India for First Timers

India for First Timers

From INR 128,095 INR 108,881
Save Upto INR 19,215 Per Person
Tour Duration: 12 Nights / 13 Days
Group Tour
India is many times rightfully referred to as a subcontinent, featuring diverse geographical, demographical and cultural variations across its length and breadth. At Bestway Tours & Safaris we have crafted choicest of tours that highlight the multiplicity this country holds within. This is an ideal tour for any traveler wishing to experience northern India’s richness and vastness at a glance. Unique landscapes, gushing rivers, magnificent festivals, and some of the most brilliant architecture - that is North India for you. Enjoy this tour for a wholesome experience through the best in the region. From mesmerizing ‘aartis’ at Varanasi Ghats, to the spectacular Taj Mahal, the serene Udaipur lake palace and the mysterious forests of Ranthambore, let this be the journey of a lifetime
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Tour Highlights

  • Explore northern India’s richness and vastness at a glance.
  • 24 Meals (12 breakfast, 1 lunch and 11 Dinners) as per the itinerary 
  • Explore Heritage sites which pave way through the Indian culture and heritage
  • Rickshaw ride through the commotion on the streets of Old Delhi and narrow lanes of the oldest bazaar- Chandni Chowk is an enduring experience
  • Tour Varanasi, where travelers get an opportunity to see Hindu pilgrims in thousands of numbers as they congregate on the banks of the River Ganges. 
  • Explore the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra
  • Explore the unexplored trails of Ranthambore National Park through a thrilling safari
  • Experience the architectural jewels established by Mughal Empire 
  • Visit to Jaipur- famous for its forts, Palaces and Jewels
  • Visit the mystical town of Pushkar and witness pilgrims offering their prayers around the holy lake surrounded by many temples, bathing Ghats, and a cluster of onion shaped domes and chalk colored buildings.
  • Travel to the lavish city of Udaipur which is adorned by bone white buildings (once royal residences) seeming to float upon shimmering lakes. 

World Heritage Sites

UNESCO-listed landmarks you will visit or explore on this itinerary.

10 sites

Tour Itinerary at Glance

Day 1: Arrive Delhi (Flight) (INDIA)
Day 2: Delhi
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 3: Delhi/Varanasi (Flight)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 4: Varanasi / Khajuraho (Flight)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 5: Khajuraho / Agra by train # 22469- Vande Bharat, Dep: 14:50 Hrs, Arr: 20:55 Hrs
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 6: Agra
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 7: Agra / Ranthambore (Drive: 290 Km / 6 Hours)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
Day 8: Ranthambore / Jaipur (Drive: 180 Km/ 4 Hours)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 9: Jaipur
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 10: Jaipur / Pushkar (Drive: 140 Km/ 3 ½ Hours)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 11: Pushkar / Udaipur (Drive: 280 Km/ 6 Hours)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 12: Udaipur
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 13: Udaipur / Delhi (Flight)
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • - Breakfast
  • - Lunch
  • - Dinner

The tour package inclusions and exclusions

  1. Whats included in this tour
    • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    • Regional/domestic airfare in coach class
    • Sunrise boat ride on the river Ganges
    • Train Fare in Executive Class from Jhansi to Agra
    • 1 shared safaris through Ranthambore National Park (October to June Departures only) (Subject to availability)
    • Hotels as mentioned or similar
    • All sightseeing and transfers by Air-conditioned transportation
    • Services of English Speaking guide for sightseeing (Local guides for 1-5 Pax and tour escort throughout the tour for 6 pax and above)
    • Entrances fees
    • Rickshaw ride at Old Delhi
  1. Whats not included in this tour
    • Any other meals than those mentioned in the itinerary.
    • Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control like change in schedule / cancellation of flights / trains / political disturbances, natural phenomenon etc.
    • International airfare & departure taxes
    • Insurance & visa fees
    • Drinks/beverages with meals
    • Tips/gratuities
    • Personal Travel insurance including lost baggage, medical insurance in case of any emergency evacuation and hospitalization
    • Any other item not specifically mentioned above as 'INCLUDED'
    • All optional visits   
    • Any expense of personal nature 
The tour package booking terms and conditions

