North India in Depth

This incredible itinerary provides an in-depth tour of Northern India, exploring all the must-see bucket list highlights from the battle-scarred forts and palaces of Rajasthan, the Taj Mahal, a tiger safari, historic Varanasi and off the beaten track rural hideaways. The itinerary ensures that your experience is perfectly balanced in seeing the major sights, but also experiencing the magic of rural India.

1. Days 1-3: Delhi

   Begin in Delhi and when you arrive, why not settle in slowly by taking afternoon tea before heading off to one of Delhi's superb restaurants in the evening. The next day you can explore the city with your guide, seeing the major highlights such as Mughal Old Delhi and colonial New Delhi. We can of course tailor your experience in Delhi depending on your specific interests, whether you love to wander through local markets, or possibly have a keen interest in art and architecture for example.

   Accommodation: The Imperial (2 nights)

   

2. Days 3-5: Varanasi

   After two nights in Delhi, you’ll fly to Varanasi, one of the world's most ancient cities and where you’ll also have a two night stop. On the arrival afternoon, head off to Sarnath where the Buddha first taught the Dharma followed by the Ganges River and experience the evening aarti ceremony which is absolutely spell-binding. The next day, rise early and head to the river for a morning boat ride as the sun rises over the holy city before your guide leads you through the rabbit warren of alleyways and secret corners of Varanasi. Stop by ancient temples and just soak in this most vivid of Indian cities.

   Accommodation: Taj Nadesar Palace (2 nights)

   

3. Days 5-6: Agra

   On the morning you leave Varanasi you’ll fly back to Delhi and from here take the fast train to Agra, which is home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. We recommend visiting at sunrise when the light is at its most beautiful against the illuminated marble, which you can do the following morning after you arrive. Depending on time and how active you would like to be we can also include a walk to the Mughal villages behind the Taj, seeing the local way of life but also getting a different perspective of this amazing monument. This ensures that your experience is perfectly balanced in seeing the major sights, but also being able to experience the magic of rural Indian life, away from the tourists.

   Accommodation: The Oberoi Amarvilas (1 night)

   

4. Days 6-8: Ranthambore National Park

   On departure from Agra you’ll drive to Bharatpur, where you will connect to your train towards Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to the Ranthambore National Park. In total contrast to your bustling cultural beginning we have included two nights for you here so that enjoy some brilliant games drives. You will hopefully see tiger, countless deer, monkey and countless exotic bird life. If you are really lucky, there is also bear, leopard and a host of other mammals who occupy the park.

   Accommodation: Suján Sher Bagh (2 nights)

   

5. Days 8-10: Jaipur

   From Ranthambore, you will then drive to Jaipur, taking just under four hours. The capital of Rajasthan, you’ll have two nights here providing plenty of time to explore the city. Explore the artisan quarters of the city in the morning, the famous city palace, Palace of the Winds and the Jantar Mantar observatory. If interested, we can also arrange some short walks to see the surrounding villages before seeing the Amber Fort.

   Accommodation: Suján Rajmahal Palace (2 nights)

   

6. Days 10-12: Nimaj

   To give a lovely flow to the itinerary, your next stop will be into the rural heart of the countryside with a two-night stay at Chhatra Sagar which offers you a unique insight into local Indian life.

   Accommodation: RAAS Chhatra Sagar (2 nights)

   

7. Days 12-14: Jodhpur

   From here you’ll then continue to Jodhpur, known as the blue city, for your next two-night stay. Explore this stunning walled city on foot with your guide and take the chance to visit the Mehrangarh Fort with its displays of weapons, paintings and elaborate royal artefacts.

   Accommodation: Raas (2 nights)

   

8. Days 14-16: Jawai

   On departure from Jodphur, drive south to Bera, an area famous for its population of leopard and remarkable hill scenery of the Aravelli Hills. Here, you’ll head out in 4x4s with your tracker-guide in the hope of spotting these beautiful creatures.

   Accommodation: Suján Jawai Leopard Camp (2 nights)

   

9. Days 16-18: Udaipur

   Finally, to finish off your epic journey though India head to Udaipur for two nights. This wonderful city is Rajasthan's most picturesque corner and is best explored with your guide on a walking tour as you visit Pichola Lake and stop into markets all around the city such as the shoe bazaar and spice sellers.  

   Accommodation: Taj Lake Palace (2 nights)

   

• Agra - Mughal Heritage Walk (Kachpura)

  Visit the small village of Kachpura, a rural settlement, with a stunning backdrop of the Taj Mahal.

  The youth from the community, who have been trained up as tour guides, take you through the village allowing you to real get a feel of village life.

