Royal North India with Taj Hotels

Arrival at Delhi

Once you arrive at Delhi international airport in the late evening, our company representatives will receive you. Delhi, the capital of India, is where the rich history of India meets the modernity of a metropolitan city. The city is dotted with numerous historical monuments and is a window to the kaleidoscope that is India.

Check in to the Taj Mahal Hotel, one of the finest Taj hotels in North India. Located in the heart of Lutyens Delhi, the luxurious hotel offers beautiful views of the entire city. The hotel is well known for its excellent hospitality and service, complemented by beautiful architecture.

Relax at the hotel and overnight stay will be in Delhi.

Delhi

Proceed for a full-day sightseeing tour of Delhi. In old Delhi, the first place on the day’s itinerary is Raj Ghat, the memorial site where Mahatma Gandhi is cremated. Other must-visit places in Old Delhi include the Jama Masjid- the largest mosque in India, and the Red Fort- an imposing fort built during the reign of the Mughal Empire.

Enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through the colorful bylanes of old Delhi from Jama Masjid to Chandni Chowk. In New Delhi, visit Humayun’s tomb, Qutub Minar, a ride through the ceremonial avenue- Rajpath, Parliament House, President’s Residence, and Diplomatic Enclave.

Stay overnight in Delhi.

Delhi-Agra (by road 201 km/4 hr):

Have an early breakfast and proceed to Agra. The little village of Agra was transformed into the second capital of the great Mughal Empire by two rulers- Akbar and Shah Jahan. It was given the name of Dar-ul-Khilafat, which translates into “the seat of the Emperor”.

Today, the city is dotted with contrasting edifices built of red sandstone and white marble, narrow galleys, and quaint buggies. Agra has an irresistible charm to it that never seems to wear off.

Reach Agra late in the morning and check into the Taj Hotel and Convention Centre, Agra. Relax at what is one of the best Taj hotels in North India. The hotel provides personalized hospitality to the guests coupled with excellent quality of service and delicious meals at the restaurants. Proceed for sightseeing later in the day.

Taj Mahal is one of the most popular monuments in India. This architectural marvel attracts tourists from all across the globe and is always the soul raison-de-etre for every tourist’s visit to Agra. This beautiful white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beautiful wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It was built under the instructions of Ustad Isa, a Persian architect, and took 22 years to complete. The imposing dome with the four minarets surrounding it is a stunning example of balance and symmetry. The Taj Mahal is well-known for the delicate and intricately carved screens and inlay work.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, proceed to the Agra Fort. It was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565 AD and is predominantly made of red sandstone. The beautiful Pearl Mosque is located within the premises of the Red Fort.

Stay overnight at Agra.

Agra-Ranthambore (by road 221 km/ 6 hr)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then drive to Fatehpur Sikri- a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This red sandstone city was built by Emperor Akbar as his capital and palace in the late 16thy century. It is a fairy-tale city and has ruins of the great Mughal Empire, in almost pristine conditions. Tourists can only imagine the grandeur of this place during the Mughal reign. Also, visit the Buland Darwaza which is the world’s largest gateway.

Following this, proceed to Ranthambore.

The Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve is located at the junction of the Aravallis and the Vindhyas. It is a unique melting point of natural and historical richness and stands out in the vast and arid tract of eastern Rajasthan, about 14 km away from Sawai Madhopur. Enjoy a holiday amidst the beautiful nature in the heart of the jungle. Most of the resorts of this region are located close to the National Park Gate. The closest one is Tiger Den.

The Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve sprawls across a highly undulating topography that consists of gentle to steep slopes- from the flat-topped hills of the Vindhyas to the conical hills and sharp ridges of the Aravallis. The ‘Great Boundary Fault’ is an important geographical feature that can be seen here. It is where the Vindhya plateaus meet the Aravalli range. The Park is bound in the south and north by the Chambal and Banas rivers respectively.

Tiger is at the apex of the food chain and is well known for its subtle and solitary ways. As a result. Tiger sightings are a matter of chance. Once you reach, check in to the Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge. One of the most beautiful Taj hotels in North India, Taj Sawai Madhopur Lodge, is a heritage resort that offers exemplary services and warm hospitality to the guests. It is the perfect resort to relax and unwind.