Before you book a trip with “Bestway2india.com”- An online trading entity of Bestway Tours and Safaris Pvt Ltd , please take the time to read and understand the booking terms and conditions & additional special conditions which apply to certain trips ,themes and promotional offers. These booking conditions form the basis of your contract with “Bestway Tours & Safaris Pvt. Ltd, Suite 403, Suncity Trade Tower, Sector 21, Gurgaon (National Capital Region), Haryana – 122016, (India) , A company incorporated under Indian companies ACT 1956 vide registration number 55-51646

By asking us to confirm your booking, you confirm that you have had the opportunity to read and have read these booking conditions, Essential trip information, Inclusions & Exclusions and cancellation & refund policy and agree to be bound by them.

These booking conditions only apply to holiday arrangements which you book with us on https://www.bestway2india.com (An online trading entity of Bestway Tours & Safaris Pvt Ltd) and which we agree to make , provide, or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these booking conditions, to “holiday”, “booking”, “contract”, “package”, “tour” or “arrangements” mean such holiday arrangements unless otherwise stated.

Essential Trip Information

  • The prices are Per Person on twin sharing basis.

  • The price is only valid for the mentioned departure date.

  • Please note that smoking is prohibited in public and all parts of the hotels except in designated areas and bedrooms, where smoking is permitted.  Should you desire a smoking bedroom, please let us know.  The fulfillment of this request is subject to availability of smoking rooms and is not guaranteed. 

  • Unless specified, check-in at hotels in India is at 14:00 Hrs and check out is at 12:00 Hrs

  • Our liability does not arise in case of Force Majeure (political disturbances, natural phenomenon etc.)

  • Reporting time at the International at the airport is generally 3 hrs prior to departure of the flight.

  • Check-in counters of most flights close approximately 45 minutes before departure and boarding gates close about 15 minutes prior departure.

  • Reporting time at the Domestic airport is generally 2 hrs prior to departure of flight

  • For booking domestic air seats we need names as per passport.

  • Baggage allowance in internal flights with in India is 15 Kg per person 

  • Please note that smoking is prohibited in public and all parts of the hotels except in designated areas and bedrooms, where smoking is permitted.  Should you desire a smoking bedroom, please let us know.  The fulfilment of this request is subject to availability.

  • Flight from Varanasi to Khajuraho operates only on Monday, Wednesday & Saturday during summer period from April to September

Booking Deposit, Cancellation and Refund Policy

The following booking deposit and cancellation policy applies. 

Booking Deposit : 15 % of the Tour amount. 

If you cancel the tour the following cancellation policy will apply

Cancellation received 

45 days or more - 15 % including deposit

44 days - 31 Days - 25 % including deposit.  

30 days - 15 days - 50 % including deposit 

14 days or less - 100 % including deposit .  

