Essence of India 9 Day Tour w/Luxury Gold

Day One

Delhi, a Rich Melting Pot - Your luxury tour from Delhi begins with a traditional welcome scarf before a private chauffeur takes you to your elegant hotel, situated in the leafy Lutyens’ diplomatic quarter amidst six acres of landscaped grounds. Step outside to take in Delhi’s bustling backstreets, rich history and wealth of colors before dining on fine Indian cuisine as the sun sets over Delhi.

Day Two

Delhi Sightseeing - Take in Delhi’s fascinating top sites including the sprawling sandstone Red Fort, the main residence of the Mughal dynasty until 1856, and Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Curate your exploration joining a well-known chef for a foodie walk in Old Delhi enticing your senses on the color and aromas of the famous local street food and sampling Indian delicacies. Or, visit the 12th-century Qutub Minar, the tallest brick minaret in the world. Feel the city’s energy on an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the winding streets of Chandni Chowk before visiting a Sikh temple and its community kitchen where vegetarian meals are prepared and served to locals, travelers and those in need. Conclude your Delhi discovery viewing the President Palace, India gate and the circular and colonnaded Parliament House.

Day Three

An Agra Adventure - Journey to Agra, the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty and a historical fort of impressive buildings. Stand in awe of Sheesh Mahal, the “glass palace” dazzling you with light from the glittering mirrors and mosaics that decorate the walls and ceilings, and the spacious pavilion of gilded copper dome-topped Musamman Burj. Personalise your afternoon connecting with members of the local community: Set out on an eye-opening Mughal heritage walk meeting the locals to learn about their lives in the shadows of India’s famous monument. Alternatively, visit a private colonial bungalow for an indulgent high tea as you meet the host family and hear their captivating stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.

Day Four

The Taj Mahal and Ranthambore - Experience an unforgettable sunrise basking in the majesty of the Taj Mahal framed in warm hues of pink, orange and yellow as you greet the first light of day. Reflect on this monument of love and flawless architecture built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Inspired by the morning’s beauty, travel to the historic town of Bharatpur for lunch at the lavish Laxmi Niwas Palace before boarding the Jan Shatabdi Express, the Express Train to Ranthambore. Take in the views as you relax in your air-conditioned carriage. Arrive at your hotel, Nahargarh Ranthambhore, nestled in the foothills of the Aravalli Range near the Ranthambore National Park built in the style of a traditional Rajput hunting palace.

Day Five

In Search of Tigers in Ranthambore - Experience the beauty of Ranthambore partnering with a Local Expert on a quest for the elusive tiger within the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs of Jaipur. Should the tiger elude you, keep watch for sightings of wild boars, monkeys, spotted deer and antelopes. Relax and lavish in the comforts of your resort before enjoying another foray into the national park with an Expert Naturalist at dusk. In addition to the wildlife, gain an insider’s understanding of the lakes, palace ruins, traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort within the park.

Day Six

Jaipur, the Pink City - After a relaxed morning at your hotel, ravel through the countryside of green fields dotted with brightly colored flowers to the Rajasthan capital of Jaipur, the Pink City. As soon as you step within the old city walls, you’ll understand why Jaipur earned its name - given after a visit from Queen Victoria in 1876 when all its buildings were painted pink as a sign of hospitality. Tonight is free for independent activities.

Day Seven

Jaipur Sightseeing - Curate your morning seeing highly skilled artisans or focus on the art of block printing and blue pottery at a workshop. Attend a special blessing ceremony at Amber Fort, seek a blessing from the Gods in this unique experience. Locals believe that it can help alter the flow of “prana” or life energy in one’s body, drawing awareness to deeper spiritual realms and, hence releasing more positive beliefs. Toast to your travels with a dinner at 1135 AD restaurant tonight.

Day Eight

In Jaipur - Enjoy a city tour of Jaipur and luxuriate in a VIP Indian high tea at The City Palace, the home of the royal family of Jaipur since 1732 AD. Learn about the large gold vessels filled with water from the river Ganges which the Maharaja of Jaipur would carry on his trips. See the Diwan-i-Aam and hear fascinating tales of the artifacts of the place. In the evening visit the Spice market and flower market during the Pink Rickshaw ride - learn about Indian spices, vegetables, flowers, and experience the locals selling their products. Or experience the spiritual side of the locals - visit the splendid Birla Mandir, also known as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, to witness the ‘Aarti’, a traditional prayer ceremony. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day Nine

Tour has ended, Flight home.

FB=Full Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner