Royal India: Taj, Forts & Palaces
Colorful cities and incredible architecture
Feel your eyes widen as you explore the Pink City of Jaipur, then pose for a postcard-worthy photo in front of the Taj Mahal! Enjoy a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi, gawk at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, discover small villages in the countryside, and roam around buzzing bazaars! This incredible 10-night journey through India showcases its sacred sites, amazing architecture, and traditional culture. With transportation and guided tours included, get ready for a stress-free bucket list adventure!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Delhi (DEL)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 2 nights in Delhi at The Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi with rickshaw ride
- One-way economy class flight from Delhi (DEL) to Udaipur (UDR)
- 2 nights in Udaipur at Fateh Niwas or similar
- Visit to the City Palace & Folk Art Museum
- Guided walking tour on the banks of Lake Pichola
- Visit to the White Marble Jain Temples in Ranakpur (en-route to Deogarh)
- 1 night in Deogarh at Deogarh Mahal or similar
- Rural train ride from Phulad to Kamblighat
- Village walk in Deogarh
- 1 night in Jodhpur at the Indana Palace or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Mehrandarh Fort & Jaswant Thada
- 2 nights in Jaipur at the Sarovar Premiere Jaipur, or similar
- Visit to the Amber Fort & photo stop at Hawa Mahal
- Folk dance show with traditional dinner at a local restaurant
- Visit to Chand Baori stepwell & the Harshat Mata Temple (en-route to Agra)
- 2 nights in Agra at the Grand Mercure Hotel, or similar
- Visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise*
- Breakfast daily
*Please note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, so your Day 10 visit will be rescheduled to another day in the itinerary if necessary.
Great Ways to Explore
-
Enjoy unique stays in the cities of Delhi, Udaipur, Deogarh, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Agra!
- Treat yourself to authentic Indian cuisine. Try roti, dosas, biryani, and other delicious dishes.
-
Discover legendary UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
-
Explore Old and New Delhi on an exciting rickshaw ride!
-
Take a rural train ride through the countryside near Deogarh.
Ready, set, explore! This vacation package takes you to the postcard-worthy, culture-rich India you've always dreamed about. Start off in the buzzing capital of Delhi, ripe with fascinating history, sacred sites, bustling markets, and government buildings. Feel like a local as you explore Old and New Delhi on a thrilling rickshaw ride!
Move on to Udaipur, the "City of Lakes!" Known as one of India's most beautiful cities, Udaipur is filled with historic temples and lakeside palaces. Take a scenic drive to Deogarh, where you'll visit the White Marble Jain Temples at Ranakpur. Hop aboard a small rural train from Phulad to Kamblighat and chug through jungle, hills, and tunnels as you become immersed in local daily life. Watch local farmers tend to their herds of cattle and goats as you take a walk to Deogarh Village! Travel on to Jodhpur, an old walled city overlooking the desert!
Next, you'll venture to the dreamy "Pink City" of Jaipur, famous for its pastel-colored architectural wonders, like the City Palace and the Hawa Mahal. While in Jaipur, you'll be treated to a traditional dance show with dinner! On your way to Agra, you'll make a stop at Abhaneri Village, home to the impressive Chand Baori stepwell and the Harshat Mata Temple! Once you're all settled in Agra, you'll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise visit to the picture-perfect Taj Mahal! Did someone say new profile picture?!
Helpful links for travel to India:
Visa & Passport Info
Vaccines & Medications Info
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Delhi (DEL)
- All airport and inter-city transfers
- 2 nights in Delhi at The Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi with rickshaw ride
- One-way economy class flight from Delhi (DEL) to Udaipur (UDR)
- 2 nights in Udaipur at Fateh Niwas or similar
- Visit to the City Palace & Folk Art Museum
- Guided walking tour on the banks of Lake Pichola
- Visit to the White Marble Jain Temples in Ranakpur (en-route to Deogarh)
- 1 night in Deogarh at Deogarh Mahal or similar
- Rural train ride from Phulad to Kamblighat
- Village walk in Deogarh
- 1 night in Jodhpur at the Indana Palace or similar
- Sightseeing tour of Mehrandarh Fort & Jaswant Thada
- 2 nights in Jaipur at the Sarovar Premiere Jaipur, or similar
- Visit to the Amber Fort & photo stop at Hawa Mahal
- Folk dance show with traditional dinner at a local restaurant
- Visit to Chand Baori stepwell & the Harshat Mata Temple (en-route to Agra)
- 2 nights in Agra at the Grand Mercure Hotel, or similar
- Visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise*
- Breakfast daily
*Please note: The Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays, so your Day 10 visit will be rescheduled to another day in the itinerary if necessary.
