Jewel in the Crown - 11 days

The breathtaking Taj Mahal, riotously coloured Jaipur, regal palaces and holy Varanasi. This is captivating India at its very best!

Day 1: New Delhi
Welcome to India! You will be met upon arrival in Delhi and transferred to your hotel. Overnight - New Delhi
Day 2: Old Delhi
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi this morning, taking in the Red Fort, Jama Masjid mosque and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk. This afternoon, enjoy a tour of New Delhi, designed by the eminent Sir Edward Lutyens. Highlights include the India Gate, Rajpath and bustling Connaught Place. A visit is also made to Qutab Minar, essentially a massive tower built to proclaim the arrival of Islam in the 11th century and a carpet emporium. Overnight - New Delhi (B)
Two smiling Indian girls in red and purple saris stand in front of a turquoise wall
Days 3 - 4: Jaipur
Delhi - Jaipur. Drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan affectionately known as the Pink City and relax in the afternoon. On day 4 take a stately elephant ride to the 15th Century Amber Fort, after which enjoy a city tour of the City Palace, followed by a visit to the Jantar Mantar space observatory. Don’t miss the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) with its incredible façade of balconies. Overnight - Jaipur (B:2)
Days 5 - 6: Agra
Jaipur - Agra. En route to Agra, enjoy a visit to the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival in Agra, the rest of the day is at your disposal. On day 6, enjoy a horsecart ride to the Taj Mahal. Possibly the mostrecognised of all India’s landmarks, the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in the 16th century. Later, enjoy a visit to the colossal 15th century Agra Fort and also a marble craftshop. Rest of the afternoon free. Overnight - Agra (B:2)
The beautifully detailed temples of Khajuraho
Day 7: Khajuraho
Agra - Khajuraho (via Jhansi & Orchha). Transfer to the rail station for the morning train to Jhansi. Upon arrival, the journey continues by road to Khajuraho. En route a visit is made to Orchha. On the banks of the River Betwa, Orchha is famed for its temples and palaces built by the 16th century Bundela rulers. Overnight - Khajuraho (B)
Khajuraho - Varanasi. Close behind the Taj Mahal and up there with Varanasi and Jaipur, are the amazing temples of Khajuraho. Immortalised in stone is a wealth of sensuous and erotic sculptures. This morning visit these famous temples. To avoid a long drive, you will fly to the holiest of Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India – Varanasi. Overnight - Varanasi (B)
The colourful and intricate buildings of Varanasi by the Ganges river
Day 9: Varanasi
Abundant with temples and a labyrinth of streets, Varanasi is exciting, enticing and a city not to be missed. Early this morning we enjoy a boat ride on the River Ganges to view the sunrise and the ancient religious tradition of ritual cleansing that takes place on the ghats (riverside steps). Enjoy a tour of the city, with its numerous temples and wonderful historic feel; with time later to relax. Overnight - Varanasi (B)
Varanasi - Delhi. After a leisurely morning, we return to Delhi by air. Overnight - New Delhi (B)
Day 11: New Delhi
Delhi - breakfast. Morning is at leisure. Later we transfer you to the airport for your onward flight home. (B)

NOTE: Taj Mahal, Agra - closed Friday; Red Fort, Delhi - closed Monday

Tour Details
  • Starts in: New Delhi / Ends in: New Delhi
  • Departs: any day of the year
  • No local payment required
  • Breakfast:10, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0
  • Hotel Rating: 4 star hotels & heritage properties
  • Tour Guide: Yes (for locally included sights)
The on the go Theatre
See a bit of Incredible India on film! Highlights of our India group tours