New Delhi – Varanasi – Khajuraho – Orchha – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ranthambore National Park – Jaipur – Udaipur – Ahmedabad – Mumbai – Goa – Kochi – New Delhi
This comprehensive tour of India features a long list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but it goes beyond the postcard-perfect landmarks. The expert-designed itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the untold stories of ancient cities, savor the flavors of diverse cuisines, interact with locals, and connect with the authentic pulse of India.
Important Features
- Small group size – average 15, maximum 20.
- Multilingual expert guides.
- Quality Indian & Western cuisines.
- No annoying forced shopping stops.
- Unlimited supply of bottled water during group activities.
- Free Wi-Fi in all hotels.
Meal Code: B = breakfast / L = lunch / D = dinner
Day 01/Thu: Departing for New Delhi
The trip begins with your international flight for New Delhi from a city of your choice. You’ll lose a day upon crossing the International Date Line.
Day 02/Fri: Arrival in New Delhi
Meet your guide on arrival and transfer to the hotel in a private vehicle. No activity is scheduled for today and no meal is included.
Day 03/Sat: New Delhi (B/L/D)
Delhi is both a city and a national capital territory. The city of Delhi consists of two components – Old Delhi in the north and New Delhi in the south. Old Delhi is where most of the historical landmarks are located while New Delhi serves as the seat of India’s national government. Among the locals, Delhi and New Delhi are used interchangeably but this often leads to confusion among foreign visitors. Delhi is of great historical significance as an important commercial, transport, and cultural hub, as well as the political centre of India.
Our full-day sightseeing takes in Raj Ghat (Mahatma Gandhi Memorial), Jama Masjid (historic and largest mosque in India), Qutub Minar (minaret, UNESCO Heritage Site), and Humayun’s Tomb. Our schedule also includes a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk – a traditional market district of narrow streets crowded with shops selling all kinds of spices, dried fruits, jewelry, saris, etc.
Day 04/Sun: New Delhi – Varanasi (B/L/D)
The morning flight to Varanasi takes about an hour and a half.
Located in the middle-Ganges valley, Varanasi is regarded as the spiritual capital by Hindus, a destination for pilgrimage, death and mourning. Varanasi is among the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world with a tradition heavily influenced by Islamic culture. The city’s population is currently estimated at around 1.2 million.
After lunch, we explore the archaeological site of Sarnath. Located 10 km northeast of Varanasi, Sarnath is the place where the Buddha gave his first sermon to his followers. The site contains ruins of Buddhist buildings, a 39-metre-high stupa, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum which houses the famous Ashokan Lion Capital memorial pillar.
Witnessing prayer offering on the banks of the Ganges this evening is a major highlight of our trip. Performed by Hindu priests, this ritual begins at dusk every day and draws large crowds.
Day 05/Mon: Varanasi (B)
Enjoy an early morning boat ride on the Ganges. Observing the deceased lying in burning pyres next to devotees celebrating life in the holy river could be an emotional experience for many.
After a walking tour through parts of the ancient city, we spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 06/Tue: Varanasi – Khajuraho (B/L/D)
The morning flight to Khajuraho takes one hour.
Khajuraho is a small town with a population of no more than 25,000. However, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India owing to its large group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site collectively known as the Khajuraho Group of Monuments. Most of the temples were built between 885 AD and 1000 AD. Some of them are better known for their erotic sculptures although such sexual themes make up less than 10% of the entire temple sculptures.
We spend the afternoon exploring the main Hindu and Jain temples.
Evening entertainment is an outdoor sound and light show if available. The show attempts to present the basic history and myths of Khajuraho temples.
Day 07/Wed: Khajuraho – Orchha (B/L/D)
Our sightseeing in Khajuraho continues this morning.
After lunch, we drive 200 km (3 hours) to Orchha.
Orchha is a sleepy little town nestled on the banks of the Betwa River. It was founded in 1531 by Rudra Pratap Singh, the first raja of the kingdom of Orchha, who also started the construction of the magnificent Orchha Fort complex. Once the power centre of Bundela Rajputs in the 16th century, the town seems to be frozen in time. Only through the grandeur of its old palaces and temples can the visitor sense its past glory.
