your itinerary

Welcome to India!

Arrive Delhi International Airport Terminal 03 (Flight details to be advised)

We have arranged for a special VIP jet-bridge greeting for you at Delhi Airport (Subject to airport security provisions).

A representative will escort you to the hotel and assist with check-in at Taj Palace Hotel (Taj Club Room – room reserved from 1400 hours of this day)

Rest of the day at leisure (Vehicle and driver not included)

0900 hours: Heritage walking tour of Old Delhi followed by sightseeing tour of Old Delhi including a brief cycle rickshaw ride

Accompanied by your guide, a walk through the bustling streets of Old Delhi is the best way to discover the history, and secrets of this busy and seemingly chaotic area. Your guide will introduce you to this vibrant part of the city on a walking tour taking you through the narrow streets and lanes of the neighborhood, narrating anecdotes and recollecting stories explaining the way people lived in this area.

Visit the Jama Masjid, built in 1650; one of the largest mosques in India. Drive past the Red Fort, also built by Shah Jahan and finally, visit Raj Ghat where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948.

1200 hours: Lunch at Haveli Dharampura in Old Delhi (On direct payment)

Haveli Dharampura with its distinctive features is attributed as Late Mughal style though parts of it has the influence of the 20th Century architecture. During Mughal and late Mughal Period, a large numbers of havelis were built by the courtiers. This Haveli in particular dates to 1887 AD and was originally designed to have mixed use pattern i.e. both residential and commercial. The building is situated in close proximity (two minute walk) from the historical Jama Masjid. The surroundings of the Haveli still bear the evidences of history through its physical features. Brackets, balconies, jharokhas, multi foliated arched gateway, carved sandstone facades, wooden doorway from the virtual of the approach.

1330 hours: Sightseeing tour of New Delhi

New Delhi – was planned and built by the British in the 1920’s and is characterized by Sir Edwin Lutyens’ monumental architecture. Driving through the city, with its wide tree lined avenues discover India Gate and the Diplomatic Enclave, the Central Secretariat and the President's House. Visit Humayun's Tomb, aptly called the predecessor of the Taj Mahal because of its ornate Mughal style of architecture, later perfected in the Taj Mahal.

Later explore the bustling markets of Delhi

2000 hours: Welcome dinner at the hotel

0830 hours: Transfer to Delhi Airport Terminal 03 to board Air India flight

Flight AI 406  for Delhi - Varanasi  (1040 / 1205)

On arrival, transfer to Taj Ganges Hotel (Deluxe Room)

Note: Hotel check-in is at 1400 hours

1730 hours: An exclusive boat ride on river Ganges followed by blessing ceremony, end the cruise with a ‘Diya Daan’ at sunset – to pay homage to your ancestors by immersion of oil lamps into the Ganges

Board a private row boat and join the mass of worshippers as they pray near the water by the light of open flames with the scent of incense filling the air. An aarti is a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering. The offering is made to the Goddess Ganga. The aarti takes place facing the river. The lamps are lit and circled around by the pandits (Hindu priests) in a clockwise manner, accompanied by chanting or songs in praise of Mother Ganga.

After the ritual is complete, devotees will cup their hands over the flame and raise their palms to their forehead to get the Goddess's purification and blessing.

0545 hours: An exclusive boat ride on River Ganges followed by visit to Tulsi Manas Temple to view great medieval oracle “Shri Ramcharitmanas” written on the walls

Observing the early morning riverside rituals from a boat on the Ganges is a special experience. In the blue light of dawn, travel through Varanasi’s misty, winding streets and board a private rowboat, watching from the water as the sun rises and the banks begin to crowd with worshippers. See people lost in prayer, washing themselves, doing the laundry. The cycle of life is laid bare in Varanasi and this is particularly evident on the cremation ghats.

Return to hotel for breakfast

1030 hours: Sightseeing tour of Varanasi including a visit to Sarnath

Varanasi – one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi has a uniquely spiritual atmosphere and is one of the holiest places in India. Temples of note include the Bharat Mata Temple and the Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple. Emperor Aurangzeb's Mosque, the Well of Knowledge and Vishwanath Temple, known as the “Golden Temple” are also worth visiting.

Sarnath – 08km from Varanasi is the holy Buddhist city of Sarnath. Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya. The huge Dhamek Stupa marks the spot where Buddha first preached. The Sarnath Museum has a small but extremely impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka.

1400 hours: “Benarasi Satvik Thali” lunch at Varuna restaurant at the hotel (On direct payment)

Serving up authentic Indian cuisine, Varuna is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Varanasi. The Satvik Thali served at the restaurant has been at the epicenter of cuisine culture in the city, giving delighted patrons a reason to keep coming back for more.

