en
- Signature
- 14-day trip
- From €14,195 per person
India trip | Luxury roundtrip magical India
During this luxury tour, you’ll discover the highlights of India in style. You’ll stay exclusively in 5-star hotels – and in Delhi, even in a 6-star hotel – where comfort and elegance come together, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in opulence and refined service. You’ll also discover regal palaces and experience how the ancient maharajas lived, whilst an expert guide leads you through the country’s rich history and culture. In the Golden Triangle, you’ll visit the most important historical sights: from the majestic monuments of Delhi, where modern and traditional India meet, to the enchanting Taj Mahal, which you’ll behold in all its glory at sunrise. In Ranthambore, you’ll go on a safari in search of tigers and other wildlife in a stunning nature reserve. In Varanasi, you’ll experience the spirituality of India during an exclusive sunrise boat trip on the sacred Ganges, where daily life unfolds before you in all its intensity. Finally, in Mumbai , you’ll discover the dynamism of this modern metropolis and visit, amongst other things, India’s busiest railway station and the world’s largest open-air laundry.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to India
- Day 2 Arrival in Delhi
- Day 3 A journey for the senses in Delhi
- Day 4 Journey to Agra
- Day 5 Taj Mahal and journey to Ranthambhore
- Day 6 A day dedicated to nature
- Day 7 Journey to Jaipur
- Day 8 Jaipur and the surrounding area
- Day 9 Flower walk through Jaipur
- Day 10 Flight to Varanasi
- Day 11 The sacred River Ganges
- Day 12 Vibrant Mumbai
- Day 13 Local encounters and Bollywood dance class
- Day 14 Departure from India
Arrival in Delhi
Welcome to India! You’ll arrive in Delhi, where you’ll be met by our local representative. You’ll travel by private transfer to your hotel in Delhi, where you’ll stay for the first two nights.
Delhi, the capital of India, is a city that offers a glimpse of both ancient and modern India. It is India’s third-largest city and one of the fastest-growing in Asia. This city is rich in culture, constantly evolving with the times yet never hiding its magnificent past. The various ancient ruins to be seen in the city bear witness to its magnificent history. The city of Delhi is a blend of two distinct yet perfectly balanced parts: Old and New Delhi. With its labyrinthine streets, elegant mosques, forts, monuments and bazaars, Old Delhi speaks volumes about its Mughal past. With its multicultural population, New Delhi is truly cosmopolitan.
Inclusief:
- VIP Meet & Greet
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
A journey for the senses in Delhi
After breakfast, your personal guide will take you on a tour of Delhi, exploring the rich history and cultural splendour of this extraordinary city. You’ll start at the impressive Humayun’s Tomb, an architectural masterpiece that not only inspired the Taj Mahal but also exudes a quiet grandeur that many locals still favour.
You will then stroll through the ancient Mughal city of Shahjahanabad, where you’ll gain an insight into the traditional craft of ittar (perfume-making). In a family-run workshop, you’ll learn how these fragrances are blended and create your own mixture. You will then take a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest markets.
After these experiences, you’ll discover the culinary side of Delhi and sample dishes that have been part of the local cuisine for generations. In the afternoon, you’ll travel to New Delhi, where British colonial architecture stands in stark contrast to the Mughal monuments. You’ll round off the day at the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, an important Sikh temple where the chants (gurbani) and the welcoming atmosphere offer a special experience.
For those still with energy to spare, the evening offers the chance for a stylish finale in Khan Market. Here you’ll find sophisticated boutiques, bookshops and elegant cafés; this excursion is optional.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Discover Old & New Delhi with a local guide, including lunch
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Agra
After breakfast, you will drive to Agra. The city of Agra is situated in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra is best known for the famous Taj Mahal, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The world-famous white marble mausoleum is renowned for the way it seems to constantly change colour, depending on the light and the angle of the sun’s rays. This masterpiece of Mughal architecture, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, is one of the most iconic symbols of love in the world.
In the late afternoon, you will visit Mehtab Bagh and Agra Fort. Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) is a charbagh complex in Agra. It lies to the north of the Taj Mahal complex and Agra Fort, on the opposite bank of the River Yamuna, in the floodplains. The garden complex, which is square in shape, measures approximately 300 by 300 metres and is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank.
