Day 1: Arrive at New Delhi Airport
Welcome to Incredible India!
As you arrive at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be greeted with a warm "Namaste" by our English-speaking representative. They will assist you with the transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey.
Arrival & Check-in
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Accommodation: The Claridges, Delhi
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Afternoon/Evening at Leisure: Depending on your arrival time, we can design the rest of your day to allow you to settle in comfortably or explore a bit of Delhi at your own pace.
Enjoy your first evening in India as you relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Start Point
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Pickup: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Airport Road, New Delhi, Delhi
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Time: Available from 06:00 - 23:00
Day 2: Delhi Sightseeing
Morning Tour - Old Delhi After a delightful breakfast, start your day by diving into the bustling charm of Old Delhi. Here, you’ll walk through narrow streets filled with vibrant markets, spice shops, and iconic architecture.
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Jama Masjid: Begin with a visit to the grand Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, with its impressive architecture and cultural significance.
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Rickshaw Ride in Chandni Chowk: Take a thrilling rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk’s lively lanes, where you’ll experience the energy of street markets and vendors offering Delhi’s famous snacks. Your guide will introduce you to local delicacies, and you might even want to sample some flavors!
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Raj Ghat: Visit Raj Ghat, the serene memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.
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Humayun's Tomb: Admire the magnificent Mughal architecture at Humayun's Tomb, India's first garden-style tomb.
Afternoon Tour - New Delhi In the afternoon, experience the contrast as you explore New Delhi’s more modern, spacious layout with its grand, tree-lined avenues.
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India Gate: Visit this famous war memorial arch, dedicated to Indian soldiers who served in World War I.
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Rashtrapati Bhavan: View the Presidential Residence and the grand Parliament Building.
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Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Stop at this serene Sikh temple, where you’ll experience the spiritual ambiance and gain insight into Sikh customs.
Accommodation: The Claridges, Delhi
Unwind at the hotel in the evening, reflecting on the vibrant culture and history experienced in the heart of India’s capital.
Day 3: Rishikesh
Early Morning Transfer Rise early and head to the Delhi railway station to catch the 06:45 train to Haridwar, the gateway to the holy lands of Rishikesh. Upon arrival in Haridwar, you’ll be greeted by our representative and embark on a city discovery tour before continuing on to Rishikesh.
Haridwar Exploration
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City Discovery: Explore the ancient and spiritual city of Haridwar, known for its temples, ghats, and the vibrant river culture on the banks of the sacred Ganges.
Transfer to Rishikesh From Haridwar, travel by private transfer to the serene town of Rishikesh, nestled on the banks of the Ganges and surrounded by the lush foothills of the Himalayas.
Rishikesh Highlights
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Yoga and Spiritual Heritage: Rishikesh, often called the “Yoga Capital of the World,” is known for its spiritual atmosphere and the rich legacy of yogic practices that began here.
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Ganges Views: As the Ganges flows from the Himalayas into the plains, take in the stunning views and the peaceful ambiance of this holy river.
Evening Aarti Ceremony Conclude the day with the enchanting Aarti ceremony on the riverbanks. This ritual, involving offerings of flowers and lamps, is a profound experience that embodies the essence of devotion along the holy Ganges.
Accommodation: Yoga Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh
Stay overnight at the ashram, where you’ll experience the peaceful atmosphere and spiritual energy of Rishikesh.
Day 4: Rishikesh
Yoga and Meditation Retreat Today, immerse yourself in the ancient practice of yoga, one of India’s greatest cultural and spiritual treasures. Rooted in the Upanishads and the Vedas, yoga offers a holistic approach to well-being, combining physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines.
Day Activities
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Yoga and Meditation: Spend the day in guided yoga sessions, meditation, and introspective practices, allowing you to deepen your connection with yourself and gain insights into traditional yogic wisdom.
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Inner Exploration: The tranquil environment of Rishikesh is perfect for reconnecting with your inner self. Embrace the opportunity to focus on mindfulness and self-reflection in a serene, supportive setting.
Inspiration from Literature For those familiar with Eat Pray Love, this could be a meaningful experience, as part of Elizabeth Gilbert’s journey of self-discovery unfolded here in Rishikesh. Like many visitors, you can find inspiration in this transformative place.
Accommodation: Yoga Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh
Spend the night at Yoga Niketan Ashram, where you can continue to absorb the spiritual energy and serenity of Rishikesh.
