1–3 hours)

Here’s one to cross off your bucket list: a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Take a guided tour of India’s most famous landmark and an icon of Mughal architecture. Built by the emperor Shah Jahan as a testament of his love to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this stunning white marble structure draws visitors from all over the world.

Private Vehicle (1.5 hours)

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Your OMG Stay: Narsingh Bagh

You don’t need to venture deep into the jungle to experience India’s vibrant wildlife. Just outside of Dholpur, the chance to embark on a river safari showcases diverse landscapes and thriving wildlife. From spotting elusive species of birds and endangered animals to witnessing traditional riverside life, your time on the Chambal River will be unforgettable. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a gharial – a type of fish-eating crocodile. Hands inside the boat please!

After spending the morning on the river, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the land. Get out on a bicycle to discover the lush jungle surrounding Narsingh Bagh, and join your guide in looking for a number of bird species local to the area.

Chambal River Safari (1–1.5 hours)

Board shaded motorboats with sofa seats to cruise down the Chambal River. Take a chance spotting migratory birds along the banks or even the highly endangered gharial, a large narrow-jawed crocodilian that mainly feeds on fish.

Cycle Birding Tour (45 minutes) | 6km

Start later in the afternoon, riding on pedal bikes until Talab-e-Sahi with stops for birding and photography. Return to the hotel and afternoon tea (tea, coffee and cookies). There is no elevation gain on this cycle.

From water to land, we continue the safari into Ranthambore National Park. This park is considered the best in the world to see the Royal Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. Grab your binoculars and join your guide in search of not just tigers but leopards, Bengal foxes, langurs and other amazing species. The magic of Ranthambore unfolds between dense forest and historical ruins offering an unparalleled safari experience.

Your Indian safari adventure continues as you leave Dholpur and drive to Ranthambore National Park. Spend the afternoon on safari before a delicious dinner at the lodge.

Private Vehicle (4 hours)

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Ranthambore Afternoon Safari (2–3 hours)

Explore the park with local rangers on a safari drive in search of deer, birds, leopards, monkeys and, if you’re lucky, elusive tigers.

After another safari in Ranthambore, it’s onward to Jaipur. Jaipur isn’t just known for its incredible history and monuments, it’s also famous for being, well, pink! While the city is beautiful to gaze at, it’s not just a pretty facade. Together we have the next two days to explore all this city has to teach us. First up, try your hand at block printing with the women of the Anoothi Project before an orientation walk through town.

After an early morning safari, you’ll drive to one of the most colourful cities in India: Jaipur. Known for its coloured gems and pink buildings, take it all in on a walking tour of the city.

Your G for Good Moment: Anoothi Block Printing Experience

Women from marginalised communities outside Jaipur came together to create the Anoothi Project. In Hindi, Anoothi means ‘unique and extraordinary’ and by teaching these women to master the traditionally male handicraft of block printing, the collective shines a light on the unique and extraordinary within each individual. At this G for Good visit, engage in a hands-on block printing activity with the local women as you indulge in some local snacks prepared by your hosts.

Ranthambore Morning Safari (3–4 hours)

Explore the park with local rangers on a safari drive in search of deer, birds, leopards, monkeys and, if you’re lucky, those elusive tigers.

Private Vehicle (approx. 4 hours) | 165km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Jaipur City Tour

Take a brief tour of the city and use this as a chance to stretch your legs.

Your Jaipur explorations start with the Amber heritage walk. Step into what feels like a painting at the intricate Panna Meena before climbing onward to the majestically perched fortress of Amber Fort. The afternoon continues with a guided exploration of Jantar Mantar. This architectural wonder is marvelled at for its accurate observation of celestial bodies, showcasing the advanced astronomical knowledge of its time and the world’s largest sundial.

Spend the morning exploring at Hawa Mahal and the Amber Fort. After lunch, take a special tour of Jantar Mantar, one of the most important astronomical observatories of the pre-modern world.

Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) (15–30 minutes)

Enjoy a visit to the intricately carved Hawa Mahal, or ‘Palace of the Winds’, which is named for the cool breeze that comes through the structure and keeps it comfortable, even in the hot Jaipur summers. Admire this architectural wonder and snap some photos.

Amber Heritage Walk (2.5–3 hours)

Visit the famous Panna Meena stepwell and the old temples around historic Amber Town before you make your way up to the fort.