Spend the evening in leisure or look at some tiger slides. Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at the resort and retire for the day.

Ranthambore

Today, wake up early and proceed for your safari to the National Park. Track tigers and other varieties of wildlife throughout the morning and return to the lodge by 10 AM. Enjoy breakfast and spend time relaxing by the pool. Tourists can also go for a visit to the temple on top of the fort.

After lunch in the afternoon, proceed for the afternoon safari which continues till 5-6 PM in the evening. After this, return to the resort or lodge and enjoy dinner. Stay overnight at Ranthambhore.

Ranthambore-Jaipur (by road in 5 hrs)

Proceed to the Ranthambore National Park for the third safari. Once the safari is over, return to the resort for breakfast. After breakfast, start for Jaipur. The origins of the pink city, Jaipur, can be traced back to the 18th century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. The city epitomizes the strength and spirit of Rajputana. Today it has developed into a bustling metropolis, but still retains its rich culture and heritage. The city is popularly known as the pink city because of the extensive use of the abundantly available pink plastered stone. The city was painted pink in honor of the visit of the royal consort of Queen Victoria. Jaipur is an ultimate treat for tourists with its massive forts and palace, exquisite temples, and lush green gardens.

Once you reach Jaipur, check-in at the Taj Rambagh Palace hotel. The Taj Rambagh Palace hotel offers 78 stunningly restored grand luxury rooms and suites. It offers great hospitality and was originally built in 1835.

In the evening, visit the beautiful Birla Temple to understand the fascinating religious life of Jaipur. This marble structure was built in 1985 and is an architectural marble with its ornate statues of Lakshmi, who is the Hindu goddess of Wealth and Beauty, and Narayan dressed in rich robes, representing a Hindu vision of heavenly luxury. The walls of the temple are covered in intricate carvings that include images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses as well as images of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and St. Francis of Assisi. Witness the extravagant Aarti ceremony during which the priest waves a lit lamp and chants prayers to awake and invoke the deity. It is a wonderful experience.

Stay overnight at Jaipur.

Jaipur

Post breakfast, proceed for an excursion to the Amber Fort in the outskirts of Jaipur. Enjoy an elephant ride ascent to the fort. The Amber Fort is a classic example of a typical romantic classic Rajasthani fort palace. The construction of the Amber fort was started in 1592 by Man Singh I and was completed by his descendant Jai Singh I. The forbidden exterior protects an inner paradise. It is a beautiful fusion of Hindu and Mughal styles of architecture.

The City Palace is the next place on the itinerary of the day. It is built in traditional Rajasthani architecture and covers over one-seventh of the area of the walled city. It is home to Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Temple, and the City Palace museum. Visit the Jantar Mantar, the largest and the best-preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II. It consists of outsized astronomical instruments that are still in use. Also, visit the Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Winds’. This prominent landmark of Jaipur is a five-story structure made of sandstone plastered with pink with fine trelliswork and elaborate balconies. The palace boasts of 953 niches and windows. It was built in 1799 by Pratap Singh and was a grandstand for the royal women.

In the evening, our local expert shall guide you on a walking tour of the Old Bazaar of Jaipur and Evening Jaipur. Explore the cuisine and crafts of Old Jaipur. Since its creation in 1727, the royal families and nobles of Jaipur have patronized the talented craftsmen and artisans of the pink city. These traditions are prevalent to date and as a result, Jaipur is considered to be the crafts capital of India. The craftsmen and artisans are mainly seen in the areas of Ghat Darwaza and Vishveshwar Ji, working diligently using skills passed down through generations. Enjoy a walk through the colorful bazaar, interact with the locals, and indulge in local delicacies like pakoras, Aloo Tikki, samosa, and sweets from some of the most popular street food vendors of the city. Witness the local artisans in their workshops, silversmiths, jewelers, and gold and silver foil makers.

Stay overnight at Jaipur.