Day 5: Rishikesh
Full Day of Spiritual Practice Today is dedicated to deepening your spiritual journey. Engage in various ashram-led activities designed to harmonize mind, body, and soul, under the guidance of experienced practitioners.
Day Activities
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Yoga and Meditation: Continue your yoga and meditation sessions, exploring advanced techniques and understanding more about the philosophical aspects of yoga.
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Spiritual Discourses: Participate in insightful discussions on yogic philosophy, spirituality, and self-awareness, learning from the wisdom of seasoned instructors.
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Self-Reflection: Use this day to reflect on your experiences, observing any shifts in perspective or inner peace gained during your stay.
Accommodation: Yoga Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh
Another restful night at Yoga Niketan Ashram to conclude this serene chapter of your journey.
Day 6: Udaipur
Morning
Begin your day with a private transfer to Dehradun Airport for your flight to Udaipur via Delhi. Known as the "City of Lakes" or the "Venice of the East," Udaipur is renowned for its picturesque lakes, historic palaces, and romantic ambiance. Each city in Rajasthan has its own unique charm, but Udaipur stands out with its captivating allure and scenic beauty.
Afternoon
Upon arrival in Udaipur, you will be warmly greeted and driven to your hotel. Take some time to unwind and absorb the calming atmosphere of this enchanting city.
Evening
Experience a traditional Rajasthani music and dance performance at the Bagore Ki Haveli. This 18th-century palace, located on the banks of the serene Lake Pichola, provides a mesmerizing backdrop for an unforgettable cultural evening. Witness the vibrant heritage of Rajasthan come to life through graceful dance, soulful music, and intricate costumes.
Accommodation: Trident Udaipur
End your day with a restful night at the Trident Udaipur, a beautiful lakeside hotel that perfectly complements Udaipur’s charm.
Day 7: Udaipur Sightseeing
Morning
Start your day with a refreshing yoga session to attune yourself to the peaceful vibe of Udaipur, often referred to as the "Venice of the East."
City Palace
Your exploration begins with a visit to the grand City Palace, a stunning structure built in 1725. Adorned with glittering mirrors, intricate ornaments, and architectural grandeur, the palace is an epitome of Rajasthani royal history. With balconies, towers, and domes, it overlooks the sparkling Lake Pichola and stretches across 244 meters, with a striking facade of 30 meters high, making it the largest palace in Rajasthan.
Saheliyon Ki Bari
Next, visit the charming Saheliyon Ki Bari, a historic garden known for its lush greenery, lotus pools, and marble pavilions. Originally designed for the royal ladies, it offers a picturesque retreat filled with fountains and a tranquil atmosphere.
Jagdish Temple
Afterward, explore the Jagdish Temple, a revered Hindu temple built in 1651 and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is an architectural masterpiece with finely carved pillars, elaborate sculptures, and an imposing structure that draws both pilgrims and art lovers.
Evening
Conclude the day with a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the lake and the palaces along its banks. Enjoy the tranquil waters and the enchanting views of Udaipur’s heritage sites from a unique vantage point.
Accommodation: Trident Udaipur
Rest comfortably at Trident Udaipur, reflecting on the rich history and beauty of Udaipur you have experienced today.
Day 8: Pushkar
Morning
Begin your day with a relaxing yoga session to energize and prepare for the journey ahead. After breakfast, depart for Pushkar, a sacred town renowned for its spiritual significance and cultural heritage.
Brahma Temple
Upon arrival, visit the Brahma Temple, the only Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator deity. This unique temple attracts pilgrims from across India, making it one of Pushkar’s main spiritual attractions.
Pushkar Desert Market
Stroll through the bustling Pushkar Desert Market, famous for its colorful handicrafts, traditional Rajasthani clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. This vibrant market offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s artisanal traditions and makes for an immersive cultural experience.
Pushkar Fair
Pushkar is well-known for its annual camel fair and folk festival, which takes place during Kartik Purnima (November), attracting performers and artisans from around North India. Although not during the festival season, the town's lively energy and cultural pride are present year-round.
Pushkar Lake Ceremony
As the day draws to a close, head to Pushkar Lake for the evening Aarti (prayer ceremony). The serene ambiance and the glow of oil lamps create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful end to your day.
Accommodation: Nature Villa Resort
Unwind and relax at Nature Villa Resort, where you can reflect on the spiritual and cultural richness of Pushkar before retiring for the night.
