Starting in Delhi, the capital of India with centuries of History and modern glory this itinerary takes in the classic highlights of India while staying in the most exclusive hotels the country has to offer. You'll have the chance to explore Delhi with your private guide and driver. You'll then fly to the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus-Varanasi the holy river Ganges is believed by some to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. Enjoy a private guided tour of the Sarnath ruins. Sarnath is one of the 4 holy places Buddhist sites where Gautam Buddha is said to have giver sermons. Enjoy an early morning dawn boat ride on Ganges past temples and the funeral pyres of the Ghats this will be will be a surreal experience and one of the highlight of the tour. Later in the day fly to Khajuraho, known worldwide for its 9th to 12th century temples, which oozes with passion, eroticism, dance and music and other finesses of creative arts depicted in sculpture and images of the temples. The 85 temples were built in North Indian 'Nagara' style of architecture, though only 20 of them have survived the rough weather conditions over long years of time. From there you transfer to Jhansi, and onwards a train transfer to Agra. Next morning, visit the most beautiful monument in the world - Taj Mahal, by sunrise, and also visit the Agra Fort. Head to Fatehpur Sikri for a tour of the "Ghost City" then enjoy your personal guided tour of the Amber Fort, City Palace, Observatory, and Hawa Mahal during your stay in Jaipur. Fly to Udaipur, the "most beautiful" of the royal cities of the Raj. Explore the City Palace, Crystal Gallery, Eklingji and Nagda Temples. Then go to Mumbai with its centuries old culture and vestiges of colonial architecture. Take a private tour of the Prince of Wales museum and a tour of Mumbai harbor and Elephanta caves. As you depart back home, you will take along memories of a country that is so vast and diverse, colorful and vibrant and somewhat mysterious.

Delhi is a city of dramatic contrasts, and is the most popular starting point for any tour of India. A tour to Old Delhi includes the Red Fort and the mosque of Jama Masjid with a stroll through the bazaars of Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Square"). A New Delhi travel includes the Humayun's Tomb, in many ways the precursor of the Taj Mahal, the India Gate, a memorial dedicated to the unknown soldiers who laid their lives in the World War I, the President's House, and the Parliament House.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Recognized as one of Asia’s finest hotels, The Imperial is a legend that offers a unique experience embracing facets of India’s history. It remains New Delhi’s landmark hotel, steps away from the renowned shopping district and major city attractions and a half-hour drive from the international airport. With high ceilings, impeccable decor and equipped with all the facilities and modern conveniences, the 232 rooms and suites, overlooking verdant gardens, bespeak discreet luxury and offer total privacy and serenity. The award winning restaurants feature cuisine from southeast Asia, French, and India. The swimming pool, dotted by the royal palms and nestled in the shaded grounds of the hotel, offers a tranquil, refreshing experience.

Overnight at The Imperial (City Center).

Private guided tour of Old Delhi. The Red Fort was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60-110 ft. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Humayun's tomb is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at The Imperial (City Center).

This private guided tour of New Delhi boast spectacular monuments and holy sites. The city of New Delhi was designed in the typically British colonial style, with tree-lined avenues and colonial bungalows. Whilst on this tour you will see the Laxminarayan Temple, a modern Hindu temple, and Gate of India which is a 42 m high War Memorial Arch. On route you will drive past the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace, which is now the official residence of the President of India.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at The Imperial (City Center).

Varanasi is set at the left bank of the mighty river Ganges, this immensely chaotic place of pilgrimage is known for its ritual burnings. A dawn boat ride down the river is a fascinating and unforgettable spectacle. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world - definitely a must see destination on any trip to northern India.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight duration is approximately 90 mins.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Private guided tour of Sarnath, located 5 miles from Varanasi, the site is a deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is the Dharmekh Stupa is impressive at 128 feet high, and 93 in diameters. This dates back to 200 BC and is the sport where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon.  Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamekha Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, and several other Buddhist structures that were added between the 3rd and the 11th century BC.