Jaipur-Pushkar (by road in 3 hrs)

After breakfast, proceed to Pushkar. Pushkar is a unique gem amongst the grandeur of Rajasthan. It is believed that the creator of the earth, Lord Brahma, performed the supremely spiritual Vedic Yagna at Pushkar in search of his abode on Earth. Therefore, it is the site of the only Brahma temple in the world. Pushkar hosts the famous Pushkar Fair that attracts visitors from all across Asia. The fair is mainly to buy and sell breeds of cattle from all across the globe and is among the world’s largest cattle fairs in the world. Ajmer is home to the consecrated mausoleum of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti which attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world. Pushkar boasts of timeless architectural heritage and is known as a city of pilgrimage with over 500 temples and ghats. The general spirit of peace and spirituality of Pushkar lures tourists to visit again and again. Pushkar is one of the oldest cities in India with references to it in Indian mythology and the Mahabharata. There are 52 bathing ghats in this region, linked to the lunar calendar, surrounding the lake. Each ghat has its own miraculous properties and is believed to have powers of healing. Roses from the famous Rose Garden of Pushkar are exported all over the world. Pushkar boasts of the most varied terrain in Rajasthan with sand, hills, rocks, and proximity to several heritage properties in the area.

Once you reach Pushkar, check in to the Taj Gateway Pratap Mahal Resorts & Spa. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Aravalli Hills in a picturesque green oasis, this resort is one of the best Taj hotels in North India. It offers warm service coupled with stunning views from the private balconies of each room.

Visit the mausoleum, Anasagar, and Akbar’s Palace later in the day. Stay overnight and relax at the hotel.

Pushkar-Jodhpur (by road in 6 hrs)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, drive to Jodhpur. The origin of this city dates back to 1459 AD when it was founded by Rao Jodha, the Rajput chieftain of the Rathores. Also known as the Marwar, the Rathore kingdom was the largest in Rajputana. Jodhpur is the second-largest city in the state of Rajasthan and is also called the Gateway to the Thar. It is on the edge of the Thar Desert and is also known as the Sun City as the sun shines brightly almost every day of the year.

Reach and check in to the Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace. The Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace is a luxury 5-star Taj heritage hotel, offering 70 splendid Deco-style rooms and suites. The Zodiac pool and the lush gardens with dancing peacocks make for an experience of a lifetime. Enjoy authentic Indian and Rajasthani cuisine at this luxury hotel.

In the evening, visit the Museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace. The Umaid Bhawan Palace is an architectural marvel and was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh of the Rathore dynasty. Being the youngest palace of India, this palace boasts of architectural splendor and marvelous heritage. The palace sprawls across 26 acres of land and is perched high above the Blue City of Rajasthan. Interesting stories are hidden in every nook and corner of this golden-yellow palace which is also known as the Chittar Palace.

Stay overnight at Jodhpur.

Jodhpur

Post breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of the blue city. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort which stands a hundred feet in splendor on a perpendicular cliff, around 400 feet above the skyline of Jodhpur. Built of burnished red sandstone, this imposing fort has an invincible yet haunting beauty to it. It has been rightfully labeled as the Citadel of the Sun and is one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan. It was called the “the work of Giants” by Rudyard Kipling because of its colossal proportions.

The next place on the day’s itinerary is Jaswant Thada. It is a white marble memorial dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and was built in 1899. The cenotaph is covered with beautiful jalis (carved -marble lattice screens) and portraits of the Rathore rulers going back to the 13th century.

Later in the day, go on a jeep safari to explore the beauty of rural Rajasthan in its full glory. Meet the expert team at the Kakani village and here starts your ‘Rural and Rustic’ experience. Engage in an off-road adventure and catch a glimpse of the rich culture and true essence of India.

Visit a couple of homes and then enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at a scenic spot or under the shade of a tree. The driving experience in a 4 x 4 vehicle through the roads less traveled in Rajasthan while enjoying an unadulterated view is a lifetime experience. The natural beauty of the rugged desert landscape and the simplistic purity of the village life are the main highlights of this safari. Drive through the rough terrains of a river bed, explore rural villages, visit the local communities, and experience the local lifestyle and culture of the people. Also, witness a large variety of wildlife on this safari.

During the safari, the tourists traverse the countryside through dirt tracks, dry riverbeds, camel tracks, and sometimes through tracks that they create themselves. During the drive, you arrive at the villages of local communities and can visit their homes to witness their simple yet colorful lifestyle, that is in complete harmony with nature. An expert shall explain the customs and culture to you and you also get a chance to see the abundant wildlife including blackbuck, chinkara, wild boar, Nilgai, desert fox, and a large variety of indigenous and migratory birdlife.

