India - Grand Indian Journey

We invite you on a grand journey through India. This tour encompasses all the most fascinating places and monuments of ancient India! You will marvel at the palaces of the lake city of Udaipur and the heavenly blue of Jodhpur. The doors of the forts of the great Mughal and Rajput dynasties will open before you, and one of the oldest observatories in Jaipur will reveal its secrets. The Khajuraho temple complex—a UNESCO World Heritage site—will inspire you with its famous stone illustrations of the "Kamasutra" treatise on love, while medieval Orchha will offer tranquility with its landscapes. And of course, the program includes a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World—the magnificent Taj Mahal.

Guaranteed Tour to India + Visa to India as a Gift / Minimum 2 People

The tour includes:

• 14 nights accommodation in a hotel
• 14 breakfasts, 13 dinners, and 1 lunch (on the last day)
• Air-conditioned transportation throughout the route
• Russian-speaking escort guide
• Boat cruise on Lake Pichola
• Elephant ride in Jaipur
• Train ride from Jhansi to Delhi in an air-conditioned carriage
• Boat ride in Varanasi
• Aarti ceremony
• Entrance tickets to architectural monuments
• All taxes and fees
• Group transfer on arrival from Tuesday 12:00 PM to 7:00 AM Wednesday. If clients arrive at a different time, an individual transfer must be booked.
• Group transfer on the day of the tour's conclusion to the airport or to a hotel near the airport (if the client has booked an additional night in Delhi).

The tour does not include:

• Airfare (including Varanasi – Delhi / from €200)
• Personal expenses
• Transportation on days without scheduled activities
• Tips for the guide and driver
• Medical insurance

Attractions visited:

• Delhi: India Gate, Presidential Palace, Lotus Temple (from the outside), Qutub Minar, Akshardham Temple.
• Pushkar: Brahma Temple and Lake.
• Udaipur: City Palace, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Jagdish Temple, boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Ranakpur: Jain Temples.
• Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada Mausoleum, Umaid Bhawan Palace.
• Jaipur: Amber Fort, elephant ride to the fort, City Palace, Birla Temple, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds).
• Agra: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah Mausoleum, Akbar's Tomb (Sikandra), Galta Ji, Abhaneri (Stepwell), Harshat Mata Temple, and Fatehpur Sikri.
• Orchha: Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, and Ram Raja Temple.
• Khajuraho: Chandela Temple Complex (Kamasutra Temples).
• Chitrakoot: Sati Anusuya Ashram, Gupta Godavari Caves, Aarti at Ramghat.
• Varanasi: Sarnath, boat cruise on the Ganges River, evening prayer (Aarti), sightseeing tour.

Program:

Day 1. Tuesday. Departure to Delhi (International flight).

Seven hundred years ago, the Italian merchant Marco Polo, after traveling through the Indian subcontinent, wrote the "Book of Wonders." Today, a direct flight to India takes less time than reading this tome. And the wonders have only multiplied over the centuries. Arrival in Delhi on a regular international flight. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage at New Delhi Airport (Terminal 3), you will be met by a representative of our company. You will be greeted with a traditional Indian "Swagat" and a flower garland. After the greeting, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and a brief rest.

Note: The hotel is confirmed from 1:00 PM on Tuesday, and the sightseeing program starts on Wednesday.

Day 2. Wednesday. Delhi.

At 09:00, after breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Delhi. Delhi is the capital of modern India, and many dynasties and rulers have flourished on its royal land over the past three thousand years. Their legacy still lives in many monuments, from the 13th-century Lodi Kings’ Mausoleum to the buildings of the British Empire, such as the Parliament House and the Presidential Palace. The program includes visits to India Gate, the Presidential Palace and government buildings (from the outside), the Lotus Temple (from the outside), Akshardham Temple, and the Qutub Minar.