The Aarti Ceremony is a Hindu ritual where light or fire is offered to the deities.  Each Lamp wick is soaked in ghee or purified butter and lit, whilst songs of praise are sung in front of the deities.  Almost all the Hindu rituals of worship involve the ceremony of Aarti.  Perhaps the earliest mention of the Ceremony of Aarti in India can be found in Rig Veda, which is considered to be the earliest scripture of Hinduism.  According to the Rig Veda, the use of Aarti can be said to be derived from the Vedic concepts of elaborate sacrificial fires or Homa. The word Aarti can be itself said to be derived from a conjunction of the two words of "Aa", meaning "towards", and "Rati", which in turn means "the highest love for God" in Sanskrit. Thus, the word Aarti in actuality means the "highest love for God.

Nadesar Palace is situated in one of the oldest living cities of the world, on the banks of the river Ganges. Nadesar Palace has hosted royalty, statesmen and celebrities since 1835. The name Nadesar is derived from the Goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the front of the Palace. Set amidst verdant gardens, mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, Nadesar Palace is a haven of peace and tranquility. Works of art from the Maharaja’s collection decorate the walls of the Palace’s 10 luxurious suites. Embellished with original pieces of furniture refurbished to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, the décor of the rooms is intended to evoke the colours of marigolds, jasmines, and pale pink lotuses that are offered to the holy Ganges.

Overnight at Nadesar Palace.

The 9th to 12th century temples of Khajuraho showcase the architectural genius of the Chandela dynasty. Stone carvings ooze with passion, eroticism, dance and music and other creative arts. The 85 temples were built in North Indian 'Nagara' style of architecture, though only 20 of them have survived the rough weather conditions over long years of time.

Glide along the famous and holy Ganges waterway in a private boat accompanied by an expert guide. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi attract tourists and pilgrims of all ages for the opportunity to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one's sins. Pilgrims and tourists alike can be seen swimming and bathing immediately next to the funeral pyres of the riverside temples. This is a somewhat surreal experience and only for those with a strong constitution.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Enjoy your flight from Varanasi to Khajuraho today. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Sit back and relax for this airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

This private guided tour of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, is a once in life time experience.  Located in a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, in the Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometers southeast of New Delhi, this unique location is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of India. Khajuraho contains the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, which are famous due to the erogenous nature of the sculptures. The Khajuraho group of monuments has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered to be one of the "seven wonders" of India. The city of Khajuraho was the original capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. These marvelous Khajuraho temples and its whole surrounding area were enclosed by a wall with eight gates, each flanked by two golden palm trees. There were originally over 80 Hindu temples, of which only 22 now stand in a reasonable state of preservation, scattered over an area of about 8 square miles.

The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho Hotel is located in Khajuraho making it one of the best hotels to stay at while in town. All 47 guestrooms at the hotel provide all the comforts and conveniences guests would expect in a hotel in this class. The guestrooms are equipped with non smoking rooms, air conditioning, bathrobes, daily newspaper, desk, hair dryer, ironing board. Guests can experience the high standards of comfort while staying at this luxury Khajuraho hotel with everything they need right on the site such as room service 24hr, shops, bar/pub, laundry service/dry cleaning, meeting facilities , restaurant, safety deposit boxes, disabled facilities. The hotel offers massage, kids club, gym/fitness facilities, sauna, steamroom, spa, pool outdoor to provide extra pleasure and relaxation for all guests. Modern comfort and convenience are seamlessly combined to ensure the guests' satisfaction.

Overnight at The Lalit Temple View.

Agra boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, and nearby Fatehpur Sikri. The Taj Mahal in all its timeless beauty is still the inspiration of poets and painters, writers and photographers. Agra Fort is a testament to the Mughal dynasties and their conqueror architecture. And the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri dazzles with its temples and palace yards.

Transfer to Jhansi Railway station enroute Orchhawith private vehicle and driver.

Enjoy your train ride from Jhansi to . The train ride duration is approximately five hours.

A private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant will pick you up for a transfer to the train station.

