5-Star Highlights of India

Today, depart for Delhi, India.

Upon landing at the airport, a representative will welcome you with a traditional garland, then a private chauffeur will drive you to your 5-star accommodation. While your check-in is being organised, receive a 'Welcome Folder' and a briefing on your upcoming tour.

As the seat of the Indian government and home to the Prime Minister and President, Delhi is a fascinating metropolis waiting to be explored. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing at the hotel or taking your first steps into this storied city.

Please note: Your flight may arrive in the evening of Day 1.

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on Day 0. Affected customers must be available to depart the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents, issued 4-6 weeks before departure.

Overnight: Hotel ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: In-Flight

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive tour of Old and New Delhi.

Start in the heart of Old Delhi at Chandni Chowk, a vibrant and historic shopping bazaar. Experience the energy of the market with a traditional rickshaw ride through its narrow lanes. Drive past the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and the magnificent Red Fort, both iconic symbols of Mughal architecture. You will also go past Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.

In New Delhi, visit the Laxmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to the goddess of prosperity. Continue to India Gate, a 42-metre-high stone archway commemorating the 85,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. Finally, drive past Rashtrapati Bhawan, the grand official residence of the President of India, featuring a unique blend of Mughal and Western design. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional activity for the day.

Optional Activity: Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites
India boasts an astounding 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and today you have the opportunity to explore two of Delhi’s finest: Visit Humayun’s Tomb, the first great example of Mughal architecture in India, featuring a complex of buildings set within manicured lawns and fountains. You will also stop at the Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret at 72.5 metres. Built in 1193, this red sandstone victory tower features five distinct stories intricately engraved with verses from the Quran. The optional activity price includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers, English-speaking guide and entrance fees. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart by road for Jaipur, the picturesque capital of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel.

Known as the 'Pink City', Jaipur is famous for its hospitality. This is a city where royal grandeur is still a way of life, with majestic palaces and vibrant traditions that have endured for centuries. The city’s timeless appeal is reflected in its colourful bazaars, beautifully laid-out gardens, and marvellous heritage monuments. Witness the unique charm of the streets, where ambling camels and locals in multi-hued traditional costumes create a memorable atmosphere.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short orientation tour of the city, followed by a fascinating sari and Indian costume demonstration. If you wish, you can take an optional cooking demonstration experience tonight with dinner.

Optional Activity: Cooking Demonstration Experience With Dinner
Make your day special by participating in a cooking demonstration to learn the secrets of authentic Rajasthani cooking in an informative and fun way. Experience cooking traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes while getting an idea about the different spices used to make the dishes more delicious and rich. The royal household of Jaipur is known for many succulent recipes and kitchen secrets that have been handed down from one generation to another over centuries. Your local chef will show you many cooking techniques and secrets while enjoying dinner with their delightful families. A must for cooking enthusiasts, you are sure to learn some absolutely mouth-watering tips and tricks to cooking up a storm. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Mementos by ITC Hotels, Jaipur or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the 'Pink City.'

Begin with a morning excursion to the magnificent Amber Fort (known locally as Amer Fort), located 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Once the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, this stunning fortress is crafted from white marble and red sandstone. Perched above the shimmering Maota Lake, the fort’s reflection creates a dreamlike illusion that is truly a sight to behold. In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Jaipur’s royal heritage at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This unique five-storey structure was built with intricate latticework to allow royal ladies to observe street festivities without being seen. Visit Jantar Mantar, the largest of five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, and the beautiful Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Optional Activity: City Palace, The Former Royal Residence
Visit the former royal residence, a grand complex that showcases a masterful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Still home to the Jaipur royal family, the palace houses a museum with rare collections of royal raiment, weapons, and carpets. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Mementos by ITC Hotels, Jaipur or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart for Agra, stopping en route to visit the incredible Chand Baori. Located opposite the Harshat Mata Temple, this ancient stepwell is one of the largest and deepest in India, featuring 3,500 narrow steps in a mesmerising symmetrical pattern. It is believed to have a sacred connection to the temple, serving as a site for ritual cleansing.

Continue the drive to Agra, the quintessential Mughal city and home to the world-renowned Taj Mahal. On arrival, check-in to your hotel.

Later, enjoy a visit to the Agra Fort (Red Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. This massive sandstone fortress showcases a sophisticated blend of Persian, European, and Indian styles. Once the seat of the Mughal Empire, the fort’s intricate artwork and garden designs famously influenced the construction of later monuments in Delhi.

Optional Activity: Visit to Baby Taj and Mehtab Bagh
Explore the landmark mausoleum of Itmad-ud-Daulah, affectionately known as the 'Baby Taj'. This intricately carved marble monument predates the Taj Mahal and is often considered the blueprint for its design. Conclude your afternoon at Mehtab Bagh, the 'Moonlight Garden', to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal at sunset from across the Yamuna River. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Mughal, Agra or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning offers a final opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal. Choose an early morning visit at sunrise, approximately 06:00, or a mid-morning visit at 09:00.

Marvel once more at the white marble architecture and intricate stone inlays of this 17th-century masterpiece, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The remainder of the morning is yours to enjoy at leisure in the 'City of the Taj'.

