Spirit of India

India: The Taj Mahal & Sacred Ganges

Experience the magnificence of the Taj Mahal and Amber Fort before searching for tigers in Ranthambore and discovering the sacred River Ganges.

Highlights:

• Just You Tour Manager as your host
• Return flights from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic
• Use of an airport lounge in the UK
• 11 nights in 4 & 5-star hotels, plus 1 night in flight
• 25 meals: 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 11 dinners

PLUS:

✔ Welcome drink
✔ Overseas transfers & other transportation
✔ Porterage
✔ Dedicated Just You representative at all UK airports

Itinerary

Day 1: UK to Delhi

• Fly from the UK to Delhi (overnight flight).

Day 2: New Delhi – Sightseeing Tour

• Arrive in New Delhi, India’s capital since 1911.
• Explore Qutub Minar and drive through the diplomatic quarter.
• See the President’s Residence and India Gate.
• Evening welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 3: Khajuraho – Temples & Dance Show (Optional)

• Travel to the ancient city of Khajuraho, home to world-famous temples.
• Evening (Optional): Watch a Kandariya classical dance show.

Day 4: Agra – Temple Visit & Train Journey

• Morning visit to Khajuraho temples (10th-11th century).
• See intricate carvings of nymphs, musicians, and erotic figures.
• Travel to Jhansi to board a scenic train to Agra.

Day 5: Agra – Agra Fort & Taj Mahal Viewpoint

• Visit Agra Fort, once the imperial city of the Mughal rulers.
• Stop at Mehtab Bagh, a garden offering breathtaking views of the Taj Mahal.
• Evening Mohabbat Taj Show, a romantic saga of love.

Day 6: Ranthambore – Taj Mahal at Sunrise & Train Journey

• Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise, a symbol of love built by Shah Jahan.
• Travel to Ranthambore, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted Mughal city.
• Board a train to Sawai Madhopur, the gateway to Ranthambore National Park.

Day 7: Ranthambore – Tiger Safari & Laal Maas Experience

• Morning Safari: Look for Bengal tigers, leopards, and exotic wildlife.
• Afternoon Safari: Another chance to explore this stunning national park.
• Evening: Try Laal Maas, a rich, spicy curry enjoyed by Rajasthani royalty.

Day 8: Jaipur – Scenic Drive & Camel Cart Ride (Optional)

• Morning (Optional): Additional safari game drive.
• Optional Activity: Ride a camel cart to a local village.
• Scenic drive to Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’.

Day 9: Jaipur – Amber Fort, City Palace & Traditional Lassi

• Morning: Visit Amber Fort, an iconic fortress with stunning views.
• Traditional Lunch: Dine in a 17th-century haveli with a royal family.
• Explore City Palace and Jaipur’s vibrant streets.
• Try Lassi, a yogurt-based drink traditionally served in earthen pots.

Day 10: Varanasi – Flight to India’s Holiest City

• Early flight to Varanasi, on the banks of the sacred Ganges.
• Witness the chaotic energy of India’s holiest Hindu city.
• Evening (Optional): Watch a traditional aarti ceremony, where offerings are made to the river deities.

Day 11: Varanasi – Sunrise Boat Ride & Buddhist Pilgrimage

• Sunrise Boat Ride: See devotees bathing in the Ganges and offering prayers.
• Morning short city tour of Varanasi.
• Afternoon: Visit Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.

Day 12: Delhi – Flight Back & Old Delhi Tour

• Fly back to Delhi in the morning.
• Explore Old Delhi, a labyrinth of bazaars, temples, and mosques.
• Visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s cremation site.
• Discover Humayun’s Tomb, an architectural masterpiece.
• Farewell Dinner with your group.

Day 13: Delhi to UK

• Transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Day 2: Eros Hotel, New Delhi

🌟 5-star hotel with elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and multiple dining options. Located in the heart of New Delhi, near major attractions.

Day 3 – 4: Ramada Jaipur

🌟 4-star hotel offering modern amenities, rooftop pool, and great dining. Centrally located, providing easy access to Jaipur’s landmarks.

Day 5 – 6: Abhyaran Hotel, Ranthambore

🌟 Comfortable wildlife lodge with a serene setting, swimming pool, and restaurant. Ideal for relaxing after Ranthambore safaris.

Day 7 – 8: Grand Mercure, Agra

🌟 5-star luxury hotel featuring stylish rooms, spa, and fine dining. Close to the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.

Day 9: Fortune Park BBD, Lucknow

🌟 4-star modern hotel with well-appointed rooms, excellent service, and a central location in Lucknow.

Day 10 – 11: Radisson Hotel, Varanasi

🌟 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and multiple dining options. Perfect for exploring the Ganges and spiritual sites.

Day 12: Pride Plaza Hotel, Aerocity, Delhi

🌟 5-star hotel near Delhi Airport, featuring elegant rooms, spa, and restaurants—ideal for a comfortable stay before departure.