Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, sights, smells, and sounds of India on this six-day journey through the country’s largest bustling metropolises. Cycle the narrow winding streets of Old Delhi, see the Taj Mahal up close at sunrise, soak up centuries of ancient history at Agra Fort, and explore Mumbai’s frenetic city life and many historical landmarks. Sample the rich spices of local delicacies along the way, and pick up artisanal crafts and clothing from busy markets to take home.
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- Cycle the narrow winding streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Old Delhi
- Discover India's ancient history within the palatial walled city of Agra
- Experience the changing hues of the Taj Mahal at sunrise
- Explore Mumbai's frenetic city life and historical landmarks
Day 1: Arrive in Delhi, Explore City Markets, Visit Hauz Khas Ruins & Deer Park
Welcome to India! Enjoy a traditional swagat (welcome) and a private transfer to your hotel in New Delhi before heading out to explore the city with your group. Delhi, the capital of India, is a densely populated city where ancient culture meets modern life. Discover the narrow alleyways of Chandni Chowk market in Old Delhi, with spice shops, sweets vendors, and food carts. Or immerse yourself in the unforgettable colors, sights, and smells of India at the Dilli Haat or Janpath markets, both in New Delhi.
Later, head to the historical ruins of Hauz Khas hamlet. Discover the tomb of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughluq, a 14th-century Muslim ruler of Delhi, and a madrassa (Islamic religious school) he built. You'll find several impressive pre-Mughal-era tombs with awe-inspiring names like "the tomb within the garden of the world." In adjacent Deer Park, part of one of the largest green areas in the city known as the "lungs of Delhi," you'll find a deer enclosure, peacocks, and plenty of walking paths and picnic spots.
Day 2: Cycle Through Old Delhi, Half-Day Delhi Tour, Lodhi Garden Guided Walk
Before the city wakes up, set out on two wheels to explore Old Delhi's narrow winding streets. An early departure avoids the morning rush. Take in one of the five remaining Old Delhi gates, Turkman Gate, and pass the fragrant flower market on your way. You'll stop at Gurudwara Sis Ganj, a Sikh temple that also houses a communal kitchen that provides food for up to 20,000 people each day. Stop for hot tea and cookies at Khari Baoli, Asia's largest spice market, before concluding your morning cycling tour.
In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day tour of some of the best sites and attractions in Delhi: Raj Ghat, a Gandhi memorial; India Gate, a war memorial; Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Presidential Palace; and the Parliament House. In the colonial districts, you'll also see the work of 20th-century British architect Edwin Lutyens. Stop at the Laxmi Narayan Temple, the first large Hindu temple built in Delhi, then end your tour at UNESCO World Heritage Site Humayun's Tomb, a marvelous example of Persian-inspired Mughal architecture.
Day 3: Transfer to Agra, Visit Agra Fort, View the Taj Mahal from Mehtab Bagh
This morning you'll travel with a private driver to Agra, a city that grew in prominence under the rule of the Mughal Empire from the 16th century. One of the Great Mughal emperors, Akbar, reigned over one of the most memorable periods in the city's history when it became a leading center of art, science, commerce and culture, drawing intellectuals and artists to its darbars (royal courts) and havelis (traditional townhouse mansions).
In the afternoon, visit Agra Fort, a palatial walled city whose mighty red sandstone façade encloses the beautiful white marble Pearl Mosque and the palaces, halls, courtyards, and fountains of Akbar's sons and successors. Various architectural styles demonstrate Akbar's boldness, Jahangir's refinement, and Shah Jahan's subtlety. You'll see the Diwan-i-Am and Diwan-i-Khaas, halls for public and private receptions, and Jodha Bai's Palace, one of the largest and most prominent palaces commissioned by Akbar.
Today you'll have the chance to visit the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), from which you can enjoy a picture-perfect view across the river Yamuna to the Taj Mahal, one of India's most iconic monuments. From here, make your way to the Agra Bazaar, where you'll be introduced to some of the descendants of the families of the 20,000 artisans who worked on the Taj Mahal and who continue to create beautiful inlay work with precious stones and white marble.
Day 4: Experience the Taj Mahal at Sunrise, Transfer to Mumbai
Today at sunrise, you'll get up close to the Taj Mahal to experience its color-changing hues with the rising sun. Perhaps one of humanity's greatest testaments to love, the Taj Mahal has become synonymous with India. Shah Jehan built this white marble mausoleum in the 17th century for his Empress Mumtaz Mahal, taking 22 years and over 20,000 craftsmen working around the clock to complete it. No matter how many photos you've seen, experiencing it in person is absolutely breathtaking.
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi Airport, where you'll catch a flight to Mumbai, the capital of the Maharashtra state on India's west coast and the country's main economic hub. It's the fastest-moving, most affluent, and most industrialized city in India. On arrival at your hotel, you'll have a free evening to relax or explore Mumbai's nightlife. Head to Marine Drive promenade, also known as the "Queen's Necklace," because its streetlights resemble a string of pearls from above, to find many good restaurants offering local culinary specialties as well as international dishes.
Day 5: Explore Mumbai With a Private Guide
Today you'll explore Mumbai with a private guide. Famous as the heart of the Bollywood film industry, Mumbai is a busy and vibrant metropolis. Visit the Gateway of India, the Prince of Wales Museum, and the Gandhi Museum, housed in Gandhi's former home in Mumbai. You'll also explore Kamla Nehru Park, from which you can appreciate an amazing view of Marine Drive. Other highlights include Flora Fountain, Victoria Terminus, the University of Mumbai, the High Court, Rajabai Clock Towers, Nariman Point, and Horniman Circle.
Today, your tour of India comes to an end, and it's time to pack your bags and head back with the memories of a lifetime. You'll get a private transfer from your hotel to Mumbai International Airport. Safe travels!
