Luxury Tour of India: to the Golden Triangle and beyond

A luxury tour of India: to the Golden Triangle & beyond

Delhi – Amritsar – Mumbai – Varanasi – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur

A Luxury Tour of India: to the Golden Triangle & Beyond invites you to explore the vibrant cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur (otherwise known as India’s Golden Triangle), as well as the holy Ganges in Varanasi, the stunning Golden Temple in Amritsar, and the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. Not for the faint-hearted, by day, your every sense will be completely immersed in the bright colours, sounds, tastes and smells of India. By night you’re transported to a world of utter comfort and style by experiencing a hand-picked selection of the finest luxury hotels in India. Combined with the knowledge, expertise, and professionalism of our friendly guides and drivers, on this luxury tour of India, you’re in for a truly unforgettable, eye-opening journey, all while travelling at a pace comfortable to you and with every detail designed to your taste. Almost all stops are purposefully connected by flight, meaning less time on the road and more to soak up your spectacular surroundings.

Day 1

Arrive in Delhi (stay at The Lodhi, Delhi)

Your luxury tour of India kicks off on arrival in Delhi. You’ll be met by a member of our team at the airport and chauffeured to The Lodhi hotel. Previously part of the Aman group, The Lodhi is arguably the most elegant hotel in New Delhi and is tucked away in a busy but green area of the capital, close to the Lodhi Gardens, of which it takes its name. The atmosphere here is calm; the décor is sleek and minimal. Rooms are enormous and come with a private plunge pool. Those who appreciate history would be happier at The Imperial or for total glamour at The Leela Palace. The Lodhi, on the other hand, offers understated luxury (besides the private plunge pool in each suite!). The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure to rest, settle in and recover from your flight. For dinner, we recommend dining in-house at The Lodhi’s award-winning Indian Accent, which just so happens to be India’s best restaurant and offers a delicious modern twist on Indian classics. Depending on how early in the day you arrive, you can let us know anytime if you’d like to begin exploring this afternoon. Your chauffeur is always on hand, and we’re only a quick call away on your complimentary mobile phone (or WhatsApp, if you prefer).

Day 2

In Delhi

A privately guided tour of the capital begins in bustling Old Delhi. You’re whisked through Chandni Chowk’s souk-like bazaars on a rickshaw ride, followed by the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque, built in the 17th century by the same Mughal emperor who constructed the Taj Mahal. In the afternoon, we recommend continuing to India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb and the Qutab Minar. The sights we’ve proposed here are merely a suggestion – you’re welcome to tweak the schedule in advance with our specialist or on the day with your guide.

Day 3

Delhi to Amritsar (stay at the Taj Swarna, Amritsar)

The third day of your luxury tour of India flies you to Amritsar, in the heart of the Punjab and home of the dazzling Golden Temple, for a two-night stay. Upon landing, a representative will be waiting to greet you and accompany you to the Taj Swarna. Here, there’ll be a while to rest and relax. Strategically located in the city’s heart, the brand-new Taj Swarna (meaning golden) opened its doors in early 2017. With its high ceiling and glass panelled exterior, the lobby at Taj Swarna exudes warmth and elegance, with design elements drawing inspiration from the local Amritsar craft and culture, as well as the famous nearby Golden Temple.

This evening, you’ll be met by your guide to explore the spectacular Golden Temple at night during the Putting to Bed ceremony. A unique and colourful ceremony, this daily ritual of putting the Holy Scripture to bed is a sight not to miss on a visit to Amritsar. The temple is home to the Adi Granth or Original Holy Book, a collection of hymns of the great saints. The book is a focus of devotion. During the day, it’s kept in the Harmandir Sahib. It’s returned to the Akal Takht every evening around 9.15 pm in winter and 10.15 pm in summer. The Putting to Bed ceremony was the highlight of our recent stay in Amritsar. You can read more about it by clicking here.

Day 4

In Amritsar

Return to the Golden Temple this morning for a more thorough exploration. Your guide will show you around the main area of the temple and explain the history and layout. In the vast dining halls, all visitors, regardless of their religion, are invited to eat together. Perhaps the most incredible part is the kitchens run by volunteers – you will see vast cauldrons full of dhal, groups of ladies rolling out chapatis. Meanwhile, the noise in the background is the endless washing of plates. Later pay a visit to Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial to more than 1,000 demonstrators who were killed or injured when the British, under the command of General Dyer, opened fire on them in 1919. To end the day, you’ll head out to Wagah, a village divided in two at Partition, where the daily closure of the border takes place with great pomp and ceremony. Indian border guards in khaki and Pakistani border guards in dark green march bark orders and lower their respective national flags in a symbolic stand-off, watched by orderly crowds of thousands waving national flags. There is much partisan cheering in the grandstands as the gates clang shut for the night, formally opened the next day again.

