Essential India (4 Star Hotels)

Greetings to India! Look out for the Travel Talk sign at the airport as we'll be there to pick you up and transfer you to our hotel in Delhi. At 6:30 pm, gather in the lobby for a casual meeting with your guide and fellow group members to discuss your upcoming tour in India. Following that, you'll have leisure time to unwind and recover after your long flight or, if you prefer, join an optional group dinner to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and toast to exciting new adventures and friendships ahead!

At around 8:30 am today, you'll begin your sightseeing tour in Delhi with your guide. Old Delhi unveils the enchanting charm of India's history, culture, and traditions, while the captivating New Delhi showcases the modern face of the country. Begin with a visit to Jama Masjid, one of Asia's largest mosque. Explore the bustling Chandni Chowk, Asia's largest wholesale market, teeming with shops, bazaars, and vibrant life. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Pay respects at Raj Ghat, a simple yet powerful memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Continuing to New Delhi, witness the British legacy with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Qutub Minar. The Imperial Delhi part of the tour includes a drive past India Gate, a monumental war memorial arch, as well as the Parliament House, Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace.

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Agra. Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, get ready for the optional "Discovering Oriental Agra" program, designed to connect you with the essence of this incredible city. Or, join your guide for an orientation walk among the highlights of Agra. For an eco-friendly and immersive experience, the tour is conducted using battery-operated rickshaws. Your journey will encompass various significant places in the city. You'll rewind to the time of Emperor Shahjehan at Dara Shikoh's library, where intellectual and literary conversations thrived. You'll also visit the birthplace of the esteemed poet Mirza Ghalib in the Kala Mahal locality, as well as the headquarters of the Radhasoami faith at Dayalbagh. Other highlights include the Mankameshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the country, and several churches, including the historic Akbar Church built by Emperor Akbar in 1598.

In the early morning, embark on a visit to the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal stands as an epitome of Mughal architecture and a poignant symbol of India's rich history. Constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century as an expression of love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this grand monument is undeniably one of the world's wonders. Its breathtaking marble inlay work, particularly when observed up close, is truly astounding, leaving visitors mesmerized by its brilliance. After the Taj Mahal visit, return to your hotel for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely morning to relax. Later, continue your explorations with a visit to the Agra Fort and the Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah, a remarkable Mughal mausoleum constructed in honor of Mumtaz Mahal's grandfather. The tomb is affectionately known as the "jewel box" or the "Baby Taj."

After enjoying breakfast, your journey continues towards Ranthambore with an enroute stop at the remarkable Fatehpur Sikri.Situated in the province of Uttar Pradesh, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. This world heritage site boasts one of the best-preserved collections of Mughal architecture in India. Marvel at the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque, the intricately designed palaces constructed for Emperor Akbar's wives, the grand public and private discussion halls, and the vast ornamental pool.After a captivating exploration of Fatehpur Sikri, continue your journey towards the mesmerizing Ranthambore.

Start your day with an early morning Game safari at Ranthambore National Park (from 6:00 am to 9:30 am) on a Shared Canter Safari.After breakfast, continue your journey towards the enchanting "Pink City - Jaipur," which is approximately 160 kilometers away, taking around 3.30 hours from Ranthambore.Upon reaching Jaipur, check-in at your hotel and take some time to unwind.In your leisure time, you have the option to join a delightful Cooking Lesson. Early evening, embark on a cooking lesson with a local Indian family.What to Expect:No trip to India is complete without experiencing its rich culinary heritage with a local family. Immerse yourself in this exclusive time with your host, discovering their secret ancestral and family recipes, age-old culinary techniques, and health-conscious ingredients. Delve into the specialty of Jaipuri cooking art and gain insights into various aspects of Indian lifestyle.This unique opportunity allows you to learn to prepare a complete Indian meal with your host. It goes beyond just cooking; it is also about enjoying an unforgettable communal dining experience in the comfort of an Indian home. The warmth of the Indian hospitality combined with the delicious flavors of the cuisine promises an exceptional and memorable experience.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour led by your private guide.During the morning, explore the city's highlights, starting with the impressive City Palace. This grand complex boasts exquisite palaces, gardens, courtyards, and intricately carved doorways. Stroll to the adjacent Jantar Mantar, an Astronomical Observatory built in the 18th century. Don't miss the opportunity for a photo-stop at the picturesque Patrika Gate.As an optional activity, in the late afternoon, indulge in a bazaar walk coupled with local food tasting. In 1727, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh decided to shift the Kachwaha rulers' bastion from Amber to a larger and more spacious capital.

After a delicious breakfast, check out from your hotel in Jaipur and embark on a journey just outside the city to the historic capital of Amber. Here, you will marvel at the magnificent Amber Fort, a testament to the grandeur and splendor of the bygone era. En route, enjoy a photo stop at the iconic "Palace of Winds," famously known as Hawa Mahal, an architectural gem adorned with intricate latticework.Later, you will be driven back to Delhi, a journey of approximately 5 hours. Upon arrival in Delhi, you will be transferred to a hotel located nearby the airport, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay for the night.

Experience seamless assistance and a hassle-free airport transfer as you prepare to board your onward flight for an unforgettable journey. Bid farewell to the splendid India until your next great adventure!