Exotically stimulating, sophisticated and opulent, this private guided journey is fit for a Maharaja. Accommodation on this tour includes a collection of iconic Taj properties - many of which are the former palaces of Indian royalty. Behold the spellbinding highlights of India’s past and present as you tour the awe-inspiring natural and cultural wonders of Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and Mumbai with private guide and Chauffer. Be wisped along on this explicit journey through the unbelievable monuments, museums, palaces, forts, mausoleums, and gardens. Travelers are sure to enjoy a dawn boat cruise along the Holy Ganges River, a traditional Aarti ceremony, a ride by traditional Tonga showcasing the Taj Mahal, a tour led by a descendent of the Queen of Jaipur, exploration of India’s famous ghost city, a joy ride in a 1953 Classic Dodge’ fully air-conditioned and once owned by the Maharaja of Kota, a cooking lesson and dinner hosted by the royal Kanota family, a visit to rural village, stop at an enchanting desert oasis, tours of exotic and colourful markets, an assortment of mouth-watering regional cuisine and what trip to India could be complete without an elephant ride.

Delhi is a city of dramatic contrasts, and is the most popular starting point for any tour of India. A tour to Old Delhi includes the Red Fort and the mosque of Jama Masjid with a stroll through the bazaars of Chandni Chowk ("Moonlit Square"). A New Delhi travel includes the Humayun's Tomb, in many ways the precursor of the Taj Mahal, the India Gate, a memorial dedicated to the unknown soldiers who laid their lives in the World War I, the President's House, and the Parliament House.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

The Taj Mahal (City Centre) is nestled in six acres of lush greenery in the exclusive Diplomatic Enclave of the city, Taj Palace Hotel is a true luxury hotel near Gurgaon. Ready to provide you the best in comfort, the hotel hosts 422 guestrooms and 40 suites that are elegantly decorated and come with a host of in-room amenities. From casual, all-day eateries to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks at the onsite restaurant. Equipped with wireless broadband Internet access, the hotel offers conference services that include simultaneous translation in five languages.

Overnight at Taj Mahal (City Center).

This private guided tour of New Delhi boast spectacular monuments and holy sites. The city of New Delhi was designed in the typically British colonial style, with tree-lined avenues and colonial bungalows. Whilst on this tour you will see the Laxminarayan Temple, a modern Hindu temple, and Gate of India which is a 42 m high War Memorial Arch. On route you will drive past the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings and the Vice Regal Palace, which is now the official residence of the President of India.

Enjoy a deluxe dinner at a local restaurant.

The Taj Palace Hotel, New Delhi is a perfect embodiment of all qualities synonymous with the quality of Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces. Standing apart in service, its facilities and of course, in its distinguished patronage, this hotel has played host to Heads of State, corporate moguls and high profile businessmen from across the world. Nestled in six acres of lush greens in the exclusive Diplomatic Enclave of the city, Taj Palace Hotel is the only one in the top-of-the-line category near Gurgaon, and a mere 10 minutes drive from the airport.

Overnight at Taj Palace (City Center).

Private guided tour of Old Delhi. The Red Fort was the palace for Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad, when he moved his capital from Agra to bring prestige to his reign. Its wall is 1.5 miles long, and varies in height from 60-110 ft. At 72.5 meters, the Qutab Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Surrounding the building are many fine examples of Indian artwork dating back to 1193. Humayun's tomb is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture dating to the Slave Dynasty (1268-1287 AD). The complex is a World Heritage Site and the first example of this type of Mughal architecture in India. This style of mausoleum is similar to the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Overnight at Taj Palace (City Center).

Varanasi is set at the left bank of the mighty river Ganges, this immensely chaotic place of pilgrimage is known for its ritual burnings. A dawn boat ride down the river is a fascinating and unforgettable spectacle. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world - definitely a must see destination on any trip to northern India.

Relax and enjoy an airport transfer in a private vehicle, with driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight duration is approximately 90 mins.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Private guided tour of Sarnath, located 5 miles from Varanasi, the site is a deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is the Dharmekh Stupa is impressive at 128 feet high, and 93 in diameters. This dates back to 200 BC and is the sport where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon.  Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamekha Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, and several other Buddhist structures that were added between the 3rd and the 11th century BC.

This evening Aarti Ceremony is an absolutely wonderful sight seen from the Ganges river. This tour includes a boat ride to experience the magic of the river during this spectacular event.

