January 8, 2024

Our luxury tour from Delhi begins with a traditional floral garland welcome before a private chauffeur 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.

Included Dining: Dinner

Accommodation: The Leela Palace.

January 9, 2024 Deli 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.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: The Leela Palace.

January 10, 2024 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 Muthamman 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.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: ​Taj Hotel and Convention Center, Agra.

January 11, 2024 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, business class seat. 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.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhore.

January 12 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.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accomodation: Nahargarh Ranthambhor.

January 13  Jaipur, the Pink City

Travel 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. Revel in the warm tones of the historic buildings and ascend by jeep to discover Amber Fort’s sprawling complex of courtyards and royal halls of ivory, mirrors, glass and exquisite paintings. Your day ends embracing India’s spiritual majesty with a blessing ceremony at

Amber Fort before dinner at the opulent 1135 AD Restaurant embraced by its royal interior, traditional music and sunset views.

Included Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Taj Devi Ratn.

​January 15 Depart Delhi

After breakfast, say farewell to your India luxury tour as your transfer takes you to Jaipur Airport for your onward flight to Delhi. Please do not schedule flights departing Delhi before 21:00.

Included Dining: Breakfast

Per person double occupancy $3625

Single Supplement $800

Includes roundtrip transfers from your home!

Customize your trip with a pre and/or post extension listed below!

OPTIONAL Dubai pre-extension

​January 5-8

$1275 per person dbl. 

​single supplement $250

Non-refundable Deposit $350 

Hilton Garden Inn Mall of The Emirates

January 5

Welcome to United Arab Emirates

Meet & Greet upon arrival to Airport After Immigration.  Transfer to Dubai Selected Hotel

January 6 Desert safari

Free morning for leisure with optional trip to Sharjah 

Take a step back in time and experience Dubai as it was 50 years ago. Your professional guide will escort you on a fascinating journey in a museum quality 1950’s Land Rover. These vehicles were extensively used in the 1950’s and since then have become part of the UAE history. No other vehicle offers a more authentic desert experience to spot exotic local wildlife within the pristine Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Watch the sun drop under the horizon as you watch a falcon soar around you. Your Bedouin camp, lit with the gentle flames of traditional lamps is nestled inside a private Royal desert retreat. We will demonstrate cultural activities such as henna tattoos, music, dance and bread and Arabic coffee making before enjoying a scrumptious dinner under the stars. History comes to life in this once in a lifetime heritage event. 

Highlights: 

- Wildlife drive through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in a legendary 1950’s Land Rover

- Falcon demonstration and sunset photo stop amongst the dunes

- Scrumptious  authentic dinner in an exclusive camp set amongst the rolling dunes of a Royal desert retreat

- Camel rides, henna tattoos, bread making, Arabic coffee making and aromatic shisha pipes available at the camp

- Cultural entertainment performance

- Bathrooms facilities 

- Hotel pick-up in an air-conditioned vehicle (shared)

- A portion of your fee is contributed towards local conservation 

Breakfast and dinner

January 7 Traditional and Modern Dubai City tour

The ‘Traditional Dubai City Tour’ will take you on a cultural journey through time into mini mazes of wind- towered buildings, narrow lanes and meandering pathways of the lively souks and a scenic ride on the traditional Abra boat. 

Discover the bustling metropolis of Dubai with its dazzling skyline and pristine beaches. The ‘Modern Dubai City Tour’ will take you on a magical journey to iconic landmarks that form the heart and soul of this modern city of contrasts. Be it the world’s tallest building, the largest mall to ever exist which houses one of the biggest aquariums in the world or the trendiest glittering spots in the town, this unique tour is bound to create memories that you will cherish forever. 

