This custom itinerary provides an excellent introduction to the highlights of India and focuses on culture: India’s history, religion, people, and art. It’s an excellent overview for the first-time India traveler seeking to visit India’s must-see attractions, including the Golden Triangle, enhanced by some lesser-known but equally intriguing stops. 

Your trip will begin and end in New Delhi, India’s capital city and a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. Explore the colorful, chaotic streets of Old Delhi on foot and by rickshaw with your private guide, taking in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the markets and mosques. The tree-lined boulevards and architectural marvels of New Delhi are a fascinating contrast to the old town, and you will visit some of Delhi’s most significant historical and architectural sites.

From here, you will begin a grand tour through Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, focusing on the most iconic and culturally important sights. Witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise. Glide across the sacred waters of the Ganges River in Varanasi by boat, watching Hindu pilgrims and evening prayer rituals along the way. Savor the grandeur and opulence of the sprawling historic forts and palaces of Jaipur and Udaipur while learning all about the royal empires from your expert, private guide. End each day nestled in the modern comforts of your luxury hotel, with accommodations ranging from historical mansions and palaces to luxury resorts and boutique hotels.

A highlight of any trip to India is savoring the aromatic spices and rich flavors of Indian cuisine, and you will enjoy a wide array of culinary delights, from butter chicken to paneer (indian cheese) and naan (bread) to lots of fresh vegetables and herbs. Everywhere you go, you will experience the warm embrace of Indian hospitality and you will encounter friendly locals eager to share about their culture. From an afternoon cooking lesson hosted in a local home to a traditional Rajasthani puppet show, your experiences will be enriched by authentic interactions along the way.

This itinerary can serve as a foundation for longer explorations of India that can also incorporate some of the country’s magnificent wildlife and stunning national parks. If tracking tigers in the jungle or visiting the endless expanses of the Himalayas appeals to you, give us a call to brainstorm extensions.

Cost:

Taj Mahal in Agra
Old and New Delhi
Varanasi
Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur

Seasonality:

Best: October - March

Travel Style:

Luxury, Romantic