The Lotus Temple (closed on Mondays) is one of the most remarkable temples in India. Built in the shape of a lotus flower, it is the largest and most beautiful Bahá'í temple and serves as a symbol for adherents of this faith worldwide. Another iconic site is the 72-meter-high Qutub Minar, built in the 12th-14th centuries, adorned with calligraphic inscriptions and symbolizing Muslim rule in Delhi. Next, we will visit Akshardham Temple—one of the most grandiose Hindu temples in the world, which holds a Guinness World Record. The temple stands 42 meters tall and measures 94 by 106 meters in width and length. It is adorned with 234 columns, 9 majestic domes, 20 four-cornered towers, and more than 20,000 statues. The building’s perimeter features 148 elephant sculptures. The exterior of the temple is covered in pink sandstone, symbolizing love, while the interior is made of white marble, representing purity and the Absolute. In fact, it is not just a temple but a whole complex with a light and sound fountain, sculptures, and channels for boat rides.

Overnight and dinner at the hotel in Delhi.

Day 3. Thursday. Delhi – Pushkar (Shatabdi Express train departs 06:05 - arrives 12:45)

After breakfast, depart for Pushkar. This city is sacred to Hindus and holds the status of "Tirtharaj," the king of all pilgrimage sites. The temple of the creator god Brahma here is one of the few dedicated to him in India. According to legend, Pushkar was built on the spot where Brahma dropped a lotus flower that killed a demon. The lake was formed from the waters that flowed from the three places touched by the lotus. Pilgrims can wash away their sins with holy water by bathing in Pushkar Lake. Around the lake, there are 52 ghats, or steps. It is believed that Vishnu appeared in the form of a boar at Varaha Ghat.

Upon arrival, we will visit the Mausoleum of Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti and check into the hotel. Later, we will visit the Brahma Temple and the Lake. Overnight and dinner in Pushkar.

Day 4. Friday. Pushkar – Udaipur (250 km – 5 hours)

After breakfast, depart for Udaipur—the White City. Its name in Sanskrit means "City of the Rising Sun." After the destruction of the previous capital of the Mewar principality, Chittorgarh, Maharaja Udai Singh founded a new one on the shores of lakes in 1559. It is no surprise that such a stunning place inspired the creation of the graceful panther Bagheera from Kipling’s “The Jungle Book.” Check into the hotel. Overnight in Udaipur.

Day 5. Saturday. Udaipur

In the morning, after breakfast, explore Udaipur. The monumental City Palace complex was built along Lake Pichola starting from the 16th century. It is now a city within a city, consisting of eleven interconnected palaces constructed over the centuries by 22 rulers. This has resulted in a blend of architectural styles, squares, streets, and museums. The total area of the complex is 2 hectares.

The program continues with a visit to Saheliyon-ki-Bari or the “Garden of the Maidens,” created for the wives of the rulers in the 18th century. The fountains, rose gardens, and lotus ponds offer a romantic atmosphere for visitors. Next, we will head to Jagdish Temple, located a bit to the north of the City Palace. Built in 1652, the temple is dedicated to Vishnu, with its exterior walls decorated with carvings of the god and scenes from Krishna’s life. The spacious hall (mandapa) leads to the sanctuary, which houses a statue of Jagannatha made of black volcanic stone. In a small elevated altar in front of the temple stands a bronze depiction of Garuda, Vishnu’s celestial vehicle.

At sunset, there will be an opportunity to take a short boat ride on the man-made Lake Pichola. The lake features two islands with white structures—Jagniwas, one of which houses a luxurious hotel that has appeared in a Bond film. Overnight at the hotel. Dinner and overnight in Udaipur.

Day 6. Sunday. Udaipur – Ranakpur – Jodhpur (290 km - 6 hours)

After breakfast, depart for Jodhpur via Ranakpur, where we will visit the small Sun Temple and the magnificent Jain temple complex. The main Ranakpur Temple is built almost entirely of white marble and is dedicated to Adinatha, the first of the twenty-four Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers) who achieved enlightenment. It is located in the Aravalli Valley, approximately 100 kilometers from Udaipur. The temple consists of 29 halls supported by 1,444 columns, each 12 meters high. None of these columns are identical, and none obstruct the view of the Tirthankara statue. The temple is known as the Rishabdeva Temple, but another name is Chaturmukha (Four-faced). According to legend, the temple was built in the 15th century by four devotees over fifty years.

