Itinerary Highlights
- Discover India’s endless treasures, from ancient temples and opulent palaces to vibrant cities, jungles and beaches
- Explore the hand-carved Ellora Caves and join the world’s largest community kitchen at the Golden Temple
- Ride a tuk-tuk through Lucknow and Hyderabad, sampling authentic street food bursting with flavour
- Witness the Taj Mahal at sunset, spot tigers in Ranthambore and unwind on Kerala’s tranquil backwaters
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Breakfast
- International Flights
29 nights
Kelsey
Travel Specialist
There’s more to see in India than you can imagine. From its breathtaking natural beauty and ancient temples, palaces, monasteries and fortresses, to its teeming metropolises, thick jungle and tropical beaches – this is a land of endless treasures.
See the spectacular Ellora Caves – more than 34 temples, all hand-chiselled from a single gigantic rock. Join the world’s largest community kitchen at the Golden Temple. Take a tuk-tuk ride and dine on street food in Lucknow and Hyderabad. Spot royal Bengal tigers in Ranthambore National Park.
Be guided around Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal at sunset – once the crowds have gone. Stay in the ‘Pink City’, Jaipur, and the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur. Wander Mumbai’s Hanging Gardens, and watch a Kathakali performance in Cochin, before meandering along the rice paddies of Kerala's serene backwaters.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Fly UK to India
Amritsar
Fly from the UK to Delhi and connect onward to Amritsar, where you’ll meet our representative and be assisted with transfer formalities to your hotel, Taj Swarna. After settling in, experience the breathtaking Night Ceremony at the Golden Temple, one of India’s most iconic spiritual sites.
Day 2 | Amritsar
Amritsar
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before acquainting yourself with Amritsar’s heritage on a sightseeing tour, including the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh and Partition Museum. In the late afternoon, you'll journey to Wagah Border to witness the dramatic Beating Retreat ceremony, a daily military practice followed since 1959. Return to your hotel in the evening to rest.
Day 3 | Amritsar – New Delhi
Board a short flight to Delhi and transfer to your next hotel, The Imperial. The afternoon is yours to unwind or explore. The city’s striking mix of Old and New is immediately evident as you step outside, with its bustling streets, historic temples and colonial architecture. As the sun sets, enjoy the comfort of your Luxury Room, preparing for the immersive sightseeing tomorrow brings.
Day 4 | New Delhi
Enjoy a full day exploring Delhi’s highlights. Begin with a drive past the Red Fort, then wander the bustling streets of Old Delhi on a cycle rickshaw, visiting Jama Masjid and sampling local flavours. In New Delhi, admire Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and drive past the architectural landmarks of Lutyens’ Delhi and India Gate. Return to your hotel for a leisurely evening.
Staying at
The Imperial New Delhi
Day 5 | New Delhi – Varanasi
Transfer to the airport, from where you’ll fly to Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. When here, check in at Brijrama Palace and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, you’ll head out on a boat along the River Ganga before experiencing a mesmerising Aarti ceremony. Watch as lamps flicker across the water and priests perform their centuries-old rituals.
Day 6 | Varanasi
Varanasi
Wake up for a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, observing devotees performing morning rituals. Then explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, the bustling ghats and Banaras Hindu University. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon on Dharmachakrapravartana, and explore its ancient ruins and museum. Return to your hotel.
Day 7 | Varanasi – Lucknow
Lucknow
Make your way to the railway station for your train to Lucknow, the cultural heart of Awadh. You’ll be escorted to Taj Mahal Hotel, where you can settle into your Deluxe Room. The afternoon gives you time to unwind or explore your surroundings. Lucknow’s rich heritage and graceful architecture offer a glimpse into a city renowned for its sophistication, cuisine and Nawabi elegance.
Day 8 | Lucknow
Lucknow
Experience a full-day tour of Lucknow, visiting the city’s distinguished Imambaras: Husainabad (Chota) Imambara, Shahnajaf Imambara and Asfi Imambara. Explore the State Museum, where artefacts and historical treasures provide insight into the region’s past. This will help you understand the city’s opulent history and the artistry that defines Awadh. Return to your hotel for the evening.