Agra Fort has walls over 20 metres high and no less than 2.4 kilometres long, enclosing an astonishing collection of well-preserved buildings, many of which were built during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Excursion: Visit to Mehatab & Agra Fort
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The Taj Mahal and a trip to Ranthambhore
Get up early for a cup of coffee or tea and prepare for a truly spectacular sunrise at the Taj Mahal. The best time to capture this monument is at sunrise, when the soft morning light shows off the architecture to its best advantage.
Upon your return to the hotel, you’ll have the opportunity to have breakfast, after which you’ll be transferred to Ranthambhore.
In the afternoon, you’ll have time to enjoy Ranthambhore at your leisure. This unique nature reserve, famous for its tigers, lies between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges and is dominated by an ancient fort that towers high above the landscape. The mix of forests, lakes and open plains provides a habitat for a rich variety of wildlife, ranging from deer and antelopes to crocodiles and countless species of birds. The atmosphere of ancient ruins reclaimed by nature lends the park an almost magical air.
Tips from a Travel Specialist
Please note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays!
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Accommodation on a full board basis
A day dedicated to nature
Today, you’ll experience Ranthambhore at its most intense on a tiger safari. Early in the morning, you’ll set off into the park in a 4x4 jeep; this is the time when the tigers are often most active. On your return, a hearty breakfast awaits, and you’ll have time to relax: by the pool, strolling through the gardens or simply enjoying the peace and quiet.
In the afternoon, you’ll head out on another safari. With the help of experienced naturalists, who listen out for the alarm calls of deer and monkeys, you’ll increase your chances of spotting the Bengal tiger. As well as the tiger, you’ll encounter a wide range of animals here: leopards, hyenas, bears, monkeys, deer and an impressive variety of birds.
On your return to the lodge, a delightful dinner awaits you.
Tips from the Travel Specialist
Please note: Zones 1–5 of the park are closed every Wednesday, and zones 6–10 are closed every Tuesday.
Inclusief:
- Morning excursion: 4x4 jeep safari
- Afternoon excursion: Afternoon safari with an experienced nature guide
- Accommodation on a full board basis
Travel to Jaipur
In the morning, you’ll set off on your third safari – a final chance to experience Ranthambhore in all its splendour. After breakfast, you’ll travel on to Jaipur, the colourful capital of Rajasthan, better known as the Pink City. This city, founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II, lies in a rugged landscape surrounded by hills dotted with imposing forts and ancient city walls. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your accommodation and spend the rest of the day at your leisure, free to plan your own activities.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Morning safari in Ranthambore
- Private transfer to hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Jaipur and the surrounding area
In the morning, you’ll visit the impressive Amber Fort, majestically situated atop a hill and accessible by jeep. Within its walls, you’ll discover palaces, gardens and temples, including the magnificent Sheesh Mahal, a palace adorned with intricate mirror work that exudes the grandeur of days gone by.
After this visit, you’ll drive on to the City Palace, making a brief stop en route at the fairytale-like Jal Mahal and the iconic Hawa Mahal. A private guided tour of the City Palace will give you an exclusive insight into the life of Jaipur’s royal family. You’ll stroll through richly decorated halls, admire the art and architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from the Chandra Mahal.
In the evening, an intimate introduction to Jaipur awaits you during a Bazaars, Crafts & Cuisine Walk. You’ll wander through colourful markets, meet local artisans and sample culinary specialities such as samosas, kulfi and lassi.
The day concludes in style with a refined dinner at Sarvato, an exclusive tasting menu restaurant in the heart of the City Palace. Here, traditional Rajasthani flavours are presented with a modern twist in a regal setting, accompanied by innovative cocktails and an ambience that seamlessly blends history and luxury.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Visit to Amber Fort with a local guide
- Excursion: Guided tour of the City Palace with a local guide
- Excursion: Bazaar, Crafts & Cuisine walking tour
- Dinner at Sarvato restaurant with an exclusive tasting menu
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Flower walk through Jaipur
You’ll discover Jaipur from an unexpected perspective: flowers as the soul of the city. During a special flower tour, you’ll see how flowers not only add colour to the streetscape but are also interwoven with architecture, textiles and religion. You’ll visit the vibrant flower market, where scent and colour blend together, and experience the spiritual significance of flowers as sacred offerings in a temple. Next, a design studio will show you how temple flowers are given new life in sustainable textiles and refined prints.
