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Splendors of India: A Tour of Historical Landmarks and Cultural Gems

0/5
Duration

18 Nights / 19 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English

Overview

Splendors of India: A Tour of Historical Landmarks and Cultural Gems offers an extraordinary journey through India’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Beginning in the bustling metropolis of Delhi, explore the grandeur of Mughal architecture, including the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, before delving into the sacred rituals of Varanasi. Traverse the architectural marvels of Khajuraho and the historic forts of Orchha and Agra, culminating with the iconic Taj Mahal. Journey through the regal landscapes of Jaipur and the modern dynamism of Mumbai. Finally, uncover the ancient temples and ruins of the Deccan region, including Hampi’s UNESCO-listed sites and Bijapur’s grand monuments. This tour is a captivating exploration of India’s most treasured landmarks and cultural wonders.

Highlights

  • This is a private tour/activity only for your group.
  • Enhanced cleaning/ traveler safety.
  • In-depth cultural experience.
  • Flexible sightseeing & stopover.
  • Most travelers can participate.

Bulk discount (by Percent)

Bulk discount adult
# Discount group From adult To adult Value
1 Discount on 2-person group 2 2 45.1%
2 Discount on 3-person group 3 3 43.9%
3 Discount on 4-person group 4 4 51.0%
4 Discount on 5-person group 5 5 51.4%
5 Discount on 6-person group 6 6 55.8%
6 Discount on 7-person group 7 7 55.4%
7 Discount on 8-person group 8 8 59.8%

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Arrival at Delhi airport with assistance and transfer to your hotel for check-in. The vehicle will remain at your disposal for exploring local attractions or dining out. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of India’s rich history. Explore its massive red sandstone walls and impressive Mughal architecture. Explore Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, known for its majestic courtyard and intricate marble work. Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this historic market area filled with shops and street food. Visit Raj Gath, the memorial marking the site of Mahatma Gandhi's cremation, surrounded by serene gardens. Discover Humayun’s Tomb, an exquisite Mughal structure that served as a precursor to the Taj Mahal, with its beautifully landscaped gardens and intricate marble inlay. Explore Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world, adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Visit the Lotus Temple, known for its distinctive lotus-shaped architecture and tranquil setting, offering a space for meditation and reflection. Drive past President House, Parliament House, and India Gate, key landmarks of India’s political landscape, showcasing colonial-era architecture and national pride. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3: Delhi - Varanasi (flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a morning flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Visit the Sarnath Temple complex, a significant Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the nearby archaeological remains and the Dhamek Stupa. In the evening, attend the Holy Ganga Aarti on the ghats of the Ganges River. Witness this mesmerizing ritual with fire lamps, devotional songs, and a vibrant atmosphere. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Varanasi

Breakfast at the hotel. Early morning boat ride on the Ganges River to witness the sunrise and observe the daily rituals performed by the locals along the ghats. Explore the ghats of Varanasi, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, a lively spot for observing traditional practices and ceremonies. Walk through Chowk, a bustling bazaar area, and experience the lively street markets and local culture. Visit Banaras Hindu University, a prestigious educational institution with impressive architecture and a large campus. Explore Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, featuring a large relief map of India carved in marble. Visit Tulsi Manas Temple, built on the site where Tulsidas is believed to have composed the Ramcharitmanas, with its intricate carvings and murals. Tour Ram Nagar Fort Palace Museum, showcasing artifacts and royal regalia from the Maharajas of Varanasi. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5: Varanasi - Khajuraho (flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Khajuraho. Arrive in Khajuraho and check in at the hotel. Visit the Western Group of Khajuraho Temples, renowned for their stunning erotic sculptures and intricate carvings, built during the Chandela dynasty. Explore the Eastern Group of Temples, including Jain temples with elaborate carvings and a serene atmosphere. Attend the evening light and sound show, which highlights the history and grandeur of Khajuraho through a captivating audiovisual presentation. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6: Khajuraho - Orchha (180kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Orchha, a town known for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Check in at the hotel. Visit Orchha Fort Complex, including Jehangir Mahal with its beautiful courtyards, Raja Mahal with its elaborate frescoes, and the Chaturbhuj Temple with its impressive architecture. Explore the Cenotaphs, a group of memorials built to honor the Bundela rulers, featuring ornate and striking structures. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7: Orchha - Agra (220kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Agra, with a visit to Gwalior Fort en route, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. Explore its massive walls, palaces, and temples. Arrive in Agra and check in at the hotel. Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, an iconic white marble mausoleum renowned for its breathtaking beauty and intricate craftsmanship. Explore Agra Fort, a massive red sandstone fort with rich history and architectural splendor, offering panoramic views of the Taj Mahal. Visit Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb, also known as the Baby Taj, known for its detailed marble inlay work and beautiful gardens. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8: Agra - Jaipur (245kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Jaipur, with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri, an abandoned Mughal city known for its well-preserved palaces, mosques, and courtyards. Stop at Abhaneri stepwell, a remarkable ancient water reservoir with intricate carvings and a unique design. Arrive in Jaipur and check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Jaipur

