India Guided Tour

Welcome to India! We’re thrilled to have you here.
You’ll arrive in Delhi late at night. Our friendly representative will be there to greet you and help with your luggage. He’ll escort you to your car, and you’ll head to your hotel for the coming few days, Colonels Retreat.
As you settle into your cozy Standard Room, our representative will give you a warm welcome, introduce the tour, and hand over your travel documents.
Rest up and get ready for an amazing journey ahead!

Overnight at Colonels Retreat, Delhi (Standard Room)(No Meals)

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before we dive into the wonders of Delhi.
First up, we’ll explore New Delhi. Our guided tour includes a visit to the majestic Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture from 1586. Next, marvel at the towering Qutab Minar, standing tall at 72 meters. Don’t miss the ancient Iron Pillar, which has withstood the test of time for over 1500 years.
We’ll drive through the Embassy area, admiring the grand Government buildings and the bustling Connaught Place, the heart of the capital and a shopper’s paradise. We’ll also stop by the iconic India Gate, a tribute to Indian soldiers.
In the afternoon, we venture into Old Delhi. Visit the historic Jamma Mosque, built in 1650, and experience the vibrant energy of Chandni Chowk, where shops and vendors create a lively scene. We’ll pay our respects at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi.
The highlight of our day is a fun cycle rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling streets. These three-wheel cycles, with a cozy seat at the back, offer a unique way to see the city. The rickshaw ride is sure to bring smiles and laughter, capturing the essence of Old Delhi’s charm.
After an exciting day, we return to Colonels Retreat for a comfortable overnight stay.
Overnight at Colonels Retreat – Defence Colony, Delhi (Standard Room)(B)

Have a fresh start to your day with a delicious breakfast. Then, get ready to drive to Jaipur, cruising along one of India’s finest freeways.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into the charming Jas Vilas. After some rest and relaxation, it’s time to explore the vibrant shopping scene of Jaipur. We’ll dive into the world of Rajasthan craftwork, starting with block making and block printing. You’ll get to see the entire process, from start to finish, in some of Jaipur’s popular stores. If you’re feeling inspired, you can even have outfits tailor-made to your design and size.
Next, we’ll explore Jaipur’s renowned jewelry. From chunky tribal pieces to enameled gold and modern diamond jewelry, the variety is astonishing. You’ll learn about Kundan jewelry, a specialty of Rajasthan, where stones are set into decorative patterns and enhanced with delicate enamel work. Jaipur is also famous for its gold and silver enameling. Don’t miss out on colorful bangles made of lac, embedded with semiprecious stones—a perfect and inexpensive souvenir. The skilled gem-cutters of Jaipur also create beautiful little animals and birds from rock crystal, jade, smoky topaz, and amethyst. You’ll find intaglio beads, buttons, and crystal scent bottles too.
After a day filled with delightful shopping experiences, return to Jas Vilas for a comfortable overnight stay.

Overnight at Jas Vilas, Jaipur (Standard Room) (B)

Start your day with a hearty breakfast and get ready for an exciting exploration of Jaipur. Our first stop is the magnificent Amber Fort, the former capital of the royal Jaipurs. Perched on the rugged Aravali Hills, this hilltop fortress-palace, 11 km north of Jaipur, boasts dramatic Rajput grandeur. With its sprawling crenellated walls and scenic views over Maota Lake, the Amber Fort is truly a sight to behold. We’ll ride up to this majestic palace on a Jeep, adding a touch of adventure to our visit.
Next, we’ll head to the Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds. This five-storied pink sandstone marvel features semi-octagonal and intricately honeycombed windows that overlook the bustling main street of the old city. Built in 1799, it allowed veiled royal women to peer down unseen by the world through its 593 stone screens.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the City Palace and Observatory, located in the heart of the old city. The City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, occupies the central grid of Jaipur. Its fortified walls, with seven gates, were built for protection from invading armies and jungle animals. The Solar Observatory, an astronomical treasure house, is known for its accurate solar devices that continue to predict with precision.
Our journey continues to the sacred temple of Govind Dev Ji, located within the City Palace complex. This revered temple, nestled between Chandra Mahal and Badal Mahal, houses a strikingly beautiful idol of Govind Dev Ji, a form of Lord Krishna. The temple is renowned for its daily ‘Aartis’ and ‘Prasad’ offerings at seven different times throughout the day.
After a day filled with unforgettable experiences, return to Jas Vilas for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight at Jas Vilas, Jaipur (Standard Room)