Amber Fort Visit

Take in the Hindu and Muslim architecture of the beautiful Amber Fort. Wander through the halls and courtyards and admire the intricate details.

Jantar Mantar Visit (1–2 hours)

Visit the Jantar Mantar observatory for a guided tour and explore the collection of astronomical instruments housed there, some dating back to 1727.

Today is jam-packed with OMG worthy moments. Pushkar is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India and home to one of the only temples in the world dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu creator god. After a visit to this esteemed temple, you get the honour of choosing how the rest of your day unfolds. Connect with your spiritual side with a yoga class and a wellness and spirituality discussion or hike the famed pilgrimage path to Savitri Temple hill and visit this picturesque hilltop. Come together in the evening again for sundowners with a show, to watch traditional Kalbeliya dancers alongside a local feast under the stars.

Your OMG Day starts in the holy town of Pushkar with a visit to the famed Brahma Temple to meet a local pandit to understand and partake in ancient rituals. Then the choice is yours: choose to take an hour-long yoga class followed by a wellness and spirituality discussion, or drive to the base of Savitri Temple hill for a hike up the 900 steps for a bird’s-eye view of Pushkar.

Your OMG Day: Yoga Class or Savitri Temple Hill Walk

• Option 1: Take an hour-long yoga class followed by a wellness and spirituality workshop.
• Option 2: Take a short drive to Savitri Temple and walk up 900 steps to an amazing bird’s-eye view of Pushkar town. You’ll go up 650 feet in elevation over a mostly paved path. The steps can be a bit uneven toward the top but the view is well worth it.

Pushkar Orientation Walk (1 hour) | 3km

Join your CEO for an orientation to explore key parts of this desert city, including beautiful lakes and ghats. Visit the famed Brahma temple and meet a local pandit to understand and take part in the ancient rituals.

Private Vehicle (2.5–3.5 hours)

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Traditional Dinner and Dancers

During sunset, enjoy the traditional Kalbeliya dancers and a sundowner. Engage in a traditional barbeque dinner experience under the stars admiring the starlit sand dunes of Pushkar.

The state of Rajasthan is famed for its historic forts and fortresses, handicrafts and its bright and beautiful block printing and tie-dye techniques. Textiles in India are more than just beautiful art, they’re symbols of regional heritage, cultural identity and centuries of generational practices. Visit small hamlets whose traditions remained unchanged over the last hundred years, and overnight at a heritage property outside Jodhpur.

After a leisurely start to the morning, hop into jeeps to visit the small villages and hamlets outside Chandelao Garh, culminating in a visit to Pipar village to learn more about the hundred-year-old crafting techniques. An overnight in this unique heritage property awaits.

Private Vehicle (3.5–4 hours)

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Chandelao Fortress and Village (30 minutes)

Immerse yourself in the life of a tranquil Indian Village. Within the property, explore the old fortress where the historical family has resided for generations. Engage in a short understanding of the village and the history of Chandelao.

Pipar Village Visit (1.5 hours)

Ride in a jeep down to the hamlets of surrounding villages. Explore Pipar, a traditional rural town with hundred-year-old block-printing and tie-dye techniques, and meet some of the families still practising the craft.

It’s almost impossible to say which is more beautiful: the view of Mehrangarh Fortress from the city of Jodhpur or the view of the Blue City of Jodhpur from Mehrangarh Fortress. The opportunity to visit and view both this morning will leave your heart full.

After a morning of discovery at the extraordinary Mehrangarh Fortress and the Blue City of Jodhpur, visit the Sunder Rang Cooperative and discover how this small social enterprise is helping more than 35 women and their families to provide meaningful support for their community. From textiles to handmade crafts, each unique item showcases the talent and creativity of the women who have made them.

Jodhpur Half-Day Tour (2–3 hours)

Explore the Blue City of Jodhpur with a half-day tour. You will visit Mehrangarh Fort, a breathtakingly beautiful fort located at the top of a cliff, which offers a stunning view of Jodhpur below. Learn about the many battles fought there and get a sense of what it was like to be Rajasthani royalty by visiting its well-stocked museum. Then continue on to Jaswant Thada, a memorial with unparalleled views over the city.