OPTIONAL:

1530 hours: Visit the weaver’s village as Varanasi is well known for its silk weaving as most of the locals here are indulge in silk weaving a followed by a visit to handloom to see the Demonstration of Benarsi Saree

Having witnessed centuries of handmade textile tradition, the city has seen many changes in preferences of colours, patterns, motifs, borders and styles over the years. Today’s fashion trends are based on revival of the traditional patterns and mixing them with modern colour and style sensibilities. Intricate floral and foliate, Kalga and bel, Jhallar can often be seen on the borders of modern Benarasi Saris. The names of the saris are kept as per the motifs or patterns woven in them. To name a few- Pure silk (Katan), Organza (Kora), Brocade sari, Jangla saree, Kora cutwork saree, Resham buti saree, Satin border saree, Tissue saree, Cutwork saris etc.

Banaras is one of the rich weaving craft centre of India, famous for Brocade Saris and dress material. Exclusive varieties of the saris are Jangla, Tanchoi, Vaskat, Cutwork, Tishu and Butidar which are made of silk warp. Silk weaving is the dominant manufacturing industry in Varanasi. Weaving is typically done within the household Varanasi is known throughout India for its production of very fine silk and Banarasi saris, which are often used for weddings and special occasions. Banarasi saris are historically considered to be among the finest saris in India and are known for their gold and silver brocade or Zari, fine silk and opulent embroidery, and being highly sought after. These saris are made of finely woven silk and are decorated with intricate design, and because of these engravings, these saris are relatively heavy.

VARANASI - DELHI - AGRA

0800 hours: Transfer to Varanasi Airport to board IndiGo Airlines flight

Flight 6E 2321 for Varanasi - Delhi (1035 / 1205)

On arrival, transfer by road to Agra (approximately 04 hours and 30 minute drive)

On arrival, check-in at The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel (Premier Room)

Evening at leisure to enjoy facilities at the hotel (on direct payment)

EXPERT TIPS
The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel is located 600m from the Taj Mahal and offers breathtaking views of the monument

AGRA - JAIPUR

0630 hours: Visit Taj Mahal at sunrise

Taj is at its most alluring in the relative quiet of early morning, shrouded in mists and bathed with a soft red glow. As its vast marble surfaces fall into shadow or reflect the sun, its colour changes, from soft grey and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white; it's well worth visiting at different times.

Taj Mahal – Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to their fourteenth child in 1631, the Taj Mahal is described by the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore as a tear drop on the face of eternity’. Heartbroken by her death, legend has it that Shah Jahan’s hair turned grey overnight and that he turned his back on running the empire, concentrating instead on the construction of this monument to love. Construction took 22 years and the Taj was completed in 1653 at a speculated cost of 3 million rupees, equivalent to around 70 million US Dollars today.

Return to hotel for breakfast

1100 hours: Transfer by road to Jaipur (approximately 05 hour drive)

Packed lunch would be provided for the Agra - Jaipur drive

On arrival, visit the Gyan Museum followed by Hi-tea 

Experience the majesty of world heritage as you visit the Gyan Museum - a miraculous getaway in the annals of history. This private museum is a tribute to Mr. Gyan Chand Ji Dhaddha, who collected an assortment of unique pieces of art that depict a reciprocal recognition of about 3,000 years of cultural heritage. The museum houses over 2500 exceptional art items, both of Indian and foreign origin. The painstakingly collected multitude of art includes textile, painting, metal art, and much more. Everything between rare inscriptions and cabinets full of vintage spectacles is a part of the Gyan Museum's display.

Later check-in at Taj Jai Mahal Palace Hotel (Luxury Room with Sit Out)

JAIPUR

0830 hours: Excursion to Amber Fort by jeep both ways followed by visit to Anokhi Museum and Panna Meena Step Well

Amber Fort – originally the ancient capital of the Kachawahas clan from 1037 the ancient town of Amber, 12km from Jaipur, is dotted with ancient temples, Havelis, and step wells. High above the town and surrounded with defensive fortification walls sits the impressive Amber Palace. Built by Raja Man Singh in the early 17th century it houses mighty gates, temples, huge ornate halls, palaces, pavilions and gardens. Amber Palace is a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture and once at the top the Palace affords excellent views of the surrounding countryside and town below. The 10-minute walk though a series of five defensive gates will bring you to the Suraj Pol (Sun Gate), the main entry to the Palace.

Anokhi Museum – Anokhi is a highly successful textile company which, from its beginnings almost 40 years ago, helped resurrect languishing Rajasthani block printing textile Industry. In this beautifully restored Haveli which won a UNESCO prize for restoration, you can admire textile traditions that the company has helped preserve. 

Panna Meena Step Well - The eight storeys Step well was built in sixteenth century as a sort of community gathering area.  A place where people could come for water, a swim, a chat with a neighbor or relax. The criss-cross of stairs, the octagonal gazebos, and the recessed doorways--this baoli is fun to walk around and photograph. According to the local residents of the place, it is impossible for a person to use the same stairs to get down and go upstairs. It is a big mystery of the place and all the tourists visiting here try to do this.

