Icons of India: the Taj, Tigers & Beyond with Mumbai & Varanasi
Overview
Witness the symbol of eternal devotion with a sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the New7Wonders of the World. Here, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan enlisted the help of more than 20,000 workers read more and 1,000 elephants to erect a towering white marble mausoleum dedicated to his wife who died during childbirth. Beyond India’s most sparkling jewel lies a priceless gem mine of experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Hop in a rickshaw for a ride through Delhi’s centuries-old Chandni Chowk bazaar, sit down for traditional Indian cuisine in the home of a noble family in Jaipur, and embark on two thrilling open-air safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park in search of marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and the elusive Bengal tiger.
A mosaic of memories awaits on this radiant tour of India.
14 Days
Mumbai
Delhi
Small Group Discovery
4 - 4.5 Star
Premium
5-99 Years
24
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
ODQ4
Itinerary
Hello, Mumbai
Welcome to Mumbai, a multicultural metropolis with a vibrant history—now India's premier seaport and home to the “Bollywood” movie industry.
Magical Mumbai
Join your Local Guide for an orientation tour of some of the city's famous sites, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the Gateway of India. Then, stop to see a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat) and visit Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Please Note: Host services are provided in Mumbai and Varanasi. You will meet your Tour Director on day 5 in Delhi.Packed Lunches & Loyal Pilgrimages
Today, witness Mumbai's tiffin lunch box delivery system. Later this afternoon, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LUNCH BOX HEROES: Each weekday dabbawalas (box carriers) deliver thousands of home-cooked lunches to people at work. Using a simple coding system of colors, numbers, and letters, deliveries are made with nearly 100% accuracy. Watch and learn about this fascinating process starting at Churchgate Station where the dabbawalas transfer the boxes onto local trains for distribution. Ride on one of the trains to Mahalaxmi Station where you'll disembark and see the boxes being sorted for final delivery.
Sacred Rituals
Near dawn, join your Local Guide and board a boat to watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus' devotional bathing in the Ganges. You'll observe hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river's edge, practicing yoga or meditation. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. Early this evening, experience the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - FIRE & WATER: Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river's edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga.
Today, fly to Delhi, capital of India.
Delhi Delights
Today's sightseeing starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Presidential Palace. Then, visit Jama Masjid and Humayun's Tomb, and take a rickshaw ride through a local bazaar. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of free time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner that includes a cooking demonstration and talk on Indian cuisine with a local chef.
LOCAL FAVORITE - MARKET HIGH: Hop on a rickshaw and explore Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar. Ancient alleyways are lined with quaint shops selling a variety of goods and souvenirs—from silver and saris to spices and electronics.
Remembrance & Worship
This morning, visit Qutub Minar, the world's tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in for the evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - A RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE: As Delhi's largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), Gurudwara Bangla Sahib has religious significance and splendid architecture. The grand edifice is built in the Sikh architectural style, while this magnificent house of worship is made using stunning white marble below its commanding golden dome.
Moghul Monuments
Start your day with a sunrise visit to the captivating Taj Mahal. After a bit of down time, travel to Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This impressive fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LOVE REMEMBERED: Rise early for a bucket-list visit to the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. Your guided tour takes you inside the Mausoleum, with time to explore on your own and reflect.
By Road & Rail
Today, stop at Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century it was the capital of the Mughal Empire for merely 10 years before it was completely abandoned due to the lack of adequate water. After lunch in Bharatpur, board a train bound for Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to spot the elusive Bengal tiger!
The Game is Afoot
Today, explore Ranthambore National Park on morning and afternoon game drives in an open-air safari vehicle. Between game drives, enjoy free time to relax.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: In addition to Bengal tigers, Ranthambore National Park is home to leopards, sambar deer, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and more. Take the opportunity to spot them all on today's guided game drives via small-capacity vehicles perfect for your group.
Jaunt to Jaipur
Today, travel to Jaipur. In 1876, the city was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales and known as the “Pink City” ever since. After lunch, visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar, consisting of 19 astronomical instruments used for measuring time and dates back to 1728. Next, visit the City Palace Museum, once the royal residence and now showcases a collection of paintings, carpets, weapons, and costumes from the past.
Jewels of Jaipur
Today, visit the amazing Amber Fort in the morning. Lastly, visit a local vocational training program for children. Tonight, enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, followed by a sari-and turban-tying demonstration.