Later, you’ll visit Nila House, an elegant cultural centre dedicated to the revival of India’s traditional textile art. Here, you’ll admire hand-woven, naturally dyed fabrics, unique decorative pieces and an intimate collection of antique tribal textiles and jewellery. Workshops offer you the chance to experiment for yourself with centuries-old techniques such as block printing or working with natural dyes. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Flower walking tour and a visit to the Nila House with a local guide
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Flight to Varanasi
You will be taken to Jaipur Airport for your domestic flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be taken by private transfer to your hotel in Varanasi.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Benares, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in India and is regarded as its spiritual heart. On the banks of the sacred River Ganges, centuries-old rituals take place every day: pilgrims take a purifying bath, priests perform prayers, and the famous ghats buzz with religious and cultural activities.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Jaipur – Varanasi
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
The sacred River Ganges
You’ll experience Varanasi in its purest form: on the banks of the sacred Ganges. Early in the morning, you’ll set off by boat from Assi Ghat. As the sun rises, you’ll see pilgrims purifying themselves in the water and priests performing their morning rituals. The soft colours of the water, the temples and the ghats make this a magical and photogenic moment. You ’ll attend the intimate morning aarti , a serene ceremony welcoming the new day, accompanied by priests’ chants and music students reciting hymns. You’ll then travel by boat to Kedar Ghat to visit the Kedar Mandir, a vibrant temple revered mainly by locals.
After the boat trip, you’ll take a walk along the ghats, where daily life unfolds: priests and children bathe in the river, yoga classes take place, and in the traditional kushti akharas (wrestling schools), athletes practise centuries-old techniques in the sand, preceded by prayers at a Hanuman shrine. For those who fancy it, there are also safe street food options to sample along the way.
Afterwards, you’ll return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, you’ll take a walk around Assi Ghat, the southernmost part of the banks of the Ganges. You will follow in the footsteps of the 16th-century poet and mystic Tulsidas, translator of the Ramayana. Along the way, you will visit temples and sacred ponds founded by him, and gain an insight into the rich culture and religious traditions of Banaras. The walk ends with a darshan (spiritual encounter) at a hidden sun temple behind his house.
In the evening, you’ll return to the Ganges for one of India’s most impressive rituals: the famous evening aarti. From the ghats, you’ll watch as priests in traditional dress honour the river with burning oil lamps and chants. The combination of fire, music and devotion makes this a unique and unforgettable experience.
Inclusief:
- Morning excursion: Sunrise boat trip on the River Ganges
- Afternoon excursion: Walk around Assi Ghat with a local guide
- Evening excursion: Attending the famous evening Aarti ritual
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Vibrant Mumbai
You will be taken to Varanasi Airport for your domestic flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be taken to your hotel. You will be staying at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace hotel, a true symbol of elegance and Indian hospitality since 1903. Situated opposite the Gateway of India, this legendary hotel has welcomed countless world leaders, celebrities and royal guests over the years.
In the afternoon, you will explore the dynamic metropolis of Mumbai, once a group of islands given as a dowry and now a vibrant melting pot of cultures. Your exploration begins at Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest open-air laundry, where hundreds of dhobis wash mountains of laundry using traditional methods – a unique spectacle that can only be seen in Mumbai. You will then take a short heritage walk from Kala Ghoda to Churchgate, passing colonial gems such as the Bombay High Court and the University of Mumbai.
You will then be transferred to your hotel to check in. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a refined dinner at Ekaa, a top-class restaurant where modern gastronomy and Indian traditions come together in an intimate setting.
Inclusief:
- Private transfer to the airport
- Domestic flight Varanasi – Mumbai
- Private transfer to your hotel
- Excursion: Mumbai city tour highlights with a local guide
- Dinner at Ekaa restaurant
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Local encounters and Bollywood dance lessons
Start your day early with the exclusive ‘Mumbai by Dawn’ tour. You’ll explore the harbours and meet the Koli fishermen, the city’s original inhabitants, whilst witnessing a unique fish auction. Stroll through bustling markets where fish, meat, fruit and vegetables are sold daily, and admire the colourful morning life of Mumbai, a photographer’s paradise. The tour ends with a walk across a cricket pitch, after which you’ll return to your hotel for breakfast.
