Spirit of India

Day 1  Fly to Delhi
Today you will fly to Delhi, arriving on day 2.

Day 2  Delhi
Today is free for you to explore Delhi at your leisure. This evening we will meet for a welcome dinner for the chance to meet your travelling companions.

Day 3  Delhi to Jaipur
Established in the 17th century and today surrounded by the remains of the city walls, Old Delhi epitomises stereotypical India. Temples and mosques fill every available space and vibrant bazaars and tempting food stalls flood the narrow lanes with colour and heady scents. You'll also see Raj Ghat, the cremation grounds of Mahatma Gandhi. Enjoy your lunch at the local restaurant before our drive to heritage rich Jaipur this afternoon.

Day 4  Jaipur        
Jaipur is home to the magnificent Amber Fort. We'll visit it this morning to explore the inner and outer workings of the fortress and its surroundings. Jaipur is affectionately known as the 'Pink City'. The buildings here were painted pink by Maharaja's decree to imitate the red sandstone architecture of Mughal cities. A highlight is the City Palace, which we visit this afternoon. During our tour, we’ll have a brief orientation tour of Old Jaipur by The Pink City Rickshaw, a pioneering social enterprise run by and employing women. They offer travellers an eco-friendly, custom-designed rickshaw tour, providing an immersive cultural experience while promoting sustainable tourism. Whilst in Jaipur you will also be served a glass of Lassi, a blend of water, yogurt, spices and sometimes fruit. The drink, traditionally served in earthern pots to add an unique aroma, is topped with a thick layer of malai leaving you refreshed and surprisingly full! In the evening a traditional dinner will be served in majestic surroundings as we dine with local family at their house. This is a special experience as we savour exceptional cuisine learn first hand the history of one of India's most noted families.

Day 5  Jaipur to Ranthambore    
Drive through memorable scenery to Ranthambore - considered to be the best game reserve in India - to look for the country's famous tigers. This afternoon you could take an optional excursion to Ranthambore Fort.

Day 6  Ranthambore
Join an early morning safari for another chance to experience the wildlife and hopefully spot a tiger. Then relax over lunch, before taking another game drive.

Day 7  Ranthambore to Agra
Today we will travel to Agra. On the way we will visit Abhaneri Stepwells - an incredible example of architecture. And stop for lunch at Umaid Lake Palace.

Day 8  Agra
The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shan Jahan as a symbol of his love for his wife. The sight of this magnificent mausoleum is certain to surpass all your expectations. Close by is Mehtab Bagh, a centuries-old garden complex, which sits on the other side of the river. You'll get to see the Taj Mahal from here too, for equally splendid views. This afternoon we head to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. This powerful fortress was the imperial city of the Mogul rulers.

Day 9  Agra to Lucknow
Today we will travel to Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, known for its parks, gardens, monuments and fascinating bazaars. In the afternoon enjoy a short tour of Lucknow followed by an immersive perfumery experience at an 8th generation fragrance house. 

Day 10  Lucknow to Varanasi
We travel to Varanasi. Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is colourful, chaotic and one of Hinduism’s holiest cities. To get the most out of your time here, you need to experience the city with an open mind. Its principal attraction are the bathing ghats that line the west bank of the Ganges, where Hindus bathe in the water to cleanse themselves of sin. This evening we offer the opportunity to watch a traditional arti ceremony, which involves an offering of light, food, water and flowers to the deities. It is considered a fundamental part of the Hindu faith.

Day 11  Varanasi    
We rise before the sun this morning to sail along the Ganges and see devout Hindus bathing and praying beneath the rising sun. We head back to the hotel for breakfast before enjoying a short tour of Varanasi. This afternoon we visit the ruined city of Sarnath. This is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists as it was here that Buddha gave his first sermon.

Day 12  Varanasi to Delhi
Relax this morning or take the time to enjoy some final sightseeing before your afternoon flight to Delhi. Join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner this evening.

Day 13  Fly to the UK
We'll transfer to the airport for our return flight to the UK.