After a delicious breakfast, we set off on our journey to Agra. Along the way, we’ll stop at the fascinating Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted capital city of the Mughals. This perfectly preserved city, divided into religious and secular parts, showcases stunningly sculpted buildings that reflect the grandeur of the Mughal Empire at its height.
After exploring Fatehpur Sikri, we continue our drive to Agra. Upon arrival, we’ll check into the Crystal Sarovar, where you can relax and unwind in your Premium Taj View Room.
In the evening, we’ll visit Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden. This serene garden, situated on the opposite side of the river from the Taj Mahal, was designed as an extension of the Taj Mahal Garden. The garden, originally planted with fragrant flowers, was a cool retreat at night to enjoy the view of the Taj Mahal reflected in the octagonal pool and the river. Though it was once inundated and lost its charm, it has since been re-excavated and restored to its former glory.
After a day filled with rich history and breathtaking views, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Overnight at Crystal Sarovar, Agra (Premium Taj View Room) (B)

Start your day with the enchanting experience of witnessing the sunrise at the Taj Mahal. The magical reflections of the rising sun on the brilliant white marble will leave you spellbound. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen or stories you’ve heard, the Taj Mahal’s unparalleled beauty exceeds all expectations. After this unforgettable visit, return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast.
Next, we explore the massive Agra Fort. This impressive fort, built by Emperor Akbar, showcases a fascinating blend of Hindu and Central Asian architectural styles. The courtyards, mosques, and private chambers within the fort echo the grand history of the Mughal Empire.
Following our fort tour, we embark on a scenic drive to Gwalior. According to legend, Gwalior’s history dates back to the 8th century when a saint named Gwalipa cured the chieftain Suraj Sen of leprosy, leading to the founding of the city. Over the centuries, Gwalior has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Tomar Rajputs, Mughals, Afghans, Marathas, and finally the Scindia Maharajas, who played a significant role in India’s modern politics.
Upon arrival in Gwalior, we’ll check into the charming Deo Bagh hotel.
Gwalior’s main attraction is its stunning fort, which stands majestically on a sandstone hill, 91 meters above the plain. The fort is renowned for its impressive Jain sculptures, temples, and the magnificent sandstone palace. Mughal Emperor Babur once described it as “the pearl amongst fortresses of Hind.”
We’ll also visit the Jai Vilas Palace, a splendid structure designed by Lt Colonel Sir Michael Filose in 1872. The palace, resembling an Italian palazzo, houses the Scindia Museum, which displays a fascinating collection of royal possessions and curiosities. Highlights include the extravagant Durbar Hall with its massive chandeliers and the dining room with a silver train set that served cigars, dry fruit, and drinks after dinner. We’ll also see the Royal Chattris, dedicated to Gwalior’s Maharajas, where the lighted images are clothed and “fed” daily.
After a day filled with rich history and architectural marvels, return to your Heritage Royal Room at Deo Bagh for a restful night.
Overnight at Deo Bagh, Gwalior (Heritage Royal Room) (B)

Start your day early as we transfer you to the train station for a short ride on India’s premier train service, the Bhopal Shatabadi. Enjoy the scenic views as you travel to Jhansi.
Upon arrival in Jhansi, you’ll be greeted and assisted before we embark on a picturesque drive to Khajuraho, with a fascinating stop in the medieval city of Orchha.
In Orchha, we’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at Hotel Orchha Palace and Conventions. After lunch, we’ll explore the city that seems to have frozen in time. Founded by the Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap, in the 16th century, Orchha’s palaces and temples retain their original grandeur. Located by the beautiful Betwa river, the city’s name, which means ‘hidden’, reflects its secluded and serene nature. Orchha’s historical charm is evident in its famous landmarks like Jehangir Mahal and the Laxminarayan Temple, along with numerous fascinating shrines and memorials that evoke a deep sense of nostalgia.
After soaking in the historical ambiance of Orchha, we continue our journey to Khajuraho.
Upon arrival in Khajuraho, we’ll check into the comfortable and welcoming Hotel Radisson.
Enjoy a restful night in your Deluxe Room, reflecting on the day’s journey through history and culture.
Overnight at Hotel Radisson, Khajuraho (Deluxe Room) (B & L)