-
Enjoy unique stays in the cities of Delhi, Udaipur, Deogarh, Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Agra!
- Treat yourself to authentic Indian cuisine. Try roti, dosas, biryani, and other delicious dishes.
-
Discover legendary UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
-
Explore Old and New Delhi on an exciting rickshaw ride!
-
Take a rural train ride through the countryside near Deogarh.
Ready, set, explore! This vacation package takes you to the postcard-worthy, culture-rich India you've always dreamed about. Start off in the buzzing capital of Delhi, ripe with fascinating history, sacred sites, bustling markets, and government buildings. Feel like a local as you explore Old and New Delhi on a thrilling rickshaw ride!
Move on to Udaipur, the "City of Lakes!" Known as one of India's most beautiful cities, Udaipur is filled with historic temples and lakeside palaces. Take a scenic drive to Deogarh, where you'll visit the White Marble Jain Temples at Ranakpur. Hop aboard a small rural train from Phulad to Kamblighat and chug through jungle, hills, and tunnels as you become immersed in local daily life. Watch local farmers tend to their herds of cattle and goats as you take a walk to Deogarh Village! Travel on to Jodhpur, an old walled city overlooking the desert!
Next, you'll venture to the dreamy "Pink City" of Jaipur, famous for its pastel-colored architectural wonders, like the City Palace and the Hawa Mahal. While in Jaipur, you'll be treated to a traditional dance show with dinner! On your way to Agra, you'll make a stop at Abhaneri Village, home to the impressive Chand Baori stepwell and the Harshat Mata Temple! Once you're all settled in Agra, you'll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise visit to the picture-perfect Taj Mahal! Did someone say new profile picture?!
Helpful links for travel to India:
Visa & Passport Info
Vaccines & Medications Info
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to Delhi!
Immerse yourself in colorful culture and fascinating history as you land in Delhi, India's vibrant capital! Upon arrival, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first hotel and check in. Once you're settled, head out and explore on your own! Treat yourself to a delicious first-night meal of local cuisine.Â
Transfer from Delhi airport (DEL) to hotel
Check-in - Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka
Sitting over seven acres in the center of New Delhi, the relatively new Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka is conveniently located just 6.2 miles from the Delhi International Airport and Cyber City. Other nearby tourist attractions include Dwarka Sector 21 Metro Station, Connaught Palace, and the Red Fort. It's prime location close to some of the best things to do in New Delhi is just one of the reasons this hotel earned 5-stars.
Guests have access to many amenities on-site including three restaurants that specialize in Italian and Punjabi cuisine as well as a wonderful cocktail bar and bakery. There's also a beautiful outdoor pool with a sundeck, a chic lounge, spa, fitness center, and more.
Each room at the Vivanta Dwarka New Delhi is comfortably decorated and feature air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, coffee/tea-maker, minibar, and a private bathroom with a rainfall shower. There is also a seating area and city or airport views.
Day 2. Delhi
Rise and shine! Grab your camera and get ready for a fun first day in India. After breakfast, hop in a rickshaw and explore Old and New Delhi the traditional way! See the once water-filled square of Chandni Chowk, then discover the Jama Masjid, Delhi's oldest mosque! You'll continue onto Raj Ghat, a striking memorial to Gandhi, built at the site of his cremation on the banks of the Yamuna River.
In
the afternoon, drive past India Gate and the Government Secretariat buildings
as you approach Qutab Minar - the five-storied victory tower which signifies the beginning of the Muslim rule in India by the first Muslim ruler, Qutab-ud-din-Aibak.Â
Sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi with rickshaw ride
Zip through the old city by rickshaw and begin your tour at the Red Fort, a 300-year-old walled city built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 as his capital. The magnificent fort built of red sandstone dates from the very peak of the Mughal power and served as the royal residence until 1857. Opposite the fort is the black and white dome and minarets of the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Drive past the ruins of Feroz Shah Kotla fort with the Ashokan Pillar dating back to 3rd BC, and end your old city tour with a visit to Raj Ghat where Mahatma Gandhi was laid to rest in 1948.
In New Delhi, visit the capital designed by Sir Edward Lutyens and drive past the Presidential Palace, the Rashtrapati Bhawan and the secretariat buildings - the center of all government activity. Here you'll see Qutab Minar, representing the first Islamic monument that marked a shift of power in the country. While exclusively Islamic in conception, its execution was the work of Hindus, and its unique designs accompany arabesque verses of the Quran, in a synthesis of two distinct styles meeting for the first time.