Day 5

Fly to Mumbai (stay at The Oberoi, Mumbai)

Mumbai, earlier known as Bombay, is the next destination on your luxury tour of India. You’ll be staying at The Oberoi. Nestled on Mumbai’s famous Marine Drive, The Oberoi affords wonderful views of the city and the Arabian Sea. The Oberoi is one of the finest hotels in this bustling metropolis, and the rooms are superbly equipped. We recommend a drink in the bar overlooking the bay; it’s a favourite with local jazz aficionados.

Day 6

In Mumbai

Exploring the best of bustling Bombay, you’ll begin with a ferry ride to the fascinating 8th-century Elephanta Caves, home to an 18-foot statue of Lord Shiva. Continue into the afternoon to explore colonial gems such as Victoria Terminus, Flora Fountain, Horniman Circle and the High Court. Pass through the Hanging Gardens and the Jain Temple to end your day at Chowpatty Beach, or take in the buzz and excitement of Chor Bazaar.

Day 7

Fly to Varanasi (stay at Taj Nadesar Palace, Varanasi)

Board a direct flight to Varanasi this morning. On landing, we’ll chauffeur you to Taj Nadesar Palace, where there’ll be a few hours to relax, settle in, and enjoy your surroundings. Nestled in the heart of this bustling city, amongst mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, lies the Taj Nadesar Palace. Built by the East India Company and acquired by Maharaja Prabhu Narain Singh in the 19th-century, the palace is named after goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the palace’s front. Set to be a favourite on your luxury tour of India, each of the ten luxurious suites is generously sized, with large windows overlooking the gardens and spacious bathrooms in cool white marble. Alternatively, to take in the incredible scenes that take place along the ghats, stay at BrijRama Palace – a charming boutique hotel right on the banks of the river. In the early evening, your guide will meet you for a tour of the Ganges – and its many ghats – by boat, culminating with the evening aarti ceremony. These ancient rituals have changed very little over hundreds and hundreds of years. The scent of sandalwood and incense swirls around while the sounds of prayer chanting and clashing symbols rise to a crescendo. Hundreds of little oil lamps flickering on the river are a beautiful sight.

Day 8

In Varanasi

Rise early and return to the Ganges this morning for a sunrise boat ride. A sunrise boat ride is the highlight of a trip to Varanasi when a soft light bathes the temples along the riverfront. The people of Varanasi trickle out of the labyrinthine lanes and head for the ghats at dawn. Later, visit Sarnath (where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment) and the old city – a maze of streets and alleys crammed with derelict palaces, homes, and hundreds of temples and shrines. Here you’ll see funeral processions, cows and goats munching on whatever they can find! You’ll also explore a winding lane known as Vishwanath Gali, lined with many shops selling all manner of religious objects. It leads to the city’s principal shrine, the Vishwanath Temple.

Day 9

Fly to Agra (stay at The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra)

Board a direct flight to Agra this morning. On arriving in Agra, the afternoon is yours at leisure to enjoy your hotel and soak up the delights of The Oberoi Amarvilas. Nestled just a stone’s throw from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas affords a stunning view of the Taj Mahal from every room and suite and is one of India’s finest luxury hotels. Without the restriction of visiting hours, you can catch the Taj Mahal peachy pink at dawn, glowing amber at sunset and glittering in the moonlight after dark.

Day 10

In Agra

Your guide will introduce you to the highlights of Agra, taking in the Fort, Itmad-ud-Daulah and – of course – the magnificent Taj Mahal.

Day 11

Agra to Jaipur (stay at The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur)

This morning brings an optional return to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. After breakfast, you’ll be chauffeured to Jaipur, also known as Rajasthan’s ‘Pink City’. En route, we recommend stopping at Fatehpur Sikri to explore this intriguing 15th-century Mughal capital – interestingly, it was abandoned after just 14 years. When arriving in Jaipur, a representative of Indian Excursions will greet you at The Oberoi Rajvilas – one of India’s most spectacular luxury hotels. There are not many hotels in the world where check-in involves a brightly painted elephant and a fragrant shower of rose petals, but then again, The Oberoi Rajvilas does not settle for anything less than spectacular! The resort is almost a destination in itself, with sprawling gardens and a 250-year-old Hindu temple on the grounds. Ideal for those seeking a royal experience when in Rajasthan, The Oberoi Rajvilas is a highlight of any luxury tour of India.