1200 hours: Visit to Dera Amer camp for Holi celebrations followed by lunch

Upon arrival the guests would be welcome by a elephant, camels and trumpeters, local drummers and dancers. The Holi theme would involve the guests participating in the traditional burning of Holi, distribution of sweets after. Organic colours/flowers, tubs with water guns will be placed all over the ground for the guests to play Holi while the folk dancers would perform. Traditional Holi music will played from our system and snacks would be circulated. There would tent washrooms for the guests to wash up.

Rest of the day guide, vehicle and driver available for shopping

Shopping in Jaipur is all about judging the artistic worth of an item. Excellent works of art, which were once made for the Kings and Queens, today are available to the common man. These artistic items are made by the traditional craftsmen of Jaipur, who have been in this profession for generations.

JAIPUR - DEHRADUN - RISHIKESH 

0930 hours: Explore the ‘Pink City’, the bustling metropolis that is Rajasthan’s capital, seeing the Observatory and the City Palace

The City Palace in the centre of Jaipur took 04 years to complete. Tour the Palace by passing through the main entrance and begin by visiting the Mubarak Mahal, built in 1890 it houses the Textile and Costume Museum. Visit the Armoury then proceed through the Rajendra Pol gate into the main complex. Here the Diwan-i-Khas is home to 02 giant silver urns used by Sawai Madho Singh to carry Ganges water to England when he attended Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

City Palace Highlight – Take a Royal Grandeur Tour of the Chandra Mahal. Apart from the usual visitor areas, proceed to see the inner quarters of the Palace which are not frequented by tourists (subject to permissions).

After visiting the Chandra Mahal and the museums proceed to the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Built between 1728 and 1734 on a grand scale, the 17 astronomical instruments were built in stone and marble. The collection, built by Jai Singh includes the large Samrat, a 27.4m high sundial accurate to 02 seconds! The Central Museum, known as the Albert Hall is well worth a visit; founded in 1876, it houses a large collection of antiques and interesting artefacts.

Finally, drive past the Hawa Mahal. This unique building also known as the “Palace of the Winds” is a Jaipur landmark and was once used by the ladies of the court to watch the daily goings-on in the street below.

Note: Hotel check out is at 1200 hours

1500 hours: Transfer to Jaipur Airport to board IndiGo Airlines flight

Flight 6E 7468 for Jaipur - Dehradun (1735 / 1855)

On arrival, transfer by road to Rishikesh (approximately 01 hour and 30 minute drive) and check-in at Anand Kashi By The Ganges (Deluxe Room Ganges View)

RISHIKESH

Morning at leisure / free for spa treatments (On direct payment)

1600 hours: Excursion to Rishikesh for sightseeing (approximately 45 minute drive each way) followed by visit to Parmarth Niketan to witness Ganges Aarti (prayer ceremony)

Rishikesh (‘Hair of Sages’) is a holy town, nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is a religious centre with many ashrams, and is also a centre for yoga and white water rafting on the Ganges. It is also interesting to visit Sivananda Ashram, where discourses are in English and cover Hindu religious texts. The Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at his Ashram in Rishikesh during the early 1960’s. 

The Ganga Aarti at Rishikesh is an unforgettably spiritual experience. Performed each evening at sundown at the Parmarth Niketan Ashram, on the banks of the holy river Ganga, it is an event to gladden the heart, feed the soul and create harmony with the elements. Fire, Water, Earth, Air combine in perfect synergy during this ritual and leave you with a feeling of having witnessed perfection.

The one and half hour ceremony, starting with sacred chants and a ‘Yagna’ or fire ceremony, during which a mixture of sacred herbs and ghee (clarified butter) are poured into the fire in order to dispel negative energies, is concluded with the Aarti, during which the river is worshipped as the source of life on the physical plane, and as a symbol of the eternal life circle on the metaphysical plane.

The performance of the Aarti by the Guru, the singing of bhajans (hymns) by the saffron robed disciples, the fragrance of incense and camphor as it permeates the air, the mesmeric light of myriad diyas, the sound of the rushing river, the setting sun mirrored in sparkling ripples on the flowing water, the intensity of the people as they sway in unison, all combine to create a surreal atmosphere of peace that pervades every sense and remains with you long after you have left Rishikesh.

RISHIKESH

Day at leisure / free for spa treatments (On direct payment)

2000 hours: Farewell dinner at the hotel

RISHIKESH - DEHRADUN - DELHI / DEPART DELHI

0700 hours: Yoga session at the resort

1100 hours: Transfer by road to Dehradun Airport (approximately 01 hour and 30 minute drive) to board IndiGo Airlines flight

Flight 6E 755 for Dehradun - Delhi (1415 / 1510)

On arrival, transfer to JW Marriott Hotel (Deluxe Room - room reserved for day use and available till 2200 hours)

In time, transfer to Delhi International Airport Terminal 3 to board flight for onward destination (Flight details to be advised)