Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport and meet our representative, who will transfer you to your hotel. Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight in Delhi. Hotel: Hilton Janakpuri
Day 2: Delhi
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a full day tour of Delhi. First, explore Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, tour New Delhi. Visit the Qutub Minar, which is the tallest stone tower in India. Then visit Humayun's tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, and an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style. Later, drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President's residence. Evening at leisure and overnight in Delhi.
Day 3: Delhi—Agra
In the morning, drive to Agra (4 hours). Visit Sikandra, Akbar's tomb that blends various religious motifs, and the Agra Fort, a magnificent citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves and terrace pavilions. In the evening, enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20,000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world. Overnight in Agra. Hotel: Trident Agra
Day 4: Agra—Jaipur
After a leisurely morning, enjoy an authentic Indian lunch at the home of a local family. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe the traditional ways of life and engage in cultural exchange. Later, drive to Jaipur. En-route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, a perfectly preserved and deserted red sandstone city. Arrive in Jaipur and transfer to your hotel. Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the "Pink City" due to the pink colored buildings and avenues. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur. Hotel: Trident Jaipur
Day 5: Jaipur
After breakfast, proceed on a full day tour of Jaipur. Start with a visit to Amber Fort. The final descent to this ancient city is made by elephant back—a truly memorable experience! In the fort, you will see magnificent palaces and halls covered with mirrored mosaics. After lunch, explore Jaipur city. Visit City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture that is still occupied by the Royal family. Also visit the Palace of the Winds and Jantar Mantar, the solar observatory. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur.
Day 6: Jaipur
In the morning, enjoy a yoga session in a local park. Later, participate in a cooking demonstration on Rajasthani cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a special session of mehndi. Mehndi is the application of henna as a form of temporary skin decoration. Traditionally, it is applied during celebrations and wedding events. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 7: Jaipur—Deogarh
After breakfast, drive to Rajsamand and stay at the historic Deogarh Mahal, a restored Mewar Palace that is still partially occupied by the Royal family. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and rural ramble – a jeep ride through the countryside. Overnight in Deogarh Mahal.
Day 8: Deogarh—Udaipur
Morning at leisure. Later, drive to Udaipur. Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the final capital of the Mewar Kingdom. With a wealth of enchanting lakes, the city is nicknamed the "Lake City" and is a true oasis in Rajasthan. Evening at leisure and overnight in Udaipur. Hotel: Ramada Resort and Spa
Day 9: Udaipur
After breakfast, proceed for the city tour of Udaipur. First, visit the City Palace and Museum. The largest palace complex in India, it is a blend of Mughal and Rajput influences. Also visit the 17th century Jagdish temple, drive around the Fateh Sagar Lake, and visit the Sahelion ki Bari, an ornamental pleasure garden with fountains and marble kiosks. Later, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, where you will view the Lake Palace. (Only guests are allowed to the hotel.) Evening at leisure and overnight in Udaipur.
Day 10: Udaipur and Departure
Day at leisure to explore Udaipur independently or explore the vibrant markets and bazaars. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the international terminal for your flight home.
More Information
- To maintain an intimate cultural experience, this tour is limited to 20 guests.
- If you are a solo traveler but wish to share a room, Sodha Travel will match you with a roommate.
- A visa is required to visit India. Please visit BLS International for more information.
- To protect your travel investment, Sodha Travel strongly recommends Travel Insurance.
- Visit our FAQ page for additional information on traveling to India.
Airfare
We understand that our clients deserve options when it comes to air travel. Many want to use mileage programs, choose the airline and/or upgrade class of service. Some also extend their travels before or after the tour, either visiting other regions of India or taking a quick flight to Nepal, Bhutan or Sri Lanka. For this reason, the international airfare is not included.
Optional Extensions
Nepal
Why not extend your trip to beautiful Nepal, only a short flight from Delhi? Sodha Travel has created a 5 day/4 night extension to the Kathmandu Valley, including Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. An optional flight to view Mt. Everest is also available. Experience the majestic Himalayas and the historical and religious heritage of this enchanting Kingdom!
Dubai
If booking airfare on Emirates, we offer a complimentary stopover in Dubai. Sodha Travel has created an affordable and memorable 3 day/2 night stopover package, including superior hotel accommodations, airport transfers, a city tour and desert safari excursion to the sand dunes.