Nadesar Palace is situated in one of the oldest living cities of the world, on the banks of the river Ganges. Nadesar Palace has hosted royalty, statesmen and celebrities since 1835. The name Nadesar is derived from the Goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the front of the Palace. Set amidst verdant gardens, mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, Nadesar Palace is a haven of peace and tranquility. Works of art from the Maharaja’s collection decorate the walls of the Palace’s 10 luxurious suites. Embellished with original pieces of furniture refurbished to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, the décor of the rooms is intended to evoke the colours of marigolds, jasmines, and pale pink lotuses that are offered to the holy Ganges.

Overnight at Nadesar Palace.

Agra boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort, and nearby Fatehpur Sikri. The Taj Mahal in all its timeless beauty is still the inspiration of poets and painters, writers and photographers. Agra Fort is a testament to the Mughal dynasties and their conqueror architecture. And the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri dazzles with its temples and palace yards.

Glide along the famous and holy Ganges waterway in a private boat accompanied by an expert guide. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi attract tourists and pilgrims of all ages for the opportunity to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one's sins. Pilgrims and tourists alike can be seen swimming and bathing immediately next to the funeral pyres of the riverside temples. This is a somewhat surreal experience and only for those with a strong constitution.

From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

Enjoy your flight from Varanasi to Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 90 minutes.

Meet your driver for a private transfer to Agra.

Situated close to the Taj Mahal, the world-renowned monument to love, The Taj View Hotel is also conveniently located near Agra Cantt Railway Station. Guests can look forward to gracious interiors, personalized service and the Taj's inimitable style for a memorable stay. Stylish and comfortable, all guestrooms at Taj View Hotel evoke the beauty of the Taj Mahal itself, with several offering an uninterrupted view of it. Taj offers a distinctive dining experience, one that explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favorites.Guests can take advantage of the hotel's recreation activities and its dedicated activity team that organizes a range of recreational activities.

Overnight at Taj Gateway.

Be amazed on this private guided tour of Taj Mahal, one of the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and Queen Mumtaz Mahal. Also visit Agra Fort, built of red sandstone and marble. This great monument of red sandstone dominating a bend in the river Yamuna, 2km northwest of Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughals during 1565-1571.

Enjoy a traditional ride on a Tonga (horse drawn carriage).

Overnight at Taj Gateway.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and known as the Pink City for its reddish stucco on the massive Rajput forts. The Amber Palace complex overlooking the artificial lake south of the town is one of the most popular tourist sites. Bustling markets offer great shopping.

Private guided tour of the ancient ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Built during the second half of the 16th century by the Emperor Akbar, the "City of Victory" was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only some 10 years. The complex of monuments and temples, all in a uniform architectural style, includes one of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid.

From its creation in 1727, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur patronized the craftsmen and artisans of the city. These traditions continue to this day and as a result modern day Jaipur is considered by many as the craft capital of India. Traditional methods are still used to produce many valuable and highly prized items. Using skills passed down through generations, artisans and master craftsmen can be seen in the areas of Ghat Darwaza and Vishveshwar ji.

On this fascinating evening walk mingle and talk with the locals whilst sampling some of the region's culinary delights; try pakoras, aloo tiki, samosa and ladoo from some of the city’s most popular street food vendors. Observe local artisans in their workshops; jewelers and silversmiths, gold painters and tie dying experts. The iconic Hawa Mahal also called the Palace of the Winds is the meeting point at which this two and a half hour walk begins.

Rambagh Palace has been home to generations of royals. Built in 1835 Rambagh was converted into a palace in 1925 and became the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. The ‘Jewel of Jaipur’ as it is fondly called, remained the home of the Jaipur royal family until 1957, when it was first converted into a luxury hotel by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II. But it wasn’t until 1972 that Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces took over the reins. It is now the ‘jewel in the crown’ among the authentic palaces of the Taj in India. In the finest tradition of Rajput hospitality, the Rambagh Palace offers its guests a taste of royal living – a luxury and extravagance that was once the sole preserve of kings.

Overnight at Rambagh Palace.

Private guided tour of Amber Fort, located in the city of Amber, 11 km from Jaipur. The structure which is today known as Amber Fort was initially a palace complex within the much larger Jaigarh Fort. The fort is constructed of red sandstone and white marble, overlooking Maotha Lake, and was reputed to be the treasure vault of the Kacchwaha rulers. The most magnificent sight is inside the hall of mirrors. When royalty lived here, at night they needed only a single candle, because the thousands of tiny intricate mirrors would light up the entire room.

Elephant Ride accompanied by a professional mahout to ascent Amber Fort and non-air-conditioned Jeep to drive down. Non-air-conditioned Jeep will be provided for both ways if the elephant ride is not available. 

