Detailed Itinerary

New Delhi, India’s national capital, is a relatively modern confection of imposing government buildings including Parliament, museums and wide leafy boulevards loosely centred on circular Connaught Place (officially now called Rajiv Chowk). To its north lies the formerly walled city of Old Delhi, or Shahjahanabad, built in the 17th-century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Though long merged into one metropolis, the two have very different characters. New Delhi has space, parks, distinct neighbourhoods and a clutch of important monuments and architecture that reflect its ancient history. Old Delhi’s crowded streets, lanes and bazaars reflect its colourful medieval character and they cradle some of the city’s most memorable sights.

 

Flight                                 TBA
Arrives Delhi                    TBA  

On arrival in Delhi: Having cleared immigration, collected your luggage and passed through customs, please make your way towards the exit of the terminal building where you will see a bank of people waiting. Amongst them will be Travel Counsellors Representative who will be waiting to greet you with a paging board with your name on.

You will then be transferred to your hotel and assisted with check in.

Overnight: The LaLiT New Delhi

Offering five-star accommodation, The LaLiT New Delhi is located in Connaught Place, India. The hotel boasts 461 luxury rooms and suites with conveniences such as minibars/fridges, electronic safes, TVs, interactive entertainment systems and free Wi-Fi. Guests can delight their palates at an array of on-site restaurants. The hotel also features a spa, an art gallery, a state-of-the-art gym and a swimming pool.

 

 

Day 2:           In Delhi

 

Breakfast at Hotel.

Today proceed for The Five Senses Delhi Tour 
A sensory journey through Delhi covering everything from its food, local arts and crafts, the must-see architectural marvels, to expertly navigating and allowing you to witness the organized cultural chaos that is Delhi.

A complete tour of Old and New Delhi! We’ve carefully curated a selection of experiences that will transport you across Delhi’s rich cultural history. Experience for yourself the syncretism that has served as both Delhi’s greatest strength and vulnerability.

There isn’t a dearth of iconic sightseeing locations in the city, but for this tour, we focus on the two most beloved monuments that became inspirations or templates for all the other beautiful heritage structures. Humayun’s tomb, a spellbinding mausoleum is a favourite for any Delhiite! Your visit will be followed by a heritage craft workshop organised by an all-women NGO group that will touch your heart. Next, take a rickshaw ride through Shahjahanabad. Chaos thrives in the streets of Chandni Chowk, but as you cycle down, you’re transported by the magic in the air to the thriving Mughal era.

Next, you will indulge your sense of smell with an Ittar or perfume-making workshop. Visit an 8th-generation Ittar studio where you will get to smell and mix your unique concoction that can be named after you!

We’ll quickly stop to snack on some mouth-watering street food before proceeding to witness the glory and quietness of the Jama Masjid: a beautiful pocket of calm at the heart of Old Delhi’s mayhem.

To engage your sense of sound, we bring you to Bangla Sahib. The magic of seva (selfless service) that the Gurudwara envelopes you into is undeniable. What ties together this beautiful experience is the sweet sound of the Gurbani playing in the background. Next, head to calm your favourite sense – taste! You will enjoy a meal at a contemporary Indian restaurant!

Before going back to the hotel, on the way, we show you the parts of Delhi with British influence and talk about the architectural contrast as well as some interesting stories from that time!

 

Day 3:           Delhi – Agra

 

Home of the world-famous Taj Mahal, Agra is one of India’s prime tourist destinations for specifically this reason, though its attractions also extend to an array of other impressive historical sights. These include the red-hued Agra Fort, the sacred Jama Masjid mosque and Itmad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, with its white marble facade embellished with intricate inlaid designs and semi-precious gems. The Taj, however, is in a league of its own and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 15th century as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is an architectural masterpiece of exquisite artisanship and perfect proportions.

 

After breakfast, you will be transferred to railway station to board the train to Agra.