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• Agra - Sunrise at the Taj Mahal

  The Taj Mahal at sunrise is often on many people's ultimate wish lists and it never disappoints. Seeing the sun rise over this amazing monument makes you sit back in awe as Taj's colour slowly changes as the sun shimmers against it.

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• Delhi by night

  Delhi has some of the most amazing restaurants. We always keep our ear to the ground about the latest places to dine, and speak to all our guests about dinner reservations before they travel.

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• Delhi Street Food Tour

  Head to Old Delhi's most famous market, Chawri Bazaar, and discover the incredible sights and smells. Your foodie tour will take you around the narrow streets, where your guide will talk you through the variety of delicacies on offer.

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• Eating in Mumbai

  When it comes to food, Mumbai offers all cuisine. It is not just Indian food, Mumbai also serves Thai, Chinese, Continental and all international cuisine. The best places to enjoy the International taste will be the high-end restaurants.

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• Evening Aarti Ceremony

  The Varanasi Ganga aarti takes place every sunset at the holy Dasaswamedh Ghat, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A sight to behold when visiting Varanasi, we can reserve seats for you if you would like to watch it close up.

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• Explore Mumbai

  Explore Mumbai differently with a private guide; Begin at Sassoon Market & Crawford Market in the morning before wandering to Churchgate Station to see the 'Tiffin Wallahs' at work. Finally see Dhobi Ghat before taking a walking tour through Old Bombay.

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• Explore the Ghats of Varanasi

  It is in Varanasi where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions. There are nearly 100 ghats, steps leading to the banks of River Ganges. The ghats are an integral compliment to the concept of divinity represented in physical and supernatural elements.

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• Fatehpur Sikri

  Situated 37 km (23 miles) south west of Agra, the ‘lost city’ of Fatehpur Sikri is the abandoned capital of the great Mughal emperor Akbar.

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• India by Train

  A train journey in India can be an exceptionally rewarding experience. You see the life and soul of India in its many stations, as well as fantastic views of India's countryside.

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• Jaipur - Amber Fort

  Amber Fort, the ancient Rajput capital is located on a hill 11km / 7 miles north of Jaipur. Amber was the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs from 1037 until the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh founded Jaipur in 1727.

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• Jaipur - Bazaars, Cuisine and Crafts of Old Jaipur

  Jaipur is awash with craftsman and artisans which make an amazing wander through the streets unforgettable. You will enjoy the sights with a personal guide.

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• Jaipur - Walking Tour

  A walking tour of Jaipur brings the city to life through its out of the way nooks and crannies, colourful markets and vibrant culture.

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• Jodhpur - A Walk through Jodhpur

  Take a walking tour through Jodhpur beginning at Mehrangarh Fort, built in 1459 by Rao Jodha after whom Jodhpur was founded. Continue to the Jaswant Thada, a marble cenotaph, before having a walk through Ghantaghar (Clock Area), Jodhpur's busiest market.

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• Mughal Heritage Walk

  Visit the small village of Kachpura, a rural settlement, with a stunning backdrop of the Taj Mahal.

  The youth from the community, who have been trained up as tour guides, take you through the village allowing you to real get a feel of village life.

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• Mumbai by night

  The people of Mumbai continue to amaze us; they work all day and party all night and still wake up to continue the growth of one of the fastest economies in the world. You really feel a part of it when you head out on the town.

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• Old and New Delhi

  Take a full day exploring both Old and New Delhi taking a Rickshaw through Chandni Chowk and visiting the Jama Masjid Mosque, Rajpath & Humayun's Tomb.

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• Rohet - Riding in Rajasthan

  Riding through Rajasthan is one of the best ways to get into the countryside and see local villages and markets. Known for their 'Marwari' horses; Rajasthan has had a long association with horses.

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• Salaam Baalak walk in Delhi - Paharganj

  During Salaam Baalak Trust City Walk, you will be guided by a young adult who used to live in the streets of Delhi before joining Salaam Baalak Trust. Your walk will give you a unique perspective and at the same time empower a worthwhile programme.

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• Shopping in Mumbai

  Mumbai must produce almost every object known to man; and shopping in the city can be a daunting task. With our help, we can help find whatever you are looking for.

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• Udaipur - Explore Udaipur

  Udaipur is one of India's most scenic and romantic cities. On a half day experience with a guide, you will explore the City Palace, Jagdish Temple and Sahelion Ki Bari 'Garden of Maidens'.

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• Visit The Temples of Khajuraho

  Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples. These temples are famous for their erotic sculptures.

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• Walking Tour of Varanasi

  Walk along the Ghats and through the famous narrow alleys of the old city with your guide.

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Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Nimaj, Jodphur, Jawai Banh & Udaipur