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Our representatives will receive you upon arrival at the international airport in Delhi.
Delhi, the capital of kingdoms and empires, is now a sprawling metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past and present. It offers a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land—a window to the kaleidoscope that is India.
Freshen up, and your guide will meet you at the hotel for the New Delhi (Imperial Delhi) tour.
The tour will begin with a visit to Gandhi Smriti (next to your hotel)—a former Lutyens bungalow converted into a memorial for Mahatma Gandhi (the father of the nation), where he stayed during his visits to Delhi and was assassinated on his way to offer customary evening prayers. The museum features a large collection of photographs, personal belongings, and a series of small terracotta dolls illustrating his life.
Proceed to the imposing India Gate, the Parliament House, and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (President’s residence). Stop for photography as your guide explains the significance and architectural details of these landmarks.
Visit Agrasen ki Baoli (Step Well in Delhi). Designated a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958, it is a 60-meter long and 15-meter wide historical step well on Hailey Road near Connaught Place.
Next, explore the majestic Humayun’s Tomb. Humayun died in 1556, and his widow Hamida Banu Begum, also known as Haji Begum, began the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. This is the first distinct example of Mughal architecture influenced by Persian design. It is believed that Humayun may have planned the tomb himself, though there is no definitive record of this.
Stop for lunch and a stroll at Khan Market.
Proceed to Qutub Minar, the tallest stone tower in India. Built in red and buff sandstone, the Minar stands 72.5 meters tall. It has a base diameter of 14.32 meters and tapers to about 2.75 meters at the top. Qutbu'd-Din Aibak laid the foundation of the Minar in AD 1199, and his successor and son-in-law, Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish, added three more floors (AD 1211-36). Each level is surrounded by a projected balcony supported by intricately decorated stone brackets, notably on the first floor.
Return to the hotel and relax.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, start a guided tour of Old Delhi.
The tour will begin with a visit to Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, also famously known as the “Father of the Nation.”
Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, built between 1638-48 when the Mughal Empire was at its peak. In 1638, Shah Jahan transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi and laid the foundations of Shahjahanabad, the seventh city of Delhi. It is enclosed by a rubble stone wall, with bastions, gates, and wickets at intervals.
Enter the old city and start your heritage walk from Jama Masjid, the main mosque of Delhi. It is one of Asia’s largest mosques with outstanding architecture.
Enjoy the walk through the narrow bylanes of Chandni Chowk, visiting important milestones in the history of Delhi, the spice market, traditional wholesale bazaars, food markets, and colorful metal markets.
Continue your tour to Jama Masjid by bicycle rickshaw. People stream in and out of the mosque continuously, and the presence of a nearby bazaar means that the area is rarely quiet.
Proceed to a Sikh Temple to experience the community kitchen and service. Gurudwara Shish Ganj is a beautiful religious shrine and one of the nine historical Gurdwaras in Delhi. It was first constructed in 1783 by Baghel Singh to commemorate the martyrdom site of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur.
Your guide will take you around the temple complex and explain how the rituals are performed. At the end, you will visit the kitchen and dining hall called the Langar (community kitchen). The kitchen is a voluntary service by the followers and serves over 5,000 meals daily. The massive drill of feeding so many people every day is an awe-inspiring process. It is a blessing to the volunteers who prepare and serve the food. It is also an example of the Sikh principle of sharing and equality; everyone sits together for the meals as equals. You can take part in the service too.
After lunch, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Akshardham Temple.
Akshardham means the eternal and divine abode of the supreme God. It is the abode of eternal values and virtues of “Akshar” as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads, where divine bhakti, purity, and peace forever pervade. Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom, and bliss. This amazing structure comprises 20,000 statues, floral motifs, and exquisite carved pillars made of stone and is one of the finest examples of modern architecture. It was built by devotees from all around the world with their own money and labor.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Kalka – Shimla (By toy train up the hills)
The team will transfer you and assist with boarding the train for a scenic ride to Shimla. The train offers airline-style seating, and breakfast will be served on board.
Enjoy the journey as the train travels through tunnels, hugging the mountains and passing through picturesque stations.
Upon reaching Shimla, transfer to the resort, check in, and relax.
Shimla – the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of British India – is a prominent center of the state. Despite its rapid expansion, Shimla retains a colonial charm with its grand old buildings.