Train                                  Gatimaan Express (operates daily except on Fridays)

Departs Delhi                  0810 Hrs

Arrives Agra                     0950 Hrs

 

Upon arrival at Agra, you will be assisted & transferred and taken directly to Agra Fort for the visit followed by check-in at the hotel. (Standard check in time at the hotel is 1400 Hrs)

Agra Fort

With its striking resemblance to Delhi’s Red Fort, Agra Fort’s massive sandstone walls stretch for over two kilometres with their eastern flanks overlooking a bend in the Yamuna River. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1573, its 90-acres of part-manicured gardens, imposing pavilions, royal apartments and audience halls are an impressive counterpoint to the Taj Mahal’s more delicate beauty and finesse. Built as a virtually self-contained imperial city, the fort came to symbolise Mughal military power. Here famously the Taj’s builder Emperor Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his own son and spent his final days gazing across the river at his beloved Taj Mahal.

 

Upon arrival you will then be transferred to your hotel and assisted with check in.

Afternoon at leisure.

Evening proceed for a Beyond the Taj Sunset Tour

 

A trip to Agra is incomplete without experiencing dazzling path beyond the Taj Mahal; A transformative walk tour that goes further than the iconic Taj Mahal and dives into the enticing soul of Agra’s Taj Ganj. A crowded street that holds and narrates the fascinating tales of Agra’s unfolded heritage. Our passionate guides led this tour wanders through the streets of undiscovered places and underrated monuments, giving you an extensive glance of Taj Mahal. Engage in this unique adventure and go beyond the Taj Walk, fostering healthy interaction with locals and navigating lively streets, experiencing stories of traditions that breathe the Agra City enchantment.

Overnight: Courtyard Agra        

Courtyard Agra is located on Fatehabad Road, close to iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy dining at MoMo Café, which serves international buffet options and à la carte dishes, or relax at the poolside restaurant, Grills by the Pool. Leisure facilities include an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness centre. The hotel also features versatile event venues suitable for business functions and weddings.

 

Day 4:           Agra – Jaipur

 

Fringed by the rugged Aravali Hills, Jaipur is the capital and largest city in India’s northern state of Rajasthan. This city is famed for being India’s first planned city featuring a multitude of pink terracotta buildings within the walled historic centre, earning it the nickname, ‘The Pink City’. Jaipur falls within the Golden Triangle, a popular tourist circuit, which includes Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, and serves as a gateway to the neighbouring desert cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. This colourful city is a combination of tradition and modernity and offers visitors vibrant bazaars, lavish palaces and ancient temples. The salmon-hued old city is home to the opulent City Palace, encompassing an impressive assortment of palatial structures, sprawling gardens, courtyards and buildings. Do not miss the fairy-tale splendour of the Amber Fort, set against the backdrop of the arid landscape.

 

Early this morning witnesses the surreal views of the Taj Mahal. Step inside this eternal symbol of love and appreciate the intricate designs and symmetries that rhyme as a poem written in marble. Taj Mahal is an extravagant display of love, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz.

 

Then return to your hotel for breakfast.

 

After breakfast, leave with the private chauffeur driven vehicle Jaipur (approx. 235 kms/ 06 hours’ drive)

En Route make a short stop to visit The Chand Baori “Abhaneri” Small village of Rajasthan, which is one of the largest Step well in the world and one of the most beautiful ones.

Arrive Jaipur in the afternoon and check-in at the hotel.

Overnight: Hilton Jaipur             

Hilton Jaipur is ideally located on the outskirts of Jaipur, just 1km from Ram Nagar metro stop and 11km from Jaipur International Airport. The accommodation features comfortable guest rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities including coffee makers, LCD TVs, hairdryers, air conditioning, desks and Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant and bar. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre and spa.

