India’s rich history and culture is explored on this trip of highlights and hidden gems. From the capital, Delhi, and a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal, this journey of discovery will take you on a boat trip down the river Ganges, a walk around the colourful local markets of Orchha and to have an up-close look at the famous, erotic temples of Khajuraho.
Enriching tailormade journeys – for you
This bespoke journey features some of our favourite spots in India. You can choose to take our destination experts’ recommendations and travel just as you see the itinerary here, or contact us to add your own special touches; maybe a tiger safari added to your trip or an extra night to soak up the markets of Orchha. We’re here to design your perfect holiday. Call us on 0844 875 1897.
Details may vary depending on departure date. Please choose
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hans Plaza Hotel
Hans Plaza Hotel
In the centre of Delhi, this modern hotel offers well-appointed rooms, most with views over the city. The two dining options have international cuisine. Due to its location at Connaught Place, it’s an excellent place to stay in India’s capital.
Day 2:
Old Delhi tour
Take a tour of Old Delhi, including the Jama Masjid mosque and an exciting rickshaw ride through the town’s frenetic streets.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hans Plaza Hotel Included meals: Breakfast
Hans Plaza Hotel
In the centre of Delhi, this modern hotel offers well-appointed rooms, most with views over the city. The two dining options have international cuisine. Due to its location at Connaught Place, it’s an excellent place to stay in India’s capital.
Day 3:
Agra Fort
After an early breakfast, take a train to Agra. Upon arrival, visit Agra Fort. First mentioned in 1080AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city. It was the most important fort in India, housing all of the greatest Moghuls.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Mansingh Palace Included meals: Breakfast
Mansingh Palace
The Mansingh Palace is a delightful hotel, named after Rajput Emperor Sawai Mansingh. Centrally located in Agra, the property offers a swimming pool and health club, large restaurant and bar, lawn tennis and squash courts. Rooms are tastefully decorated and a good size.
Day 4:
Taj Mahal
Ride in a rickshaw to the Taj Mahal to watch the sunrise. The Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World; an extravagant symbol of love from emperor Shah Jahan to his queen, Mumtaz Mahal. After your visit, drive to Gwalior.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Taj Usha Kiran Palace Included meals: Breakfast
Taj Usha Kiran Palace
Treat yourself to a stay in this 120-year old palace, set in nine acres of beautiful gardens and outfitted to a very high standard. As well as a spa, the hotel offers cookery classes, yoga and recreational activities such as badminton and aerobics.
Day 5:
Orchha
After a short trip around Gwalior, drive to Orchha. Orchha is a medieval city with 16th and 17th century palaces and temples. The river Betwa surrounds this small town, which is a tranquil corner of India.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Orchha Resort Included meals: Breakfast
Orchha Resort
Located on the Betwa River, the Orchha Resort is a lovely, tranquil property. As well as a good-sized swimming pool, there are spa and massage treatments on offer, plus yoga to really relax your mind! Rooms are a good size and feature all modern conveniences.
Day 6:
Orchha
We’ve allowed a full day to explore Orchha. It’s lovely to wander around the markets, chat to the locals and get to know what makes a small town in India tick.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Orchha Resort Included meals: Breakfast
Orchha Resort
Located on the Betwa River, the Orchha Resort is a lovely, tranquil property. As well as a good-sized swimming pool, there are spa and massage treatments on offer, plus yoga to really relax your mind! Rooms are a good size and feature all modern conveniences.
Day 7:
Khajuraho
Drive to Khajuraho, revered as the temple city of Central India and famed for its incredible number of intricately carved erotic temples.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hotel Ramada Included meals: Breakfast
Hotel Ramada
Situated under a mile from the famous temples of Khajuraho, the Ramada Hotel is a medium sized mid-range property with over 80 rooms, all equipped with modern facilities. The hotel offers guests a fitness centre and spa, a large dining area and bar, a discotheque and a swimming pool.
Day 8:
Varanasi
Today, visit the western complex of temples, which includes the imposing Lakshmana Temple, dedicated to Vishnu and one of the best preserved of this temple group. You’ll also visit the eastern temples, before flying to Varanasi.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hotel Hindustan International Included meals: Breakfast
Hotel Hindustan International
This is a larger hotel which has a great, central location for exploring Varanasi. It’s also conveniently located for the train station and excursions to surrounding temples. Rooms are modern and spacious and there’s a fantastic indoor swimming pool.
Day 9:
Varanasi
Rise early to go to the river Ganges for a boat trip to see the morning ablutions of the Hindu community. Varanasi has around 80 riverfront ghats, including a number of ‘burning ghats’ where public cremations take place along the water’s edge. Later, you’ll visit Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hotel Hindustan International Included meals: Breakfast
Hotel Hindustan International
This is a larger hotel which has a great, central location for exploring Varanasi. It’s also conveniently located for the train station and excursions to surrounding temples. Rooms are modern and spacious and there’s a fantastic indoor swimming pool.
Day 10:
Delhi
Fly to Delhi for your flight to the UK.
Overnight Comfortable Hotel (H++)
in Hans Plaza Hotel Included meals: Breakfast
Hans Plaza Hotel
In the centre of Delhi, this modern hotel offers well-appointed rooms, most with views over the city. The two dining options have international cuisine. Due to its location at Connaught Place, it’s an excellent place to stay in India’s capital.