Sunder Rang Cooperative Visit (1 hour)

Visit the Sunder Rang cooperative and meet the ladies who run the project. Sunder Rang is a craft market run by local women. It offers the chance to buy some of the finest clothing, jewellery and souvenirs. Currently, more than 35 women and their families are being impacted by this non-profit organisation which helps them market their products. Apart from paying them fair wages, the organisation shares 60% of the profit with the families and keeps 40% for other activities like health, sanitation and education of the women in the village.

From one town to the next, India seems to become more and more spectacular. Continue to Ranakpur Jain temple to observe one of the most magnificent marble temples in India. After exploring the temple, continue to the romantic lakefront city of Udaipur. There’s no better welcome to a waterfront town than dinner at one of the finest lakefront restaurants.

Together the group drives to Ranakpur to visit the famous Ranakpur Jain temples before reaching Udaipur. After an orientation walk of the old city, enjoy a group dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Stretch your legs on a walk along the lake or take a tuk-tuk back to your hotel for the night.

Private Vehicle (3.5 hours) | 160km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Ranakpur Jain Temples Visit (1–2 hours)

Enjoy a visit to this magnificent white marble temple devoted to Adinath, a god in the Jain religion. Jains believe in “ahimsa,” non-violence to all living beings. Built in the 15th century, the temple has 1,444 individually carved pillars.

Private Vehicle (2.5 hours) | 90km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Udaipur Orientation Walk

Go on a guided orientation walk and get to know local markets and key places.

Udaipur, the City of Lakes, invites you to rise and shine with a bike ride to start the day. Enjoy incredible views with a gentle bike ride through the ancient hills of Udaipur to Badi Lake where breakfast will be waiting. After an exhilarating start to the day, join your CEO to tour the palace complex and Jagdish Temple, which has been welcoming worshippers since 1651.

This afternoon is at leisure to explore as you please. Grab a tea at a cafe or do some exploring on foot with your camera. In the evening, climb aboard for a sunset boat ride to explore Lake Pichola.

Badi Lake Breakfast Cycle (2–3 hours) | 12km

Cycle to Badi Lake through Udaipur village tracks on a traditional bike. Arrive at Badi Lake and enjoy breakfast on the bank.

Jagdish Temple Visit

Visit the intricately carved Jagdish Temple, which pays homage to Vishnu, the Hindu god of preservation. Make sure to take a peek at the black-stone image of Vishnu that’s housed inside the shrine.

Pichola Lake Boat Tour (1–2 hours)

Sit back and relax on this amazing boat tour on Pichola Lake. The views of the city and gorgeous palaces, including City Palace, are unparalleled.

Mixed with modern high-rises and old-world architecture, Mumbai is India’s financial and cinematic capital. This afternoon will take you to some of the best spots in all of Mumbai like Dhobi Ghat, Asia’s largest open-air laundromat and Malabar Hill.

After a relaxing morning with some leisure time in Udaipur, your flight takes you to the busiest city in all of India: Mumbai. Take a driving tour of the city after your arrival before reaching the hotel.

Airport Transfer

You will be met at the hotel and transferred to the airport.

Plane (1 hour and 15 minutes)

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… yup, it is a plane, actually.

Airport Transfer

Drive from the airport to our hotel. En route make photo stops at the Dhobhi Ghat, Asia’s largest open-air laundromat. Drive up Malabar Hill to the hanging gardens for a bird’s-eye view of the bay from on top of the city’s oldest reservoir, covered by a topiary garden. Continue down through Marine Drive popularly known as the ‘Queen’s Necklace’ before reaching your hotel.

A scenic escape from the bustling city brings you to the island of Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through rock-carved columns to enter the impressive caves dedicated to Lord Shiva. These incredible carvings date back to the 5th century, and represent a sacred site for Hindu believers.

Visit the Gateway of India before you board your private boat to Elephanta Caves. Travel for an hour to reach the UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend a half-day visiting these rock-cut stone temples that date back to the 5th century. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax, eat, shop, or all three! This evening, join your CEO and fellow travellers for one final farewell feast.

Farewell Dinner

Join your group for one last dinner together.

Gateway of India Visit (1–2 hours)

Enjoy a visit to this architecturally splendid arch, popular with tourists from India and around the world. It was built during the British rule and offers amazing views of the Arabian Sea, with boats bobbing in the water close by.

Excursion of Elephanta Cave (4 hours)

Visit the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The collection of cave temples is located just off the shore of Mumbai, on Elephanta Island, and contains a series of sculptures and carvings depicting Hindu symbols.

Your adventure has come to an end, you can depart at any time.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.