 

Day 5:           In Jaipur

 

Day Itinerary

Begin exploring this city visit the City Palace complex which is spread over a large area occupying one-seventh of the old city of Jaipur. It is comprised of two palaces, Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, museum, a vast array of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The palace is a blend of the Shilpa Shastra of Indian architecture with Rajput, Mughal, and European styles. Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Bhaggi Khana (a museum), Pitam Niwas Gate, and Peacock Gate are must-see. Its outer boundary was built by Raja Jai Singh and the other structures by his successors to add charm to it. It also served as a residence for the former Maharaja of Jaipur, also visit the famous Jantar Mantar (an observatory)

 

Thereafter, head for a walking tour in the bazaars, this immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant bazaars, renowned for their exquisite textiles, distinctive artisanal goods, and delectable street food. A specially curated selection of Jaipur’s vibrant textile market and street delicacies, each reflecting the region’s rich culinary and cultural heritage, awaits your discovery.   The textile market, in particular, stands as a testament to Jaipur’s centuries-old tradition of craftsmanship, where intricate patterns, vivid colours, and fine fabrics come together to embody the artistic soul of the Pink City.

 

 

 

Later in the evening proceed for the majestic Amber Fort that’s perched on a hill on the outskirts of Jaipur. The fort was once the capital of Rajasthan. Former residence of Rajput Maharajas, this fort is notable for its grand architecture showcasing the Hindu style of architecture. The Amber Fort was used by the Rajputs for the dual purpose of defence and for private residence. The fort encompasses charming gardens and magnificent palaces made from marble and precious stones, richly decorated with intricate stonemason works and paintings.

 

The rest of the day is free for personal activities.

 

Day 6:           In Jaipur

 

Breakfast at Hotel

Days at leisure for own activities. (You will have a car and driver at disposal within city limits)

Overnight

 

Day 7:           Jaipur – Chandigarh

 

Designed by Le Corbusier – a renowned Swiss French Architect, Chandigarh has been hailed internationally for its excellent city design, attractive architecture and lovely parks. One of the main attractions is Leisure Valley – an eight-kilometre stretch of beautiful theme gardens. Other highlights include the Nek Chand Rock Garden – filled with sculptures crafted from recycled materials; the Government Museum and Art Gallery; and Sukhna Lake – popular with nature lovers, bird watchers and water sports enthusiasts.

 

Fly Jaipur to Chandigarh [Details TBA]

 

Arrive Chandigarh and check-in at your hotel. Standard check in time is 1400 Hrs.

 

Overnight: Taj Chandigarh

Amidst meticulously planned streets and majestic government buildings, Taj Hotel in Chandigarh offers an oasis of refined luxury and warm hospitality. Indulge in Chandigarh’s cultural delights, explore its green spaces and relish the architectural wonders while enjoying Taj’s legendary standard of hospitality.

 

Day 8:           Chandigarh – Kalka – Shimla

 

Shimla, lying deep in the foothills of the Himalayas, is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and the gateway into the more remote northern regions of Kashmir. It is also the stop-off for travellers venturing into the Kullu and Spiti Valleys. Sitting at an altitude of 2159 metres, the city is blessed with a cool climate and beautiful views of river valleys, pine forests, apple orchards and steep mountains covered with maize terraces. The Mall, a long, winding pedestrian-only walkway, is the commercial and social hub of Shimla, while those looking for natural beauty should head uphill through the forest to Jakhu Temple or follow one of the many forest trails in the eastern part of Shimla. To the south of the city, the bazaars bustle with local flavour.

 

 

Breakfast at Hotel

Leave in the morning to Dharampur railway station by drive [1 & ½ hrs. drive]

 

On arrival you will be assisted to board the UNESCO world heritage mountain train for Shimla.

 

Train                                                               Himalayan Queen

Depart Dharampur                                      1327 Hrs

Arrives Shimla                                              1730 Hrs

 

Toy Train – The Shimla – Kalka rail route, offers the charm of old-world travel amidst lofty pines and lush green, misty mountains. This is one of the four narrow gauge rail routes on hill terrain in the country. Laid out on a 96 km long narrow gauge track that passes through 103 tunnels and across more than 800 bridges and viaducts, it is one of the most beautiful hill railways in India. It was considered the “crown jewel” of the Indian National Railways during British times. Flanked by hills on both sides, the rail line, like twin threads of silver, clings to the steep cliffs and ventures boldly over bridges, built over tiny streams that show off their radiance in the sunlight. The cool breeze sweeps across your face as the train makes an arduous climb of almost 4800 feet.