An evening joy ride in 1953 Classic Dodge’ fully air-conditioned in its latest avatar, once owned by the Maharaja of Kota, is thrilling experience. The driver takes you through some of the notable landmarks of modern day Jaipur whilst cutting across wide roads, avenues and roundabouts. The Joy ride ends at Narain Niwas where you will be hosted by the Kanota family. What sets this royal house apart from the rest in Rajasthan is their culinary expertise which is widely acknowledged. All recipes were collected from various place and put in 50 hand written books to be passed over the generations with all cooking done under the supervision of the family members. The Kanota family even has their own Liqueur named “Chandra Haas” which they once upon a time brewed in their private distillery. Today you will have the opportunity to participate in an interactive cooking session of 2 Kanota recipes followed by dinner at the poolside.

Overnight at Rambagh Palace.

Udaipur is referred to as the most romantic city in India and dubbed the ‘Venice of the East’. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. The City Palace, or the Palace of the then King of Mewar, is built with white marble and shines in the bright sunshine. There are three interconnected lakes within the town; Fateh Sagar Lake, Pichhola Lake, and Swaroop Sagar Lake. Pichhola Lake is home to one of the most romantic hotels of the world, the Lake Palace Hotel. Fateh Sagar Lake contains two small islands, one contains the Udaipur solar observatory, and the other one has the beautiful Nehru Garden.

Private guided tour of the City Palace of Jaipur, an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture, originally built by Maharaja Jai Singh II of the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs. The vast palace complex occupies one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of massive astronomical instruments, built of local stone and marble. Each instrument carries an astronomical scale marked on the marble inner lining, and bronze tablets were also employed. Adjoining the Palace is the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the Hawa Mahal overlooks one of the main streets and also provides some excellent views of the city.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Fly from Jaipur to Udaipur via Delhi today. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

The Taj Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is a dream of white marble and mosaic glistening in the moonlight, very reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. Conceived in romance, the palace was built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, 62nd successor to the royal dynasty of Mewar – believed to be descendants of the Sun God. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli Mountains on one side of the lake, and lofty palaces on the other, the Taj Lake Palace spreads across a four-acre island – an almost surreal vision in marble. From casual, all-day dining to formal, fine dining, guests can look forward to a wide array of delectable culinary delights and refreshing beverages.Guests can treat themselves to a wide range of relaxing and rejuvenating activities.

Overnight at Taj Lake Palace.

Private guided tour of the majestic white City Palace built in granite and marble. This largest palace complex in Rajasthan is surrounded by crenellated fort walls, and overlooks Pichola Lake. The Garden of the Maids of Honor is well laid out with extensive lawns and shady walks. Constructed for forty eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to the royal house as part of the dowry, the garden has many fountains in its four delightful pools, chiseled kiosks and marble elephants. Crystal Gallery in the Fateh Prakash Palace features a breath taking collection of crystals including tables, sofa sets, dining table, dressers, fountains, beds, and an exquisite jewel studded carpet, which is beyond description.

Lunch at a local restaurant with your guide.

Overnight at Taj Lake Palace.

Jodhpur is a vibrant city of Palaces, Forts, temples and havelis. It is known as the Blue city, due to the indigo tinge of the whitewashed houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. The Umaid Bhawan Palace is not only one of India's most imposing palaces but also among its most recent. Mehrangarh Fort, The Jaswant Thada are other architectural landmarks in Jodhpur. The Jaswant Thada is a white marble memorial built in 1899 in memory of Maharja Jaswant Singh II. The monument, in its entirety, is built out of intricately carved sheets of marble.

Ranakpur, about 90 km from Udaipur, is the largest Jain temple complex in India and dates to the 15th century. The main temple is dedicated to Adinath, the first Tirthankar. Intricate carvings detail mythological figures, patterns and motifs on the walls, pillars and domes. There are 1444 ornately carved marble pillars in the complex and none of them are similar. The beautiful lace-like interiors of the domes are a superb example of western Indian temple style. Surya temple and other Jain temples are side attractions.

(Temples open only at 1100 Hrs. Leather belts, footwear, bare legs and black clothing not allowed)

Transfer to Jodhpur with private vehicle and driver.

This landmark Art Deco-style palace is five km (3 miles) from Jodhpur International Airport and 10 km (6.5 miles) from Mehrangarh Fort. Umaid Bhawan Palace offers an indoor pool, full-service spa, and steam room, and serves a complimentary Continental breakfast daily. In addition to available wireless Internet access, guestrooms feature balconies, CD and DVD players, and in-room safes.