Day 08/Thu: Orchha (B/L)
Our sightseeing in Orchha today consists of Raja Ram Temple, Jahangir Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, Laxmi Narayan Temple and the impressive Royal Cenotaphs.
Day 09/Fri: Orchha – Agra (B/L/D)
We transfer to the train station in Jhansi (20 km northwest of Orchha) following breakfast for our three-hour rail journey to Agra.
Situated by the Yamuna River and about 200 km southeast of Delhi, Agra is best known for Taj Mahal, a mausoleum complex built in the 17th century for Mumtaz Mahal, consort of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Agra has a long history preceding the arrival of the Mughals. However, the historical monuments we see today in Agra are almost exclusively associated with the Mughals who established an Islamic early-modern empire that controlled much of South Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries.
Afternoon sightseeing introduces us to the massive Agra Fort, also known as Red Fort, which was built between 1565 and 1573 for Akbar (1542-1605), the greatest of the Mughal emperors of India.
Day 10/Sat: Agra (B/L)
Our sightseeing today begins with a visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal early in the morning. Described as the most extravagant monument ever built for love, this poignant Mughal mausoleum has become the de facto emblem of India’s tourism. Commissioned in 1631 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his consort, Mumtaz Mahal, the ivory-white marble mausoleum has to be seen in person for its beauty to be truly felt.
Other attractions on our list to visit today include Emperor Akbar’s Tomb, and Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb (nicknamed Baby Taj, often regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal).
Day 11/Sun: Agra – Ranthambore National Park (B/L/D)
After breakfast we travel overland to Ranthambore National Park (300 km). The entire journey including a stop at Fatehpur Sikri and lunch time takes about 7 hours.
Built during the second half of the 16th century by Emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri (City of Victory) was capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Fatehpur Sikri follows a uniform architectural style and includes one of the largest mosques in India.
Bound by Banas River to the north and Chambal River to the south, Ranthambore National Park covers an area of 1,334 square kilometres. It is named after the historic Ranthambore Fort, which lies within the park. The terrain interspersed with lakes and streams consists of tropical dry forest, open bushland and exposed rocks. The park is best known for its Bengal tigers which number to 86 according to the latest count in 2022. Besides tigers, wildlife in the national park includes the Indian leopard, Indian elephant, wild water buffalo, Indian bison, chinkara (Indian gazelle), and caracal, just to mention a few. In total, there are 40 mammal species living in the park. Visitors are also delighted by the large number of migratory and resident birds in the park; in fact, over 300 avian species have been recorded in and around the park.
Day 12/Mon: Ranthambore National Park (B/L/D)
Our morning and evening wildlife sighting safaris aboard purpose-designated vehicles are conducted by professionally trained naturalists. It is important to keep in mind that sighting of tigers is not guaranteed despite their relatively large number.
Day 13/Tue: Ranthambore National Park – Jaipur (B/L/D)
The 200 km drive to Jaipur following breakfast takes about 4 hours.
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan as well as the state’s largest city with a current population of over 3 million. It is known as the Pink City due to the dominant colour scheme of its buildings. Jaipur was founded by the king of Amber, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, for the purpose of being his new capital to replace the town of Amber. The move was necessitated due to lack of space and reliable water sources at Amber. Construction of Jaipur began in 1726 and took four years to complete. It was one of the earliest planned cities of modern India with a grid system interpreted in the light of Vedic architecture.
After lunch, we visit a social enterprise engaged in the provision of vocational training to Jaipur’s street children. The goal of the nonprofit, non-governmental project is to equip marginalized kids with valuable skills so that they can join mainstream society.
A visit to Birla Mandir follows dinner. This Hindu temple was built in 1988 and is constructed solely of white marble. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu (Narayan), whose images adorn the inside along with other Hindu gods and goddesses.
