14 Days, Crown Jewels of Incredible India Tour

Tour overview:

From the culture and majesty of India to the snow peaks and Sherpas of Nepal, this itinerary brings you history and adventure. Enjoy visits to ancient temples, magnificent forts, a sunrise cruise on the Ganges, and a morning flight over the Himalayas to behold the splendor of Everest.

Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Mumbai (Bombay)

Arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay) where you are welcomed with a traditional Indian greeting before being escorted to your hotel.

Day 2: Mumbai Sightseeing

After a leisurely morning, embark on a tour of Mumbai. Visit the Gateway of India, the Hanging Gardens and the Malabar Hills where Mumbai’s rich and famous live, the Prince of Wales Museum, Dhobi Ghat, Marine Drive, the Gandhi Memorial Museum and Jain Temple. Welcome Dinner at the hotel. (BD)

Day 3: Elephanta Caves / Udaipur

Cruise across the harbor to explore the amazing Elephanta Island and its famous caves, with carvings and sculptures dating back to 550 A.D. Fly to Udaipur and transfer to your hotel. (B)

Day 4: Udaipur Sightseeing

Picturesque Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is among the most romantic cities of India. Visit the City Palace, Saheliyon ki Bari or Garden of Maids and the folklore museum where you are entertained by string puppets show typical to this area. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 5: Udaipur / Ranakpur / Jodhpur

Drive to Jodhpur, en-route visiting the sculpted Jain temples of Ranakpur. Stop for lunch at Maharani Bagh, a mango grove and private gardens of the Maharajah of Jodhpur. (BL)

Day 6: Jodhpur Sightseeing

Visit the invincible Mehrangarh Fort followed by a visit to the Jaswant Thada, a graceful marble cenotaph built in 1899 for Maharajah Jaswant Singh II, and cenotaphs of other Maharajahs of Jodhpur. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 7: Jodhpur / Jaipur

Drive to Jaipur today, the capital and largest city of Rajasthan, also known as the “Pink City.” This afternoon, visit the City Palace, the ancient observatory, and Hawa Mahal, also known as “Palace of Winds.” (B)

Day 8: Amber Fort Excursion

Visit the mountain fortress of Amber, a superb example of Rajput architecture with its complex of palaces, temples, and ornate apartments. Afternoon is at leisure. (B)

Day 9: Jaipur / Abhaneri / Agra

En route to Agra, visit the famous stepwell. Your afternoon in Agra will be spent exploring the city and the 16th century Agra Fort. Your day ends with the magnificent Taj Mahal, a monument to the memory of love (closed on every Friday). Your romantic encounter is further enhanced by the opportunity of viewing this beautiful edifice in the warm glow of sunset. (B)

Day 10: Agra / Khajuraho

Today, board the train for Jhansi. Visit the medieval city of Orcha en route to Khajuraho. This afternoon visit the Western group of temples. Not much has changed to the appearance of the city since the 17th century. (B)

Day 11: Khajuraho / Varanasi

Fly out to the holy city of Varanasi (Benares) after visiting the Eastern Group of Temples. Later visit Sarnath, site of Buddha’s first sermon, with its stupas and museum. In the evening proceed to the ghats in cycle rickshaws to witness the evening aarti ceremony. (B)

Day 12: Varanasi / Delhi

Early this morning embark on a cruise on the Ganges. Witness a stunning sight as a multitude of devotees swarm the river and pay obeisance to the rising sun. Later continue on a walking tour of the historic city where spiritualism permeates the atmosphere. Later fly to the bustling capital city of Delhi and check in at your hotel. (B)

Day 13: Delhi Sightseeing

Your morning starts off with a tour of Old Delhi visiting the Red Fort (drive by), Raj Ghat (a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi) and the mile-long Chandni Chowk bazaar. The afternoon will be spent exploring New Delhi with a drive along Rajpath where you can view the Parliament House, the President’s House and India Gate. A visit to Humayun’s Tomb, Qutab Minar and Birla Temple are also included. This evening enjoy a fare-well dinner. (BD)

Day 14: Akshardham Temple Sightseeing

Take the morning to admire the beautifully ornate Akshardham Temple. It consists of 234 carved pillars, 9 domes, 20 quadrangled shikhars, spectacular Gajendra Pith (plinth of stone elephants) and 20,000 statues of India’s great sadhus, devotees, acharyas and divine personalities. After a leisurely afternoon, you will be transferred to the International Airport for your flight home. (B)