Start your day with a delicious breakfast, then get ready to explore the world-famous western group of temples in Khajuraho. These temples are renowned for their intricate and erotic sculptures depicting the amorous exploits of gods, goddesses, and celestial nymphs. The artistic creativity and imagination of the sculptors are evident in the detailed and uninhibited depictions, reflecting a liberated society that openly embraced all aspects of life. These sculptures vividly illustrate scenes of lovemaking, bringing to life the Tantric texts in a graphic and realistic manner.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue our exploration with a visit to the eastern group of temples. The temples of Khajuraho, built by the Chandela kings, are a testament to the grandeur of Indian sculpture and Tantric art. While they are famed for their erotic sculptures, the philosophy behind these temples is far more expansive. They celebrate life in all its forms, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of ancient India.
In the evening, we will head back to the temple complex for an unforgettable Sound & Light Show. This spectacular show narrates the history of the temples through a mesmerizing blend of sound and light. The story of Khajuraho, from the 10th century to the present day, is beautifully told, with the Indian superstar Amitabh Bachchan lending his iconic voice to the narration. This Son-et-Lumiere spectacle brings the life and times of the great Chandela Kings to vivid life.
After a day filled with history, art, and culture, retire to your Deluxe Room at Hotel Radisson for a restful night.
Overnight at Hotel Radisson (Deluxe Room) (B)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will transfer to the airport to catch our flight to Varanasi.
Upon arrival in Varanasi, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to Hotel Rivatas by Ideal. Varanasi, often hailed as the world’s oldest living city, has a rich history dating back to the sixth century B.C. It is believed to have been founded by Shiva and holds a profound spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike. The city has many names, including the ancient Kashi (City of Light) and the anglicized Benares, but it is most revered as Varanasi, derived from the names of two nearby rivers.
Varanasi’s sacred aura is presided over by Shiva in his manifestation as Vishwanatha, Lord of the Universe. This city is a major pilgrimage destination, attracting more pilgrims than any other place in India. It is also near Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and was home to Mahavira, the founder of Jainism.
In the evening, we will visit the famous ghats of Varanasi to witness the enchanting Ganges Aarti. As the sun sets, we’ll embark on a special evening cruise on the Ganges River. Here, you will see Hindu devotees performing the “Puja” with lighted lamps, creating a mesmerizing view. The atmosphere is electric with the rhythmic beating of cymbals and bells, accompanied by incessant chanting, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
After this magical evening, return to Hotel Rivatas by Ideal for a restful night in your Deluxe Room.
Overnight at Hotel The Rivatas by Ideal (Deluxe Room)

At the break of dawn, immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi with a serene boat ride on the sacred Ganges River. Witness the devout worshippers performing their morning rituals, bathing in the holy waters to cleanse their souls. Along the riverbanks, you’ll observe the ghats—endless rows of stone steps—forming an integral part of Varanasi’s religious landscape. As we glide downstream, your guide will point out significant temples and landmarks, enlightening you about the city’s rich architectural heritage.
In Varanasi, life and death coexist harmoniously. While the younger generation seeks blessings for prosperity and protection, the elderly come here to purify their souls in preparation for the ultimate journey beyond life. Varanasi is believed to grant liberation to those who pass away here, offering solace to the sick and aged awaiting their final moments. Witness the poignant spectacle of cremations at the Manikarnika (Cremation) Ghat, where the smoke rises as souls depart from earthly confines.
After the boat ride, embark on a captivating journey through the labyrinthine alleys of the inner city. These narrow pathways, adorned with shrines and pilgrim shops, transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into centuries-old traditions and lifestyles frozen in time.
In the afternoon, explore Varanasi’s architectural marvels and spiritual landmarks. Begin your journey at the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, featuring a remarkable marble map of India. Then, visit the vibrant Durga Temple, known for its striking red facade and mischievous monkeys.
Continue your exploration at the Hindu University in Benares, home to the modern New Vishwanatha Temple. This splendid white marble structure, adorned with Vedic art and inscriptions, welcomes visitors of all faiths. Inside, marvel at the serene Shiva linga, a symbol of divine energy.
In the evening, embark on a brief excursion to the Buddhist city of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
Return to Hotel The Rivatas by Ideal for a comfortable overnight stay in your Deluxe Room.
Overnight at Hotel The Rivatas by Ideal (Deluxe Room) (B)

Enjoy a leisurely morning, embracing the tranquil ambiance of Varanasi. Take a stroll along the sacred banks of the Ganges, where you can witness the mesmerizing rituals performed by devotees, or wander through the narrow lanes of the old city, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, bid adieu to Varanasi as you transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi.
Upon arrival in Delhi, our representative will extend a warm welcome and escort you to Colonels Retreat in Defence Colony.
Relax and unwind in the comfort of your comfy Room, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences of your journey through India.
Overnight at Colonels Retreat – Defence Colony, Delhi (Standard Room) (B)

It’s time to bid farewell to the vibrant land of India as your journey comes to an end.
Our representative will assist you with your transfer to the International airport for your onward flight.
As you embark on your journey homeward bound, carry with you cherished memories of the sights, sounds, and experiences that have touched your heart during your time in India.
May the warmth of India’s hospitality and the richness of its culture stay with you forever.
Safe travels, and until we meet again!

NO HOTEL QUOTED FOR THIS DAY (B)