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Amber Fort, a majestic fort with stunning views, ornate interiors, and a beautiful blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Explore Jaigarh Fort, known for its massive cannon and extensive ramparts offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Stroll through Sisodia Rani Garden, a beautiful garden with cascading fountains, lush greenery, and intricate water channels. Visit City Palace, a royal residence with a museum displaying artifacts and art from the Jaipur royal family. Tour the Observatory (Jantar Mantar), an astronomical observatory with impressive instruments for celestial measurements. Admire Hawa Mahal, the “Palace of Winds,” with its unique façade of intricately carved latticework allowing royal ladies to observe street life. Visit Birla Temple, a modern temple with a serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture made of white marble. Explore local markets for traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Jaipur - Hyderabad (flight)

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for a flight to Hyderabad. Arrive in Hyderabad and transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11: Hyderabad

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Golconda Fort, a historic fort with a fascinating past, offering panoramic views from its ramparts and intricate architectural details. Explore Qutubshahi Tombs, a group of tombs and mosques from the Qutubshahi dynasty, featuring elegant architecture and serene surroundings. Visit Charminar, an iconic monument with four grand arches and minarets, a symbol of Hyderabad’s rich heritage. Tour Mecca Mosque, one of the largest mosques in India, known for its grand architecture and significant religious importance. Explore Salarjung Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from various cultures and periods. Visit Chowmohalla Palace, a historic palace with beautiful courtyards, regal rooms, and royal artifacts. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12: Hyderabad - Bijapur (385kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Bijapur, with a stop at Gulbarga Fort, known for its imposing structure and historical significance. Visit Jama Masjid, an ancient mosque renowned for its grand design and historical importance. Continue driving to Bijapur and check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 13: Bijapur - Badami (120kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit Bijapur Fort, featuring notable monuments like Gol Gumbaz with its massive dome and acoustic marvels. Explore Asar Mahal, Bara Kaman, and Mehtar Mahal, each showcasing distinct architectural styles and historical significance. Drive to Badami, check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 14: Badami

Breakfast at the hotel. Excursion to Aihole, a historical site with over 125 Chalukyan temples, known for their architectural diversity and historical importance. Visit Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a group of Hindu and Jain temples built in the 7th and 8th centuries. Return to Badami to visit the cave temples, Badami Fort, and Agastya Lake, experiencing the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 15: Badami - Hampi (180kms)

Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Hampi, with visits to active and ruined temples in Gadag and Lakkundi, showcasing regional architectural styles and historical significance. Arrive in Hampi and check in at the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16: Hampi

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ruins from the Vijayanagara Empire, including Hazara Rama Temple, Kings Balance, and Mahanavami Dibba. Visit the Royal Enclosures, featuring palaces, temples, and baths. Explore the Statue of Ugra Narasimha Temple, Vithala Temple Complex, and Lotus Mahal, showcasing the grandeur of Vijayanagara architecture. Visit the ASI Museum to learn more about Hampi’s history and artifacts. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 17: Hampi - Hubli airport (160kms) / Mumbai

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Hubli airport for a flight to Mumbai. Arrive in Mumbai and transfer to the hotel. Drive past colonial buildings in South Mumbai, including Gateway of India, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Kamala Nehru Park, Crawford Market, and Marine Drive, experiencing the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 18: Mumbai

Breakfast at the hotel. City tour of Mumbai, including CST, Prince of Wales Museum, Mani Bhawan, Dharavi, and Dhobi Ghat, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s history, culture, and daily life. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 19: Mumbai

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure transfer to the airport for your flight to the onward destination.

Included/Excluded

  • Assistance at all airports.
  • 18 Nights' accommodation in 4-star hotels.
  • Daily breakfast and meal as per day plan.
  • Private air-conditioned deluxe car for airport transfer, sightseeing and excursion as per program.
  • English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per program.
  • Monument entrances and activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Bottled drinking water in car.
  • Government taxes.
  • Delhi – Varanasi – Khajuraho, Jaipur – Hyderabad & Hubli - Mumbai flight fare approx. INR 20,500 per person in economy class.
  • Camera charges at monuments.
  • Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet etc.
  • Gratuities & optional activities.
  • Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Tour's Location

FAQs

What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

Hotels used or similar for 18 nights accommodation

4 Star Hotels
Delhi x 2 nights: The Hans/ The Royal Plaza
Varanasi x 2 nights: Rivatas by Ideal/ The Amayaa
Khajuraho x 1 night: The Lalit Temple View
Orchha x 1 night: Orchha Resort/ Amar Mahal
Agra x 1 night: Radisson Hotel/ Holiday Inn
Jaipur x 2 nights: Lemon Tree Premier/ The Fern An Ecotel Hotel
Hyderabad x 2 nights: The Golkonda Hotel/ Lemon Tree Hotel
Bijapur x 1 night: The Fern Residency/ Kyriad Hotel Vijayapura by OTHPL
Badami x 2 nights: Morpho Banashree Resort/ WADA1
Hampi x 2 nights: Heritage Resort/ Royal Orchid Central Keerti
Mumbai x 2 nights: Fariyas Hotel/ The Gordon House

Can travelers upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels?

Yes, travelers can upgrade the accommodation to 5-star hotels by paying the supplement. Please send inquiry for same from the booking page to get the price quote.

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