At the Oberoi: Amar Vilas, indulge with your own private view of the greatest monument of love, recognized as the leading luxury hotel in Agra. Wake up to the glorious sight of the Taj Mahal, bathed by the first rays of dawn. Watch her sparkle by day as the sun shines on her architectural perfection. Allow yourself to be swept away by her romance at dusk. Let the nights be filled with the magic of the Taj by moonlight. Rated amongst the leading resorts in the world, The Oberoi Amarvilas offers the best view of the Taj Mahal in Agra. The hotel is located 600 meters from the Taj Mahal and all rooms, suites, lobby, bar and lounge offer breathtaking views of the monument.

Overnight at Oberoi: Amar Vilas.

Be amazed on this private guided tour of Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort, built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571.

Enjoy a traditional ride on a Tonga (horse drawn carriage).

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at Oberoi: Amar Vilas.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City for its reddish stucco on the massive Rajput forts. The Amber Palace complex overlooking the artificial lake south of the town is one of the most popular tourist sites. Bustling markets offer great shopping.

Transfer to Jaipur with private vehicle and driver. On the way, visit ancient ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar, the "City of Victory" was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only some 10 years. The complex of monuments and temples, all in a uniform architectural style, includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid.

The The Tree of Life Resort & Spa is nestled among the undulating Aravalli hills lies the perfect getaway. The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Jaipur offers guest relaxation coupled with style, beauty and unmatched service. The resort features 14 luxury villas set on seven serene acres of land. Built using local architectural style and design – with extensive use of sandstone and lime reflecting Rajasthan’s long history – the Tree of Life Resort & Spa will transport guests through centuries of tradition laced with a modern touch.

Each Villa is named after an Indian tree. The colour of the interiors takes after the colour of the flower which the tree bears. All villas come with a private lawn, and some with your own private pool, and are replete with generous personal space, enough to ensure maximum privacy and total tranquility. Your very own dedicated butler is at your service to ensure the highest level of personal attention. Villas are outfitted with luxuries such as bangle trees, books, private pools & more. At The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, you’ll spend your days and nights amidst natural, pastoral surroundings, yet just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of the magical ‘pink city,’ Jaipur.

Overnight at The Tree of Life Resort & Spa.

Private guided tour of the City Palace of Jaipur, an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture, originally built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs. The vast palace complex occupies one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Adjoining the Palace is the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the Hawa Mahal overlooks one of the main streets and also provides some excellent views of the city.

From its creation in 1727, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur patronized the craftsmen and artisans of the city. These traditions continue to this day and as a result modern day Jaipur is considered by many as the craft capital of India. Traditional methods are still used to produce many valuable and highly prized items. Using skills passed down through generations, artisans and master craftsmen can be seen in the areas of Ghat Darwaza and Vishveshwar ji.

On this fascinating evening walk mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the region's culinary delights; try pakoras, aloo tiki, samosa and ladoo from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops; jewelers and silversmiths, gold painters and tie dying experts. The iconic Hawa Mahal also called the Palace of the Winds is the meeting point at which this two and a half hour walk begins.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at The Tree of Life Resort & Spa.

Udaipur is referred to as the most romantic city in India and dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. The City Palace, or the Palace of the then King of Mewar, is built with white marble and shines in the bright sunshine. There are three interconnected lakes within the town; Fateh Sagar Lake, Pichhola Lake, and Swaroop Sagar Lake. Pichhola Lake is home to one of the most romantic hotels of the world, the Lake Palace Hotel. Fateh Sagar Lake contains two small islands, one contains the Udaipur solar observatory, and the other one has the beautiful Nehru Garden.

Elephant Ride accompanied by a professional mahout to ascent Amber Fort and non-air-conditioned Jeep to drive down. Non-air-conditioned Jeep will be provided for both ways if the elephant ride is not available. 

Private guided tour of Amber Fort, located in the city of Amber, 11 km from Jaipur. The structure which is today known as Amber Fort was initially a palace complex within the much larger Jaigarh Fort. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and white marble, overlooking Maotha Lake, and was reputed to be the treasure vault of the Kacchwaha rulers. The most magnificent sight is inside the hall of mirrors. When royalty lived here, at night they needed only a single candle, because the thousands of tiny intricate mirrors would light up the entire room.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Fly from Jaipur to Udaipur via Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Jag Mandir is a palace built on an island in the Lake Pichola. It is also called the "Lake Garden Palace". Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at this beautiful palace full of exclusivity and privacy. Dinner does not include non-alcoholic/alcoholic beverages. Jag Mandir is a popular site for wedding and other private events during which it is closed for outside guests, therefore the dinner confirmation is subject to availability of the venue and can be canceled if it is taken over for some event at a later date.