From the White City, we travel to the Blue City, where we check into the hotel. Jodhpur is a dazzling mix of modern and traditional architecture reflected in its numerous palaces. Charming forts, temples, and other royal buildings have preserved their medieval character and will share it with us.

Overnight and dinner in Jodhpur.

Day 7. Monday. Jodhpur – Jaipur

In the morning, after breakfast, enjoy a tour of Jodhpur. Umaid Bhawan Palace is one of the largest private residences in the world, consisting of 347 rooms. Part of the palace operates as a hotel managed by the Taj Group, and the palace is named after Maharaja Umaid Singh. It features an unusual blend of traditional Indo-Saracenic architecture with an Art Deco interior, fashionable at the time of its construction. Part of the palace houses a museum with collections of paintings, weaponry, and curiosities from the rulers' personal collection. The rest of the palace serves as the private residence of the 24th-generation heir to the throne of Jodhpur, Dalil Singh.

Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most impregnable in the country’s history. Perched on a 125-meter rocky hill, the fort, with walls 36 meters high and 21 meters thick, was begun by Rao Jodha in the 15th century. According to English writer Joseph Kipling, Mehrangarh Fort became “the work of fairies, angels, and giants.” Gradually, under the protection of the powerful fort, surrounding settlements began to merge. The fort was never captured by force; it only joined the Mughal Empire in 1544 and remained part of it for three hundred years. According to local legend, Maharaja Rao Jodha ordered that the houses of the city be painted blue in honor of the god Krishna. Although locals explain the unusual color of the city in various ways—claiming it’s cooler in blue houses or that mosquitoes dislike the color. After the rulers' deaths, their wives were required to perform sati, a ritual self-immolation. When Maharaja Man Singh of Jodhpur died in 1847, all fifteen of his wives wished to follow him. Before ascending the funeral pyre, they dipped their palms in henna and pressed them against the wall. Their handprints were later carved in stone as a symbol of marital fidelity. Enthusiasts of dactyloscopy can view the handprints by entering the fort through the Iron Gate on the west side. Inside, you’ll find the Pleasure Palace, the Pearl Palace, and the Flower Palace, separated by small courtyards. The Mehrangarh Fort Museum features a golden throne, exquisite miniatures, ivory carvings, jewelry, luxurious garments, and numerous weapons. The visit concludes with a trip to Jaswant Thada—a marble memorial built in honor of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Made of white marble, it is adorned with intricate carvings.

After the tour, depart for Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. We will experience the legendary "Pink City." Maharaja Jai Singh II built a new city according to Vedic principles of Shilpa Shastra, an Indian equivalent of Feng Shui. The layout is a rectangle oriented east-west and is known as "Nandanvatara." Rajasthan is considered the homeland of the Gypsies, and the city immerses us in the medieval period with the vibrant saris of street fortune-tellers, kilograms of jewelry, earrings in their noses and ears, bracelets on their arms and legs, and shops of craftsmen, blacksmiths, trade stalls, and nomadic tents. British guidebooks claim that the city became known as "pink" starting in 1875 when, in honor of Prince Albert’s visit, the ruler of Jaipur ordered the houses to be painted pink. In reality, local sandstone used in construction gave the city its famous terracotta hue.

Overnight and dinner at a Jaipur hotel.

Optional: Traditional Dinner and Dance Show and a Night Tour of Jaipur

Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Jaipur by heading to one of the city's renowned hotels for an evening program. Enjoy stunning views of famous architectural landmarks, especially impressive in the evening illumination.

Admire the breathtaking views of Jaipur’s architectural highlights, including the façades of Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and Albert Hall (all viewed from the outside).

After the tour, enjoy dinner at one of Jaipur's finest restaurants, featuring a performance of traditional Rajasthani dance.