LOCAL FAVORITE - PROMISING FUTURES: Ladli is a training program teaching orphaned children valuable skills. Here, learn about the project while interacting with the children and helping them practice their English skills.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - FORMIDABLE FORTRESS: Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. This fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Your small group is invited to visit the home of a local noble family to share a home-prepared dinner. You'll also learn the art of sari-and-turban tying in the beloved tradition of India.
Homeward Bound
Fly back to Delhi this morning and prepare for your journey home.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Trip Inclusions
- Private guided sightseeing in Mumbai includes Mani Bhavan, the former residence of Mahatma Ghandi
- Train ride to Mahalaxmi Station and Mumbai's tiffin lunch box delivery system experience
- Visit a traditional Dhobi Ghat (open-air laundromat)
- Boat ride at dawn to observe the Hindus' devotional bathing and meditation rituals in the Ganges River
- Witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the steps leading to the Ganges
- Orientation tour of Delhi with visits to Jama Masjid and Humayun's Tomb
- Rickshaw ride through historic Chandni Chowk market
- Indian cuisine cooking demonstration with a local chef
- Sunrise guided visit to the Taj Mahal
- Tour of Agra Fort
- Two open-air safari game drives in Ranthambore National Park
- Guided tour of Amber Fort
- Visit to a vocational training program for children in Jaipur
- Home-hosted dinner with an Indian noble family, including sari- and turban-tying demonstration
- Visits to Fatehpur Sikri, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar
- Intra-vacation flights as listed in the itinerary
- Breakfast daily, 6 Lunches, 5 Dinners
- Mumbai: Taj President, Mumbai (Moderate Deluxe):
Taj President, Mumbai exudes nostalgia combined with world-class service and hospitality. Strategically located, the hotel is close to all the major attractions and award winning restaurants. Guest rooms are crafted for the global traveler and are spacious and bright. Hotel Amenities include iconic restaurants, a stylish lounge bar and outdoor pool, making it an urban oasis. - Varanasi: Radisson Hotel Varanasi (Superior First-Class):
The Radisson Hotel Varanasi, located in the heart of the city's illustrious business district, boasts 116 spacious rooms, modern architecture, and amenities including high-speed Internet access, multiple dining outlets, and an on-site spa. It provides easy access to top attractions like Kashi Vishwanath, Ganga ghats, and many other temples. During your stay, be sure to take advantage of a fitness center, open air pool, and on-site restaurant with a lounge. - Delhi: Le Meridien New Delhi (Moderate Deluxe):
Ideally located in the heart of New Delhi, the luxurious Le Meridien New Delhi stands tall over the historic landscape of Lutyen's Delhi. The hotel features a sophisticated and modern design, and sweeping views of New Delhi. - Agra: Grand Mercure, Agra (Superior First-Class):
Inspired by the rich heritage Agra, the Grand Mercure Agra captures the city's essence in its architecture, flavours and experiences. With the Taj Mahal in the background, the rooftop restaurant is a great place to take in spectacular views. - Ranthambore National Park: The Tigriss Ranthambore (Moderate Deluxe):
The Tigress Ranthambore promises premium luxuries of a heritage style abode adjacent to Ranthambore National Park. It welcomes guests to soak in the grandeur of royalty, warm hospitality and exciting activities. Rooms are tastefully designed with modern amenities to ensure a stay that is comfortable and memorable. - Jaipur: Jaipur Marriott Hotel (Superior First-Class):
Experience a winning combination of traditional luxury and modern convenience at the Jaipur Marriott Hotel. Entrenched in the cultural legacy of India's Pink City, - Delhi: Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka (Superior First-Class):
Vivanta New Delhi, Dwarka stands as a beacon of luxury and comfort. Its striking modern architecture merges style with spaciousness. Rooms feature vibrant décor and custom-designed furnishings, offering a charming and comfortable stay. Hotel amenities include 2 trendy restaurants, a bakery and a cocktail bar, plus a sleek lounge, spa and an outdoor pool and a sundeck.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- In the interest of safety and ensuring wildlife well‑being, cell phones are banned in national parks and tiger reserves across India—including Ranthambore National Park. Before your game drives, you will be required to leave your phone at the hotel. Personal cameras are still permitted. Your Tour Director will also have a camera and can take photos on your group's behalf if you are not carrying your own.
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