Overnight at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (5*).

Private guided tour of the most magnificent building in Jodhpur, Mehrangarh Fort, constructed in 1459. The fort is situated on a lofty height, 400 feet above the city, and is enclosed by imposing thick walls. Inside its territorial boundaries, there are several palaces, which are known for their intricate carvings and sprawling courtyards. Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Umaid Bhawan Palace is built of marble and pink sandstone. An excursion to Bishnoi Village, gives you a glimpse of village life in Rajasthan.

Experience an enchanting desert oasis during your tours to Osian in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India; see the rich architectural heritage of Jodhpur and feel the rustic cultural fiesta of Osian with Rajasthan Holiday. Visit the Sun Temple, Sachia Mata Temple, Harihara I Temple, Kali Temple and the grand Jain temples that add to the historic flavor of your Osian tour with Rajasthan Holiday. The Harihara I Temple enchants you with its exquisite sculptures and frescoes depicting Lord Krishna frolicking with Radha.

Overnight at Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (5*).

Mumbai (Bombay), the cosmopolitan capital of India is located in the west of India. Its most recognizable monument is the Gateway to India, built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. From there you can catch a boat to the Elephanta Island, a UNESCO world heritage site where you can see rock-cut temples and caves dating back to the 6th century. There are museums such as the Gandhi, art galleries, bazaars, parks and temples. Bollywood, the film industry in Mumbai produces over 400 films a year and is therefore, the largest movie industry in the world. The actors enjoy their god-like statuses and dwell in exclusive mansions on Malabar Hill.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Enjoy your flight from Jodphur to Mumbai. The flight duration is approximately two hours.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Private guided tour of Mumbai. The Prince of Wales Museum is a magnificent structure, built in a confluence of Gothic and Moorish styles, and crowned by a sparkling white dome. It boasts a good collection of ancient Indus Valley artifacts dating back to 2000 BC, plus some priceless Tibetan and Nepali Art. Dhobi Ghat is where hundreds of Mumbai's traditional washer folk collect dirty laundry, wash it, and return it neatly pressed, all for a very small fee. Mani Bhavan is the old Mumbai residence of Mahatma Gandhi. It's a pretty, two-storied structure that now houses a reference library with over 2000 books, a photo exhibition of the Mahatma's life, and well preserved memorabilia.

Built in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower is an architectural marvel that brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the hotel is a landmark of Mumbai, showcasing contemporary Indian influences. The Palace offers generously appointed suites and rooms, each adorned with original paintings and period furniture that exude an aura of old-world charm and elegance. Taj offers a distinctive dining experience, one that explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favorites. Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, Taj Spa offers the best in Indian rejuvenation therapies.

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

The tour covers the Gateway of India, the heritage buildings of Kala Ghoda, Victoria Terminus, Crawford Market, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach. If you feel like walking, you can ask the Guide to take you to the traditional marketplace of Bhuleshwar, or the crowded lanes of Mohammed Ali Road. The streets are brightly lit, and crammed with businessmen whose day is far from over. Street food vendors are busy selling local delicacies to a hungry crowd.

Built in 1903, The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower is an architectural marvel that brings together Moorish, Oriental and Florentine styles. Offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, the hotel is a landmark of Mumbai, showcasing contemporary Indian influences. The Palace offers generously appointed suites and rooms, each adorned with original paintings and period furniture that exude an aura of old-world charm and elegance. Taj offers a distinctive dining experience, one that explores the nuances of the finest Indian and international cuisines, serving traditional and contemporary favorites. Blending ancient Indian wisdom with contemporary therapies, Taj Spa offers the best in Indian rejuvenation therapies.

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

Enjoy a private cruise through Mumbai Harbor brings you to the rock-cut cave temples on Elephanta Island. In 1987, the caves were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rock-cut temple complex covers an area of 60,000 sq ft consisting of a main chamber, two lateral ones, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. The site of these magnificent caves contained beautiful reliefs, sculptures, and a temple to the Hindu god Siva. The caves are hewn from solid rock. The temple complex is said to be the abode of Shiva.

Khyber is Mumbai's famous restaurant for Mughlai cuisine. Khyber has been going strong for decades and its tender kebabs remain outstanding (Frommers). The opulent decor includes original paintings by some of India's most famous artists. (No alcoholic or non alcoholic drinks included in this package)

Overnight at The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower Wing.

Airport transfer with private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking assistant.

Depart from Mumbai international airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.