Situated in the lower ranges of the Himalayan Mountains, Shimla is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests. To the north lie the snow-covered high ranges, while the valleys feature serene streams and lush fields. Within the town, you'll find splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages, and charming walks.
Shimla offers a variety of shopping, sports, and entertainment activities. It remains the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway, completed in 1903. The town is also known for its handicraft shops along The Mall, a pedestrian avenue, as well as Lakkar Bazaar, a market specializing in wooden toys and crafts.
After freshening up, proceed for a stroll along The Mall or pick up souvenirs and curios at Lakkar Bazaar.
Enjoy the evening at The Ridge / Scandal Point – the heart of the town, with ice-cream vendors, pony rides, and spectacular Himalayan views.
Shimla Ridge: Located in the heart of Shimla, The Ridge is a famous tourist attraction and the center of cultural activities. It runs along Mall Road, the town’s primary shopping center, and connects major places such as Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, and Jakhoo Hill.
The Ridge also houses Shimla's main water reservoir and is the venue for various government functions and fairs, including the renowned Summer Festival held in April or May. This vibrant festival brings the town to life with colors and activities.
A notable landmark on The Ridge is Christ Church, renowned for its Neo-Gothic architecture. It is a must-visit attraction in Shimla.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, proceed for city sightseeing in Shimla.
The Mall: The Mall is the main shopping center of Shimla, featuring restaurants and the Gaiety Theatre, a replica of an old British theater and a center of cultural activities. A passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road to the Mall. Adjacent to the Ridge, Lakkar Bazaar is popular for its wood crafts and souvenirs.
Summer Hill: Located on the Shimla-Kalka Railway line, Summer Hill offers picturesque shady walks in a tranquil setting. During his visit to Shimla, Mahatma Gandhi stayed in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. HP University (Himachal Pradesh University) is situated here.
Chadwick Falls: Surrounded by dense forests, Chadwick Falls can be reached via a walk beyond Summer Hill or enjoyed with a bicycle ride and picnic basket.
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (Viceregal Lodge): About 4 km from the city, the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies is a magnificent English Renaissance structure that was formerly the Viceregal Lodge. Completed in 1888, it is still well maintained, and its lawns and woodland are added attractions.
Jakhoo Temple (Sankat Mochan): Located 2.5 km from Shimla at an elevation of 2,455 meters, Jakhoo Temple is Shimla's highest peak and offers panoramic views of the town. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Tara Devi: This holy place is accessible by rail, bus, and car. From the station or road, one can visit the Tara Devi Temple either by walking or by motor vehicle.
Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Proceed for an excursion to Kufri: Kufri, one of India’s holiday paradises, is beautifully situated at an altitude of 2,622 meters. Known for its stunning scenery and sports activities, Kufri is a popular tourist hotspot.
State Museum & Library: The Shimla State Museum and Library, located approximately 2.5 kilometers from Shimla’s center, is a notable attraction. The museum is renowned for its collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, coins, and photographs. It also houses samples of the famous Pahari miniature art form, which became less prevalent with the rise of Western art. The museum is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Shimla.
Return to Shimla and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Breakfast will be at the hotel.
Drive to Chandigarh for a flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, drive to Agra.
Agra: Agra, transformed into the second capital of the Mughal Empire by the great Mughal monarchs Akbar and Shah Jahan, retains its charm with a mix of red sandstone and white marble edifices, narrow alleys, and quaint buggies. The city still reflects its Mughal heritage, and a walk through its bustling streets reveals the delightful aroma of Mughlai cuisine.
Just before reaching Agra, stop at the Baby Taj for sightseeing. (Your local expert will meet you here).
Baby Taj (Itmad-Ud-Daulah): The interiors of the Baby Taj are often considered more intricate than those of the Taj Mahal. Built by Empress Nur Jahan for her father, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, in 1628, this Mughal tomb is renowned for its white marble construction and elaborate inlay work. Itmad-Ud-Daulah, originally a poor Persian merchant named Mirza Ghiyas Beg, rose to prominence as a chief minister under Emperor Jahangir. His daughter, Mehr-Un-Nissa (Nur Mahal), became Jahangir's wife and significantly influenced the Mughal court. The mausoleum is set in a serene garden by the Yamuna River, showcasing elegant Islamic decoration.
Later, check in at the hotel.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance – a captivating artistic rendition of the history of the Taj Mahal.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Proceed for a sunrise tour of the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal: This architectural marvel is the primary reason for many tourists visiting Agra. Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum dedicated to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The monument took 22 years to complete and was designed by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Renowned for its stunning design, perfect symmetry, and intricate inlay work, the Taj Mahal features elegant domes and beautifully carved screens.