Day 14/Wed: Jaipur (B/L)
We begin today’s sightseeing at Amber Fort, a sprawling palace complex originally built by Raja Man Singh (r. 1589-1614) and expanded by Jai Singh I (r. 1621-1667). Improvements and additions were done by successive rulers over the next 150 years until Jaipur became the capital in 1727. Amber Fort is constructed of red sandstone and white marble. The opulent palace is laid out on four levels, each with a courtyard, and serves as a great example of Rajput architecture.
We spend the rest of the day exploring the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), and Jantar Mantar (astronomical observatory built in the 17th century).
Those wishing to check out a night market can go with the guide following dinner.
Day 15/Thu: Jaipur – Udaipur (B/L/D)
The morning flight to Udaipur takes just over one hour.
Udaipur, meaning “City of Sunrise”, is a medium-sized city in southern Rajasthan and boasts a multitude of magnificent ancient palaces. Our schedule today takes in the City Palace, Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, and a boat ride in the evening on Lake Pichola.
The City Palace is a complex built over a period of nearly 400 years beginning in 1553. Sitting atop a hill, the complex awes the visitor with its size and flamboyant style.
Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal is a cultural institution engaged in the study of local folk art including music and dance.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari (Garden of the Maidens) is an elegant garden built from 1710 to 1734 with obvious influence by English garden design. The garden was constructed on the order of Maharana Sangram Singh, the local ruler, and was used as his family’s green retreat in the otherwise dry lands of Rajasthan.
Day 16/Fri: Udaipur (B)
We spend the morning exploring Bagore Ki Haveli (a palace turned museum), Shri Ekling Ji (a Hindu temple complex originally constructed in the 8th century), and Udaipur Market.
The afternoon is set aside for relaxation or exploration on your own.
Day 17/Sat: Udaipur – Ahmedabad (B/L/D)
The drive to Ahmedabad following breakfast takes about 5 hours (260 km). Ahmedabad is the largest city in the state of Gujarat with a current population around 8.5 million.
We spend the time available today visiting Sabarmati Ashram, a riverside home of Mahatma Gandhi who lived here for a total of 12 years with his wife Kasturba Gandhi and some of his followers. It was from here that Gandhi led the Salt March, an act of nonviolent civil disobedience from March 12 to April 6, 1930 against British colonial government.
Day 18/Sun: Ahmedabad – Mumbai (B/L)
Our morning sightseeing takes in Hutheesing Jain Temple, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque and Adalaj Stepwell.
Hutheesing Jain Temple is named after the family that financed its construction. This not-so-ancient temple (built in 1848) combines the old Maru-Gurjara temple architecture style with haveli (partition or private space) design that became popular during the Mughal Empire (1526-1857).
Sidi Saiyyed Mosque was built by Shaikh Sa’id Al-Habshi Sultani, a slave-turned general and nobleman originally from what is today’s southern Pakistan. What made this mosque particularly famous are its ten intricately carved stone latticework windows.
Adalaj Stepwell was built in 1498 in memory of Rana Veer Singh, a local ruler. Stepwells, designed to collect rainwater for drinking, washing and bathing, were once common in arid areas on the Indian subcontinent. The Adalaj Stepwell stands out because of its elaborate design and embellishments.
The late afternoon flight to Mumbai takes just over one hour.
Day 19/Mon: Mumbai (B/L/D)
Mumbai, officially known as Bombay until 1995, is the capital of the state of Maharashtra and the de facto financial centre of India. It is also India’s second largest city with a population of roughly 20 million as of 2022. Mumbai was a centre of maritime trade with Persia and Egypt as early as 1000 BCE. Beginning in the first half of the 16th century, Mumbai came under Portuguese influence under duress. Afterwards, the British and the Dutch replaced the Portuguese in the control of Mumbai. The Bombay Presidency or Bombay Province, an administrative subdivision of British India, was restructured into Bombay State when India gained independence from the British in 1947. In 1960, the State was dissolved and split into the two states of Gujarati and Maharashtra along linguistic lines. India’s prolific Hindi film industry, dubbed as Bollywood (a portmanteau of Bombay and Hollywood), is primarily based in Mumbai.