Day 3. Delhi - Udaipur
This morning, hop on a quick flight to Udaipur, known for its stunning landscapes and beautiful lakes. The capital of the former kingdom of Mewar, Udaipur is also known as the "City of Lakes." Take in beautiful views of lakeside palaces, pavilions, and clusters of charming whitewashed houses.
After a comfortable ride to your Udaipur accommodation, you'll have the rest of the day at leisure! Get to know the area and do some exploring on your own.Â
Transfer to Delhi airport (DEL)
Fly to Udaipur (UDR)!
Transfer to Udaipur hotel
Check-in - Fateh Niwas
Step into beauty and elegance at this luxurious hotel in Udaipur. Open the door to your spacious room and find free Wi-Fi, crisp air conditioning, plush bedding, bath amenities, and much more. Cozy up and watch some TV, or unpack your swimsuit and head to the sparkling pool! Enjoy luxuries like room service, 24-hour reception, currency exchange, and concierge service! When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant. Say "cheers" with a drink on the rooftop and watch a beautiful sunset over Udaipur.
Day 4. Udaipur
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then take a morning tour of the grand City Palace and its immediate surroundings, the vibrant Folk Art Museum and the sparkling lakeside panorama. Enjoy a guided walk and visit the famous ghats and historic temples on the banks of Lake Pichola. You'll even visit an ancient step well, which was used for drinking water by the locals years ago!
Next, you'll make a stop at the fascinating three-story Jagdish Temple. Climb up stone steps lined with elephant sculptures and admire intricate pillars, carved ceilings, and stunning frescoes.Â
The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure!
Guided walking tour on the banks of Lake Pichola
Day 5. Udaipur - Deogarh
Enjoy a scenic drive as you venture to Deogarh! Stop en-route and visit the White Marble Jain Temple in Ranakpur. Famous for being extremely important pilgrimage centers for the Jain community, the spectacular Jain Temples consist of 29 halls supported by 1,444 pillars, each uniquely adorned with hundreds of carved figures.
Proceed to Deogarh and check into your beautiful accommodation. Quickly settle in, then take a short rural train ride from Phulad to Kamblighat. Keep your eyes focused out the windows, as you pass breathtaking views of jungle, hills, and tunnels! As this train stops at small local stations, you'll get a real taste for everyday life in this remote region.Â
Rural train ride from Phulad to Kamblighat
Check-in - Deogarh Mahal
Step into royal elegance at this beautiful hotel that blends luxury with tradition. Enjoy on-site dining, a spa & fitness center, a swimming pool, comfortable rooms, and more! Upon arrival, admire traditional Indian architecture and a kaleidoscope of colorful textiles and stained class. Head up to your room and open the door to crisp air conditioning, a safe, a minibar, and much more. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Surya Mahal restaurant, or cozy up in your room and order room service! With a friendly reception team available 24-hours, you'll always be in great hands.
Day 6. Deogarh - Jodhpur
This morning, take a peaceful morning walk through the countryside. Watch as local farmers head to their fields and tend to their herds of cattle and goats. Mosey on to Deogarh Village and immerse yourself in the daily culture of shops and markets filled with cobblers, dyers, potters, and other artisans.Â
Wave goodbye to Deogarh and enjoy a drive to beautiful Jodhpur. Overlooking the desert, the old walled city of Jodhpur is a fascinating jungle of winding streets, fascinating forts, and sacred sites. Check into your luxurious accommodation and explore this picturesque area.
Check-in - Indana Palace Jodhpur
Step into royal elegance at this breathtaking palace hotel! Check in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, beautiful decor, a flat-screen TV, and luxurious bath amenities. Cozy up on your plush bed and use the hotel's free Wi-Fi to upload photos of your trip.
Located just a few miles from major attractions, Jodhpur Airport, and Jodhpur Railway & Bus Station, Indana Palace is packed with amenities and entertainment facilities. Make a splash in the sparkling swimming pool, pamper yourself with a decadent spa treatment, or work all your stresses away in the fitness center. Bring out your inner child in the game room and challenge your travel partner to a game of billiards. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious bite at the on-site restaurant, or stay comfy in your room and order 24-hour room service!
Day 7. Jodhpur - Jaipur
Start your day with a morning visit to Mehrangarh Fort, one of the best-preserved and largest forts in India! Next, you'll head to Jaswant Thada, a white marble monument known for its intricately carved designs.
In the afternoon, you'll travel to the one and only "Pink City" - Jaipur! Check into your next accommodation and begin to explore this fascinating world of pastel-colored architectural wonders.