Cost: US$ 70 per person

Day 8. Tuesday. Jaipur

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit Amber Fort (also known as Amer Fort). Located 11 km north of Jaipur, Amber Fort was once the ancient capital of the Jaipur State. Maharaja Man Singh began constructing this magnificent palace-fortress in 1592. The fort is a grand complex of palaces, pavilions, gardens, and temples. Rising above is a whimsical honey-colored fort-palace. Feel the magic of bygone times as you ascend to the fort's heights on elephant back, accompanied by musicians. From the Maharaja’s apartments, there are stunning views of the narrow valley.

In the afternoon, explore the city with visits to the unique Jantar Mantar Observatory, a majestic structure built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728, housing the world's largest sundials. Also visit the City Palace, whose museums display beautiful collections of Mughal costumes, weaponry, and miniature paintings. View the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds) from the outside. This five-story building of pink sandstone, adorned with columns and balconies, was built in 1799. Its intricate façade with a thousand lattice windows is considered a symbol of Jaipur.

Jaipur is famous for its fabrics and is a major gem center in India. It hosts an annual international gem and jewelry exhibition. You can appreciate the exquisite local jewelry at a workshop and visit a textile factory where you can marvel at the magic of Indian fabric printing. Ladies can try on a real Indian sari, and gentlemen can don a traditional kurta.

In the evening in Jaipur, we will visit Birla Temple. The Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, also known as Birla Mandir, is a modern architectural marvel. Located at the foot of Moti Dungri Hill in Jaipur, it is built entirely of high-quality white marble and is surrounded by intricate sculptures and statues of deities. Dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Narayan, the three main domes of the temple represent secular India, depicting various approaches to the nation's diverse religions. The temple houses beautifully crafted statues of Ganesha and other Hindu gods, as well as statues of great thinkers and philosophers, such as Buddha and Socrates.

Overnight and dinner at the Jaipur hotel.

Day 9. Wednesday. Jaipur – Galtaiji – Abhaneri – Fatehpur Sikri – Agra (250 km – 6 hours)

After an early breakfast, depart from the hotel. The final destination for today is Agra. However, the first stop is the Galtaiji Temple Complex, also known as the Monkey Temple, located 10 km from Jaipur. It is notable for its unusual architecture, sacred springs, and a large population of monkeys. The temple complex consists of the Main Temple and the Sun Temple, as well as several sacred pools where many pilgrims from all over India come to bathe. Galtaiji is truly a monkey kingdom where the animals feel right at home.

In Abhaneri, you will visit the stepwell Chand Baori, built in the 7th century. The view of Chand Baori is astonishing—such stepwells were built only in India, making its architecture unique to the region. Chand Baori is also the deepest stepwell of its type. This remarkable structure consists of thousands of steps descending to the water, and it’s hard to believe that this massive and ingenious construction is merely a well designed to serve one purpose: providing water.

You will see the Harshat Mata Temple (Goddess of Happiness) with its medieval Indian architecture and then proceed to the "ghost town" of Fatehpur Sikri. Fatehpur Sikri is a city built in a desert location from red sandstone by Emperor Akbar, a mere reflection of its majestic past. It served briefly as the capital of the Mughal Empire before its inhabitants abandoned it due to a lack of water. It is likely because of this circumstance that we can see it today in its pristine beauty. Arrival in Agra and check-in at the hotel.

Overnight and dinner at the Agra hotel.

Day 10. Thursday. Agra

After breakfast, enjoy a tour of Agra, the majestic city that was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. Agra continues to attract seekers of beauty from around the world with the unforgettable Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal was built by the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The palace was constructed by 20,000 artisans over 22 years. A thousand elephants transported the white marble used in its construction. Merchants from Tibet, Persia, and Russia sent gemstones for its decoration. The floral ornamentation of jasper, agate, malachite, opal, obsidian, and mother-of-pearl, skillfully incorporated into the perfect symmetry of the pristine white palace, evokes a sense of lightness and weightlessness.