Our schedule today includes Mani Bhavan (Gandhi’s Mumbai headquarters from 1917 to 1934, now a museum), Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (a historic railway terminus and UNESCO World Heritage Site), Flora Fountain (built in 1864), and Crawford Market (known for its colourful displays of fruits, vegetables and spices).
We conclude the day with a pleasant ride on Marine Drive.
Day 20/Tue: Mumbai (B)
After breakfast, we set out for Elephanta Island located 10 kilometres east of Mumbai. The Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consist of ancient rock-cut temples that date back to the 2nd century BCE.
We then visit the Gateway of India (a monument built during British Raj), stop shortly at the Rajabai Clock Tower and the University of Mumbai.
Free afternoon to explore on your own.
Day 21/Wed: Mumbai – Goa (B/L/D)
The morning flight to Goa takes about an hour and a half.
Once a Portuguese colony for over 450 years and now a state of India, Goa is known for its beautiful beaches, historic Portuguese architecture, and vibrant culture. Goa is also one of the smallest states in India with an area of 3,700 square kilometres and a population around 1.5 million.
We start our sightseeing in Goa with a visit to Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort that offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Next, we head to Anjuna Beach, known for its vibrant nightlife and flea market. Later in the day, we take a boat ride on the Mandovi River and visit the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
We end the day with a traditional Goan seafood dinner.
Day 22/Thu: Goa – Kochi (B/L/D)
We begin the morning with a tour of Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is followed by a visit to the Goa State Museum, and a leisurely walk through the colorful streets of Panaji, the state capital.
After lunch, we head to Colva Beach for some down time. This is one of Goa’s most popular beaches and known for its white sand and clear waters. Those who prefer to spend the time in the hotel can be easily accommodated.
After dinner, we go out for a cruise on a traditional Goan boat to enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Evening flight to Kochi.
Day 23/Fri: Kochi (B/L)
Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a port city in the state of Kerala. Its culture and history bear strong influences from the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. The city is known for its picturesque backwaters, beaches, and historical landmarks such as the Fort Kochi neighbourhood.
We begin our sightseeing in Kochi with a visit to the Mattancherry Palace. Also known as the Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and features murals and frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Next, we head to the Fort Kochi area to see the famous Chinese fishing nets – large cantilevered fishing nets introduced by Chinese seafarers during the early years of China’s Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Afterwards, we stroll through the Fort Kochi neighbourhood to check out the colonial-era buildings including the St. Francis Church. Built in 1503, St. Francis Church is one of the oldest European churches in India.
Day 24/Sat: Kochi (B/L/D)
We begin today’s sightseeing at the Hill Palace Museum, which is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala and houses a collection of antique royal furniture, oil paintings, and sculptures.
Visit to the spice market in Mattancherry comes next.
In the afternoon, we tour the Santa Cruz Basilica. This is a beautiful 16th century church that features stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
We wrap up the day with a sunset cruise on the backwaters of Kochi to see the local villages and experience the tranquil atmosphere of the area.
Day 25/Sun: Kochi – New Delhi (B)
We conclude our sightseeing in Kochi with a morning visit to the Paradesi Synagogue located in the Jew Town. Built in 1568, this is the oldest active synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations.
We travel back to Delhi by air (3 hours) and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 26/Mon: Departing New Delhi (B)
Your India tour ends this morning. Transfer to the airport any time today for your return flight. Airport transfer is included in the tour price.