Check-in - Sarovar Premiere Jaipur
This stylish 4-star hotel is located right in the center of Jaipur. The hotel features multiple multi-cuisine restaurants that overlook the hotel gardens, and a bar where guests can enjoy craft cocktails. Other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, free parking on-site, and 24-hour room service.Â
Guest rooms are elegantly designed and decorated with a pop of color. Featured amenities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, a television, minibar, work desk, and coffee maker.Â
The hotel is just ten minutes away from public transportation station Jaipur Junction making it easy to get around. Additionally, the hotel is 4 miles or less away from great attractions such as World Trade Park, Jantar Mantar, and City Palace.Â
Sightseeing tour of Mehrandarh Fort & Jaswant Thada
Enjoy a special visit to Mehrangarh Fort, one of the best-preserved and largest forts in India! Now converted into a museum, Mehrangarh Fort showcases the royal lifestyle of Rajputs.
Next, you'll feast your eyes on the breathtaking Jaswant Thada, a milky-white marble cenotaph known for its intricate carvings!
Day 8. Jaipur
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then enjoy a morning visit to the impressive Amber Fort. Nestled on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, this structure is a true example of authentic Rajput architecture. Be sure to look out for one of its most spectacular buildings: the Hall of Mirrors! Next, stop for a photo-op at the eye-popping Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds)! Gawk at this beehive-shaped red and pink sandstone structure and take in its grand beauty.Â
The rest of your afternoon will be spent at leisure. You might want to visit Jaipur's Royal City Palace, then check out one of the five astronomical observatories built by the founder of Jaipur! Why not immerse yourself in the local culture? Visit a local temple and watch a traditional prayer ceremony.Â
In the evening, enjoy a traditional folk dance show with dinner!
Sightseeing tour including the Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal
Visit Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal! In the morning, your first stop is Amber Fort. Amber Fort is set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake and offers an authentic example of Rajput architecture. Step into the Sheesh Mahal, or Hall of Mirrors, to experience one of the fort's most spectacular buildings. After, stop at the Palace of Winds, or Hawa Mahal. The beehive-like structure is made of pink and red sand stone and makes for a great photo opportunity!
Day 9. Jaipur - Agra
After an energizing breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Agra. Along the way, you'll stop at Abhaneri Village to experience the impressive Chand Baori stepwell and the Harshat Mata Temple! Be sure to have your camera ready; Chand Baori is the largest and deepest stepwell in all of India!
Settle into your accommodation in Agra, a charming city filled with bustling streets, narrow alleys, and fascinating architecture. Enjoy the rest of your afternoon at leisure and get to know this historical city.Â
The Grand Mercure Agra is a 5-star hotel just minutes away from the Taj Mahal. The hotel features a daily breakfast buffet and a fitness center. Guests have access to the hotel's spa where services such as massages are offered.
There are three on site restaurants as well. Lattice, a 24-hour restaurant serves a multi-cuisine buffet, and Skygrill is a poolside rooftop restaurant with live music. The Tea Lounge is the perfect place for guests to sip some tea or coffee and relax.
Guest rooms have a private bathroom with a shower, hair dryer, bathrobes, and slippers. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, phone, iron, desk, in-room safe, coffee maker, and minibar.
Top attractions like the Taj Mahal, Taj Ganj, and Ara Fort are all located close to the hotel.
Step into sophisticated elegance at the Crystal Sarovar Premiere Agra, where tradition meets modernity. Check in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then make your way up to your beautifully decorated room. Open the door and find plush bedding, crisp air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bath amenities.
Once you're all settled, unpack your swimsuit and head up to the rooftop pool! Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, or treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon at the spa. When you work up an appetite, consider a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, then say "cheers" with a drink at the bar!
Day 10. Agra
Feel yourself flutter with excitement as you embark on an early morning visit to the Taj Mahal! Enjoy this special experience, as you see this monument by the first orangey-pink light of the day. Be sure to take tons of photographs of this awe-inspiring scene; it's surely a sight you'll never want to forget.
What a morning! Return to your hotel for breakfast, then enjoy a day of independent exploration. You might want to check out the Agra Fort and North India's oldest Christian cemetery.Â
Visit to the Taj Mahal
Built in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, the late wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jehan, the Taj Mahal is a stunning display of architecture. Some say it is the most perfect architectural monument in the world, with incredible lacy-white decoration, graceful domes, and pure grandeur. Built out of love, this stunning palace-like structure is extravagant both at a distance and up close.
Day 11. Depart India
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy one last scenic drive back to Delhi. Upon arrival at the airport, find your gate and board your flight home!
Until next time, India!