Next, visit the Agra Fort, built as a military fortress in 1565 by Emperor Akbar. Shah Jahan spent his final years in confinement here, treacherously betrayed by his own son, gazing out of his window at the white Taj Mahal. The immense walls of the fort conceal magnificent architectural marvels—masterpieces by Indian and Islamic artisans. In the afternoon, visit another grand Mughal architectural monument, the tomb of Emperor Akbar in Sikandra. Afterwards, visit Itmad-ud-Daula, a small, elegant garden tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula, the treasurer of the emperors, built by his daughter Nur Jahan, the beloved wife of Emperor Jahangir. Construction began in 1622 and lasted six years. The tomb features a combination of white marble, colorful mosaics, stone inlays, and latticework. It is the most innovative Mughal structure of the 15th century, showing a transition from the massive red sandstone constructions of Akbar’s era to the sensually refined buildings of Shah Jahan’s time (like the Taj Mahal).

After the extensive sightseeing, you have the opportunity to visit a marble workshop where craftsmen create furniture and souvenirs from marble inlaid with semi-precious stones. This is a unique chance to observe the artisans at work, whose skills have been passed down through generations. Return to the hotel. Overnight and dinner at the Agra hotel.

Optional: Theatrical Show in Agra

“Mohabbat-e-Taj” is a beautiful saga of love. The performance tells the legendary love story of the royal couple with vibrant costumes, songs, and dances, and features the world’s largest replica of the Taj Mahal on stage. The show depicts the love story of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, as well as the creation of the Taj Mahal. The ticket includes an audio translator in Russian.

Duration: 80 minutes.

Cost: US$ 60 per person (Platinum Class Tickets)

Day 11. Friday. Agra - (Shatabdi Express Train, 08:02 / 10:43) - Jhansi - Khajuraho (166 km / 5 hours), via Orchha

After breakfast, transfer to the railway station at 07:00 for departure by train to Jhansi. Upon arrival, meet at the station. Later, proceed to Khajuraho via Orchha, located 16 km from Jhansi. Orchha retains the medieval atmosphere of the ancient capital of one of central India’s most significant and powerful kingdoms. The city was founded in the 16th century by Rudra Pratap of the Bundela dynasty. Numerous temples, monuments, and palaces scattered throughout the city and its surroundings bear witness to its legendary past and appear frozen in time. In Orchha, you will visit the Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, and the Ram Raja Temple. Proceed to Khajuraho and transfer to the hotel. Overnight and dinner at the Khajuraho hotel.

Day 12. Saturday. Khajuraho

After an early breakfast, explore the temples of Khajuraho, built between 950 and 1050 AD by the powerful Chandela dynasty rulers. The temples are famous for their exquisite carvings depicting scenes from the famous love treatise "Kamasutra." Only 22 of the original 85 temples have survived. Following an age-old tradition, worship is still conducted at the Matangeshwar Temple. The rest of the day is free for optional excursions. Overnight and dinner at the hotel in Khajuraho.

Optional: Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum in Khajuraho

In the stylized village of Adivart, spanning 3.5 acres, there are 12 traditional houses representing seven tribal communities—Bhils, Korkus, Baigas, Gonds, Sahariyas, Bharis, and Kol. These represent the culture, art, and daily life of people from five regions of the state, namely Bundelkhand, Nimar, Malwa, Bagelkhand, and Chambe. The museum’s exhibits include tribal antiques, folk paintings, jewelry, masks, terracotta items, metalwork, and bamboo products. A small but interesting collection of paintings, sculptures, and artworks from various tribal groups in Madhya Pradesh is displayed. The museum also has a range of original paintings and prints for sale.

Cost: US$ 35 per person (including entry tickets)

Day 13. Sunday. Khajuraho – Chitrakoot (170 km – 4 hours)

Free time in the morning. You may visit the hotel’s Ayurvedic center or go on one of the optional excursions.

Optional: Tiger Safari in Panna National Park

Duration: 05:00 to 10:00 AM.

Panna National Park in Madhya Pradesh covers 542 square kilometers and is the 22nd tiger reserve in the country by date of establishment. The main entrance, called Madla, is 25 km (40 minutes) from your hotel in Khajuraho.

