Package Best For
Go on a 16-day curated expedition across India’s most poignant cultural and spiritual landmarks—from the ancient ghats of Varanasi to the regal palaces of Rajasthan and the deep dive into urban Mumbai. This journey weaves together sunrise rituals, wildlife encounters, UNESCO treasures, royal heritage, and sacred moments in opulent comfort. Highlights include a dawn boat ride on the Ganges, exquisite erotic temple artistry in Khajuraho, tiger tracking in Panna, and majestic Mughal marvels. Each evening promises refined hospitality at luxury palaces and heritage hotels, complete with private guides, chauffeured transport, and exceptional dining experiences.
Tour Highlights
- Sunrise Taj Mahal Experience – with private access
- Spiritual Aarti ceremony on the Ganges in Varanasi
- Sarnath Pilgrimage – trace Buddha’s first sermon
- Khajuraho Temple Tour – explore intricate sculptures
- Safari in Panna National Park – track tigers, leopards & gharials
- Mughal Legacy – Agra Fort & Fatehpur Sikri
- Rajasthani Royalty – Jaipur, Pushkar & Udaipur palace stays
- Urban Heartbeat – Mumbai’s colonial heart and coastal vibe
- Customized interactions: artisan visits, yoga sessions, cooking demos & photography tours
Tour Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival in New Delhi – Day of Acclimation & Subtle Indulgence
Touch down at Indira Gandhi International Airport and be greeted by your dedicated chauffeur. Settle into your stately residence, such as The Imperial or The Leela Palace, both emblematic of historic opulence. The afternoon offers a leisurely revel in the hotel’s spa or poolside serenity. As dusk falls, enjoy precise contemporary Indian cuisine at a renowned restaurant like Indian Accent, accompanied by a short evening walk in the leafy precincts near the hotel. Overnight in New Delhi
Day-2: Old & New Delhi – Living History & Colonial Grandeur
Rise early to explore Old Delhi, beginning with a guided rickshaw ride through the fragrant spice bazaars of Chandni Chowk—pass by the iconic Jama Masjid, built by Shah Jahan. After a heartfelt visit at Raj Ghat, switch to modern elegance: marvel at Humayun’s Tomb, a precursor to the Taj designs, then move on to Qutub Minar, a soaring minaret showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture. The late afternoon offers tea at a heritage haveli or the serene Lodhi Gardens. As night envelops the city, savory modern Indian delicacies await at one of Delhi’s culinary hotspots.
Overnight in New Delhi
Day-3: Fly to Varanasi – A Mystical Riverfront Welcome
Take an early flight to Varanasi, where your guide will escort you to a heritage property like BrijRama Palace, perched on the Ganges ghats. In the late afternoon, prepare for the evocative Ganga Aarti ceremony. You’ll be seated on a private boat, floating among flickering brass lamps as priests chant and wave fire offerings to the river. Cap off the night with rooftop views of the riverbanks, accompanied by light vegetarian fare. Overnight in Varanasi
Day-4: Dawn on the River, Sarnath Pilgrimage & Ancient Traditions
Before sunrise, board a wooden boat for a meditative cruise along the Ganges. Watch as pilgrims perform ablutions, priests chant, and the first daylight illumines centuries-old ghats. Return for breakfast, then journey to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon—visit Dhamek Stupa, the archaeological museum, and tranquil monasteries. Return to Varanasi in the afternoon to explore narrow lanes of Banaras, witnessing weavers creating silk treasures. Optionally, enjoy a classical music recital in the evening. Overnight in Varanasi
Day-5: Fly to Khajuraho – Sculptures of the Sacred & Sensual
Journey via a short flight to Khajuraho. Settle into a serene retreat like The Lalit Temple View resort, surrounded by nature. Embark on a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed temples, admiring the mesmerising sculptural narratives—divine celestial beings and the timeless celebration of kama (desire). End the day with a light- and sound-show amid the ruins, bringing centuries of lore to life. Overnight in Khajuraho
Day-6: Khajuraho to Panna – Into the Panorama of Wilderness
After a nutritious breakfast, drive through verdant forests to Panna National Park. Check in to Pashan Garh, a luxury jungle lodge by Taj Safaris, blending seamless eco-design with lavish comfort. In the afternoon, set out in an open jeep for your first safari—search for royal Bengal tigers, elusive leopards, wild boars, and gavial crocodiles in the Ken River belt. Return to a gourmet dinner and nightcaps by the fire. Overnight in Panna National Park