In the afternoon, transfer to the Agra railway station to board your high-speed train to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative and escorted via private transport to your hotel. Your representative will assist with your check-in, leaving you to enjoy your final evening in the capital.

Optional Activity: Agra Food Trail
Join a guided heritage walk through the hidden lanes and bustling markets of Agra. Meet the local vendors and sample authentic snacks including paratha, chaat, and the world-famous Agra Petha, a sweet treat born in the Mughal royal kitchens. Enjoy a warm chai served in a traditional clay cup as you explore the city's culinary history.

Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle transfers, English-speaking guide and a selection of snacks and chai.
Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

At the appropriate time after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None

Today, depart for Delhi, India.

Upon landing at the airport, a representative will welcome you with a traditional garland, then a private chauffeur will drive you to your 5-star accommodation. While your check-in is being organised, receive a 'Welcome Folder' and a briefing on your upcoming tour.

As the seat of the Indian government and home to the Prime Minister and President, Delhi is a fascinating metropolis waiting to be explored. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing at the hotel or taking your first steps into this storied city.

Please note: Your flight may arrive in the evening of Day 1.

Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur on Day 0. Affected customers must be available to depart the day before. Flight times will be indicated on your final documents, issued 4-6 weeks before departure.

Overnight: Hotel ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive tour of Old and New Delhi.

Start in the heart of Old Delhi at Chandni Chowk, a vibrant and historic shopping bazaar. Experience the energy of the market with a traditional rickshaw ride through its narrow lanes. Drive past the Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque, and the magnificent Red Fort, both iconic symbols of Mughal architecture. You will also go past Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated.

In New Delhi, visit the Laxmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to the goddess of prosperity. Continue to India Gate, a 42-metre-high stone archway commemorating the 85,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. Finally, drive past Rashtrapati Bhawan, the grand official residence of the President of India, featuring a unique blend of Mughal and Western design. Return to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional activity for the day.

Optional Activity: Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites
India boasts an astounding 40 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and today you have the opportunity to explore two of Delhi’s finest: Visit Humayun’s Tomb, the first great example of Mughal architecture in India, featuring a complex of buildings set within manicured lawns and fountains. You will also stop at the Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret at 72.5 metres. Built in 1193, this red sandstone victory tower features five distinct stories intricately engraved with verses from the Quran.

The optional activity price includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers, English-speaking guide and entrance fees. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart by road for Jaipur, the picturesque capital of Rajasthan. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel.

Known as the 'Pink City', Jaipur is famous for its hospitality. This is a city where royal grandeur is still a way of life, with majestic palaces and vibrant traditions that have endured for centuries. The city’s timeless appeal is reflected in its colourful bazaars, beautifully laid-out gardens, and marvellous heritage monuments. Witness the unique charm of the streets, where ambling camels and locals in multi-hued traditional costumes create a memorable atmosphere.

In the afternoon, enjoy a short orientation tour of the city, followed by a fascinating sari and Indian costume demonstration. If you wish, you can take an optional cooking demonstration experience tonight with dinner.

Optional Activity: Cooking Demonstration Experience With Dinner
Make your day special by participating in a cooking demonstration to learn the secrets of authentic Rajasthani cooking in an informative and fun way. Experience cooking traditional vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes while getting an idea about the different spices used to make the dishes more delicious and rich. The royal household of Jaipur is known for many succulent recipes and kitchen secrets that have been handed down from one generation to another over centuries. Your local chef will show you many cooking techniques and secrets while enjoying dinner with their delightful families.

A must for cooking enthusiasts, you are sure to learn some absolutely mouth-watering tips and tricks to cooking up a storm. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Mementos by ITC Hotels, Jaipur or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the 'Pink City.'

Begin with a morning excursion to the magnificent Amber Fort (known locally as Amer Fort), located 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Once the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, this stunning fortress is crafted from white marble and red sandstone. Perched above the shimmering Maota Lake, the fort’s reflection creates a dreamlike illusion that is truly a sight to behold. In the afternoon, continue your exploration of Jaipur’s royal heritage at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). This unique five-storey structure was built with intricate latticework to allow royal ladies to observe street festivities without being seen. Visit Jantar Mantar, the largest of five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, and the beautiful Lakshmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Optional Activity: City Palace, The Former Royal Residence
Visit the former royal residence, a grand complex that showcases a masterful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Still home to the Jaipur royal family, the palace houses a museum with rare collections of royal raiment, weapons, and carpets. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Mementos by ITC Hotels, Jaipur or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart for Agra, stopping en route to visit the incredible Chand Baori. Located opposite the Harshat Mata Temple, this ancient stepwell is one of the largest and deepest in India, featuring 3,500 narrow steps in a mesmerising symmetrical pattern. It is believed to have a sacred connection to the temple, serving as a site for ritual cleansing.

Continue the drive to Agra, the quintessential Mughal city and home to the world-renowned Taj Mahal. On arrival, check-in to your hotel.