Expand All
  1. Day 1 - Arrive Delhi (Flight) (INDIA)
    Namaste – Welcome to India! Upon arrival, we are greeted the traditional Indian way with hands clapped together. We are transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free. 
  2. Day 2 - Delhi
    The capital of India is truly a tantalizing mixture of old and new. We start our morning tour with an exploration of New Delhi and a visit to Birla House, the last residence of Mahatma Gandhi. Next, take in the famous India Gate, followed by the Houses of Parliament, Connaught Place and Humayun’s Tomb*, built in 1570 as the first garden-tomb in India. Humayan’s Tomb inspired several major architectural innovations, including the Taj Mahal. Experience the stunning ancient minaret of Qutb Minar* before venturing into Old Delhi where we visit the historical Red Fort* built by the Moghul Emperor, Shah Jehan. Most of the Moghul forts were “Palace Forts“ as these were also the official residences of the royalty. We then embark on a walking tour through the bazaars at Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi’s oldest and busiest market. We then drive to the monumental Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. End the day at Raj Ghat, the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Evening we enjoy a welcome dinner.
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  3. Day 3 - Delhi/Varanasi (Flight)
    A short flight gets us to Varanasi, the oldest living city in India. Varanasi was earlier called Banaras. On arrival, we are transferred to our hotel. 
    In the afternoon we visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Formerly known as Isipatana, it is here where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma in his first sermon and It is also here that the original Sangha (Buddhist monastic order) was formed. We will see silk weaving before returning to our hotel.
    Later we experience a joyful rickshaw ride (India’s famous 3 wheeler vehicle) to the banks of the River Ganges – the holy river for the Hindus. Here we witness the colourful Aarti ceremony, a Hindu ritual of worship. Aarti is the waving of lighted wicks before the deities in a spirit of humility and gratitude, wherein faithful followers become immersed in god's divine form. This is usually done at sunset. You may sit and watch and even participate with the devotees.  
     