After breakfast, explore the historic heart of Mumbai, starting with the iconic Gateway of India and the city’s elegant buildings, such as the Royal Bombay Yacht Club and the Regal Cinema. Meet the famous Dabbawalas at Churchgate, experience local train life on the journey to Byculla and enjoy lunch in the area. Next, visit the fragrant Spice Market or Crawford Market, where you’ll discover the art of spices and masala. Round off the afternoon with a private Bollywood dance class in a modern studio – a unique and energetic introduction to the cultural spirit of Mumbai. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.
Inclusief:
- Excursion: Mumbai by Dawn tour with a local guide
- Excursion: Gateway of India walking tour including a private Bollywood dance lesson
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
The Leela Palace New Delhi
The Leela Palace New Delhi is situated in the heart of the capital’s prestigious diplomatic enclave and is a fine example of the magnificent architecture, grace and elegance of Lutyens’ Delhi. The hotel stands out for having the largest rooms in the capital and boasts a total of 254 luxury rooms and suites. The…
The Leela Palace New Delhi is situated in the heart of the capital’s prestigious diplomatic enclave and is a fine example of the magnificent architecture, grace and elegance of Lutyens’ Delhi. The hotel stands out for having the largest rooms in the capital and boasts a total of 254 luxury rooms and suites. The palace is renowned for its unrivalled gastronomic delights and service of the highest calibre. The culinary offering includes two international gourmet establishments from New York City, MEGU and Le Cirque, alongside The Qube, Jamavar and the sophisticated bar, The Library. The Royal Club, situated on the ninth floor, is a hotel within a hotel that pampers guests with its highly personalised services and exclusive amenities, and is one of the most sought-after luxury experiences in the world. With a selection of eight meeting rooms and an elite ballroom, the palace is also an iconic venue in Delhi. The hotel also features a temperature-controlled rooftop swimming pool offering panoramic views of the city.
Your stay: 2 nights
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Located in Agra, the Oberoi Amarvilas hotel is ideal for holidaymakers. The Taj Mahal monument is just 600 metres away and can be seen in all rooms and most public areas of the hotel. The Oberoi Amarvilas hotel offers a tourist service to nearby tourist...
Located in Agra, the Oberoi Amarvilas hotel is ideal for holidaymakers. The Taj Mahal monument is just 600 metres away and can be seen in all rooms and most public areas of the hotel. The Oberoi Amarvilas hotel offers a tourist service to nearby tourist attractions, as the city centre is about 15 minutes from the hotel. Recreational activities available at the hotel include holistic treatments at the spa or yoga group sessions. Furthermore, it is possible to dine at the hotel in two different restaurants that serve a variety of international and authentic Indian food.
Your stay: 1 night
Sujan Sher Bagh
Sujan Sher Bagh is a luxury safari camp in Ranthambhore, Rajasthan, India, renowned for its proximity to the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. The camp features suite tents, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private veranda. The restaurant menu features delicious Anglo-Indian and European dishes, prepared with organic…
Sujan Sher Bagh is a luxury safari camp in Ranthambhore, Rajasthan, India, renowned for its proximity to the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve. The camp features suite tents, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private veranda. The restaurant menu features delicious Anglo-Indian and European dishes, prepared using organic produce from the camp’s own farms. Additional facilities include a spa, a swimming pool and guided safaris, for an immersive wildlife experience.
Your stay: 2 nights
Taj Rambagh Palace Jaipur
The Rambagh Palace is a heritage hotel once inhabited by royalty. Guests at the Rambagh Palace receive personalised service from professionally trained butlers who cater to their every need. While staying here, you can dine at the restaurants, explore the hotel grounds with a guided tour, polo...
The Rambagh Palace is a heritage hotel once inhabited by royalty. Guests at the Rambagh Palace receive personalised service from professionally trained butlers who cater to their every need. While staying here, you can dine at the restaurants, explore the hotel grounds on a guided tour, play polo, walk on the back of an elephant, visit the signature Jiva Spa or work out at the fitness centre.
Your stay: 3 nights
BrijRama Palace
Located on its own Ghat (riverbank), Brijrama Palace was built in the 18th century by the royal house of Nagpur and is one of the oldest buildings in Varanasi. Nowhere will you stay closer to the Ganges than at this hotel, you choose this if you can walk directly from the hotel to the city's many temples and ghats...
Located on its own Ghat (riverbank), Brijrama Palace was built in the 18th century by the royal house of Nagpur and is one of the oldest buildings in Varanasi. Nowhere will you stay closer to the Ganges than at this hotel, you choose this if you want to explore the city's many temples and ghats directly from the hotel on foot. Due to its location on the Holy River, serving alcohol is prohibited here.