This is followed by a visit to a village where the tourists are introduced to a senior member of the local community who invites you to take part in a ceremony of friendship and brotherhood. After this, he personally takes you for a walk around the village to witness the skilled craftsmen and artisans at work and the village life of Western Rajasthan.

Spend the evening at leisure and stay overnight at Jodhpur.

Jodhpur-Ranakpur-Udaipur (by road 266 km/ 5

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel and then start for Udaipur. Visit Ranakpur en route.

Visit the Ranakpur Temples, one of the five main pilgrimage spots for Jains. It is located in the Ranakpur village, close to Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan. It lies 95 km to the north of Udaipur city and is easily accessible from Udaipur as regular buses are available. Ranakpur temple is well known for being one of the largest and most important temples for the Jain cult and dates back to the 15th century.

Continue your drive to Udaipur, one of the most charming cities in Rajasthan. It has a romantic setting unmatched in Rajasthan and arguably in all of India. Udaipur abounds in fantastic palaces, forts, temples, Havelis, and countless narrow colorful adds that add to the natural charms of the city. Tourists can enjoy the tranquil of boat rides as well as the bustle and colors of the ancient bazaars of Udaipur. The city boasts of crafty hotels, endless tempting crafts ships, and some lovely countryside to explore on feet, wheels, or horseback.

Once you reach Udaipur, check in to the beautiful Taj Lake Palace. Formerly known as Jag Niwas, the Taj Lake Palace of Udaipur has 65 luxurious rooms and 18 grand suites, each of which provides exemplary views of the neighboring City Palace. Taj Lake Palace provides a perfect blend of luxury and excellent services.

In the evening, proceed for a motor launch cruise on the placid waters of the beautiful Lake Pichola. Enjoy the breath-taking views of the city of Udaipur as it rises majestically above the lake, in the middle of the Rajasthani desert. Don’t forget to visit the Jag Mandir Palace, an island palace in the middle of the lake.

Stay overnight at Udaipur.

5 hrs)

After having breakfast at the hotel, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Udaipur. The first palace to visit is the City Palace. This imposing palace is the largest palace of Rajasthan, with a 244 m long and 30.4 m high façade. The construction of this palace was started in 1599 by Maharana Udai Singh I, the founder of the city. It later became a conglomeration of 11 separate palaces built and extended by various maharanas. Surprisingly, the palace still manages to retain a uniformity of design.

Visit the famous Saheliyon ki Bari, built by Maharana Sangram Singh in the 18th century to please his princess. The garden boasts of four pools ornate with delicately carved kiosks, marble elephants carved out single pieces of stone, and marble lions serving the purpose of fountains. It paints a royal picture of the glory of the bygone era. There is also a small museum in the garden that exhibits soft toys and classic pictures. This is where the kings used to enjoy leisure time, far away from their political and social duties.

Also visit Bagore ki Haveli, an ancient monument that stands on the platform of Gangori Ghat near Lake Pichola. It boasts of splendid architecture with delicate carved work and excellent glasswork. It was built by Amir Chand Bawa, the chief minister of the Mewar Royal Court, in the 18th century. After the death of Amir Chand Badwa, the building came into the possession of Mewar State.

The Jagdish Temple is another important place to visit in Udaipur. It is one of the most famous temples in Udaipur and was built in the Indo-Aryan style of architecture in 1651. It was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in the complex of the City Palace of Udaipur. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is celebrated for being the largest temple in the city.

In the early evening, proceed for a visit to the Monsoon Palace for a splendid sunset experience. This palace was named after Maharana Sajjan Singh and is also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace. Located atop a hill, it was originally built to overlook Maharana Sajjan Singh’s hometown, Chittorgarh. The palace offers panoramic views of Udaipur that rose to prominence during the reign of Maharana Sajjan Singh.

Stay overnight at Udaipur.

Udaipur

Early morning, take a flight to Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. Formerly known as Bombay, this city is home to dreamers and hard laborers, starlets, gangsters, artists, fisherfolk, millionaires, stray dogs, and exotic birds. Known for India’s most prolific film industry, some of Asia’s biggest slums are found in Mumbai. The largest tropical forest in an urban zone is also found in Mumbai. Mumbai is credited for being the financial powerhouse, fashion epicenter, and pulse point for religious tension in India.