Day 9 | Lucknow – Agra
Drive to Agra, a city famed for its Mughal heritage along the Yamuna River. Following on from checking in at Tajview - IHCL SeleQtions, you’ll visit the iconic Taj Mahal at sunset, when the monument’s marble glows in the fading light. This memorable moment captures the elegance and romance of Mughal India, and ultimately sets the stage for your exploration of Agra.
Day 10 | Agra – Ranthambore
Start your day with a return visit to the Taj Mahal and admire its ethereal beauty in the soft morning light. You’ll then explore Agra Fort with a guide; its grand pavilions and gardens perfectly showcase Mughal opulence. Finally, drive to Ranthambore (approx. 5–6 hours), a sanctuary for wildlife amidst the craggy Aravalli hills. Arrive at Khem Villas and check in to your Luxury Cottage.
Day 11-12 | Ranthambore
Spend two days exploring Ranthambore National Park, renowned for its royal Bengal tigers. Morning and afternoon game drives are done by Deluxe Jeep, during which you’re guided by expert naturalists who help you spot tigers, leopards, marsh crocodiles and rich birdlife. Return to your Luxury Cottage between drives to relax and soak in the tranquil forested surroundings.
Staying at
Khem Villas Luxury Jungle Camp
Day 13 | Ranthambore – Jaipur
Depart for Jaipur, the “Pink City” of Rajasthan (approx. 4–5 hours). You’ll check into a Deluxe Suite at Samode Haveli and spend the afternoon at leisure. Jaipur’s rose-hued streets, bustling bazaars and royal architecture offer a captivating introduction to the city’s rich heritage. You can take time to unwind at your hotel, soaking in the refined ambience before your explorations begin.
Day 14 | Jaipur
Ascend to Amber Fort via Jeep and explore its grand courtyards, palaces and ramparts; en route, admire the latticed façade of the Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal). This day offers a combination of architectural splendour, history and panoramic views of Jaipur’s surrounding hills. Return to your hotel later on for a leisurely evening, perhaps even making use of the wellness facilities.
Staying at
Samode Haveli
Day 15 | Jaipur
A half-day tour of Jaipur invites you to visit the City Palace Museum and the astronomical marvel, Jantar Mantar. End your sightseeing with a Pink Tuk-Tuk ride through the old city, taking in vibrant markets and local life as you go along. The remainder of your day can be spent at leisure to explore independently or relax at Samode Haveli, enjoying the refined comforts of your suite.
Staying at
Samode Haveli
Day 16 | Jaipur – Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Check out and transfer to Jaipur airport for your flight to Hyderabad, once a thriving global trade hub for diamonds, emeralds and pearls. When you reach your hotel, Taj Falaknuma Palace, settle into your Palace Room. The afternoon is free for you to relax and absorb the grandeur of your surroundings, preparing for the cultural and historical discoveries awaiting you.
Day 17 | Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Set out on a full-day sightseeing tour of Hyderabad. Throughout the day, you’ll visit the famous Charminar monument and explore Chowmahalla Palace, the opulent seat of the Nizams. Plus, discover the grandeur of Hyderabad’s royal past and the architectural finesse that defines its historic landmarks. Return to your hotel in the evening and get comfy in the room's luxurious setting.
Staying at
Taj Falaknuma Palace
Day 18 | Hyderabad
Hyderabad
Continue your exploration of Hyderabad with a visit to the Qutub Shahi Tombs, the final resting place of seven Qutub Shahi rulers. These tombs are considered to be among the oldest monuments of the city. Marvel at the fusion of Persian, Hindu and Deccan architectural styles and appreciate the peaceful, historic ambience on display. Then return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Staying at
Taj Falaknuma Palace
Day 19 | Hyderabad – Aurangabad
Aurangabad
In the morning, head to Hyderabad airport and fly to Aurangabad – the “City of Gates” and gateway to UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll be met and transferred to Gateway Hotel, where the afternoon is at leisure. Aurangabad’s historic streets, ancient monuments and serene ambience offer you a fascinating prelude to your exploration of the region’s renowned caves and forts.
