Namaste and welcome to Delhi!

Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is a city of contrasts where ancient history and modern life collide in a vivid, unforgettable dance. Rickshaws weave through streets lined with Mughal monuments, spice-laden markets hum with life, and the air is thick with the scent of incense, street food, and possibility. It’s chaotic and captivating, overwhelming and awe-inspiring – a sensory overload that leaves a lasting impression on every first-time visitor.

This evening we visit The Bangla Sahib Gurudwara and witness the community meals being served.

Accommodation: 5*hotel
Meals: Welcome drinks

We spend the day exploring Delhi, where ancient history meets colonial grandeur in a busy modern city. We cross into Old Delhi, where the pulse of the past beats strongest and immerse ourselves in the rich stories woven into every corner of this captivating city.

We’ll stand in awe at the magnificent Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques and wander through the Chandni Chowk colourful bazaar of spices, textiles and street food. As well as visiting Gandhi Smriti, the solemn memorial to Mahatma Gandhi.

In New Delhi, marvel at Humayun’s Tomb that inspired the Taj Mahal, and gaze up at the Qutub Minar, India’s tallest stone tower at 72.5 meters. Drive past the stately Parliament House, the grand India Gate, and the ceremonial boulevard of Rajpath, where history and power converge.

This evening, unwind in the warm hospitality of an Indian family as we cook alongside them, followed by a delicious homemade meal bursting with the flavours and traditions of North India.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

It’s time to journey to Agra (3hrs), to place ourselves into the right vicinity for tomorrow’s first and most breathtaking glimpse of the Taj Mahal.

Early afternoon we visit the Agra Fort which over time acquired all the elegance, lavishness and majesty of an imperial palace. Following this, we join our guide for a Mughal Heritage Walk learning about princesses, begums and empresses of the Mughal empire.

In the evening drinks with a view.

Accommodation: 5* hotel
Meals: Breakfast

The Taj Mahal is best visited in the early morning, as the sun touches the white marble and makes it glow with a halo in the first light. Considered one of the most beautiful buildings ever created, the magnificence of this enormous marble mausoleum cannot be expressed in words.

You’ll understand why, when the reverence of this place washes over you. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the resting place of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal who died aged 38 in 1631, while giving birth to their 14th child. Started in 1632, it took 22 years to complete and stands as an enduring testament to his love. Almost 400 years later the Taj Mahal has lost none of its radiance.

With unforgettable visions of the Taj and photographic memories, we depart after breakfast for a 5.5 hour air-conditioned journey to Ranthambore, the kingdom of tigers.

Accommodation: 5* hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Today we go in search of the Bengal tiger, in the former hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. There are only just over 3,000 tigers left on earth, and this sanctuary in Ranthambore National Park is one of India’s principal reserves, where daytime sightings are frequent.

We’ll do an early morning and late afternoon safari into the wilderness, where rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and dense forests create a dramatic backdrop for one of India’s most iconic wildlife experiences,

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast we travel 3.5 hours to Jaipur, the Pink City. A dazzling blend of history and vibrancy, known for centuries old hill forts, ornate palaces and gardens and buildings painted pink. This colour, indicating hospitality, has endured ever since the town was painted pink to honour Queen Victoria’s son Edward who visited in 1876.

We lunch at Dera Amer elephant sanctuary, whose vision is simple; to preserve an area of wilderness and natural beauty as a sanctuary for elephants and a place where humans can visit and interact with them.

This afternoon we visit the rich heritage of Rajasthan’s tribal communities and textile traditions at this curated museum in Jaipur and then time for shopping – silverware, bags, handcrafted décor, textiles and much more.

Accommodation: 5* hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

We travel through Jaipur’s chaotic streets, with pedestrians, bicycles, rickshaws and scooters hooting and camel-driven carts, all trying to avoid the monkeys and sacred cows roaming the streets. We make it up to the top of the hill to enter Jaipur’s premier attraction – the Amber Fort. Over the centuries, the fort underwent expansions and renovations under its kings, each leaving their mark on its architecture and design, all with sweeping views.

Later, we visit Jantar Mantar, one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the world dating to 1734, featuring the largest stone sundial. Situated in the heart of Jaipur near the gate of the city palace, the Observatory has 17 large instruments, many still in working condition.

Late afternoon, explore Jaipur’s renowned art and jewellery, browsing intricate designs and meeting skilled local artisans.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Transfer to airport for flight to Udaipur.

Welcome to Udaipur, the City of Lakes. This enchanting city is a tapestry of shimmering lakes, grand palaces, and rich Rajput heritage. Besides lakes, Udaipur is known for its historic forts and palaces, museums, galleries, gardens and architectural temples, as well as traditional fairs and festivals. Formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom dating from 1559, Udaipur is known for lavish royal residences. At its heart lies Lake Pichola, where the ethereal Lake Palace floats on an island like a mirage.

We visit the City Palace and wander through the complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens of City Palace famed for its intricate peacock mosaics, with wonderful views over Lake Pichola.

Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake and watch Udaipur glow in golden hues. It’s one of the most serene experiences of our India trip, that you’ll remember forever.

Accommodation: 5* hotel
Meals: Breakfast

This morning we explore Udaipur’s markets from exquisite jewellery and textiles to beautifully handcrafted souvenirs.

After lunch we board our flight to Mumbai.

Mumbai – This vibrant metropolis – India’s financial and cultural capital – is a mesmerizing blend of old and new. From the colonial-era Gateway of India overlooking the Arabian Sea, to the bustling bazaars of Colaba and the glitzy Bollywood studios

We transfer to our hotel overlooking the Arabian Sea. The rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation: 5* hotel
Meals: Breakfast

We begin our day wearing comfortable footwear for exploring the remarkable UNECO World Heritage ancient temples of Elephanta Cave. It takes an hour on the ferry from Mumbai Harbour to Elephanta Island, where the stone caves and intricate sculptures carved out of solid basalt rock seem to defy possibility. Dating back to between the 5th to 8th centuries AD, they represent both Hindu and Buddhist spirituality, iconography and legends.

We return to the city for a half-day tour of Mumbai’s iconic landmarks, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, formerly Victoria Terminus, a historic railway station and UNESCO World Heritage Site and Mani Bhavan, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visits to Mumbai. Our last stop in the district of Kala Ghoda, known for its designer boutiques.

Tonight our farewell dinner and toast the new friends we’ve made.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner

After a final morning at leisure, it’s time to check in for the flight home. While we bid fond farewells to fellow Adventurous Ewe travelling companions, we know that the next time we meet is as firm friends.

Until the next trip!

Meals: Breakfast