Essential India (4 Star Hotels)

Essential India (4 Star Hotels)

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9 Days From

$1343

$739

Essential India (4 Star Hotels)

9 Days Starting and ending in Delhi

Visiting: India

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

IE1

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 35

Physical rating:

Low, Easy

Age range:

18-59

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1343 $739 Operator discount: -$604 -45%

NB: Prices correct on 16-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 9-day adventure through the vibrant heart of India with our meticulously crafted tour. Discover the captivating blend of history, culture, and wildlife as you traverse the iconic cities of New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Gurgaon, while also immersing yourself in the natural splendors of Ranthambore National Park. Visit Delhi and marvel at the impressive architecture of historical monuments such as the majestic Qutub Minar. Explore the grandeur of Agra Fort and other architectural wonders that will transport you back in time. Prepare for an exhilarating experience at Ranthambore National Park, one of India’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. Embark on thrilling safaris to spot majestic tigers, along with other exotic wildlife species in their natural habitat. The modern metropolis of Gurgaon is the perfect finish for your India vacation with its cutting-edge infrastructure and lively ambiance. Book your 9-day India tour now and join us for an enchanting journey that promises to leave you with cherished memories of India’s diverse tapestry.

Highlights

  • The Essential India 2024 tour offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, taking you on a journey through the rich heritage and culture of India’s most captivating destinations.

  • Stay in carefully selected 4-star hotels with breakfasts and airport transfers included. Plus, travel in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned coach with a local, experienced guide throughout your trip.

  • From the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra to the regal palaces of Jaipur and Udaipur, every stop on this tour presents iconic architectural marvels that will leave you awe-struck.

  • Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled with the safari adventure at Ranthambore National Park, where encounters with elusive tigers and exotic fauna await.

  • Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals, engage in a culinary journey with Indian families, and savor the authentic flavors of Rajasthan’s delectable cuisine.

  • As you explore the vibrant bazaars, indulge in traditional arts and crafts, and witness age-old traditions, you will find yourself captivated by the timeless allure of Rajasthan, leaving with unforgettable memories of this enchanting land.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Delhi

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!



Accommodation

Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shahdara - 4 Star - Or similar

Included Activities

Welcome Meeting

Optional Activities

 Group Dinner

Day 2: Delhi City Tour

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



Accommodation

Park Plaza Delhi CBD Shahdara - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Delhi

Sightseeing of Raj Ghat

Sightseeing of Jama Masjid

Sightseeing of Chandni Chowk

Sightseeing of Qutab Minar

Sightseeing of Humayun's Tomb

Entrance Fees

Humayun's Tomb - USD 8,30

Qutab Minar - USD 8,30

Jama Masjid - USD 4

Optional Activities

Rickshaw Ride - USD 2,80

Day 3: Agra

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.





Accommodation

Howard Plaza - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Agra City Tour

Entrance Fees

Oriental Agra - USD 48

Day 4: Agra, Taj Mahal

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.

"







Accommodation

Howard Plaza – 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Amber Fort

Sightseeing of City Palace & Hawa Mahal

Sightseeing of Jantar Mantar

Entrance Fees







Taj Mahal - USD 18

Agra Fort - USD 9

Tomb of I'timad-ud-Daulah - USD 5

Day 5: Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Ranthambore

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.





Accommodation

The Sher Garh Resort - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Fatehpur Sikri

Entrance Fees

Fatehpur Sikri - USD 9

Day 6: Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park























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.





Accommodation

The Fern Residency Jaipur - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Ranthambore National Park

Optional Activities

Cooking Lesson: USD 36





















Day 7: Jaipur

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.





Accommodation

The Fern Residency Jaipur - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Jaipur

Optional Activities

Bazaar Walk with Local Food Tasting: USD 30

Day 8: Amber Fort, Delhi, Dwarka

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.





Accommodation

ITC Welcomhotel - 4 Star - Or similar

Meals

Breakfast

Included Activities

Sightseeing of Amber Fort

Entrance Fees

Amber Fort - USD 7













Day 9: Dwarka















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!



Meals

Breakfast













What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 star hotels

  • Meals

    7 breakfasts, drinking water supply in vehicle

  • Airport Transfer(s)

    Arrival and Departure transfers on first and last day of the trip

  • Transportation

    A/C coach or mini-bus, Jeep ride at Amber Fort, rickshaw ride in Delhi

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced guide licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Safari

    Jeep ride at Amber Fort, rickshaw ride in Delhi

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Check out our Q&As

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    No passenger under the age of 18

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Arrival and Departure transfers on first and last day of the trip



  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    No

  • What is the maximum group size?

    Average group size is around 2-35 people

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    No

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot
James Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed the exotic Morocco...

29-Oct-2023

Just completed the exotic Morocco tour with our excellent guide Abdul! He was one of the best tour guides I have met, he brought so much energy and knowledge on the tour and could not imagine doing the tour without him. The tour itself was so diverse, seeing so many different landscapes. It has been one of the best trips I have done. Would highly recommend!

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 28, 2024 - Oct 06, 2024
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2024 - Oct 13, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 19, 2024 - Oct 27, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2024 - Nov 03, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2024 - Nov 10, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 17, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 16, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 23, 2024 - Dec 01, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 07, 2024 - Dec 15, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 21, 2024 - Dec 29, 2024
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Jan 11, 2025 - Jan 19, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 02, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 16, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 16, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

May 10, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Jun 07, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Jul 05, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$1343 $739

Operator discount: -$604

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 01, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 07, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
$1441 $793

Operator discount: -$648

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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