Northern Indian Odyssey
ESCORTED TOUR
Delhi - Amritsar - Varanasi - Lucknow - Ranthambhore National Park - Taj Mahal - Jaipur
Discover the vibrant heart of India on this escorted small group tour. Journey through iconic cities and sacred sites - Delhi’s bustling streets, Amritsar’s Golden Temple, Varanasi’s spiritual ghats, and the cultural charm of Lucknow. Marvel at the Taj Mahal in Agra, track tigers in Ranthambhore National Park, and soak up Jaipur’s royal splendour. Each destination reveals a unique chapter of India’s rich heritage, offering an unforgettable blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 : UK – Delhi
On arrival in Delhi, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner. (D)
Hotel: Shangri La Eros New Delhi – 2 nights
Day 2 : Delhi
This morning, awaken your senses on a fascinating Five Senses Tour of Delhi. Discover centuries of culture and Mughal splendour as you ride a rickshaw through bustling Chandni Chowk. Visit a historic perfumery to craft your own signature scent, savour local flavours and visit a community project. Lunch is included today. (B,L)
Day 3 : Amritsar
Located in the northern Indian state of Punjab, Amritsar is a city rich in spiritual significance, history, and cultural heritage. This evening visit the Golden Temple for the moving Palki Sahib night ceremony. (B)
Hotel: Taj Swarna – 2 nights
Day 4 : Amritsar
Begin your day with a visit to the serene Golden Temple. Step inside the community kitchen, where thousands are fed daily in a powerful act of unity. Continue to Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant memorial to India’s freedom struggle. This evening, travel to the Wagah Border and witness the stirring sunset flag-lowering ceremony. (B)
Day 5 : Varanasi
This morning, fly via Delhi to Varanasi, India’s spiritual heart and home to over a thousand temples. Set on the sacred Ganges, this ancient city hums with devotion and tradition. As evening falls, witness the captivating Aarti ceremony. (B)
Hotel: Taj Ganges
Day 6 : Varanasi
At dawn, enjoy a serene boat ride along the Ganges, watching the sun rise as devotees gather for prayer. Later, explore Varanasi’s ancient laneways and countless temples before returning to the hotel for breakfast. This afternoon, visit nearby Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The rest of the day is yours to relax or choose from a selection of optional Enhance Your Journey experiences to further explore this remarkable city. (B)
Day 7 : Lucknow
Begin the day with a drive to Lucknow, arrive in Lucknow and marvel at the city's diverse Mughal and Persian influences. The city showcases a cultural variety of music, arts, cuisine and craftsmanship. Lunch and dinner are included today. (B,L,D)
Hotel: Taj Mahal Lucknow – 2 nights
Day 8 : Lucknow
Discover Lucknow’s regal past with a visit to La Martiniere, a striking blend of European and Indian design steeped in military history. Continue to the Dilkusha Palace and Gardens, before brief stops at Chattar Manzil and the poignant Lucknow Residency. This afternoon, marvel at the majestic Asaf Imambara, built during a famine to aid the city, and explore the Husainabad Complex. (B)
Day 9 : Agra
This morning, travel to Agra. Your exploration begins with a guided visit to the impressive Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Later, experience the breathtaking beauty of the Taj Mahal as the sun sets behind its gleaming white domes.
Hotel: ITC Mughal (B)
Day 10 : Ranthambore National Park
Rise early to witness the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft pink glow of dawn. After breakfast, depart for Ranthambore National Park, stopping en route at the deserted red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch in Bharatpur before continuing to Ranthambore. Lunch and dinner are included today. (B,L,D)
Hotel: Juna Mahal Jungle Resort – 2 nights
Day 11 : Ranthambore National Park
Begin your day with an exhilarating jeep safari seeking the majestic Bengal tiger amid its natural surroundings. The park teems with wildlife, including elusive leopards, hyenas, deer, and a vibrant array of birds. The afternoon is at your leisure. (B,L,D)
Day 12 : Jaipur
This morning, journey to Jaipur, the enchanting Pink City, where historic forts, lush gardens, and stunning palaces paint a vibrant tapestry of Rajasthan’s past and present. Your unique Insider Experience today is a 45-minute e-tuk tuk ride led by a women’s cooperative. Explore iconic landmarks including City Palace, Jantar Mantar, and Hawa Mahal. (B)
Hotel: Royal Heritage Haveli – 2 nights
Day 13 : Jaipur
Today, explore the magnificent Amber Fort, a stunning example of Mughal-inspired architecture. Then, explore Rajasthan’s heritage at the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, discovering the art of block printing. Spend the afternoon at leisure or join a guided tour of Jaipur’s vibrant markets. Tonight, enjoy a unique Insider Experience: a cultural evening in a local family’s home, with cooking, henna art, turban tying, and traditional hospitality under the moonlit Jaipur sky. (B,D)
Day 14 : Delhi
Spend the morning at leisure before departing for Delhi this afternoon. Share your travel tales over a farewell dinner this evening. (B, D)
Hotel: Shangri La Ero New Delhi
Day 15 : Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight. (B)