Proceed for sightseeing of Agra Fort.
Agra Fort: This red sandstone fort is surrounded by a chahar-bagh (a four-square formal garden). Constructed by Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1563 and 1573, the fort features imposing gates, walls, and a moat. Inside, the Pearl Mosque (Moti Masjid) is a notable attraction. The fort is located on the bend of the Yamuna River and served as Akbar's citadel.
Return to the hotel for freshening up and breakfast.
Leave for Fatehpur Sikri, approximately one hour's drive.
Fatehpur Sikri: Founded by Akbar in 1568, this former Mughal capital was built to honor the Sufi saint Salim Chishti, who blessed Akbar with three sons. Akbar constructed the grand mosque and various secular buildings such as the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Jodhabai Palace, Birbal’s House, Mariam's House, and the Panch Mahal. The city was later abandoned due to water scarcity.
Continue the drive to Bharatpur.
Bharatpur: Maharaja Suraj Mal established the princely state of Bharatpur and once conquered Delhi. The Keoladeo Ghana National Park, created in the 19th century by the Maharaja, is a renowned water-bird sanctuary. The park, covering 24 sq. km, was initially a private hunting reserve. It is home to 375 species of birds, including kingfishers, pelicans, Siberian cranes, and migratory waterfowl. The park is known for the impressive nesting of egrets, storks, herons, and cormorants.
Enjoy lunch at the former royal palace and take a rickshaw ride with a guide in the park.
Take a train (with airline-like seating) to Ranthambore.
Reach and check in at the lodge.
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve: Located at the junction of the Aravalis and the Vindhyas, this reserve is known for its natural and historical richness. The park features varied topography, including flat-topped hills, rocky gorges, and wide valleys. It is famous for its tigers, which, although solitary and elusive, offer exciting sightings and evidence of their presence.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Wake up early and head out for your morning safari in the National Park. Track tigers and other wildlife through the morning. Return to the resort/lodge by 10:00 AM for breakfast.
After freshening up, either visit the old fort in the forest or relax by the pool at the hotel.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch and then set out for your afternoon safari. This safari usually lasts until around 5:00 or 6:00 PM, after which you'll return to the resort/lodge.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Wake up early and go on a morning safari in the National Park to track tigers and other wildlife. Return to the resort/lodge by 10:00 AM for breakfast.
Freshen up and drive to Jaipur. Check in at the hotel upon arrival.
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is renowned for its grand palaces, fortresses, and regal heritage. Founded by Jai Singh II, the city is known as the "Pink City" due to its distinctive pink-colored buildings, a tradition that began in 1856.
In the evening, visit the Birla Temple, a marble structure built in 1985, to explore Jaipur’s religious life. Witness the AARTI Ceremony, where oil lamps are lit and waved to invoke the deity. Enjoy the experience and spend the night in Jaipur.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.
Proceed for a morning excursion to Amber Fort, including an elephant ride up to the fort.
Amber Fort Palace: Built by Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Jai Singh I, Amber Fort is a stunning fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. Despite its formidable exterior, the fort reveals a lavish inner palace offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Mughal rulers.
Enjoy lunch at a historic 100-year-old local restaurant with a taster’s platter, explained by your guide.
City Palace: A blend of Mughal and Rajasthani styles, the City Palace includes the Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, and City Palace Museum.
Hawa Mahal: Known as the "Palace of Winds," this facade with 953 windows allowed Rajput royal women to observe street life while maintaining purdah. Its design also helps cool the interiors.
Jantar Mantar: The largest and best-preserved of the five observatories built by Jai Singh II, this site features impressive astronomical instruments still in use.
In the afternoon, enjoy a cycle rickshaw ride through Jaipur's vibrant bazaars, known for textile block printing, blue pottery, carpet weaving, semi-precious stones, and local crafts.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Delhi.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure and enjoy shopping in Delhi.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Transfer to Delhi airport and board your flight home.
'TOUR ENDS WITH MEMORIES'
B-1/ 603A, II Floor, Front Side, Near Janakpuri East Metro Station, Janakpuri, New Delhi – 110058, India
Registered Address:61, Shiva Enclave, Block F, Vikas Nagar, Uttam Nagar, New Delhi-110059, India
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