Grand Tour of India
Itinerary
Fly to Delhi. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours at leisure.
Explore Old Delhi; board a rickshaw to explore the fragrant lanes of spice market and stop to admire Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. After lunch, view India Gate and Parliament House before exploring Iron Pillar and Qutab Minar.
Fly to the ancient city of Varanasi. Head just out of town to the fascinating Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Buddha is said to have delivered his first sermon. The next day, rise early to cruise on the Ganges and explore the city. Later take a rickshaw to the ghats and witness a puja ceremony.
Transfer to the airport to fly to Khajuraho to see the exquisite temples and their intricately carved, erotic imagery. Enjoy a cultural dance display.
Travel to the 16th-century city of Orchha and then on to Jhansi station where you'll board the Shatabdi Express train to Agra.
Admire the stunning white marble architecture, intricate carvings, and timeless beauty of the Taj mahal, that continues to inspire awe around the world. This afternoon visit the colossal 16th-century Agra Fort, before enjoying a vibrant stage performance as you watch the musical drama of Mohabbat the Taj.
Visit the ghost city of Fatephur Sikri on the way to Ranthambore National Park, home to many animals such as leopards, hyena, bears and tigers. The next day enjoy both an early morning and afternoon safari.
Journey to the 'Pink City' of Jaipur for a two-night stay. Visit the Maharaja's City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory on the day you arrive. The following day, make a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal - the ‘Palace of the Winds'- before admiring the majestic Amber Fort.
Travel to Pushkar, a sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus. This afternoon visit its sacred lake, ghats and the Brahma Temple.
After breakfast drive to Khimsar, perched on the edge on the great Thar Desert. Later explore the local area in Khimsar to get a glimpse of life in rural India.
Rising from the sandy plains of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is known as the 'Golden City'. Head to Sunset Point to enjoy the views. The next day head to the magnificent Jaisalmer fort, and explore the Sam Sand Dunes.
Travel to Jodhpur and tour the city, exploring the magnificence of Mehrangarh Fort, visiting the museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace and the spice market. The next day drive through the desert by jeep to Bishnoi village.
Drive to Udaipur via the Jain temple complex of Ranakpur and Surya Temple as well as other Jain Temples. The next day explore the city, driving around Fateh Sagar Lake with stops at the Folk Museum, Mewar Art Gallery and Sahelion Ki Bari Garden. Later visit the ornate City Palace and take a cruise on the shimmering Lake Pichola.
Morning at leisure before boarding a flight to Aurangabad.
Visit the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ajanta.
Travel to Ellora Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Fly to Mumbai.
Tour cosmopolitan Mumbai, India's economic powerhouse. View the Gateway to India, dawdle along Marine Drive and visit Chowpatty Beach, Mani Bhavan, Dhobi Ghat, Crawford Market and Flora Fountain. Fly to the relaxed Keralan city of Kochi.
Fascinating Kochi is strung across the islands and peninsulas of the Malabar coast. Visit the Dutch Palace and Fort Kochi before seeing the famous Chinese fishing nets and strolling through colourful markets. This evening enjoy an exuberant Kathakali dance performance.
Visit Kochi's synagogue, before heading out of the city to Nedumudy to board your houseboat. On this converted rice barge or 'kettuvallam' you will drift along the peaceful backwaters. Lunch and dinner are served on-board and you will stay overnight here too.
Enjoy breakfast as you cruise into Alleppey, then travel to the beach resort of Kovalam.
Explore Kerala's capital Trivandrum, with visits to Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, the Zoological Gardens, Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Observatory and Kanakakunnu Palace. Return to Kovalam for your final night stay.
Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.
Trip Inclusions
- Delhi: Discover architectural masterpieces in Delhi, Old and New
- Varanasi: Take a cruise on India's holiest river, the Ganges
- Agra: Witness the spectacular Taj Mahal, India's most famous landmark.
- Kerala: Relax as you cruise through the stillness of these tranquil backwaters
- Cruise on Lake Pichola: Admire the magical city of Udaipur, full of glorious, romantic architecture, from the perfect vantage point – a boat cruising the waters of Lake Pichola.
- Kathakali Dance Performance: Witness an exuberant performance of the traditional dance-drama that is Kathakali. Kerala's best-known performing art, it is an extravagant retelling of Hindu epics complete with colourful costumes and elaborate make up.
- Ajanta and Ellora Caves: Surprisingly little known outside of India, discover the magnificent artistic treasures of the Ajanta and Ellora caves, a series of caverns full of intricate frescoes and carvings created by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks
- The Park Hotel, New Delhi, India (4 star): The Park Hotel, New Delhi, highly rated among the luxury five star hotels in Delhi is situated in the heart of the city centre's entertainment hub - Connaught Place. The hotel boasts luxurious and stylish en-suite rooms fitted with modern amenities, and access to indulgent restaurants, a day gym, spa and salon.
- The Amayaa, Varanasi, India (4 star): Located within close proximity to the Varanasi City Railway Station, JHV Mall and Nehru Park, The Amayaa Hotel offers guest a premium stay, boasting modern interiors and an array of facilities for guests to enjoy. Leisure time can be spent at the pool, fitness centre or spa. Delight in multi-cuisines served at the hotel restaurant before unwinding at one of the lounge bars.
- Ramada, Khajuraho, Khajuraho (4 star): This modern hotel is just 5 minutes from the airport. Relax around the swimming pool after a day exploring the temples, try out the gym or have a treatment in the spa. In the evening try out one of the two restaurants, both of which serve both local and international cuisine, before heading to the bar for a nightcap. There is also an inhouse disco. The contemporary style rooms have marble floors and air-conditioning as well as television, safe, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. The en suite bathroom has either a bath or shower.