Udaipur, in the heart of Rajasthan, is a city of majestic palaces and beautiful lakes. Here, adorning the banks of Lake Pichola and standing witness to the historic City Palace, The Oberoi Udaivilas captures all the romance and splendor of a royal era. Each room is uniquely luxurious and offers modern amenities. Fine international cuisine, authentic flavours of Rajasthan or a quiet drink are all presented with views of the City Palace and Lake Pichola.In the serenely appointed spa suites, spectacular views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace inspire the spirit whilst your body is revitalised by the healing hands of our highly trained Banyan Tree therapists.

Overnight at Oberoi Udai Vilas.

Private guided tour of the majestic white City Palace built in granite and marble. This largest palace complex in Rajasthan is surrounded by crenellated fort walls, and overlooks Pichola Lake. The Garden of the Maids of Honor is well laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks. Constructed for forty eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to the royal house as part of the dowry, the garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiseled kiosks and marble elephants. Crystal Gallery in the Fateh Prakash Palace features a breath taking collection of crystals including tables, sofa sets, dining table, dressers, fountains, beds, and an exquisite jewel studded carpet, which is beyond description.

Lunch at a local restaurant with your guide.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Overnight at Oberoi Udai Vilas.

Mumbai (Bombay), the cosmopolitan capital of India is located in the west of India. Its most recognizable monument is the Gateway to India, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. From there you can catch a boat to the Elephanta Island, a UNESCO world heritage site where you can see rock-cut temples and caves dating back to the 6th century. There are museums such as the Gandhi, art galleries, bazaars, parks and temples. Bollywood, the film industry in Mumbai produces over 400 films a year and is therefore, the largest movie industry in the world. The actors enjoy their god-like statuses and dwell in exclusive mansions on Malabar Hill.

Private guided tour of Eklingji, located about twelve miles north of Udaipur, featuring a complex of 108 ancient temples, carved from sandstone and marble. The main temple was built in AD 734 to propagate the blessings of Lord Shiva. At Nagda there are some 10th century temples. The Jain temple of Adbudji is essentially ruined, but its architecture is interesting. About 500m away, the Sas Bahu temple has fine intricate carvings. There are also some small temples submerged in the nearby lake.

Avail a vehicle and driver at your disposal around Northern India.

Enjoy your flight from Udaipur to Mumbai today. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Built in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower is an architectural marvel that brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the hotel is a landmark of Mumbai, showcasing contemporary Indian influences. The Palace offers generously appointed suites and rooms, each adorned with original paintings and period furniture that exude an aura of old-world charm and elegance. Taj offers a distinctive dining experience, one that explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favorites. Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, Taj Spa offers the best in Indian rejuvenation therapies.

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

This full day tour of Mumabi is the best way to experience the city at your own pace! The tour covers all the must-see places on any traveller's itinerary including visits to the Gateway of India, St. Thomas Cathedral, Prince of Wales Museum, Bombay University and the Oval Maidan, Town Hall, Victoria Terminus, Crawford Market, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach, Mani Bhavan the home of Gandhi, Malabar Hill and the Hanging Gardens and finally Dhobi Ghat.

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

Enjoy a private cruise through Mumbai Harbor brings you to the rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island. In 1987, the caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rock-cut temple complex covers an area of 60,000 sq ft consisting of a main chamber, two lateral ones, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. The site of these magnificent caves contained beautiful reliefs, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu god Siva. The caves are hewn from solid rock. The temple complex is said to be the abode of Shiva.

Khyber is Mumbai's famous restaurant for Mughlai cuisine. Khyber has been going strong for decades and its tender kebabs remain outstanding (Frommers). The opulent decor includes original paintings by some of India's most famous artists. (No alcoholic or non alcoholic drinks included in this package)

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Depart from Mumbai international airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.