Day 12

In Jaipur

Today, you’ll be exploring the best of the Pink City on a guided tour. Jaipur is, for many, quintessential India at its best: expect a cacophony of sights and sounds, from splendid forts and glittering palaces to sauntering camels and brightly painted elephants, twirling moustaches and hot pink saris! Highlights you’ll take in include Amber Fort, the City Palace, Hawa Mahal (aka the Palace of Winds), the Jantar Mantar Observatory, and the Jal Mahal water palace.

Day 13

In Jaipur

On the thirteenth day, your luxury tour of India invites you to relax and enjoy the hotel or explore further on your own – your chauffeur’s always available. You might like to take this opportunity to browse for interesting souvenirs in Jaipur’s famous markets and emporiums (when it comes to shopping, Jaipur has something for everyone: from elegant textiles to kitschy wooden camels, even the most frugal visitor is likely to leave the Pink City with one or two pieces tucked in their case! For a souvenir with local fair, we recommend a piece of semi-precious jewellery or blue pottery).

Later, continue to Dera Amer to spend a memorable evening with elephants. It’s a magical place on the outskirts of the city, where you can spend time up close with elephants by helping to feed and bathe them before taking a gentle walk together through the surrounding forest at sunset (Dera Amer do not encourage rides). If meeting elephants isn’t your thing, this can certainly be removed or replaced. Perhaps with a private cooking class or a special dinner recommendation. For those interested in spending time with elephants, Dera Amer is a fantastic and ethical place to do it.

Day 14

Jaipur to Udaipur (stay at the Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur)

Board a short flight to the dreamy city of Udaipur this morning. Also known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Udaipur is abundant with lakes and ancient water palaces, drenched in history and romance. On arrival, you’ll take a short boat ride over Lake Pichola to reach the iconic Taj Lake Palace. Originally built in the 17th-century as a summer retreat, this dazzling and dream-like 250-year-old white marble palace appears to float like a mirage in the middle of Lake Pichola. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy your spectacular surroundings at one of the world’s most famous luxury hotels.

Day 15

In Udaipur

If you can tear yourself away from the Taj Lake Palace, your guided tour of Udaipur will begin at the magnificent City Palace. This sprawling palace is the largest in Rajasthan and stands on a ridge overlooking the lake. Cupolas crown its octagonal towers, which are connected by a maze of narrow passageways. The rooms inside the City Palace contain decorative art: beautiful paintings, colourful enamel, inlay glass-work, and antique furniture. Later continue with a walking tour through the old city, where narrow, winding streets teem with shops selling clothing, silver jewellery, and leather-bound journals. Other highlights include the Jagdish Temple, Saheliyon ki Bari (a beautiful rose garden), and the Crystal Gallery. End your day on an extraordinary note with a private sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola.

Day 16

Fly back to Delhi (stay at The Trident Gurgaon, Delhi)

The morning is free to relax and enjoy your surroundings at the fairy-tale-like Lake Palace. This afternoon, you’ll board a flight back to Delhi for an overnight stay at the Trident.

Day 17

Depart from Delhi

Today, you’ll be chauffeured back to Delhi IGI airport in time for your onward flight. This additional stop is optional – you might prefer to connect directly from Udaipur. We’ll fine-tune this together to best suit your international flight arrangements.

2022/23 Guide price:

₹559,000 ($6,819; £5,995) pp

Our journeys are inclusive of accommodation with breakfast, internal flights and transfers, a private car with driver throughout, experienced guides, entrance tickets and excursions. In other words, we offer a seamless and hassle-free experience where the only thing you need to worry about is soaking up the sights and enjoying your luxury tour of India! This indicative cost is per person, based on a couple travelling between October 2022 and March 2023, sharing a double or twin room. The cost would reduce significantly during the low-season months of April to September, while it will be noticeably higher during the peak Christmas and New Year period.

Optionally, if you have an interest in wildlife, may we recommend including a stop in Ranthambhore – between Agra and Jaipur – at The Oberoi Vanyavilas? Ranthambhore National Park offers the opportunity to spot wild Bengal tigers in their natural habitat on a Jeep safari through the reserve. Why not extend your luxury tour of India to the Blue City of Jodhpur? Or to the Golden City of Jaisalmer for a two-night stay in the Thar Desert at The Serai? Our Luxury Golden Triangle Tour is a popular starting point for something shorter, as is our Ultimate Luxury Rajasthan Tour Package, our Luxury Golden Triangle Tour with Oberoi Hotels, and our Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi. All our tours are private and tailor-made to complement your taste and interests. In essence, the itinerary described above is just a starting point, and together we can refine it into your ideal Indian experience.

A Luxury Tour of India: to the Golden Triangle & Beyond

A luxury tour of India: to the Golden Triangle & beyond

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