A SMALL GROUP JOURNEY
Heart of India

Day 1: Delhi

Upon arrival in Delhi, India’s lively and history-rich capital, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours to unwind after your journey. Whether you choose to relax at your hotel or venture out to explore the city’s bustling streets, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks, your adventure in India has pleasantly begun.

Day 2: Delhi

Wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting out on an immersive city tour of Delhi. Beginning in Old Delhi, you’ll explore its narrow lanes before moving on to visit Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Next, enjoy a sensory experience at Chandni Chowk, Delhi’s oldest market, on a rickshaw ride. Navigate through spice bazaars, fabric stalls, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Continue to Gandhi Smriti Museum, the final residence of Mahatma Gandhi, then proceed to the Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib, a Sikh temple, with its holy pond, where volunteers prepare and serve free meals to thousands every day.

In the afternoon, shift gears to New Delhi, where colonial grandeur meets modernity. Explore Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO-listed architectural wonder that inspired the Taj Mahal. Conclude the day with a welcome dinner, where you’ll enjoy a spread of authentic North Indian cuisine, setting the tone for the culinary delights that await.

Day 3: Delhi – Agra

Eat breakfast before climbing aboard an early morning train to Agra, home to one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Upon arrival, you’ll see the towering walls and marble halls of the Agra Fort, a grand Mughal fortress that once housed emperors.

Later in the day, check into your hotel and prepare for an unforgettable sunset visit to the legendary Taj Mahal. As the sun dips below the horizon, its golden hues will bathe the ivory-white marble in an ethereal glow. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of love and craftsmanship, leaving every visitor spellbound.

Day 4: Agra – Ranthambore

After breakfast at the hotel, take off on today’s adventure–starting with Mehtab Bagh, also known as the Moonlight Garden. This stunning garden offers a perfect spot to enjoy a breathtaking view of the nearby Taj Mahal at sunrise without the usual crowds.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Ranthambore National Park, a premier tiger reserve. En route, visit the Abhaneri Stepwells, a staggering feat of ancient engineering, and the Harshat Mata Temple, adorned with exquisite carvings.

Take a quick break to enjoy a farm-fresh organic lunch at Umaid Palace, where Rajasthan’s royal flavors come to life. Upon arrival in Ranthambore, check in to your jungle lodge and attend a Tiger Talk. During this exciting lesson, conservationists share insights into the park’s thriving wildlife, including the elusive Bengal tiger.

In the evening, return to your hotel for dinner and then the remainder of the night is at your leisure to enjoy.

Day 5: Ranthambore

Wake up to the relaxing sounds of the jungle and prepare for today’s adventure. Your morning will begin with a Canter Safari, where your group will venture deep into the forest to spot wildlife at its most active hours. Keep your eyes peeled for tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and exotic birds!

Return for breakfast and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your leisure. Later, head out for another thrilling afternoon safari filled with life-changing views. As the golden light filters through the trees, the park will reveal its hidden wonders. Dinner is included, and the remainder of the night will be at your leisure to enjoy.

Day 6: Ranthambore – Rajasthan – Jaipur

After breakfast, visit a local village and school where you’ll get a firsthand look at rural Rajasthani life. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to engage with the local villagers and learn about their traditional crafts and way of life.

After lunch, sit back on the drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, which is bursting with royal grandeur. Upon arrival, the evening is at your leisure, or you may choose to join an optional cultural tour (additional information below).

Optional Activity:

Temple Heritage and Market Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Jaipur’s walled city on this Temple, Heritage, and Market Tour, where tradition and modern life intertwine. Begin with a visit to a revered Hindu temple, experiencing the spiritual energy of an Aarti ceremony as rhythmic chants and flickering oil lamps create a mesmerizing ambiance.

Stroll through the bustling streets and engage with local artisans and shopkeepers to gain insight into their centuries-old crafts. Afterwards, you’ll sit down with a local family to enjoy tea and traditional snacks. Along the way, discover hidden architectural marvels, from intricately carved havelis to lesser-known temples that showcase the city’s regal history.

The journey continues through vibrant markets brimming with colorful textiles, handcrafted jewelry, and fragrant spices. This immersive experience unveils the living heritage of the Pink City, making it a must for travelers seeking a deeper connection to its culture and traditions.

Day 7: Jaipur

Begin your day with breakfast before embarking on a thrilling Jeep ride to Amber Fort, an opulent hilltop palace with breathtaking courtyards and intricate mirror work. Once the royal residence of Jaipur’s rulers, the fort’s grandeur is unparalleled.