Day 20 | Aurangabad
Aurangabad
Today, you’ll visit Bibi Ka Maqbara, a Mughal-era mausoleum symbolising love and fidelity, and explore the formidable Daulatabad Fort. Then, journey to Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising 34 rock-cut temples carved into a single rock that showcase intricate artistry spanning centuries. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 21 | Aurangabad
Aurangabad
Spend the day at the Ajanta Caves – a remarkable collection of 30 Buddhist rock-cut monuments dating from the 2nd century BCE. You’ll get to admire the exquisite murals, sculptures and architecture that chronicle India’s spiritual and artistic heritage. Return to your hotel in the evening for a restful night, preparing for your journey onward to Mumbai.
Day 22 | Aurangabad – Mumbai
After transferring to Aurangabad airport, fly to India’s bustling commercial and cultural hub, Mumbai. You’ll be met and transferred to The Taj Mahal Palace, where you'll stay in a Luxury Grand Sea View Room. The afternoon is then yours to enjoy whichever way you wish, whether that’s relaxing in your room or enjoying the hotel’s surroundings, for instance.
Day 23 | Mumbai
Explore the city’s highlights with a full-day sightseeing tour. First, visit the Gateway of India, stroll along Marine Drive and see the historic Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Then discover the extraordinary Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat and, where available, observe the Dabbawalas in action. End your day with a visit to Mani Bhavan, Gandhi’s Mumbai headquarters. Return to your hotel.
Staying at
Taj Mahal Palace and Tower
Day 24 | Mumbai – Kochi
Kochi
Leave Mumbai behind by transferring to the airport and flying to Kochi, Kerala’s historic port city and a melting pot of spice-trade cultures. You’ll then head to Brunton Boatyard, your Sea-Facing Room awaiting. The afternoon is free for you to relax or enjoy the hotel’s waterside ambience, setting the tone for your exploration of Kerala’s rich heritage, maritime history and vibrant local culture.
Day 25 | Kochi
Kochi
Go on a full-day sightseeing tour of Kochi. You’ll explore St. Francis Church and the Indo-Portuguese Museum before visiting the Chinese Fishing Nets and historic Jewish Synagogue. In the afternoon, experience Kathakali, meeting a master in his studio to learn about intricate hand gestures and performance traditions. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Staying at
Brunton Boatyard
Day 26 | Kochi – Kumarakom
Travel to Kumarakom (approx. 1.5 hours), a serene tropical paradise on the banks of Lake Vembanad. The Houseboat you stay in is a perfect retreat, with tranquil backwaters and lush surroundings. Your afternoon can be spent enjoying the scenery from your private deck or simply relaxing aboard. Kumarakom offers a peaceful introduction to Kerala’s unique backwater lifestyle.
Day 27 | Kumarakom
Kumarakom Lake Resort is your next stop, where you’re housed in a Luxury Pavilion Room. The day is at leisure to explore the resort or enjoy optional activities. Some ideas include village walks, canal cruises, candlelight dinners and cycling tours. Speak with one of our Travel Specialists for more inspiration and experiences tailored to your interests and preferences.
Day 28-29 | Kumarakom
For your last two days, you’re free to explore the area at your own pace. Why not relax by the backwaters? Or, perhaps take part in optional activities such as village walks, canal cruises, cycling tours and private candlelight dinners. These days offer complete tranquillity, allowing you to savour the serene tropical surroundings and observe the daily life of local villages along the water’s edge.
Staying at
Kumarakom Lake Resort
Day 30 | Flight Home
Savour one final breakfast before transferring to Kochi Airport (approx. 1.5 hours) for your onward flight back to the UK. Our representative will assist you with check-in and departure.
Kelsey
Travel Specialist
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29 nights