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  4. Day 4 - Varanasi / Khajuraho (Flight)
    Early morning, we take a serene sunrise cruise on the River Ganges, soaking in the unique scenes along the river bank. One of the cardinal principles of Hinduism is the belief in the holiness of the Ganges. From our boat we will see scores of pilgrims and priests bathe in the river’s holy waters and performing various other rituals. This unique experience will make us feel as if we’re looking through a window to another world.  After our boat ride, we explore old Varanasi, visiting the Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a huge marble relief map of India; Durga Temple, the Tulsi Manas Mandir besides the Banaras Hindu University and the Mosque of Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb. 
    After breakfast we are transferred to airport for our flight to Khajuraho. On arrival we are transferred to our hotel. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  5. Day 5 - Khajuraho / Agra by train # 22469- Vande Bharat, Dep: 14:50 Hrs, Arr: 20:55 Hrs
    In the morning, we explore the Khajuraho Group of Monuments* The temples at Khajuraho were built during the Chandella dynasty, which reached its apogee between 950 and 1050. Today only 20 temples remain and they fall into three distinct groups and belonging to the religions of Hinduism and Jainism. They strike a perfect balance between architecture and sculpture. The Temples are decorated with a profusion of sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art.
    In the afternoon we are transferred to railway station to board our express train to Agra. Agra is amongst the few privileged cities in the world to house 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - The Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Dinner on board train. On arrival, we are transferred to our hotel. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  6. Day 6 - Agra
    We start our day with a sunrise visit to one of the most well-known wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal*. An immense mausoleum of white marble, built between 1631 and 1648. Built by the Moghul Emperor, Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and a universally admired masterpiece of world heritage. Situated on the right bank of the Yamuna in a vast Moghul garden, this funerary monument combines elements and styles of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. After visiting the Taj Mahal, we return to our hotel for breakfast. 
    Later we visit Agra Fort*. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses the spectacular imperial city of the Moghul rulers. Explore fairy-tale palaces, audience halls and two very beautiful mosques. In the afternoon, we visit Fatehpur Sikri*. Built during the second half of the 16th century by the Moghul Emperor Akbar, this stunning complex was once the capital of the Moghul Empire. Just 10 years after its construction, the city with its beautiful temples, mosques and monuments were abandoned due to lack of water.  Surprisingly, many structures are still in existence and used even today including one of the largest mosques in India and the artistically designed mausoleum of the revered Sufi saint, Salim Chisty. Evening is free to wonder around this small-town housing three UNESCO World Heritage sites. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  7. Day 7 - Agra / Ranthambore (Drive: 290 Km / 6 Hours)
    A countryside drive takes us to Ranthambore, the former hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur. Ranthambore National Park lies at the edge of a plateau and is bounded to the north by the Banas River and to the south by the Chambal River. There are several lakes in the park. It is named for the historic Ranthambhore Fort*, which lies within the national park. The rugged terrain and the dense deciduous forests are major features of this national park, which has among the largest and most diverse collection of wildlife species in India. In the afternoon we take a safari through the National Park, where we encounter a variety of mammals, including tigers. About 150 bird species have their habitat here and in winter a variety of migratory birds can be seen.  
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Lunch
  8. Day 8 - Ranthambore / Jaipur (Drive: 180 Km/ 4 Hours)
    An early morning safari in time when animals are looking out for their prey. We try and spot nilgai, chausingha, chital, chinkara, wild boar, muntjac, jungle cat, ratel, hyena, porcupine, rhesus macaque and black-faced langur. Ranthambhore was declared one of the Project Tiger reserves in 1973 and spotting the big cat in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. After our morning safari, we drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan called the Pink City, since most of the buildings in the old city are made of pink sandstone. In the evening we enjoy our dinner followed by Rajasthani Cultural dance show.  
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  9. Day 9 - Jaipur
    This morning, we are treated like the royalty of yesteryear with a journey to the Amber Fort, located in a picturesque valley among the Kalikho Hills. Known as the gem of Jaipur, this imposing fort dating from the late 16th century was never attacked or invaded. Built from a combination of yellow and pink sandstone and white marble, the fort includes distinguished halls, intricate carvings and ornate gardens. Next, we return to Jaipur to visit the majestic City Palace, which houses a rare collection of Indian art.
    We also stop at the stunning Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, where the ladies of the royal harem used to watch the city from behind the intricately carved façade, and the Jantar Mantar*, a historic astronomical observation site boasting instruments used to star-gaze with the naked eye. The evening is free to enjoy the one-of-a-kind shopping of the bazaars. Jaipur is noted for its craftsmen, skilled in brass inlay, lacquer work and stone setting. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  10. Day 10 - Jaipur / Pushkar (Drive: 140 Km/ 3 ½ Hours)
    A leisurely drive to Pushkar the bewitching little town on the edge of the desert. Pushkar is famous for its temples, bathing Ghats, onion domes and chalk-coloured buildings clustering around its holy lake, said to have appeared when Brahma dropped a lotus flower. The lake is an important pilgrimage centre and we shall see many pilgrims and Sadhus, (Hindu holy men). We visit the famous Lord Brahma Temple one of the few temples in the world dedicated to this deity. Evening, we walk through the town and meet local folks. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  11. Day 11 - Pushkar / Udaipur (Drive: 280 Km/ 6 Hours)
    Enjoy superb countryside views as we journey through Rajasthan to the city of lakes, Udaipur. Rajasthan literally means “the land of the Rajas” and the region’s royal heritage is still readily apparent. Udaipur was the historic capital of the former kingdom of Mewar and no other city in Rajasthan is quite as romantic. Centered around the shimmering Lake Pichola, Udaipur offers beautifully intricate buildings set amid misty, rolling hills. It is also famous for the Lake Palace Hotel, built as a palace on the lake and later turned into a deluxe hotel. On arrival, we check in to our hotel. Evening is free to enjoy a walk and feel the city.
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  12. Day 12 - Udaipur
    Our fascinating exploration of Udaipur starts with a visit to the enchanting City Palace, which overlooks the Lake Palace located in the blue waters of Lake Pichola. The palace features several architectural and artistic treasures, such as the stunning peacock mosaics in the Mor Chowk and the murals of the Bhim Vilas Palace. At the Jagdish Temple we view some remarkable friezes dating back to 1651. Next we explore Fateh Sagar Lake and Saheliyon Ki Bari, the Garden of Maids. Our tour of the romantic city of Udaipur ends with a boat ride on Lake Pichola, sailing past the picturesque Ghats and palaces visiting Jag Mandir, a 17th century palace built on an island in the middle of the glistening lake. The palace was used by the royal family as a summer resort. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  13. Day 13 - Udaipur / Delhi (Flight)
    After an incredible tour of the Best of North India, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Delhi where we check in at Holiday Inn Express Transit hotel for day room for 02 hours. After dinner we board our flight home. We bid farewell to India after what will have been a memorable journey into history, culture, art, architecture, making new friends and lots of memories. 
    Meals Included
    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
  • - Breakfast
  • - Lunch
  • - Dinner

* DENOTES UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES INCLUDED

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this tour — expand any item for details.