- Clarks Shiraz, Agra, India (4 star): Overlooking the Taj and Agra Fort, The 5* Hotel Clarks Shiraz, is located 2 km from the Taj Mahal, in the heart of Agra. Spread over 8 landscaped acres, the hotel comprises of 237 fully renovated en-suite rooms, with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and minibar. The hotel also offers an array of delicious cuisine, ranging from Mughlai, Continental, and Chinese at its various restaurants.
- Shergarh, Ranthambore, India (4 star): Located a short distance from Ranthambhore National Park, also know as the Tiger inhabited wildlife sanctuary of Rajasthan, the 4* Shergarh makes for a fantastic hotel boasting stunning views of the wilderness. The hotel also offers guests a range of facilities, including a tranquil swimming pool, a relaxing spa and steam room.
- Ramada Jaipur, Jaipur, India (4 star): Located within the city centre and a short 15-minute drive from Jaipur Railway Station, the 4* Ramada Jaipur is a modern hotel featuring a range of amenities, including a mini-bar and coffee maker. Leisure time can be spent relaxing at the rooftop outdoor pool, gym or spa. Other facilities include a restaurant servicing flavours from around the world as well as delicious barbecue and grilled dishes served at the roof top grill.
- Khimsar Fort, Khimsar, India (4 star): Conveniently located in close proximity to popular landmarks such as Kanak Bihari Temple and Kalki Temple, be transported to Khimsar Fort, an ancestral home to The Royal Family of Khimsar. This 15th Century fort also features a swimming pool, spa facilities with sauna, a fitness centre and recreational activities such as snooker and home theatre. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with a modern yet traditional theme throughout.
- Heritage Inn, Jaisalmer. India (3 star): The 4* Heritage Inn Hotel boasts modern interiors beautifully blended with inspiration from the city of Jaisalmer within a cottage style setting. On-site you will find a restaurant serving a wide range of cuisines to suit all tastes, a bar and outdoor swimming pool. At Heritage Inn, you will also be able to benefit from a 24-hour front desk and 24-hour room service.
- Fairfield by Marriott, Jodhpur, India (4 star): Located in close proximity to popular attractions, such as the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Clock Tower Market and Mandore Garden, Fairfield by Marriott is the perfect hotel inspired by the sights and colours of Rajasthan. Relax in a contemporary hotel room equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, coffee/ tea maker and minbar. There is also plenty to do during your leisure time, as the hotel offers a modern fitness centre, gift shop and restaurant that will have you delight in the flavours of Jodhpur.
- Hilltop Palace, Udaipur, India (3 star): Hotel Hilltop Palace is situated atop Ambavgarh Hill, overlooking Lake Fatehsagar and the historic Udaipur Town. The hotel offers 62 tasteful rooms with modern amenities, including air-conditioning, a safety deposit box and television. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant serving Northern Indian cuisine, as well as Rajasthani Folk dances arranged on request.
- Ambassador Ajanta, Aurangabad, India (4 star): Ambassador Ajanta is located in the heart of the city centre in a unique location with more than 13 acres of lush greenery right in the middle of the business district. The 92 en-suite rooms offer an intimate, full-service experience, with amenities including; access to Wi-Fi and a safety deposit box. The hotel's onsite restaurant also offers delicious Indian, Chinese and European dishes.
- The Ambassador, Mumbai, India (4 star): Located along the seafront at Marine Drive, in the heart of South Mumbai's famous Queens Necklace, The Ambassador boasts 112 air-conditioned excellently appointed en-suite rooms, each equipped with CCTV, channel music, a refrigerator and other amenities. Other facilities include a restaurant, BBQ facilities and a shop.
- The Casino Hotel, Cochin, India (4 star): Located within the historic Willingdon island of Kochi, The Casino Hotel is just a 10-minute drive from the vibrant city centre. The 4* hotel boasts cosmopolitan yet traditional finishes and is home to fine dining, rejuvenating wellness therapies and a salt mineral water swimming pool. Rooms here are spacious, allowing for a comfortable stay, equipped air conditioning, minibar and flatscreen TV.
- Uday Samudra Beach Resort, Kovalam, India (4 star): Located by the famed beaches of Kovalam, 15 metres from the sea, Uday Samudra Beach Resort is an exclusive 5 Star leisure beach hotel - a destination by itself. The hotel boasts luxurious air-conditioned en-suite rooms with modern amenities and the restaurant serves a variety of delicious Chinese, continental and local dishes. Live cultural programmes also can be enjoyed during dinner time.
- Breakfasts: 21
- Lunches: 20
- Dinners: 21
- International flights and current taxes (excluded if a land only option is selected)
- All Meals (refer to itinerary)
- Domestic transportation
- Touring with guides and entrance fees
- 3 – 4 star accommodation, plus houseboat
- Visa fees for Australian passport holders
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2025. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
- Customary tipping amount of approximately US$180pp (AU$277pp) is paid locally in India.
- Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
- Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
Everything is taken care of including your flights, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees listed on your itinerary and all your meals. Read more
Wendy Wu include return international economy-class flights from Australia as part of their fully inclusive tours. Upgrades are available too! Read more
On all of our tours you will be escorted by a dedicated National Escort, tasked with the responsibility to keep you safe, happy, entertained and inspired. Read more
Download Brochure
Wendy Wu River Cruises & Tours (2026-27)
Dates & Pricing
Prices include air taxes and fuel surcharges, this amount is correct at time of brochure release and subject to change. Note air supplement may apply depending on airline availability and departure city. The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart (based on a minimum of 10 passengers). We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Wendy Wu. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Similar Tours