In 2007, the Indian Tourism Department recognized the park as the best-maintained park. Although the tiger population was wiped out by poaching by 2009, it has since been restored to around 80 individuals thanks to the efforts of zoologists. Today, you may see deer and wild boars, monkeys, bears, and even a leopard, and if you are lucky, the king of beasts himself. The Kanan River flows through the park, with rocky outcrops emerging during the hot season. The river is home to both major species of Indian crocodiles: the mugger and the long-snouted gharial.

Cost: US$ 140 per person (including entry tickets)

Later, travel to Chitrakoot, located on the banks of the Mandakini River and known for its connection to Rama. The city’s name translates to "beautiful mountain," where, according to legend, Rama once sheltered with his wife Sita during his exile. The itinerary includes a visit to the Sati Ansuya Ashram and the Gupta Godavari cave temple complex. In the evening, visit the Mandakini River banks for a ritual "Aarti" amidst numerous temples and ghats.

Overnight and dinner at the hotel in Chitrakoot.

Day 14. Monday. Chitrakoot – Varanasi (225 km – 5.5 hours)

After an early breakfast, drive to Varanasi, the "eternal city of India," with a history spanning over three millennia. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Varanasi is one of the most important Hindu centers in the world, considered the "holiest of holy" pilgrimage centers for millions of Hindus.

Upon arrival in Varanasi, visit the Ganges Riverbank to witness the captivating Indian ritual of "Aarti." Overnight and dinner at the hotel in Varanasi.

Day 15. Tuesday. Varanasi, excursion to Sarnath. Varanasi – Delhi (Flight)

Early in the morning, around 05:00, take a boat cruise on the Ganges River. Observe the majestic sunrise on the horizon. The soft pink hue of dawn is complemented by the sound of bells and conch shells from the nearby temples. Initially quiet Sanskrit chants build into a unified voice, creating a sense of unparalleled piety and joy. After the boat ride, enjoy a city tour visiting the Vishwanath Temple (external view), Hanuman Temple, and Bharat Mata Temple. Return to the hotel for breakfast and a short rest.

Next, head to Sarnath (12 km from Varanasi), where Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment and set the Wheel of Dharma in motion. It was here that he proclaimed the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The remains of monasteries dating back to the third century BC – first century AD reflect the once-flourishing monastic order. Visit the massive Dhamek Stupa and the Mahabodhi Temple. After lunch, transfer to the airport for the flight to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to the international flight. (No hotel accommodation is provided).

Day 16. Wednesday. Departure from Delhi (International flight)

Pricing Information

Prices are per person in a double room. For a half double room, prices are available on request; if no roommate is found, single occupancy rates apply.

• Single Room: €2594
• Extra bed: €1829

Additional Night in Delhi (Optional):

• Single Room: €95
• Double/Twin Room: €100
• Extra bed: €24
• Additional dinner at the hotel: €17
• Additional transfer: €35 for up to 2 people / €45 for up to 4 people

Mandatory additional payment for Christmas Dinner on December 24: €95 per person

Mandatory additional payment for New Year's Dinner on December 31: €120 per person

Visa to India is provided as a gift.

Suggested Hotels for the Program:

• Delhi: Golden Suites / Regenta Suite / Park Plaza (East Delhi) or similar
• Pushkar: Pushkar Bagh / Vesta Avtar Resort / Jagat Palace or similar
• Udaipur: Raj Kuber / Regenta Central / Shapura Dev Panasche or similar
• Jodhpur: Aarunya Royale / Zone By Park / Bijolai Palace or similar
• Jaipur: Park Ocean / Fern Habitat / Inde Signature / Zone by Park / Park Prime or similar
• Agra: Regal Vista / Royale Regent / PL Palace / Howard Fern or similar
• Khajuraho: A.S Hotel / Clarks or similar
• Chitrakoot: Bindiram or similar
• Varanasi: Pinnacle Inn / Pristine Hotel / The Fern / Costa Riveria / Amaya or similar

Note: There are no hotels in Chitrakoot higher than 2-star level.

The company reserves the right to change hotels based on their availability and compliance with standards. Standard check-in time at hotels is 13:00, and check-out time is 12:00. Travel times are indicative and may vary depending on traffic conditions.