Located a stone's throw from the popular Dasashwamedh Ghat, the hotel features 2 dining options and a rooftop terrace.
All rooms at this hotel have air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. Private bathrooms are equipped with a shower, slippers, a hairdryer and free toiletries. Other extras include free high tea, yoga classes and mineral water.
Your stay: 2 nights
Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai
For over a century, the Taj has played an intrinsic role in the life of the city, where Maharajas, dignitaries and prominent personalities from all over the world have stayed.
The iconic and grand 1903 Taj Mahal Palace is located opposite the Gateway of India and overlooks the...
For over a century, the Taj has played an intrinsic role in the life of the city, where Maharajas, dignitaries and prominent personalities from all over the world have stayed.
The iconic and grand 1903 Taj Mahal Palace is located opposite the Gateway of India and overlooks the Arabian Sea. Set on 2.6 acres of land, this luxury hotel offers 10 restaurants and a variety of traditional Indian treatments at Jiva Spa.
There is a wide choice of dining options: the famous Wasabi by Morimoto with innovative Japanese dishes, the Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant and the poolside Aquarius Lounge offer other culinary highlights. An exclusive private dinner can be arranged at Chef's Studio.
The stylish rooms have Indian-inspired décor and architecture and offer stunning sea, city or pool views. Each room features a 32-inch flat-screen TV, a well-stocked minibar, free Wi-Fi and a luxurious bathroom. You can enjoy a 24-hour butler service.
You can pamper yourself with a lovely treatment at the Taj Salon, a dip in the pool or a luxury shopping session at Dior, Louis Vuitton or Stephano Ricci shops. At the Taj Mahal Palace,
Your stay: 2 nights
Experiences
Visit Taj Mahal
You will visit the magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and is believed to have taken 22 years. The marble exterior reflects rose and gold hues at sunrise and sunset, while during the day it...
You will visit the magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631 and is believed to have taken 22 years. The marble exterior reflects shades of pink and gold at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzlingly white during the day. The design and construction is said to be by legendary architect Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Legend has it that once construction was completed, Shah Jehan had cut off and blinded Lahori's hands so that he could never copy the structure.
Aarti ceremony in Varanasi
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Destinations
Ranthambore National Park
Ranthambore National Park is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district, in the western state of Rajasthan, and is one of the most visited national parks in India. The park’s exceptional natural beauty spans an impressive 1,300 square kilometres of wilderness and is characterised by its dense jungle, golden savannah, dramatic cliffs and lotus-filled lakes. Regarded as the best place to catch a glimpse of tigers in the wild, the park offers visitors an enchanting combination of mystical temples, untamed beauty and crumbling ruins. Although the main attraction is undoubtedly the elusive Bengal tiger, the park provides a haven for other wildlife, including, amongst others: sambar, gazelle, caracal, blackbuck, crocodile, chital, wild boar and a wide variety of birds. Don’t miss the ancient Ranthambore Fort, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the vast expanse of this spectacular park.
New Delhi
India's largest city, Delhi, was one of the country's commercial and economic centres for centuries, making it incredibly rich in culture and history. The city consists of the ancient walled city of Old Delhi and the modern part, New Delhi and includes a stunning array of beautiful architecture, remarkable monuments and ancient temples, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites - the Red Fort, Qutab Minar and Humayun's Tomb. Other major attractions include the 17th-century Chandni Chowk market, the iconic Bahà'i Lotus Temple and the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque.
India
Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth — a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a remarkable blend of chaos and serenity. It stretches across more than three million square kilometres and encompasses a stunning array of landscapes, vistas and regions, offering unrivalled travel experiences — from the beautiful beaches of Goa to the captivating hustle and bustle of Kolkata, the sacred banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples scattered throughout the country. Not to mention the lively, friendly people and the incredible cuisine.
Agra
Agra is one of India's top tourist destinations because of the world-famous Taj Mahal. Around Agra are a range of other impressive historical sites. These include the Agra Fort, the holy Jama Masjid mosque and the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, with its white marble facade. However, the Taj is in a league of its own and needless to say, it is a must-see for any visitor to the city. The magnificent monument Taj Mahal, built by a Mughal emperor in memory of his beloved is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite craftsmanship and perfect dimensions.
