ITINERARY

Day 1: London Heathrow - Delhi

Day 2: Delhi

Delhi. Welcome to India!
You will be met at Delhi Airport and transferred to your hotel in this ancient capital of kingdoms and empires that is now a sprawling metropolis. Delhi's strategic location was one of the main reasons why successive dynasties chose it as their seat of power and today it is a conglomerate of seven cities. The division between the old walled city and New Delhi marks a division in lifestyles, with the old city retaining its past traditions whilst New Delhi strives to match the pace of the 21st century. Overnight stay at Delhi.

Day 3: Old & New Delhi sightseeing tour – Drive to Agra

Early breakfast at the hotel and proceed on a private sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi, discovering the fascinating contrast between the historic Mughal capital and the elegant colonial-era city. Delhi offers a remarkable blend of ancient traditions, grand monuments, vibrant markets, and modern architecture.
Begin your exploration in Old Delhi, the 17th-century walled city established by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan after shifting his capital from Agra. Experience a memorable cycle rickshaw ride through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, one of India’s oldest and busiest markets, filled with colourful shops, traditional eateries, and local life. Drive pass the magnificent Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, and drive past the impressive red sandstone walls of the iconic Red Fort, once the grand residence of Mughal emperors. Continue to Raj Ghat, the peaceful memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.
Later tour of New Delhi starts with a visit to the Qutub Minar, an ancient victory tower built of red sandstone and marble in 1199 and still the tallest minaret in India. With its imposing cylindrical towers and surrounding ruins, it is today a World Heritage Site. Drive through Rajpath, Delhi’s ceremonial boulevard, passing iconic landmarks including the majestic India Gate, Parliament House, the impressive Presidential residence, and the government buildings situated on Raisina Hill.
Later drive to Agra by road (240 kms – approx. 4 hrs.). set along the banks of the Yamuna River and originally the capital of the Mughal Empire. Arrive Agra, which is world renowned as the home of the Taj Mahal - that great symbol of love built by emperor Shah Jahan in the 16th century as a memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. Overnight stay at Agra.

Day 4: Agra Visit Taj Mahal + Agra Fort

Today morning we visit the stunning Taj Mahal (Closed on Friday) at sunrise. This magnificent white marble mausoleum took 22 years to build and, apart from its stunning design and perfect symmetry, it is noted for its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best marble inlay work ever done. Sunrise and sunset are particularly good times to visit and see the dome subtly change its colour. Return to hotel for breakfast. Later in the day we visit Agra Fort, a massive structure with walls over 70-ft high and 1.5-miles long that encompasses an astounding collection of well-preserved buildings, many of them completed during the reign of Shah Jahan. After he was deposed by his son, he was imprisoned in this fort where he remained until his death - spending the rest of his life looking out along the river to the final resting place of his beloved wife.
Optional: In the evening enjoy a live show "Mohabbat the Taj". The show is based on the story behind the construction of the love saga Taj Mahal. The 16th century era is portrayed on stage by professional artists. The highlight of the show is that the biggest replica of Taj Mahal appears on the stage, and a light and sound show mesmerizes you with the Taj in different moods. Overnight stay in Agra.
(Ticket price extra GBP 25 per person)

Day 5: Drive to Jaipur + Enroute Visit Fatehpur Sikri (260 kms – 5 hrs drive)

Breakfast at the hotel. We leave Agra and proceed towards Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. En route, visit the remarkably preserved UNESCO-listed Fatehpur Sikri, the former capital of Emperor Akbar’s Mughal Empire during the 16th century. Often referred to as the “Ghost City,” Fatehpur Sikri offers fascinating insight into Mughal history, featuring magnificent palaces, royal courtyards, audience halls, and the impressive Buland Darwaza, one of the largest gateways in the world.
Continue your scenic drive through rural landscapes towards Jaipur, famously known as the “Pink City,” celebrated for its royal heritage, colourful bazaars, and magnificent palaces. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 6: Amber fort + Jaipur City tour

