Royal India Summer

1. Day 1 Arrive Delhi

   Arrival. Namaste! We are warmly welcomed the traditional Indian way with hands clapped together at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax.
2. Day 2 Delhi

   An introduction of India with a tour of New Delhi. We visit Birla House, the last residence of Mahatma Gandhi which is now a museum depicting his illustrious life. We then visit the famous India Gate followed by the Houses of Parliament, Connaught Place and Humayun's Tomb*. This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.  The remainder of the day is free for personal activities. 
   In the evening we enjoy welcome dinner at famous Indian restaurant with glass of wine or pint of beer. 
   Note:- Please note, Birla House remains closed on Monday. 

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Visit Qutub Minar
   USD 29

   

   We visit Qutb Minar and its Monuments* Built in the early 13th century the red sandstone tower of Qutb Minar is 72.5 m high. The surrounding archaeological area contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent Alai-Darwaza Gate, a masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art and two mosques.

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
   • Dinner
3. Day 3 Delhi / Agra (Drive: 220 Km/ 4 Hours)

   Today we visit the Old Delhi, drive past to the Red Fort Complex*. Named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone, it is adjacent to an older fort, the Salimgarh, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546, with which it forms the Red Fort Complex. 
   We embark on a captivating journey on a Rickshaw passing through the narrow lanes of the famous Chandni Chowk Bazaar, it was originally built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his daughter Jahan Ara in 17th Century since then many changes have taken place however it still remains Old Delhi's one of the Oldest and busiest markets in Delhi. Finally end our rickshaw ride at Jama Masjid, Mughal majesty and India's largest mosque. 

   In the afternoon we drive to Agra and check in our hotel. 
    
   Please note, Shops at Chandni chowk remain closed on Sunday. 

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Visit to Red Fort Complex (remain closed on Monday)
   USD 32

   We visit the Red Fort Complex. The Red Fort is considered to represent the zenith of Mughal creativity which, under the Shah Jahan, was brought to a new level of refinement and each pavilion reveals architectural elements typical of Mughal building, reflecting a fusion of Persian, Timurid and Hindu traditions

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
4. Day 4 Agra

   At sunrise we visit one of the most well-known wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal*. An immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage. Situated on the right bank of the Yamuna in a vast Mogul garden, this funerary monument combines elements and styles of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. After enjoying a sunrise visit to Taj, we return to our hotel for breakfast. 

   After breakfast we visit Agra Fort*. This powerful fortress of red sandstone encompasses, within its 2.5-km-long enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. It comprises many fairy-tale palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; audience halls, such as the Diwan-i-Khas; and two very beautiful mosques. 

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Visit to Mehtab Bagh
   USD 20

   We visit Mehtab Bagh, The Garden complex, situated on the opposite bank of the Taj Mahal, is known as Mehtab Bagh, or "The Moonlight Garden". Recent excavations revealed a huge octagonal tank furnished with 25 fountains, a small central tank and a baradari (twelve door) on the east. The site is also associated with the myth of black Taj, but the excavations have provided ample evidence for a garden complex. This is also corroborated by a letter of Aurangzeb, addressed to Emperor Shah Jehan stating the condition of this garden after a flood in 1652 AD. 

   Mohabbat The Taj Show at Kalakriti
   USD 15

   Evening enjoys Mohabbat The Taj Show at Kalakriti - a unique Musical Dance Show performed by the renowned stage actors from Mumbai.

   Visit to Itmad-Ud-Daulah- Agra
   USD 22

   We visit Itmad-Ud-Daulah, often called as Baby Taj. A highly ornate edifice, this mausoleum is considered as the imminent precursor of the Taj Mahal as far as elaborate carvings and inlay work are concerned. Though the structure does not have much to offer architecturally, it makes a clear departure from the earlier Mughal tombs built during the period and is softer and with a lot of inlay carvings

   Dinner at PESHAWRI Restaurant in ITC Mughal
   USD 78

   In an ambience reminiscent of the rustic charm of dining in the warmth of tents under a starry sky in the cold desert terrain of the North West Frontier, Peshawri brings to Agra an award-winning menu of delicacies cooked in the clay tandoor. Experience the wonder of this cuisine in Agra only at Peshawri, with a lavish spread of delicious kebabs – vegetarian and non-vegetarian that are cooked in myriad ways, a range of Indian breads – from the decadently indulgent to light and fluffy breads and of course, the inimitable Dal Bukhara – all of which is paired with an exclusive collection of wines and other beverages.

   Visit Taj Mahal under Full moon- Agra
   USD 78

   Night visit to Taj Mahal is open for only 5 days including full moon and two days before and after the full moon date. Remains closed on Friday.  Night View is allowed between 0830 hrs to 00:30 hrs in batches of 50 person per slot. Duration of each slot is only 30 minutes. Tickets are issued a day before the visit and are subjected to availability. 

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
5. Day 5 Agra / Jaipur (Drive: 245 Km/ 6 Hours)

   After breakfast we drive to Jaipur, the rose-pink capital of Rajasthan, since most of the buildings in the old city are made of pink sandstone. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free. 

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Dinner at Suvarna Mahal in Rambagh Palace
   USD 156

   With its high ceilings, gilded mirrors and Florentine frescoes, Suvarna Mahal embodies the rich heritage of erstwhile rulers. Our chefs have mastered royal cuisines from the princely states of Rajasthan, Awadh, Punjab and Hyderabad to give you the best of India in Jaipur.

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
6. Day 6 Jaipur

   This morning we visit Amber Fort, located in a valley formed by a range of Aravalli’s known as Kalikho hills. The Palace and Fort are located on top of the hill with the city on slopes, and the valley protected by fort walls with four gates in the four cardinal directions. The construction of the fort began in 1592. It shows the evolution from the purely defensive fort settlements of the early medieval period to the palace fortress type of architecture typified in the 16th century. This palace fortress was never attacked or invaded. The fort comprises of number of gardens, courtyards and palatial spaces derived from Mughal architecture and are a distinguished example of 17th Century Rajput architecture. 
   After that we explore Jaipur City* visiting the beautiful Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds, where the ladies of the royal harem used to watch the city from behind the intricately carved facade. 
   We also visit the Jantar Mantar*, an astronomical observation site built in the early 18th century that includes a set of some 20 main fixed instruments designed for the observation of astronomical positions with the naked eye. It is an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period. The evening is free to enjoy both shopping and the cultural experience in the bazaars. Jaipur is noted for its craftsmen, skilled in brass inlay, lacquer work and stone setting. 
    

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Elephant ride at Amber Fort (Subject to availability)
   USD 36

   One of the highlights of a visit to the stunning Amber Fort is the chance to ride an elephant up the hill to the main entrance. The Amber Fort elephant ride is a fantastic experience, but visitors must arrive early to guarantee a ride.

   Visit the majestic City Palace
   USD 29

   We visit the majestic City Palace, which houses a rare collection of Indian art. 

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
7. Day 7 Jaipur/ Udaipur (Drive: 420 Km/ 7 Hours)

   A fascinating countryside as we drive through Rajasthan to Udaipur. Rajasthan literally means “the land of the Rajas” and we notice that still. Udaipur was the historic capital of the former kingdom of Mewar and no other city in Rajasthan is quite as romantic. Misty ochre-shadowed hills and pale, intricate buildings encircle shimmering Lake Pichhola. On arrival we check in our hotel. Balance of the day is free. 

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
8. Day 8 Udaipur

   Our yet another interesting day starts with a visit to the enchanting City Palace, which overlooks the Lake Palace located in the blue waters of Lake Pichhola. 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. We then visit the Jagdish Temple, to view some remarkable friezes dating back to 1651. Next we explore Fateh Sagar Lake and Saheliyon Ki Bari, the Garden of Maids.  The remainder of the day is free for personal activities. 

   OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

   Private boat ride at Lake Pichhola
   USD 99

   At Sunset we enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichhola, sailing past the picturesque Ghats and palaces and visit Jag Mandir, a 17th century palace built on an island in Lake Pichhola. The royal family used the palace as a summer resort and a pleasure palace for holding parties. 

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
9. Day 9 Udaipur / Mumbai by flight

   After leisurely breakfast, morning is free to relax or enjoy spa facilities at the hotel on direct payment. 
   In the afternoon we are transferred to airport for our flight to Mumbai. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel. 
    

   Meals Included

   • Breakfast
10. Day 10 Mumbai

    We start our day with a visit to the Gateway of India, Mumbai's most famous monument. After that we visit the Prince of Wales Museum and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus*, formerly known as Victoria Terminus Station, an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival Architecture in India, blended with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture. The building, designed by the British Architect F. W. Stevens, became the symbol of Bombay as the 'Gothic City' and the major international mercantile port of India. Its remarkable stone dome, turrets, pointed arches and eccentric ground plan are close to traditional Indian palace architecture. Our Next Stop is at Mani Bhawan, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed here during the Freedom Struggle. The house is now converted into a Museum. From here we leave for Hanging Gardens, the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence, the bustling Crawford Market and drive past Haji Ali, the tomb of a wealthy Muslim merchant. We end our tour at the Dhobi Ghat, the world's largest outdoor laundry. The word Dhobi Ghat is used all over India to refer to any place where many washers are present. 
    Evening we enjoy farewell dinner at local famous Indian restaurant.  
     

    OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

    Excursion to Elephanta Caves (Remain closed on Monday)
    USD 107

    At the Gateway of India, we embark on our excursion to the Elephanta Caves*, located on an island in the Sea of Oman. The caves contain a collection of rock art linked to the cult of Shiva. Here, Indian art has found one of its most perfect expressions, particularly the huge high reliefs in the main cave. We return to Mumbai by motor launch. 

    Meals Included

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
11. Day 11 Mumbai / Onward Destination

    Today we are transferred to airport for our flight to the onward destination. 

    Meals Included

    • Breakfast

* DENOTES UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES INCLUDED

1. FAQ 1 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.

2. FAQ 2 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. FAQ 3 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. FAQ 4 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. FAQ 5 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. FAQ 6 Are airport transfers included?

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

7. FAQ 7 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. FAQ 8 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. FAQ 9 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. FAQ 10 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.

11. FAQ 11 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.

12. FAQ 12 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.

13. FAQ 13 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.

14. FAQ 14 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.