HOTEL LIST
| City | Nights | Hotel | Category |
| New Delhi | 2 | Le Meridien | 5 star |
| Varanasi | 2 | Taj Ganges | 5 star |
| Khajuraho | 1 | Radisson Jass or better | 4 star |
| Orchha | 2 | Orchha Palace Hotel | first class |
| Agra | 2 | Trident Hotel | 5 star |
| Ranthambore | 2 | The Tigress | 4 star |
| Jaipur | 2 | Trident Hotel | 5 star |
| Udaipur | 2 | Trident Hotel | 5 star |
| Ahmedabad | 1 | Hyatt Regency | 5 star |
| Mumbai | 3 | Trident Hotel Bandra Kurla | 5 star |
| Goa | 1 | Larisa Resort Ashwem | 5 star |
| Kochi | 3 | Trident Hotel in Cochin | 5 star |
| New Delhi | 1 | Pride Plaza Hotel | 5 star |
Dates & Prices
discount available
Price based on double occupancy. See Terms & Conditions for cancellation penalty. Scroll down for price inclusions & exclusions.
| Depart (Thu) |
Return (Mon) |
Land Only* CA$/US$ |
Single Supplement CA$/US$ |
| 2025 | |||
| 30-Jan | 24-Feb | $13,480/$9,980 | $3,780/$2,800 |
| 13-Feb | 10-Mar | $13,163/$9,750 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 20-Feb | 17-Mar | $13,163/$9,750 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 27-Feb | 24-Mar | $13,163/$9,750 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 13-Mar | 07-Apr | $12,935/$9,580 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 30-Oct | 24-Nov | $12,935/$9,590 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 06-Nov | 01-Dec | $13,095/$9,700 | $3,625/$2,685 |
| 13-Nov | 08-Dec | $13,203/$9,780 | $3,760/$2,785 |
| 20-Nov | 15-Dec | $13,298/$9,850 | $3,848/$2,850 |
* Land Only price does NOT include international airfare. Please contact us for a fare quote.
|
What the tour price includes:
|
What the tour price excludes:
See Terms & Conditions for more information. |
Passport
Your passport must have at least 2 blank visa pages and 6 months of validity at the end of the tour.
Visa – India e-Visa & Fee
Visa is required. India issues electronic visa to eligible applicants. Details can be found on the Indian government’s website. India tourist e-Visa for Canadians and Americans, valid for 30 days to 1 year or 5 years, currently costs US$25, US$40 and US$80 respectively. Payment can be made by Visa or MasterCard. Please note that a card payment surcharge of 2.5% applies to all transactions in addition to any applicable foreign transaction and/or currency conversion costs.
Immunization
We are not aware of any inoculation requirements. Please visit the websites of your national government’s disease control centre and the Indian High Commission or embassy in your country for the latest. We recommend all guests be vaccinated against hepatitis A.
Tips on Staying Healthy
Do not drink from the tap when you travel. Ask for bottled or boiled water when eating in restaurants. When buying bottled water from street vendors, especially at tourist sites, make sure the cap is properly sealed because some vendors may be selling tap water in recycled bottles.
Try to avoid uncooked food. Raw food, even clean, may cause stomach upset or diarrhoea.
Always carry a roll of toilet paper and a bottle of hand sanitizer containing more than 60% of alcohol, no matter where you go.
Always have an N95 type of facemask handy when you travel by public transport. Passengers sitting next to you may be sick and cough loudly but wear nothing to cover their mouth. This was a big problem before the pandemic that may return soon.
Banknotes in general carry all kinds of germs. Minimize your contact with local banknotes and coins by keeping them in a plastic bag and sanitize your hands every time you touch them. Use plastic for payment as much as possible.
Local Currency & Credit Card
The Indian currency is called rupee (ISO code: INR), which can be withdrawn from ATMs upon arrival in India. Please keep your inventory of local currency to the minimum. The tour fare already covers all the expensive items and most, if not all, of the meals. You only need some local cash, which can be easily obtained as you go, for such incidentals as souvenirs and tips not included in the tour price.
Consider using credit cards for transactions over $20. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted across India. Street vendors may ask for U.S. dollars but please exercise caution if you want to play along.
Travel Insurance – When to Buy
You are strongly advised to buy trip cancellation & emergency medical insurance when your balance is due. Without proper coverage, the loss can be devastating if you are forced to cancel the trip prior to departure or return prematurely due to an emergency. Ask us for a premium quote if necessary.