 

 

 

Upon arrival in Shimla, transfer to hotel for check-in.

Overnight at hotel.

 

Overnight: Radisson Shimla  

Radisson Hotel enjoys beautiful views of the surrounding cedar forests and mountains. Offering free Wi-Fi, it also has a seasonal outdoor pool, pampering spa treatments and a gym. Fitted with both air-conditioning and heating, the large rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a minibar. A personal safe and tea/coffee making facilities are included. Bathrooms have shower facilities. Radisson Hotel is less than 200 metres from Jakhu Temple and The Mall. It is 1.3 km from Himachal State Museum. Shimla Airport is 26 km away. Free parking is available. The hotel also provides a business centre and laundry services. The front desk operates 24 hours.  Opening out to a garden, Cafe Valley Vue serves international cuisine. Drinks can be enjoyed at Pulse Terrasse Bar.

 

 

Day 9:           In Shimla

 

Breakfast at Hotel

 

Enjoy a half day for the visit covering Indian Institute for advanced studies (closed on Mondays), Sankat Mochan temple and the Mall Road.

 

Viceregal Lodge (Mondays Closed)

A little west of town on Observatory Hill, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study was built in the 1880s for the then-Viceroy of India. Known initially as Viceregal Lodge (and still commonly referred to by that name), every Viceroy stayed here at some point and the imposing mansion hosted many important political conferences and meetings that shaped the history of the Subcontinent. Post-Independence it was the Indian President’s summer retreat before inauguration as an academic institute in 1965. Today resident and visiting scholars focus on the humanities, social sciences and science, and the institute boasts an impressive library. There are regular daily tours of the interior.

 

Sankat Mochan Temple

Around five kilometres from Shimla, this is one of the town’s most popular temples. It was completed in 1966 following the earlier meditations in the surrounding forests of Neem Karoli Baba, a highly-regarded Hindu guru and spiritual master. Dedicated to Hanuman, the so-called ‘monkey god’, but now with numerous shrines to other deities, it’s particularly busy on Tuesdays and Saturdays while Sundays see a community kitchen where free meals are served to devotees.

The Mall

Curving around a relatively flat but slender stretch of Shimla’s ridge, pedestrianised Mall Road (sometimes just called the Mall) lies in the heart of Shimla. It’s a place where people stroll, take in the views and absorb the curious, almost

 

Day 10:        In Shimla

 

Breakfast at hotel

 

Full day at leisure in Shimla [No transport/guide services]

 

Overnight at hotel

 

Day 11:        Shimla – Chandigarh – Delhi

 

Breakfast at Hotel.

In time check out and transfer to Chandigarh railway station (approx. 3 hours’ drive)

On arrival you will be assisted to board an express train back to Delhi.

 

Train                                                               Vande Bharat Express (operates daily except on Wednesdays)

Depart Kalka                                                1515 Hrs

Arrives Delhi                                                1823 Hrs

 

Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to hotel.

Check in on arrival.

Overnight: The LaLiT New Delhi

Offering five-star accommodation, The LaLiT New Delhi is located in Connaught Place, India. The hotel boasts 461 luxury rooms and suites with conveniences such as minibars/fridges, electronic safes, TVs, interactive entertainment systems and free Wi-Fi. Guests can delight their palates at an array of on-site restaurants. The hotel also features a spa, an art gallery, a state-of-the-art gym and a swimming pool.

 

Day 12:        Delhi Departure

 

At an appropriate time, a Travel Counsellors Representative will assist and provide you the necessary transfer to the international airport to board your flight back home.

Standard check out time is at 1400 Hrs.