Later, enjoy a visit to the Agra Fort (Red Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. This massive sandstone fortress showcases a sophisticated blend of Persian, European, and Indian styles. Once the seat of the Mughal Empire, the fort’s intricate artwork and garden designs famously influenced the construction of later monuments in Delhi.

Optional Activity: Visit to Baby Taj and Mehtab Bagh
Explore the landmark mausoleum of Itmad-ud-Daulah, affectionately known as the 'Baby Taj'. This intricately carved marble monument predates the Taj Mahal and is often considered the blueprint for its design. Conclude your afternoon at Mehtab Bagh, the 'Moonlight Garden', to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Taj Mahal at sunset from across the Yamuna River. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Mughal, Agra or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning offers a final opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal. Choose an early morning visit at sunrise, approximately 06:00, or a mid-morning visit at 09:00.

Marvel once more at the white marble architecture and intricate stone inlays of this 17th-century masterpiece, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The remainder of the morning is yours to enjoy at leisure in the 'City of the Taj'.

In the afternoon, transfer to the Agra railway station to board your high-speed train to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative and escorted via private transport to your hotel. Your representative will assist with your check-in, leaving you to enjoy your final evening in the capital.

Optional Activity: Agra Food Trail
Join a guided heritage walk through the hidden lanes and bustling markets of Agra. Meet the local vendors and sample authentic snacks including paratha, chaat, and the world-famous Agra Petha, a sweet treat born in the Mughal royal kitchens. Enjoy a warm chai served in a traditional clay cup as you explore the city's culinary history.

Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle transfers, English-speaking guide and a selection of snacks and chai.
Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: ITC Maurya, New Delhi or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

In time for your flight, transfer to the airport for your journey to Cochin (Kochi).

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

Popularly known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', Cochin is the oldest European settlement in India and one of the finest natural harbours in the world. This cosmopolitan city is a stunning blend of historical associations and natural beauty, situated between the Arabian Sea and the tranquil backwaters. From its picturesque low-rise buildings to its vibrant commercial hubs, Cochin perfectly reflects the eclectic culture and rich heritage of Kerala that has attracted voyagers for centuries.

Overnight: Le Meridien, Cochin or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a comprehensive city tour of Cochin. Visit the Dutch Palace, originally built by the Portuguese and famous for its vibrant murals depicting the Ramayana and Mahabharata. See the Koonan Kurishu Shrine, a historic chapel, and the Jewish Synagogue, which houses ancient copper plates inscribed in Hebrew. Continue to Fort Kochi to visit St Francis Church, the oldest European-built church in India, and the Santa Cruz Basilica, known for its beautifully painted ceilings. Finally, witness the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets lining the harbour’s entrance. Spend the afternoon exploring this heritage city at your own pace or join an optional walking tour.

Optional Activity: Heritage Walk through Fort Kochi
Gain a deeper insight into Cochin’s multi-layered history on this guided walking tour. Wander through the quaint streets of the old quarter, showcasing a unique blend of Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Jewish influences. The walk includes a visit to the seaside promenade, offering a firsthand look at the daily life and maritime culture of Kochi. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Le Meridien, Cochin or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart for Alleppey (Alappuzha), a region of immense natural beauty often referred to as the "Venice of the East." Upon arrival, board your private air-conditioned houseboat for a cruise through the tranquil backwaters. This vast network of lakes, lagoons, and freshwater rivers offers a unique glimpse into the maritime heart of Kerala. Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch, served onboard as you glide past coconut groves and local villages.

Spend the afternoon basking on the sun deck, taking in the serene atmosphere and observing the diverse birdlife. Famous for its houseboat holidays and the unique Kuttanad region, Alleppey provides a truly majestic experience on the water. Enjoy dinner and a peaceful night's sleep as the boat anchors in the heart of the backwaters.

Overnight: Air-conditioned houseboat, Alleppey

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Enjoy breakfast on board as you take a final cruise through the backwaters before disembarking and departing for Kumarakom. Upon arrival, check-in to your luxury lakeside accommodation. Situated on the shores of the enchanting Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a serene destination known for its glittering waters and still lagoons. Spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in the calm atmosphere. Gliding through these palm-fringed backwaters offers a unique glimpse into rural Kerala, preserved through the ages and hidden from the main roads. Whether you choose to relax by the lake or explore the lush surroundings, Kumarakom provides a perfectly peaceful retreat.

Overnight: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

After breakfast, enjoy a full day at leisure in the tranquil surrounds of Kumarakom. Take this time to further explore the shores of Vembanad Lake, relax by the resort pool, or simply soak in the serene backwater atmosphere.

Optional activity: Ayurveda Rejuvenation Massage
For those seeking rejuvenation, you may choose to indulge in a traditional Ayurvedic massage or treatment. Kerala is world-renowned as the home of Ayurveda, and the calm setting of the lake provides the perfect backdrop for these ancient healing practices. Please see current pricing in Important Information.

Overnight: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom or similar

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast at your resort and a morning at leisure, taking in the peaceful lakeside views one last time. In time for your departure, you will be transferred to Cochin International Airport to board your flight home, concluding your journey through the wonders of the Golden Triangle and the serene backwaters of Kerala.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None