A luxury trip combining the must see places in Northern India. Start the tour at the financial capital of India, Mumbai. Enjoy this vibrant city with a half day city tour. Ask your guide to stop at a local restaurant for lunch, since there are plenty of great eateries in Mumbai. 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. Next fly to Varanasi, the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus. First, enjoy a private guided tour of the Sarnath ruins. Sarnath is one of the 4 holy places Buddhist sites. The holy river Ganges in Varanasi is believed by some to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. Enjoy an early morning dawn boat ride, before your flight to Delhi. Tour Delhi, with its Red Fort, Qutub Minar etc and tombs. Fly to Udaipur (named the best city in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine readers) to see the beautiful City Palace, Grystal Gallery, Eklingji and Nagda Temples. Then fly to Jaipur to see the Amber Fort, City Palace, Observatory, Hawa Mahal, and Elephant ride. Visit Fatehpur Sikri on the way to a sunset tour of the Taj Mahal. End the trip with your private transfer from Agra to Delhi in time to catch your international flight back home.

Travel confidently with the 24/7 support of our local office. Customize or change this tour to suit your exact wishes. Private touring means you will have your own English-speaking guide, your own A/C vehicle, and your own driver.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

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.

Mumbai (Bombay), the cosmopolitan capital of the country 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.

On a half day city tour, visit Marine Drive, Mumbai’s most popular seaside promenade, and see the Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens on the slopes of Malabar hills, offering a nice view of marine lines and the Chowpatty beach. Visit the Jain temple, Mani Bhawan where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay, and the Dhobi Ghat. Also, drive past the Flora Fountain, the colourful Crawford Market and Victoria Terminus train station.

Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Take your flight from Mumbai to Varanasi today. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). 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 diameter. 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. Evening Aarti Ceremony which looks wonderful from the Gange river, includes a boat ride to experience the magic of the river during this spectacular sight.

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.

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.

A dawn boat ride on the Ganges with a private expert guide. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins. People 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. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Take your flight from Varanasi to Khajuraho today. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Private guided tour of the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, located in Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometres southeast of New Delhi, are one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculpture. 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 was the original capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The Khajuraho temples were built while 950 to 1050. The whole area was 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. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

The Grand Temple View Khajuraho – just 200mts from the renowned Western group of temples (a world heritage site) – making it the closest to the temples. This superlative boutique hotel, is now a member of the exclusive ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’, has 48 rooms and suites offering 5 star deluxe facilities and services with a modern hi tech Spa, Swimming Pool, Conference facilities, Restaurant & Bar and Business Centre midst large landscape gardens.

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.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Take your flight from Khajuraho to Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 2.5 hours. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

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.

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.

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. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Overnight at The Imperial - city centre.

Take your flight from Delhi to Udaipur today. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. 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, dinning table, dressers, fountains, beds, and an exquisite jewel studded carpet, which is beyond description. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

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.

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.

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. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Overnight at Oberoi Udai Vilas.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Take your flight from Udaipur to Jaipur today. Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant. Enjoy lunch at leisure (not included in tour price). Nalia Village Visit - 15 Kms from Jaipur. It is a small replica of Jaipur with similar gate names like Chand Pol and Suraj Pol, a Chandra Mahal like in the Jaipur City Palace and also broad streets with squares. This village is rich in culture and handicrafts. Nalia is well known since President Clinton's visit on March 23, 2000. He visited the ladies co-operative which aims at making the village women self-confident and self sufficient by providing them loans. He liked the place so much that he came back on a personal visit when he visited India to meet the Gujarat earthquake victims. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Rambagh Palace has been home to generations of royals. Built in 1835 on a modest scale in 1925, Rambagh was converted into a palace, and became the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The ‘Jewel of Jaipur’ as it is fondly called, remained the home of the Jaipur royal family until 1957, when it was first converted into a luxury hotel by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. But it wasn’t until 1972 that Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces took over the reins. It is now the ‘jewel in the crown’ among the authentic palaces of the Taj in India. In the finest tradition of Rajput hospitality, the Rambagh Palace offers its guests a taste of royal living – a luxury and extravagance that was once the sole preserve of kings.

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.

Ride up the base of the Amber fort on an elephant accompanied by a professional mahout. 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 there, at night they needed only a single candle, because the thousands tiny intricate mirrors would light up the entire room. 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. Enjoy dinner at leisure (not included in tour price). Overnight at Rambagh Palace (5*).

Transfer to Agra 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 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. Private guided tour of Taj Mahal, 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 dinner at leisure (not included in tour price).

Located close to the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi Amarvilas is also near Agra City and Agra Cantonment Railway Station. Offering breathtaking views of Taj Mahal, the 102 guestrooms are beautifully appointed and come with an array of modern amenities to make your stay pleasant one. Guests can dine at the Bellevue Restaurant that serves delicious international and Indian cuisine for breakfast, lunch as well as dinner. The Esphahan Restaurant serves traditional Indian cuisine while the bar offers a fine selection of wines, spirits and cigars. Work out in the fitness center, take a bracing dip in the swimming pool, relax at the sauna or indulge in yoga. Get pampered by trained therapists with personalized holistic treatments based on Ayurveda, ancient Thai and Western techniques at the spa.

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 Delhi with private vehicle and driver. Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities. Departure tax will be charged at Delhi airport, paid in cash by the passengers: 5US$ per person for domestic flights, and 27US$ per person for International flights.

Depart from Delhi international airport - end of itinerary.