Diwali, Festival of Lights

On arrival in Delhi you are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of today is free to explore India's capital at leisure before meeting the group and guide at the hotel at 18:00 for a Welcome meeting.

For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savoury to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colourful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.

This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb and Jama Masjid - India's oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King's Way' and see the famous India Gate monument.

This afternoon, we will drive to Agra. After checking into the hotel, the remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)

Today we will tour of the legendary Taj Mahal, India's most famous site. This iconic white monument was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his beloved wife. It is perhaps the most extravagant symbol of love the world has ever seen and has no rival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the sunrise or sunset over the magnificent mausoleum so make sure to take plenty of photos!

We will also visit the impressive Agra Fort, which boasts some of India's finest Mughal buildings behind its fortified walls. (B)

This morning, we drive to either Karauli or Dholpur. In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer). (B/D)

This morning we hit the road towards the vibrant UNESCO listed Pink City of Jaipur. On arrival, we will spend the afternoon on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments. (B)

This morning, we visit the imposing Amer Fort, a majestic hilltop fortress adorned with intricate elephant motifs and dazzling mirror work. The fort's artistic blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture makes it one of Jaipur's most captivating landmarks.

Afterwards, return to the hotel to rest and refresh before an enchanting evening of celebration. As night falls, we join in the festivities of Diwali – the Festival of Lights. Begin with a visit to a local temple, where you can witness age-old rituals and the lighting of traditional diyas (oil lamps) that symbolise hope and renewal.

Later, delight in a festive dinner featuring fireworks, sweets, and cultural performances, immersing yourself in the joy and colour of this special occasion. It promises to be a truly magical evening celebrating one of India's most important festivals. (B/D)

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Jaipur and make the drive back to Delhi, a journey of around five to six hours. On arrival, check into the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. This final evening in India is yours to relax, reflect on your journey, or perhaps venture out for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing at your own pace. (B)

Our Indian adventure comes to an end today. A departure transfer can be booked for an additional supplement if required. (B)