Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Ranthambore National Park
Destinations: Udaipur
Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur
Discover incredible India on this nine-day, luxury small-group cultural tour (max. 16 travellers). Beginning in Delhi, tick off amazing experiences, staying in world-class luxury accommodation as you travel through Agra, Ranthambore National Park, and the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. Enjoy both sunrise and sunset tours of the Taj Mahal in Agra, take a rickshaw ride in Old Delhi and explore its iconic Jama Mosque before a guided tour of Humayun’s Tomb and a colourful Dilli Haat market visit in New Delhi. Go in search of the elusive Bengal tiger during game drives in Ranthambore National Park (subject to weather conditions) and visit the ornate Amber Fort in Jaipur before being treated to a private tour of the stunning City Palace, taking in rooms otherwise closed to the general public.
Experience eight nights of luxury accommodation, including two nights at Shangri-La Eros Hotel, located in the heart of New Delhi, a night at ITC Mughal by Marriott in Agra, just moments from the Taj Mahal, two nights at the opulent Nahargarh Ranthambhore and three nights at the majestic ITC Rajputana by Marriott — A Luxury Collection Hotel. With a selection of dining experiences at award-winning restaurants, a domestic flight from Jaipur to Delhi, insider experiences and so much more, this is your ultimate introduction to India.
Your journey takes you to: Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore National Park – Jaipur – Delhi.
Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur
Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Ranthambore National Park
Destinations: Udaipur
Welcome to Delhi! On arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), you will be met at the aerobridge by a local representative. You’ll be escorted through immigration to a private car that will transfer you to your luxury hotel located in the vibrant centre of the city. Step inside the luxurious Shangri-La Eros Hotel (or similar), situated in the beating heart of New Delhi and a short drive from the Presidential Estate, easily connected to all this fascinating city has to offer.
The remainder of the day is spent at your leisure — relax and unwind before you join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at award-winning onsite Tamra Restaurant, showcasing five interactive live kitchens and taking the culinary experience to another level with its exciting ‘world on your platter’ concept.
After breakfast, venture out 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.
Enjoy lunch at Kwality restaurant, operating since 1940. Feast on North Indian and Anglo-Indian continental cuisine. Following lunch, head to New Delhi, where you will take a guided tour of Humayun’s Tomb, built in 1565 and now a protected UNESCO site. Later, drive past the famous India Gate and stop at Gandhi’s Smriti, a museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Your final stop is Dilli Haat, a large outdoor market that hosts local artists from across the country exhibiting and selling their creations, from elaborately decorated textiles to beautifully crafted jewellery and ceramics. You’ll get the opportunity to meet the artisans and pick up a memorable souvenir.
After breakfast, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Agra, home of the world’s most famous monument dedicated to 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 had 14 children before dying in childbirth. Disconsolate at her death, Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the Taj Mahal as a posthumous gift and lasting monument to his love.
Take in the stunning sight as the sunset tinges the white marble domes and minaret in golden hues. Time permitting, this evening you will visit Agra’s Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa’s home for underprivileged and orphaned children.
This morning, rise early to visit the Taj Mahal when it is at its most peaceful: at sunrise.
Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Ranthambore National Park (subject to weather conditions), former royal hunting ground of the Maharajas, now a vast wildlife reserve famous for its Bengal tiger population. En route, stop for a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent fortified ancient city and the former capital of the Mughal empire.
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, a stay in this tranquil landscape 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.
Today, enjoy morning and afternoon game drives through Ranthambore National Park (subject to weather conditions), accompanied by an expert naturalist guide. Go in search of elusive Bengal tigers and other wildlife, including leopards, striped hyenas, sambar deer, jackals and sloth bears, as well as an abundance of bird species.
Between game drives, relax on the beautiful grounds of your hotel and enjoy your day like royalty past. Spend time at the outdoor pool, admire the lush hotel gardens, or reinvigorate your senses at the spa with traditional Indian treatments (additional charges apply).
Choose to enjoy a leisurely morning relaxing at your hotel or join an optional visit (subject to weather conditions) to the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, which towers over the forest as if protecting its inhabitants 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.
On arrival, transfer to the stunning ITC Rajputana by Marriott – A Luxury Collection Hotel, inspired by the imposing architecture of Rajasthan’s traditional havelis, and located in the heart of the city. This evening is spent at your leisure, enjoying one of the award-winning restaurants or relaxing in the opulence of your room.
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 its colours and amazing sights.
Enjoy breakfast before heading out on a guided tour of Jaipur. Begin your day with a visit to the 16th-century Amber Fort, known for its unique architectural style, blending both Hindu and Muslim elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. Later, stop by 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 Baradari, 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 the armoury of the Mughals and Rajputs, including swords and other artefacts. A highlight of your visit today will be 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 your leisure.
Note: Hot air balloon ride is weather dependent and does not operate between April and June. Ballooning is arranged locally by your guide and is payable direct.
Optional Activity
Enjoy a full day of leisure, relaxing in the surroundings of your luxury resort. From the exciting outdoor activities to the lavish interiors of the hotel, a choice of luxurious options awaits. Unwind by the outdoor pool, enjoy a therapeutic massage (extra charges apply) or hit the state-of-the-art health and fitness centre.
Alternatively, join your group this afternoon for a complimentary optional tuk-tuk ride through 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.
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 (DEL).
Note: If you are booking an onward connection, please book your flights to leave after 6pm.
Begin your tour in five-star comfort at Shangri-La Eros Hotel (or similar) in New Delhi. Located in the heart of the city, 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 Deluxe Room with L’Occitane toiletries.
In Agra, you will be perfectly positioned near the Taj Mahal at ITC Mughal by Marriott, Agra – A Luxury Collection Hotel (or similar), set amid 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 (or similar), a fascinating hotel built in a style reminiscent of the royal retreats that formerly housed maharajas. Stretching across acres of 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 intricate mirror work and regal charm, this incredible restaurant offers an exquisite experience of dining like a royal.
Revel in timeless luxury at the five-star ITC Rajputana by Marriott — A Luxury Collection Hotel (or similar), an ode to the ‘Pink City’, with opulent decor inspired by the romance and regal majesty of yore. Guest services include a spa and five bars and restaurants.
Update [5 July 2024, 10.44am AEST]: Itinerary change applies for guests travelling on Wednesday 13 July, 10 August, and 14 September 2024 (including private departures). Due to park closures during the monsoon season on these dates, the safari activity will be replaced with an alternative experience.
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Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.
Please note:
Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation, if you choose to change; change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes.’
For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with hotel.
Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
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Optional experiences
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Traveller Details
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Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:
Your tour begins and ends in Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). The extended tour starts at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and ends in Udaipur Airport (UDR). Private airport transfers are included on the first day of the tour only. Please book your flight to arrive in Delhi by 1pm on Day 1. Your room will be available from 3pm onwards.
Note: The nine-day tour includes a flight from Jaipur to Delhi on Day 9. If you are booking an onward connection, please book your flight to leave after 6pm. On the extended tour, you can leave any time after breakfast on Day 12.
Roundtrip flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. ** If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.**
Roundtrip airport transfers are included in your tour on the first and last day only.
Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.
A visa may be required for 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, Visas 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 will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
Important Destination Information:
India
Time zone: India Standard Time GMT+5:30
Telephone: +91
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards generally accepted in larger cities and towns. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. Counterfeit currency is in circulation, take care when dealing with cash.
Language: Hindi, English
Climate: India’s climate varies between seasons and from north to south. The climate in North India is generally warm with cold winters while South India is generally hot and humid. India’s tropical wet season lasts from June to September.