Highlights

-A visit to the heritage area of Bastakiya and 225-year old Fort Al Fahidi  

-A ride on the traditional Abra boat across scenic Dubai Creek 

-A visit to the Spice and Gold Souks, with tantalizing scents and shimmering jewelry 

-A photo stop next to Jumeirah Mosque, an architectural landmark 

-A visit to Dubai Marina, an awe-inspiring city-within-a city with a cosmopolitan, free-spirited atmosphere and unique, invigorating lifestyle 

-A stroll across Souk Madinat Jumeirah with its meandering paths and a bazaar-like atmosphere complemented with street cafes and boutique restaurants 

-A drive to Burj Al Arab, the iconic hotel that has established unmatched standards of luxury 

-A visit to The Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world visit the aquarium and underwater zoo

-A journey to ‘At the Top’ observation deck on level 124 of the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

January 8

On Time of Departure, Pick up from Dubai Hotel and Transfer to Dubai International Airport

Breakfast

OPTIONAL Varanasi Extension

​January 15 -18

$999 per person dbl.

​$250 non-refundable deposit

Monday January 15

Jaipur to Delhi (308 Kms. / 5.5 Hrs.) -VARANASI  

Today our driver will pick you up from (TBA) and will depart for Delhi airport to board your flight 6E 2231 to Varanasi at 1445 Hrs. which will arrive at 1610 Hrs.  We will be met at the airport and escorted to a private vehicle which will take us to Hotel Taj Ganges. 

Varanasi is picturesquely situated on the crescent shaped left bank of the holy 

River Ganga,  Varanasi is one of the most ancient “living cities” in India from time immemorial. It has been a great religious center for Hindus and one of their most sacred places of pilgrimage, being visited by millions of people every year. Ganga Ghats are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins.  

Rest & relax and overnight in the hotel. 

January 16 Varanasi  

Ganges boat ride:  Early in the morning, enjoy boat ride on River Ganges and participate in "floating of the lamps” – quite an ethereal experience! Later proceed for local sightseeing through the narrow streets of the city with an English speaking guide: 

Vishwanath Temple:  The most sacred temple in Varanasi is the Vishwanath Temple, located at Vishwanath Gali and dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Shivalinga at the Vishwanath Temple is among one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The current temple was built in 1776 by Ahalya Bai of Indore with about 800 kg of gold plating on the towers, which gives the temple its colloquial name - Golden Temple. 

Durga Temple: It was built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani and is stained red with ochre. The Durga Temple is commonly known as the Monkey Temple due to the many frisky monkeys that have made in their home. Non-Hindus can enter the courtyard but not the inner sanctum. 

Banaras Hindu University: Banaras Hindu University, an internationally reputed and innovative university was founded by the great nationalist leader, Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, in 1916. It has produced many great freedom fighters and builders of modern India, as well as a large number of renowned scholars, artists, scientists and technologists. The area of the main campus of this premier University is 1300 acres with well-manicured lawns.  

Return to the hotel for an overnight stay. 

January 17 Varanasi 

After breakfast, proceed to visit Sarnath with an English speaking guide: 

Sarnath: It is located 10 Kms from Varanasi, is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to the five holy men - preaching the middle path to final 'NIRVANA‟. Shakyamuni also walked from Bodhgaya to Sarnath to meet the five ascetics who had left him earlier. Also visit the local Museum maintained by the Archeological Survey of India housing important excavations from the area including the famous “Ashoka Emblem.” 

Visit the Silk Weaving Factory. 

In the evening, witness the "Ganga Aarti Ceremony” on the banks of the holy river with boat ride with an English speaking guide: 

Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Every evening, a magical “Aarti” is performed at Dasashwamedh Ghat. The presiding priests stand on a wooden chauki (Stool). To the chant of Sanskrit mantras, and the clash of cymbals and drums, the holy river is worshipped with flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor and then the many-flamed Aarti lamps are raised high and then arched back – the dark river reflecting the golden flames as Ganga accepts the worship.  

Overnight in the hotel. 

January 18 Varanasi to Delhi 

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight UK 674 to Delhi at 1520 Hrs.  