Uttar Pradesh
India's famous northern state is home to some of India's most famous tourist attractions, the Taj Mahal and the holy Varanasi. The mighty Ganges flows diagonally through the state from the Himalayas in the north to the open plains of the east. Agriculture is the main contributor to Uttar Pradesh's economy, employing about three-quarters of the labour force. In the sixth century BC, Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions - Jainism and Buddhism. It was in Sarnath, just outside Varanasi, that Buddha preached his first sermon and laid the foundations of Buddhism.
Rajasthan
India's largest state, Rajasthan, is also one of the most captivating. Known for its vibrant cities, the golden splendour of the vast Thar Desert, the ancient Aravalli Mountains and countless magnificent palaces, temples and forts - a legacy of its royal legacy Rajput. Highlights include the colourful capital Jaipur - a veritable shopping mecca; the serene city of Udaipur, with its shimmering lakes and mountainous backdrop; the ancient palaces and pink architecture of Jaipur, dubbed 'The Pink City'; and ventures into the desolate beauty of the sun-drenched dunes of the Thar Desert.
Jaipur
Jaipur is the capital and largest city in the northern state of India. This city is famous for being India's first planned city with a large number of pink terracotta buildings in its walled historic centre, giving it the nickname 'The Pink City'. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circle that includes Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, and serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. Combining tradition and modernity, this colourful city offers visitors vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces and ancient temples. The old city is home to the opulent City Palace. It includes an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards and buildings. During your stay, don't miss the fairytale splendour of the Amber Fort.
Varanasi
An ancient and deeply sacred city, Varanasi lies on the banks of the holy River Ganges and boasts a wealth of beautiful riverside temples, stately ancient forts and bustling markets.
It is regarded as the spiritual capital of Hinduism, and it is widely believed that dying here brings salvation. Consequently, the city is home to a multitude of ghats – stone steps leading down to the river – some of which are used for bathing rituals and others as cremation sites. An early-morning boat trip along the Ganges offers an excellent way to take in the ghats and the bustling activity that takes place on them.
Mumbai
The thriving metropolis of Mumbai is a destination for travellers curious about a modern Indian city. Bathed by the Arabian Sea, this coastal peninsula is a melting pot of old and new India. Men play cricket in the leafy central parks, taxis navigate the busy streets and families stroll along Mumbai's seaside promenades, while miles away children beg on the periphery of Asia's largest slum. In the wide avenue of Colaba's main street, western culture overshadows the illuminated shop windows, where Levi's, Adidas and McDonald's vie for retail space.
Maharashtra
As India's third-largest state, Maharashtra, has much to offer travellers, from soaring high-rises to sacred sites. Experience the dazzling sights and sounds of glamorous Mumbai, India's commercial and entertainment centre. Vipassana meditation devotees can visit the world's largest Vipassana meditation centre, Dhamma Giri, located just outside the thriving state capital. Outdoor lovers can swim in the Arabian Sea or trek through verdant forests in exotic locations. Not to be missed are the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Maharashtra's many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are home to many rare species of flora and fauna, most notably Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary, Tadoba National Park, Chikhaldhara, Dajipur, Bharmragarh Wild Life Sanctuary, Navegaon National Park, Tipeshwer, and Bor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Golden Triangle, India
The Golden Triangle in India is a celebrated travel circuit connecting three iconic cities in the northern part of the country: New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. This route offers a vibrant mix of bustling metropolises, historic landmarks and cultural treasures. Travellers can explore Delhi’s dynamic streets, ancient monuments and bustling markets; marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the world’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites; and experience Jaipur’s royal palaces, forts and colourful bazaars. The Golden Triangle is ideal for those seeking a rich cultural and historical journey, with opportunities to enjoy heritage walks, local cuisine, traditional crafts and architectural marvels. Its compact layout makes it perfect for a short yet immersive exploration of India’s northern gems.
India trip | Luxury roundtrip magical India
We offer this trip from €14,195 per person.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to availability and travel dates, amongst other factors.
Included
• Domestic flights
• VIP Meet & Greet service
• Accommodation in high-quality and distinctive lodges and hotels
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘programme’, including a number of jeep safaris and a visit to the Taj Mahal
• Private transport with an English-speaking private guide/driver
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €100 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• City walks with local guides
• Lunches with local families
Not included
• International flights
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Entrance fees, where applicable
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)