The Jeep tour will continue to some of Jaipur’s most famous landmarks for you to enjoy and snap photos of. Starting with the City Palace, the astronomical wonder of Jantar Mantar, and ending with the iconic Hawa Mahal, also called the Palace of Winds.

In the evening, join a local family for an unforgettable cooking session where you’ll eat the traditional dinner you cook. By the end of the lesson, you’ll have learned the secrets of Rajasthani cuisine and shared a meal filled with laughter, stories, and homemade delicacies.

Day 8: Jaipur – Jodhpur

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive across the country’s serene landscapes before arriving in Jodhpur. This tried-and-true gem is fondly called the Blue City because the striking indigo-colored houses are everywhere in sight.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel where the remainder of the evening is at your leisure to enjoy soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this desert city.

Day 9: Jodhpur

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a trip to Mehrangarh Fort, an awe-inspiring stronghold perched atop the city. In addition to the rich history and awe-inspiring stone architecture, the destination offers panoramic views of Jodhpur’s blue rooftops.

The tour will continue with the Jaswant Thada, a serene marble cenotaph built in 1899 that features pristine examples of jali, or a carved-marble lattice screen. Next, the group will proceed toward the Umaid Bhawan Museum, housed in one of the largest royal residences in the world.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy, plus there is an option to add a walking tour to your itinerary (additional information below).

Optional Activity:

Brahmin and Blue City Walking Tour

Plunge deep into the traditions and cultural riches of Jodhpur to discover the lesser-known treasures of this enchanting city on this carefully designed walking tour. Led by an expert team of city explorers, this walking tour offers great insights into the majestic and ancient destination.

You’ll recapture the many hidden gems of the city through the retelling of various ancient stories and legends. Additionally, you’ll enjoy a taste of local life by meeting and interacting with the city’s residents. The tour may also take you on a leisurely stroll through narrow alleyways lined with traditional indigo-painted houses.

Day 10: Jodhpur – Deogarh

To start your morning, enjoy breakfast before embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime Bishnoi village safari. This unforgettable adventure will take you on a journey to experience Rajasthan’s traditional lifestyle up close and personal.

Afterward, visit the Jain Temples of Ranakpur, an architectural wonder with carvings of elephants, patterns, religious symbols, and more. It's hard not to feel awe-struck while admiring over 1,444 intricately chiseled marble pillars holding up the ceiling.

The tour will continue to Deogarh, a small town with a big past that has been steeped in history and heritage. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll through ancient streets, lively markets, and colorful architecture.

Day 11: Udaipur

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Udaipur, often considered one of the most picturesque and romantic cities in all of India. It’s lovingly referred to as the “White City” for the abundance of regal, charming palaces carved from white marble. Every corner of the city seems to echo stories of age-old traditions and artistic brilliance.

Later in the evening, prepare for a magical experience as you board a boat for a gentle cruise across the serene waters of Lake Pichola. This enchanting lake, one of the oldest and largest in Rajasthan, is the beating heart of the city. As you glide across the water, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Udaipur’s most iconic landmarks and landscapes.

Day 12: Udaipur

Start your day by enjoying savoring a delicious breakfast before embarking on the day’s activities. Afterwards, you’ll board the coach and prepare to spend the day exploring the grandeur of Udaipur.

Begin the tour with a visit to multiple landmarks that highlight the best of culture, art, and cuisine. Starting at the grand City Palace, then moving to the ornate Jagdish Temple, before ending at Saheliyon Ki Bari’s lush gardens. Enjoy a traditional Thali lunch before visiting the Vintage Car Museum, home to rare royal automobiles from the Maharajas’ collection.

This evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner overlooking Lake Pichola, where the shimmering waters reflect the grandeur of Rajasthan’s regal past. You’ll also have the chance to add an optional tour activity to complete the exciting day (additional information below).

Optional Activity:

Udaipur by Bicycle

Hop on a bicycle and embark on a tour starting from the picturesque Fateh Sagar Lake, where you’ll breathe in the fresh air. We’ll ride through the narrow lanes of the city past other lakes along the way to Shilpgram, a handicraft village for tribal and rural artisans to showcase and sell their art to customers. As we ride through, admire the beautiful paintings on the exterior walls of the villager’s homes.

Moving on, the ride will become a little steep and you’ll pass some switchbacks, so keep alert. Riding through tranquil country roads and crossing several seasonal waterfalls, we’ll finally reach Lake Badi. Re-energize with light refreshments and take some memorable photos.  

The ride back to the city, via a different route, will take us through some resplendent forests and beautiful, calming villages.

Day 13: Udaipur

Begin the day with a yoga session, embracing the serenity of Udaipur. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Delhi, where you’ll proceed onward with your journey.