OPTIONAL Southern India extension January 15-22​ 

​

 $3170 per person dbl occupancy 

Single supplement $730

​No additional deposit required

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

Kochi via Mumbai Upon arrival for your India luxury tour in this port city of tiny islands and peninsulas along the Arabian Sea, check into your waterfront hotel on Bolgatty Island. Relax with a cocktail by the outdoor pool or at the poolside Thai Soul restaurant, tempting you with cuisine inspired by the vibrant streets of Bangkok.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

​

Itinerary

​​Kochi Sightseeing, Cooking School and Kathakali January 16

In Kochi, view the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth and marvel at the Hindu mythology and legends in the murals of the Portuguese Mattancherry Palace. Lunchtime brings a colorful feast of traditional Kerala home cooking. The day ends with a performance of traditional Kathakali dance.  Included Dining:  Breakfast, Lunch

​Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters January 17

Take a private waterwheel houseboat cruise across the tranquil waters of Alleppey past picturesque villages, green paddy fields and a coconut plantation. Linger over a gourmet lunch before the day ends at Coconut Lagoon, your lakeside retreat built from preserved mansions of the nobility’s family homes.

Kumarakom and Vaikom Village January 18

View the area’s vibrant migratory birds on a tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Discover one of the oldest townships in Kerala cruising down the canals of Vaikom village. Meet the residents and try your skills at weaving from pineapple leaves or coconut husks before lunch at a local’s home.

​Relaxing Kumarakom January 19

Personalise your day in tranquil Kumarakom. Harmonise your mind and body in a relaxing yoga class or enjoy a rejuvenating massage. The day ends with a delicious dinner of fresh, local seafood.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Mumbai January 20

Journey north to Kochi for your flight to vibrant Mumbai. Settle into your deluxe hotel offering enticing views of the ocean and 'Queen’s Necklace' lights along the shoreline.  

Included Dining:  Breakfast

​Mumbai Sightseeing January 21

Uncover the alluring sites of Mumbai and learn the intricate details of the magnificent, 130-year-old Dabbawalla lunchbox delivery service. Cruise to Elephanta Island to visit the complex of cave temples before raising a glass to your journey over an elegant dinner.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Mumbai January 22

Your luxurious journey comes to an end as you are escorted to Mumbai Airport for your onward flights.

Included Dining:  BreakfastOPTIONAL Southern India extension January 15-22​ 

​

 $3170 per person dbl occupancy 

Single supplement $730

​No additional deposit required

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

Kochi via Mumbai Upon arrival for your India luxury tour in this port city of tiny islands and peninsulas along the Arabian Sea, check into your waterfront hotel on Bolgatty Island. Relax with a cocktail by the outdoor pool or at the poolside Thai Soul restaurant, tempting you with cuisine inspired by the vibrant streets of Bangkok.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

​

Itinerary

​​Kochi Sightseeing, Cooking School and Kathakali January 16

In Kochi, view the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth and marvel at the Hindu mythology and legends in the murals of the Portuguese Mattancherry Palace. Lunchtime brings a colorful feast of traditional Kerala home cooking. The day ends with a performance of traditional Kathakali dance.  Included Dining:  Breakfast, Lunch

​Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters January 17

Take a private waterwheel houseboat cruise across the tranquil waters of Alleppey past picturesque villages, green paddy fields and a coconut plantation. Linger over a gourmet lunch before the day ends at Coconut Lagoon, your lakeside retreat built from preserved mansions of the nobility’s family homes.

Kumarakom and Vaikom Village January 18

View the area’s vibrant migratory birds on a tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Discover one of the oldest townships in Kerala cruising down the canals of Vaikom village. Meet the residents and try your skills at weaving from pineapple leaves or coconut husks before lunch at a local’s home.

​Relaxing Kumarakom January 19

Personalise your day in tranquil Kumarakom. Harmonise your mind and body in a relaxing yoga class or enjoy a rejuvenating massage. The day ends with a delicious dinner of fresh, local seafood.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

Magical Mumbai January 20

Journey north to Kochi for your flight to vibrant Mumbai. Settle into your deluxe hotel offering enticing views of the ocean and 'Queen’s Necklace' lights along the shoreline.  

Included Dining:  Breakfast

​Mumbai Sightseeing January 21

Uncover the alluring sites of Mumbai and learn the intricate details of the magnificent, 130-year-old Dabbawalla lunchbox delivery service. Cruise to Elephanta Island to visit the complex of cave temples before raising a glass to your journey over an elegant dinner.

Included Dining:  Breakfast, Dinner

Depart Mumbai January 22

Your luxurious journey comes to an end as you are escorted to Mumbai Airport for your onward flights.

Included Dining:  Breakfast