Classic India (26 days)

New Delhi – Varanasi – Khajuraho – Orchha – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ranthambore National Park – Jaipur – Udaipur – Ahmedabad – Mumbai – Goa – Kochi – New Delhi

This comprehensive India tour features an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but there is much more to the country than its famous landmarks. Carefully designed to offer a deeper understanding of India’s history, culture and people, the itinerary combines visits to ancient cities and magnificent monuments with regional cuisine, local encounters and experiences that reveal the extraordinary diversity of Indian life.

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

Tour Itinerary

Day 01/Thu: Departing for New Delhi
The trip begins with your international flight to New Delhi from a city of your choice. You will arrive the following day.

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 (one of the largest and most important mosques 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 and other goods.

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 one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and has been a major centre of Hindu religion, learning and pilgrimage for centuries. 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 Lion Capital of Ashoka, now India’s national emblem.

Witnessing the evening prayer ceremony 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 cremation ceremonies along the river while devotees bathe in the sacred Ganges can be an emotional experience.

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, a small town, 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 temples’ 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 introduces visitors to the history and legends associated with the Khajuraho temples.

Day 07/Wed: Khajuraho – Orchha (B/L/D)
Our sightseeing in Khajuraho continues this morning.

After lunch, we drive approximately 200 km 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 the 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 early modern Islamic 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 sites we 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 a lunch break 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 approximately 392 square kilometres, while the greater Ranthambore reserve in which the park is located covers about 1,334 square kilometres. The park 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, although their numbers fluctuate and sightings are never guaranteed. Besides tigers, wildlife in the park includes leopards, sloth bears, caracals, striped hyenas, sambar deer, chital, nilgai, wild boar and numerous other species. 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 safaris aboard specially designated safari vehicles are conducted by professionally trained naturalists. It is important to keep in mind that tiger sightings are 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 a lack of space and reliable water sources at Amber. Construction of Jaipur began in 1727, and much of the new city was completed within four years. 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). Successive rulers expanded and improved the complex. 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, the early-18th-century astronomical observatory.

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 Victorian influences and English-made fountains introduced during later alterations. 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 former mansion converted into a 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 rule.

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 (a traditional mansion, often built around a courtyard) design that became popular during the Mughal Empire (1526-1857).

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque was built in 1572–73 by Shaikh Sa’id Al-Habshi Sultani, an Abyssinian who rose from slavery to become a prominent nobleman. The mosque is particularly famous for its ten intricately carved stone latticework windows.

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.

Mumbai came under Portuguese control in the 16th century and was transferred to the English Crown in 1661 as part of the marriage settlement between Catherine of Braganza and King Charles II. It subsequently developed into one of British India’s most important commercial ports. Following India’s independence in 1947, the Bombay Presidency’s successor, Bombay Province, became Bombay State. In 1960, Bombay State was divided into Gujarat and Maharashtra along linguistic lines.

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 – Goa (B/L)
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 dating mainly from the fifth and sixth centuries CE, although archaeological evidence indicates human occupation of the island as early as the second century BCE.

We then visit the Gateway of India (a monument built during British Raj) followed by brief stops at the Rajabai Clock Tower and the University of Mumbai.

The late afternoon or evening flight to Goa takes about an hour and 25 minutes.

Day 21/Wed: Goa (B/L)
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 (2021).

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.

Day 22/Thu: Goa – Kochi (B/L/D)
We begin the morning with a visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus — part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Churches and Convents of Goa.

This is followed by a visit to the Goa State Museum, and a leisurely walk through the colourful streets of Panaji, the state capital.

Late afternoon 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.

We then visit the spice market in Mattancherry.

In the afternoon, we tour the Santa Cruz Basilica. This church dates back to the 16th century and 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 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. An airport transfer is included for your departure flight.

HOTEL LIST

Dates & Prices

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Scroll down for price inclusions & exclusions.

* Land Only price does NOT include international airfare. Please contact us for a fare quote.

Know Before You Go

Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months when applying for an Indian e-Visa and have at least two blank pages. We recommend six months’ validity beyond your departure from India. Travellers holding passports other than Canadian or American should verify requirements applicable to their nationality.

Visa – India

Canadian and American passport holders require a visa to visit India. Eligible travellers can apply for an e-Tourist Visa through the official Indian government website.

India offers 30-day, one-year and five-year tourist e-Visas, with different conditions and fees. Apply well ahead of departure, within the permitted application window. Once approved, carry a printed copy of your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

Foreign travellers must also complete an electronic arrival card within 72 hours before arriving in India. This is separate from the visa.

Vaccinations & Health Requirements

Consult a travel medicine clinic or healthcare professional at least four to six weeks before departure. Routine vaccinations should be current. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are generally recommended; other vaccinations or malaria prevention medication may be advisable depending on your health and itinerary.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from or transiting through certain countries where yellow fever is a risk.

For current advice, consult the Public Health Agency of Canada or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Tips for Staying Healthy

Food and Water

Avoid tap water, including when brushing your teeth. Drink sealed bottled water or properly treated water. Laurus Travel provides bottled drinking water during group activities.

Eat freshly prepared, thoroughly cooked food. Exercise caution with raw vegetables, unpeeled fruit, street food and ice made from untreated water.

Personal Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals. Carry hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol and a small supply of tissues, as public washrooms may lack toilet paper.

Air Quality and Mosquitoes

Air pollution can be severe in some Indian cities, particularly during winter. Travellers with respiratory or heart conditions should consult their physicians. Consider carrying an N95 mask.

Mosquito-borne diseases occur in India. Use repellent containing DEET or picaridin and wear protective clothing when appropriate.

Medication

Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip, in its original labelled packaging. Keep essential medication in your hand luggage and carry copies of prescriptions. Travellers with chronic medical conditions should seek medical advice before departure.

Local Currency and Credit Cards

India’s currency is the Indian rupee (INR). Rupees are readily available from ATMs at airports and in major cities, although fees may apply.

Most major expenses are included in your tour fare, so you will need relatively little cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and established shops, but small businesses may accept cash only.

Check foreign transaction fees with your bank. When paying by card, choose Indian rupees rather than your home currency to avoid potentially unfavourable conversion rates.

Travel Insurance – When to Buy

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance when your final balance is due, if not sooner.

Your policy should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, interruption and travel delays.

Check coverage limits, exclusions and provisions concerning pre-existing medical conditions. Some benefits are available only when insurance is purchased shortly after the initial deposit.

Laurus Travel can provide information about travel insurance options upon request.