  1. 01 What are the age restrictions on your tours?

    There are no upper age limits for most of our tours (although for tours under ‘Trekking in the Himalayas’ and ‘Himalayan Panorama’ requires a fit medical condition. For the same, we have a ‘Medical Form’ which is mandatory to be filled by all age groups). For children below the age of 12 years, a parent/guardian should be present. If an assistance is needed, it is to be mentioned at the time of booking. The same will be chargeable.

  2. 02 What vaccinations are recommended for this tour?

    It's important that you receive the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. The only one qualified to provide you with this advice is your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic. Below are the links to a number of websites that contain excellent background information related to travel health issues. Nevertheless, these websites are no substitute for a personal consultation with a qualified medical professional. For Canadian Citizens: www.travel.gc.ca For American Citizens: www.nc.cdc.gov For UK Citizens: www.travelhealthpro.org For Australian Citizens: www.travelvax.com For EU Citizens: www.healthhype.com

     

  3. 03 What clothing should I pack for one of your tours?

    We always recommend packing as light as possible however the specific requirements for your tour will vary widely depending on where and when you are traveling. Our 'General Conditions' includes a suggested packing list and these can be downloaded from each individual tour page. The checklist is tour specific and based upon the experience of our ground staff.

  4. 04 Do your tours include international airfare?

    Travelers arrive from all over the world to begin our tours and it is not possible to include international airfare in our prices. We would be happy to help you arrange flights. Just ask for an air quote when making your booking.

  5. 05 What type of ground transportation is used on your tours?

    Our ‘General Conditions’ includes the details of all the transports used during the entire service. The details can be found on each individual tour page.

  6. 06 Are airport transfers included?

    All of our tours include airport transfers and the prices for the same are included in our tour rates.

  7. 07 Can I join a tour late or leave it early?

    It is possible to join a tour late or leave a tour early. Though you would be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult our Specialist before you book your tour.

  8. 08 Can you provide me with a list of the hotels we will be staying at?

    We use a variety of hotels en-route and a complete list of hotels is provided for your tour. Hotel voucher of each hotel registered for the tour is shared too.

  9. 09 I'm a single traveler, will I be charged a single supplement?

    All of our trips have a single supplement. The cost and the details vary by trip, so please refer to each tour page for details.

  10. 10 How many people can join a tour?

    We keep our group sizes very flexible. So a group of 7 or a group of 70, we welcome all with the same zeal and fondness.

  11. 11 Who are my travelling companions?

    For privacy reasons, we cannot provide you with advance details on your traveling companions. However, our tours appeal to a wide range of travelers, most of whom share a traveling passion and a desire to experience these destinations at a grass-roots level. Our tours are conducted in English and so they attract many travelers from Canada, North America, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.

  12. 12 Can I book extra nights of hotel accommodation before or after my tour?

    Yes, in most cases we can arrange additional accommodation at our starting or ending hotels. Please contact our Specialist for price information. Please also note that extra accommodations must be booked outside of 30 days of departure.

  13. 13 Is tipping included and if not, how much should I budget?

    Tips are not included in the tour price and tipping is entirely at your discretion.

  14. 14 What is the most appropriate type of luggage to bring?

    We strongly recommend bringing a backpack or a duffel bag, as suitcases can be cumbersome and difficult to store in buses, under seats, etc. Keep in mind that you will normally have to carry your own luggage on and off buses and trains and up and down hotel staircases.

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