Highlights of North India

After breakfast, set out to discover the contrasting charm of India’s capital city. Begin your day in historic Old Delhi with a visit to the magnificent Jama Masjid, commissioned in 1656 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. From here, enjoy a traditional cycle rickshaw ride through the lively lanes of Chandni Chowk, famous for its bustling bazaars, aromatic spice market, and glittering jewelry shops.
Continue with a drive past the iconic Red Fort, followed by a visit to the elegant Humayun’s Tomb. Built in the late 16th century by the emperor’s widow, this grand mausoleum later became the resting place of many Mughal royals and is often regarded as the first great example of Mughal garden-tomb architecture in India.
In the afternoon, visit Gandhi Smriti, the residence where Mahatma Gandhi spent the final months of his life. Now a national memorial, the site preserves his living quarters and the prayer grounds where he addressed gatherings each evening, offering a deeply moving insight into his final days.
In the evening, conclude your day with a special welcome dinner.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

We set out early in the morning, just before sunrise, to visit the Taj Mahal. As the sun slowly rises, the marble façade begins to glow in soft hues, shifting gently in colour as the light grows stronger. The calm and quiet of the early hour make the experience even more special, offering the perfect moment to appreciate the monument’s grace and flawless design.
After the visit, we head back to the hotel for breakfast. Later, we explore Agra Fort, a grand red sandstone stronghold built by Emperor Akbar in the 1500s and later enhanced by Shah Jahan. This historic fortress once served as the seat of the Mughal Empire. Inside, we walk through beautifully designed palaces, open courtyards, and impressive halls where royal ceremonies once took place. From parts of the fort, we can also see the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.
In the afternoon, we discover Agra’s rich artistic heritage with a visit to a local marble workshop. Here, experienced craftsmen showcase the delicate art of inlay work, carefully embedding semi-precious stones into marble the same technique used to decorate the Taj Mahal. It’s a fascinating insight into traditional craftsmanship, with an opportunity to purchase authentic handmade pieces as a lasting memory.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Begin your day early with a sunrise visit to the breathtaking Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most admired architectural masterpieces. Commissioned in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble monument stands as an enduring symbol of love and refined Mughal artistry. Watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate its marble façade is an unforgettable experience.
Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to the impressive Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built of red sandstone. This grand fortress complex houses elegant palaces, royal audience halls, and beautiful mosques, reflecting the power and opulence of the Mughal dynasty.
In the afternoon, visit a local marble workshop to observe skilled artisans crafting intricate inlay designs using semi-precious stones set into fine marble a traditional technique that continues to define Agra’s artistic heritage.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, depart by road for Ranthambore. En route, stop to explore the fascinating ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, founded in 1569 by Emperor Akbar as the Mughal capital. Despite its grand palaces, courtyards, and mosques, the city was abandoned within a few years, largely due to water shortages. Today, its remarkably preserved sandstone structures offer a glimpse into the glory of the Mughal era.
Continue your journey towards Ranthambore, stopping for lunch along the way. Later, visit a nearby village to gain insight into rural life in India. Walk through the village lanes, interact with residents, and experience the simplicity and warmth of the local community before proceeding to Ranthambore.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax. Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Ranthambore National Park is one of India’s most renowned wildlife reserves and a prime destination for spotting the majestic Bengal tiger. The park is dotted with scenic lakes such as Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab, and Milak Talab, creating a dramatic backdrop of water, forests, and ancient ruins.
In addition to tigers, the park is home to leopards, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, jackals, hyenas, nilgai, chinkara, sambar deer, wild boar, and a rich variety of birdlife. The landscape features rocky plateaus, gentle hills, and dense forests with trees like banyan, mango, peepal, and the native dhok tree, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Begin your day before sunrise with tea or coffee and light refreshments, followed by an early morning safari in Ranthambore National Park. Accompanied by an experienced naturalist, venture into the park’s wilderness in search of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife that inhabit this remarkable reserve.
Return to the hotel for breakfast and some time to relax. Later in the afternoon, head back into the park for another thrilling game drive. The late afternoon light provides excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings and photography as the safari concludes around sunset.

Meals: Breakfast Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, Rajasthan’s vibrant capital. As you approach the old walled city, the reason behind its title, the “Pink City,” becomes clear rows of terracotta-hued buildings line the streets, creating a striking and harmonious cityscape. Jaipur was established in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II and is celebrated for its planned layout and royal heritage.
During the trip, visit the beautiful Jagat Shiromani Temple, a historic Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Built between 1599 and 1608 by Queen Kanakwati in memory of her son Jagat Singh, the temple stands on an elevated platform and showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Constructed using local stone, white marble, and black stone, it is adorned with intricately carved elephants, horses, mythological motifs, and detailed panels depicting scenes from sacred texts and daily life.
After, proceed to your hotel and check in.
Optional Experience:
In the evening, you may choose to enjoy a private cooking session with a respected Rajput family. This immersive culinary experience offers insight into traditional Rajasthani cuisine, where you will learn authentic recipes and cooking techniques in a warm home setting. The interactive session lasts approximately two hours and concludes with a delightful tasting of the freshly prepared dishes.

Optional Cost: Euro 60 per person (subject to availability)

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

This morning, set out for an excursion to the magnificent Amber Fort, travelling up to the hilltop fortress by jeep. Explore its grand courtyards, ornate chambers, delicate lattice windows, and beautifully decorated halls enhanced with intricate mirror work and vibrant artwork once embellished with semi-precious stones.
Afterward, return to the city and drive through Jaipur’s historic quarters. Pause for photographs at the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds, with its distinctive façade of countless small windows.
Continue your tour with a visit to the impressive City Palace, Jaipur, the residence of Jaipur’s present-day royal family. The palace complex houses elegant courtyards, royal apartments, and a museum displaying an outstanding collection of royal costumes, arms, and artifacts.
Later, enjoy free time to browse Jaipur’s vibrant markets, renowned for precious and semi-precious gemstones, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional block-printed textiles.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Today, transfer to the airport for your onward flight via Delhi to Varanasi, one of India’s most sacred and ancient cities. Known in earlier times as Kashi — meaning “the city of light” — Varanasi holds immense spiritual significance and is regarded as the heart of Hindu faith. It is also considered among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Upon arrival, you will be met and escorted to your hotel for check-in.
In the evening, proceed to the banks of the sacred Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. This daily ritual, performed by priests with rhythmic chants, lamps, and incense, creates a deeply spiritual atmosphere along the riverfront Ghats.
Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Begin your day before sunrise with a serene boat ride along the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi. As the first light of day illuminates the riverfront, observe the timeless rituals unfolding along the ghats — pilgrims offering prayers, devotees taking holy dips, and priests performing sacred rites. You will also pass the traditional cremation ghats, an integral part of the city’s spiritual life. The tranquil morning atmosphere on the river offers a deeply moving and reflective experience.
Later in the afternoon, excursion to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s most revered pilgrimage sites. It was here that Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, setting in motion the “Wheel of Dharma.” Explore the ancient ruins, the impressive Dhamek Stupa, and the archaeological museum that houses significant Buddhist relics and sculptures.
In the evening, return to the riverbanks to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. The rhythmic chants, glowing lamps, and devotional offerings create an unforgettable spiritual ambiance. After the ceremony, return to your hotel for the night.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be assisted and taken to a day-use hotel where you can relax and freshen up before your onward international departure.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

At the scheduled time , you will be transferred to the International airport in Delhi to board your flight home.

As your journey concludes, we wish you a pleasant onward travel and hope you return with wonderful memories of your time in India.