September 20: Depart USA
Your journey to India begins today when you depart from the USA.
September 21: Arrive Delhi
Namaste. Welcome to India! Arrive at Delhi International airport and meet our representative, who will transfer you to your hotel. Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India's legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi's spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight in Delhi. Hotel: Hilton Janakpuri
September 22: Delhi
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a full day tour of Delhi. First, explore Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. After lunch, tour New Delhi. Visit the Qutub Minar, which is the tallest stone tower in India. Then visit Humayun's tomb, built by the widow of the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, and an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style. Later, drive past the imposing India Gate, the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President's residence. Evening at leisure and overnight in Delhi.
September 23: Delhi—Agra
In the morning, drive to Agra (4 hours). Visit Sikandra, Akbar's tomb that blends various religious motifs, and the Agra Fort, a magnificent citadel with marble palaces, ornate alcoves and terrace pavilions. In the evening, enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20,000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world. Overnight in Agra. Hotel: Trident Agra
September 24: Agra—Jaipur
After a leisurely morning, enjoy an authentic Indian lunch at the home of a local family. This is a wonderful opportunity to observe the traditional ways of life and engage in cultural exchange. Later, drive to Jaipur. En-route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, a perfectly preserved and deserted red sandstone city. Arrive in Jaipur and transfer to your hotel. Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the "Pink City" due to the pink colored buildings and avenues. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur. Hotel: Trident Jaipur
September 25: Jaipur
After breakfast, proceed on a full day tour of Jaipur. Start with a visit to Amber Fort. The final descent to this ancient city is made by elephant back—a truly memorable experience! In the fort, you will see magnificent palaces and halls covered with mirrored mosaics. After lunch, explore Jaipur city. Visit City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture that is still occupied by the Royal family. Also visit the Palace of the Winds and Jantar Mantar, the solar observatory. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur.
September 26: Jaipur
In the morning, enjoy a yoga session in a local park. Later, participate in a cooking demonstration on Rajasthani cuisine. In the evening, enjoy a special session of mehndi. Mehndi is the application of henna as a form of temporary skin decoration. Traditionally, it is applied during celebrations and wedding events. Overnight in Jaipur.
September 27: Jaipur—Deogarh
After breakfast, drive to Rajsamand and stay at the historic Deogarh Mahal, a restored Mewar Palace that is still partially occupied by the Royal family. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner and rural ramble – a jeep ride through the countryside. Overnight in Deogarh Mahal.
September 28: Deogarh—Udaipur
Morning at leisure. Later, drive to Udaipur. Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the final capital of the Mewar Kingdom. With a wealth of enchanting lakes, the city is nicknamed the "Lake City" and is a true oasis in Rajasthan. Evening at leisure and overnight in Udaipur. Hotel: Sheraton Udaipur Palace and Hotel
September 29: Udaipur
After breakfast, proceed for the city tour of Udaipur. First, visit the City Palace and Museum. The largest palace complex in India, it is a blend of Mughal and Rajput influences. Also visit the 17th century Jagdish temple, drive around the Fateh Sagar Lake, and visit the Sahelion ki Bari, an ornamental pleasure garden with fountains and marble kiosks. Later, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola, where you will view the Lake Palace. (Only guests are allowed to the hotel.) Evening at leisure and overnight in Udaipur.
September 30: Udaipur and Departure
Day at leisure to explore Udaipur independently or explore the vibrant markets and bazaars. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, transfer to the international terminal for your flight home.
October 1: Arrive in USA
Arrive home in the USA.