Day 9: Jaipur
Morning Yoga
Start the day with a calming yoga session to revitalize your body and mind for the day’s journey ahead.
Journey to Jaipur
After breakfast, depart for Jaipur, the iconic "Pink City" of India, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and beautifully preserved palaces and forts.
About Jaipur
Jaipur, founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, was meticulously planned as the new capital of the princely state. The old town district's distinctive pink hue was adopted in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales, giving Jaipur its famous nickname, the “Pink City.”
Evening Culinary Experience
In the evening, immerse yourself in a culinary demonstration showcasing traditional Indian cuisine. Learn about the spices, techniques, and heritage behind each dish. Savor the flavors of India during a specially prepared dinner, where you can enjoy the delicious meal crafted during the demonstration.
Accommodation: Dera Mandawa (Jaipur)
Experience a blend of Rajasthani heritage and modern comfort at Dera Mandawa, providing an ideal retreat after your explorations of Jaipur.
Day 10: Jaipur Sightseeing
Morning Yoga
Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Amber Fort
Begin your exploration with a visit to the stunning Amber Fort, a majestic fortress built atop a hill. Travel to the fort by jeep to enjoy panoramic views along the way. Named after Amba Mata, the goddess of fertility, this UNESCO World Heritage site captivates with its intricate architecture and grandeur.
Jaipur City Tour
Your city tour continues with visits to Jaipur’s famous monuments:
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Jantar Mantar: This impressive stone observatory, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II, is a UNESCO site known for its fascinating astronomical instruments.
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Hawa Mahal: The "Palace of Winds," with its iconic pink facade and honeycomb windows, offers stunning views and an architectural marvel.
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City Palace: A beautiful complex combining Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, it houses royal collections, museums, and courtyards.
Exploring Jaipur’s Markets
Stroll through the narrow streets and bustling markets, where vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and spices transport you to another era.
Optional Visit
If interested, you can also visit a school that supports orphans, offering a meaningful insight into community initiatives and social care in Jaipur.
Accommodation: Dera Mandawa (Jaipur)
Unwind at Dera Mandawa, where heritage charm and modern comforts provide a warm and inviting stay.
Day 11: Agra
Morning Yoga Session
Begin your day with a final yoga session, embracing the tranquility before the last leg of your journey.
Drive to Agra via Abhaneri
On your way to Agra, make a stop at Abhaneri, a small village known for its historical and architectural significance.
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Chand Baori Stepwell: The main attraction in Abhaneri is the Chand Baori stepwell, one of the most beautiful stepwells in Rajasthan. This impressive structure, dating back to the 9th century, was built to conserve water during the dry months. The well, surrounded by ancient temples, was not only used for irrigation but also for religious rituals, particularly worshipping the god Shiva.
Arrival in Agra
After your visit to Abhaneri, continue your drive towards Agra, where the most iconic monument in the world awaits.
Taj Mahal
In the late afternoon, experience the beauty of the Taj Mahal, the symbol of eternal love. This magnificent white marble mausoleum, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is one of the most visited monuments in the world. Enjoy a romantic view as the sun sets over this architectural wonder.
Accommodation: Hotel Taj
Stay at the Hotel Taj, where you can relax in comfort after a day of sightseeing. The hotel offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal, providing the perfect ending to your unforgettable journey.
Day 12: Delhi
Morning Visit to the Taj Mahal
Start your day early with a visit to the Taj Mahal, the 7th wonder of the world. Its fairy-tale appearance and mesmerizing silhouette, framed by lush gardens and the reflecting pool, have made it a symbol of love and India itself. Built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal in the 17th century, the Taj Mahal is a true masterpiece of Mughal architecture and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
Visit to Red Fort
Next, you will visit the Red Fort in Agra, another important historical monument. It was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for around 200 years. The Red Fort was originally constructed by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and later expanded by Shah Jahan during his reign. Explore the grandeur of its massive red sandstone walls, impressive gates, and magnificent palaces within the fort.
Drive Back to Delhi
After a morning of exploring these historical gems, you will be driven back to Delhi.
Transfer to Airport
Once in Delhi, you will be transferred to Indira Gandhi International Airport to board your flight home, bringing an end to your unforgettable Indian adventure.
End point
Drop-off at New Delhi Airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Airport Rd, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India.
This concludes your journey filled with rich cultural experiences, spiritual moments, and timeless architectural wonders!