Once you reach, check in to the majestic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. It is a striking blend of nostalgic elegance, rich history, and striking modernity. It offers excellent hospitality and is strategically located at the heart of the city. In the afternoon, proceed for sightseeing of the beautiful city. Visit the Gateway of India. This basal arch of colonial triumph overlooks the Mumbai Harbour from the tips of Apollo Bunder. The architectural style incorporates Islamic styles originating in the 16th century in Gujarat. Built to commemorate the royal visit of King George V in 1911, but wasn’t completed until 1924. The irony lies in the fact that this very gateway was used by the British builders of the gateway just 24 years later to parade the last British regiment as India marches towards independence. Marine Drive was built on reclaimed land in 1920. It arcs along the shore of the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point past Girgaum Chowpatty and extends to the foot of Malabar Hill. The Marine Drive is lined with flaking art deco apartments and is one of Mumbai’s most popular promenades and sunset-watching spots. It has earned the nickname of Queen’s Necklace because of the twinkling lights that shine at night. Also visit the Queen Victoria terminus, a monumental train station with imposing and exuberant architecture and always overflowing with people. It is a gothic building and is an aphorism for colonial-era India. The style of architecture is a perfect blend of Victorian, Hindu, and Islamic styles with Daliesque structures of buttresses, domes, turrets, spires, and stained glass.

Another important place of tourist interest in Mumbai is the Mani Bhavan, a poignant, tiny museum where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visits to Mumbai between 1917 to 1934. Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, formulated his philosophy of Satyagraha and launched the Civil Disobedience Movement from here.

Visit the Prince of Wales Museum, Mumbai’s biggest and best museum. It displays a mix of exhibits from all across India. The domed structure is an intriguing melting pot of Islamic, Hindu, and British styles of architecture. This Indo-Saracenic design was created by George Wittet, who also designed the famous Gateway of India. The museum displays a plethora of impressive Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, terracotta figurines from the Indus Valley, miniature painting, and deadly weaponry.

Enjoy the serenity of the beaches in the evening. Visit the Chowpatty Beach, a favorite spot in the city for couples, families, political rallies, or for anyone looking for a whiff of fresh air in the bustling city. Enjoy the lip-smacking local snack bhelpuri, from the stalls at the southern end of the beach.

Stay overnight in Mumbai.

Udaipur-Mumbai (by air)

After breakfast, proceed to Elephanta Caves excursion. These rock-cut temples on Gharapuri are located northeast of the Gateway of India and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built between 450-750 AD and represents some of India’s most impressive temple carvings. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an intriguing latticework of courtyards, pillars, halls, and shrines. The interesting three-faced, 6m tall statue of Shiva, represents Lord Shiva as the destroyer, creator, and preserver of the universe.

The caves were dubbed as Elephanta island by the Portuguese because of the large stone elephant near the shore which collapsed in 1814 and was later moved by the British to the Mumbai’s Jigmata Udyan. A small museum on-site provides informative pictorial panels on the origins of these caves.

Enjoy yummy kebabs in the afternoon and proceed for a street food tour. Mohammad Ali Road and Bohri Mohalla are the holy precincts of Mumbai Street Food. Enjoy delicious non-vegetarian delicacies like skewered kebabs, spicy curries, and colorful sweets.

A walk through Bohri Mohalla introduces tourists to the Bohri delicacies such as the 12-pot curry, Boti Kebab, Chana Batata, sherbets. Seekh Kebabs, and many more. Enjoy delectable home-made ice-creams from the Taj ice-cream. Make it a point to visit the famous hole-in-the-wall restaurant, Noor Mohammadi. Enjoy your tryst with Bollywood and try dishes like Chicken Sanju Baba, a dish named after the famous Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt. The last stop is Minara Masjid, a sweet lovers’ paradise. Enjoy colorful barfis, firnis, and the classic aflatoon.

Spend the evening at leisure and stay overnight in Mumbai.

Mumbai

Your luxurious tour of India comes to an end today. According to your flight timings, you will be transferred to the International airport today to take a flight back home along with sweet memories of your India tour.