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full day exploration of Jaipur, the vibrant Pink City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history, royal heritage, and magnificent architecture.
Begin with a photo stop at the iconic Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an extraordinary five-storey façade featuring intricately designed windows built for royal women to observe city life in privacy.
Continue to the majestic Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Rajasthan’s finest hill forts. Discover its impressive courtyards, royal chambers, ornate gateways, and the famous Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), reflecting the grandeur of Rajput architecture and royal life.
After lunch (on own account), visit the remarkable Jantar Mantar Observatory, the world’s largest stone astronomical observatory and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing impressive instruments once used to measure time and track celestial movements. Conclude the day at the nearby City Palace, the former royal residence of Jaipur’s Maharajas and an exceptional blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The palace complex features elegant courtyards, museums showcasing royal textiles, costumes, weaponry, and historic artefacts, while parts of the palace remain home to Jaipur’s royal family today. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 7: FLY JAIPUR – CHANDIGARH & DRIVE TO SHIMLA (220 KM / APPROX. 4 HRS)

This morning after Breakfast, transfer to Jaipur airport to board flight for Chandigarh. On arrival meet our representative and drive to Shimla. (approx. 220 km). Upon arrival check in and relax. Overnight at the hotel in Shimla.

Day 8: SHIMLA CITY TOUR

Morning post breakfast proceeds to visit Kufri and Naldehra. Afternoon half day city tour of Sankat Mochan Temple and Jakhu Temple, Evening free to stroll in the famous shopping place of Shimla town - The Mall & The Ridge. Stay Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9: Drive Shimla – Manali (250 / approx. 7 hrs)

Morning post breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Manali by road (approx.250 km).
On arrival check in at hotel, freshen up visit Manali is a beautiful hill station outstanding blessed with scenic and captivating view of the snowcapped mountains, scenic natural vistas and outstanding sightseeing spots. Stay Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Manali City tour

After morning breakfast go for a city tour of Manali visiting Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Tibetan Monastery and Vashisht Village. Solang Valley with its emerald meadows, ski slopes and paragliding activities, offering spectacular views. Drive on to the mighty snowbound Rohtang Pass - at 3979 mtrs - the gateway to Lahaul-Spiti valley. Revel in the breathtaking beauty of Kothi, Afternoon enjoy rest of the time at leisure. Stay Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11: Manali – Amritsar by Road (390 / approx. 7-8 hrs)

Morning, after breakfast drive to Amritsar. Upon arrival in Amritsar, check-in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 12: Amritsar City tour

This morning we visit the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial Gardens, the site of the Amritsar massacre where on 13 April 1919 British Indian Army troops under the command of Colonel Reginald Dyer, fired into a crowd of peacefully protesting men, women and children - killing hundreds of unarmed civilians.
Afterwards we continue to the magnificent Golden Temple shining in the morning light, with its large dome surrounded by elegant minarets and splendidly gilded interior panelling. This temple is an important place of worship for devotees of the Sikh faith worldwide. We walk around the large lake that surrounds the temple and visit the Langar - the largest community kitchen in the world, which serves over 100,000 free meals every day. Here you can watch local volunteers preparing and serving food to devotees - an incredible sight.
In the afternoon we drive 30-minutes to the Wagah Border, the only crossing point between India and Pakistan. Here the changing of the guards and flag-lowering ceremony is performed daily with blustering pomp and perfect drill by both side - described by Michael Palin as "carefully choreographed contempt".
A jawan (infantryman) stands at attention on each side and as the sun sets, the iron gates at the border are opened and the two flags are lowered simultaneously. The ceremony ends with a retreat, followed by the closing of the gates again. Overnight stay at Amritsar.

Day 13: Amritsar – Delhi by train – Depart from Delhi airport

Today morning after breakfast pack your bags to board the train at Amritsar station to connect train back to Delhi. (Shane E Punjab - Train)
Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be met & transfer to Delhi airport to connect with your flight to onward journey.

Costs

Prices From per person based on 2-4-6-8 Persons traveling together Extra Seasonal supplements may apply during National Holiday periods and will be advised at time of inquiry.

Price Details
TOUR PRICE (FROM) PER PERSON IN £ STERLING

QUOTE INCLUDES:

• Hotel accommodation on twin sharing basis inclusive of breakfast at all places
• Meet & Greet services by representatives upon arrival and departure.
• Arrival and departure transfers by air-conditioned vehicle as per the itinerary
• Local English Speaking guide for sightseeing as per the itinerary.
• Single entry to the monuments.
• Jeep ride while ascending Amber Fort in Jaipur.
•.. Cycle rickshaw ride at Old Delhi
• Mineral water in the vehicle for the complete trip.
• All applicable Government taxes
• Airfare for International and Domestic

QUOTE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• Any additional meal.
• Any item of personal nature like telephone calls, room services, laundry, drinks etc.
• Any additional sightseeing/transport requirements.