Day-7: Morning Safari, Jungle Breakfast & Transfer to Agra
Start your day pre-dawn with a second safari, catching the jungle awake. Follow this with a hearty lodge breakfast and departure to Jhansi, where you’ll board a premium train or drive the final leg to Agra. As dusk arrives, you’ll be ushered into the majestic Oberoi Amarvilas—a resort with unparalleled Taj views. Enjoy sunset cocktails on your balcony, followed by a lavish Mughlai dinner. Overnight in Agra
Day-8: Taj Mahal at Dawn & Mughal Grandeur
Commence at the crack of dawn to witness the Taj Mahal in silvery dawn light. After exploring the gardens and inner sanctum with your guide, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Next, visit Agra Fort, a royal stronghold. Post-lunch, journey to Fatehpur Sikri, an exquisitely preserved ghost city with the Buland Darwaza and Panch Mahal. Later, transfer to Jaipur, where opulence awaits at the Rajvilas or Rambagh Palace. Overnight in Jaipur
Day-9: Jaipur – Amber Fort and Artisan Immersion
Begin with a horseback or jeep ascent to Amber Fort, exploring mirror-palaces and royal zenana wings. Your guide leads you through the ornate City Palace, followed by Jantar Mantar—a living astronomical instrument. Snap photos at the rose-hued Hawa Mahal. Post-lunch, dive into Jaipur’s traditional crafts: meet gemstone artisans or block printers. Conclude with a candlelit heritage-meals experience accompanied by local folk musicians. Overnight in Jaipur
Day-10: Jaipur to Pushkar – Pilgrimage & Panoramic Lakes
Journeys continue to Pushkar, a holy desert oasis. Upon arriving, check into a luxury tented camp with imaginative décor and spa options. Wander through the lotus-bordered Pushkar Lake and visit the rare Brahma Temple. Observe pilgrims offering evening prayers at riverside ghats. Optionally, enjoy an overnight camel-cart ride through desert fringes. Overnight in Pushkar
Day-11: Pushkar to Udaipur – The Romantic White City
Post-breakfast, cruise toward Udaipur through arid Aravalli serene landscapes. Check into either the regal Taj Lake Palace or lavish Oberoi Udaivilas, set on the shimmering Lake Pichola. Sail at sunset, passing the white-stone Jag Mandir palace and watch towers. A lakeside candlelit dinner—what could be more romantic? Overnight in Udaipur
Day-12: Udaipur – Art, Heritage & Leisure by the Lake
Wake to views of palace domes reflected in the still lake. Tour the grand City Palace, intricate Jagdish Temple, and private Crystal Gallery. Enjoy lunch at a rooftop café overlooking Lake Pichola. The afternoon offers a choice: spa rituals, miniature painting lessons, or a cycling tour of local villages. Cap off the night with a lakeside cultural performance. Overnight in Udaipur
Day-13: Udaipur to Mumbai – From Palaces to Metropolitan Edges
Board a morning flight to Mumbai, where a luxury sedan awaits. Transfer to the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, overlooking the Gateway of India. Unwind with Indian-inspired spa treatments or pre-dinner cocktails at the Sea Lounge, absorbing views of the Arabian Sea. Overnight in Mumbai
Day-14: Mumbai – History, Art & Urban Pulse
Begin with a boat ride to the Elephanta Caves, strand-crossed goddess-carved shrines. Return to explore Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, then delve into Mumbai’s vibrant markets (Crawford Market, Colaba Causeway). Wander through the creative precinct of Kala Ghoda, and marvel at the open-air Dhobi Ghat. Cap the evening with a film-set visit or explore dj nightlife/rooftop bar in Bandra. Overnight in Mumbai
Day-15: Mumbai – Free Day & Farewell Gala
Enjoy a day tailored to your style—be it boutique shopping in Bandra, visiting modern galleries, or relaxing at the hotel. In the evening, gather for a glamorous farewell dinner on a sea-facing rooftop with panoramic views and a curated menu of progressive Indian cuisine. Overnight in Mumbai
Day-16: Departure – Memories to Last a Lifetime
Savour your final gourmet breakfast as you watch early breeze-swept waves. Your chauffeur escorts you to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you treasured memories of India’s sacred ceremonies, architectural grandeur, wilderness encounters, and dynamic cities.
Note: This itinerary is crafted for travelers seeking deep cultural immersion, spiritual resonance, wildlife adventure, and regal indulgence. It can easily be personalized with yoga retreats, textile trail extensions (Rajasthan’s Shekhawati), private charters, honeymoon add-ons, or family-friendly elements like cooking classes and community visits.