Footsteps of a Maharaja
ITINERARY

1-3
Delhi
Capital City
Are you ready to uncover the old and new worlds of timeless India? After catching an overnight flight to Delhi, you’ll arrive at the airport and be met by your local representative and driver. You'll be transported to your centrally located hotel before being whisked away on a whistle-stop tour of vibrant New Delhi.

Located at the Western end of Rajpath, allow the stunning architecture of the Presidential Palace to take your breath away. And once you’ve reveled in the beauty of this one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys, you’ll drive further along the Rajpath to marvel at the pristine Parliament House.

The very next morning will begin with a walking tour of the must-see sights of ancient Old Delhi. Discover the beautiful interiors and spacious outdoor courtyard of the Jama Masjid mosque. Then take a moment to admire the architecture and enjoy the picturesque gardens at Humayun's Tomb which was said to have inspired the Taj Mahal itself!  

In the evening, you’re in for a cultural treat as you settle into your seats at a special Ghungroo performance. In this fascinating show, you'll watch Delhi's history and culture told through the medium of dance by some of the city's most talented performers. After the show head outside to candlelit tables and delectable dishes as you tuck into an al fresco Indian barbecue. 

​

4-5
Varanasi
City
A short flight takes you to Varanasi this morning where you’ll waste no time in heading to the heart of the city where you'll be staying right on the banks of the Ganges River which attracts pilgrims in their thousands for its sacred healing qualities. Enjoy an afternoon of exploration, ahead of your very own private boat trip down the river at a time when the ghats will truly come to life! From the vantage point of the river absorb the wonderful evening Aarti ceremony and soak up the authentic aromas of burning incense, enchanting music and mesmerizing chants.

The next morning witness the ghats in their morning beauty as you head out at sunrise to watch the pilgrims make their way down to the calming river waters. After a delicious breakfast back at your hotel, it’s a good idea to change into your best walking shoes as you’ll be straight back out to uncover the oldest part of Varanasi's city center where narrow passageways and ancient traditions await. As you wander to take a private peek inside the enthralling temples and busy lives of the city’s residents.

​

THINGS TO DO
Bazaars and Hidden Alleys of Varanasi
Bazaars and Hidden Alleys of Varanasi
Half-day experience
Explore the winding alleyways of Varanasi to gain a fascinating insight into life here.

Toggle Share Links
Ganges River Cruise
Ganges River Cruise
Half-day experience
Head out on the sacred river the Ganges to look upon the Ghats and see them burst into activity.

​

Toggle Share Links
6-7
Khajuraho
General Tour
After a quick flight, you’ll land in the town of Khajuraho where you’ll be picked up and taken straight to your hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. Chill out in your hotel or take to the streets to get a head start on some enticing exploration.

The next morning wake up to tasty breakfast, before answering the call of the beckoning ancient Western and Eastern temples of the area. Listen intently to your local guide, as you uncover the intricate carvings, ranging from everyday life to those of a more erotic disposition! In the evening, you'll explore some of the areas beyond the temples as you drift through the town’s market admiring the eclectic range of spices, colorful ribbons and fresh produce on offer. Finish off this bewitching evening with some spicy Indian tea from a local chaiwaller. Watch the mesmerizing process of the chai being brewed before sipping the spicy drink alongside locals. 

​

THINGS TO DO
Khajuraho’s Temples Tour
Khajuraho’s Temples Tour
Half-day experience
Visit Khajuraho’s famous temples to study their elaborate carvings.

Toggle Share Links
Markets & Tea-Making
Markets & Tea-Making
Evening experience
Explore Khajuraho’s lively and colorful Gole Market and see spicy chai being made at a local tea stall.

 

8-9
Orchha
General Tour
This morning takes you on from Khajuraho as you travel to nearby Orchha, which is sure to leave an impression as soon as you drive in! Once the splendor of the town has sunk in, take the afternoon to really discover the hidden gems of this quiet medieval town, before heading to the sacred Ram Raja Temple for the evening aarti ceremony.

On your second day in Orchha and you'll be exploring the town more thoroughly, kicking off with the Orchha Fort Complex. Be wowed by the vast array of ancient monuments and Mughal-influenced Rajput architecture of palaces and temples. There’s no better way to end the day than with a stroll along the rolling river waters, to watch the sun setting over the royal cenotaphs whose outlines dominate the town's skyline. 

​

10
Gwalior
City
Today's journey takes you to the powerful hilltop fort of Gwalior, depicted by the Mughal emperor Babur as “'The Pearl Among the Fortresses of India”. After checking into your hotel you'll head straight to the fort to unearth its secrets within such as the dramatic Jai Vilas Palace, Mansingh Palace, and jagged Jain Rock Sculptures.

THINGS TO DO
Gwalior City Tour
Gwalior City Tour
Half-day Experience
Discover Gwalior’s hilltop fortress, colourful Man Singh Palace and other architectural wonders.

Toggle Share Links
11
Agra
General Tour
From one impressive city to the next, the next stop on your journey is Agra, which will undoubtedly take your breath away. Home to the unmistakable beauty of the remarkable Taj Mahal, it also plays host to the just as impressive 'Baby Taj' and one of the finest Mughal forts in all of India. Wander the spacious courtyards of this sandstone and marble fortress, ahead of an evening sunset over the Taj Mahal from the picturesque Mehtab Bagh Gardens.

THINGS TO DO

 

12-14
Samode
General Tour
Today is the day where you will get to uncover the sheer beauty of the palatial Taj Mahal in exceptional early morning light. You’ll rise early and watch as India's most famous mausoleum changes colour with the sun. 

And then it’s onto the next stop, with a drive to the village of Samode. This small settlement located in the remote countryside north of Jaipur is your base for the next two nights as you check-in to the magnificent Samode Palace. Here get a true feel for life as a maharaja as you wander through decadent archways, manicured gardens, and regale in illustrious imperial touches, as an idyllic way to top off your timeless tour.

The next morning you'll be heading for a tour of the extensive palace complex of Amber Fort. Delight in the yellow and pink sandstone, shining white marble, and veiled windows of this architectural slice of heaven, before you check out the Panna Meena Ka Kund stepwell, a lovely little gem in the city of Amber.

You’ll then be driven back to Samode where you can kick off your shoes and simply relax in the calming palace grounds. When you’ve rested and rejuvenated, take a gentle wander up to Samode Fort or explore the village with its colourful havelis. 

​

15-16
Delhi
Capital City
Enjoy a final leisurely morning in Samode before being driven back to Delhi where you'll be staying conveniently nearby to the airport in preparation for your flight home tomorrow.

The next morning head to the airport to catch your flight and make your way back home, already re-living the memories made on this timeless trip of discovery.