A unique and authentic tour full of history, nature and culture to enjoy.

Saturday, 20 April 2024

Fly to Mumbai

Depart from the UK on an overnight flight to Mumbai.

Sunday, 21 April 2024

Arrive in Mumbai

Arrive in Mumbai where you will be met by our local guide and taken to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. You guide will give you an orientation tour of your local area and answer any questions you may have. Rest of the day is at leisure.

Monday, 22 April 2024

Guided tour of Mumbai

After breakfast, we begin at the waterfront Gateway of India monument, an impressive 85-feet high arch built by the British in 1924 to serve as a ceremonial entrance to the country.  When India gained its independence in 1948, the last British battalion formally passed through the Gateway.   

We visit the Prince of Wales Museum. Founded in the early years of the 20th century, it houses approximately 50,000 exhibits of ancient Indian history as well as objects from foreign lands, categorized primarily into three sections: Art, Archaeology and Natural History. The Museum houses Indus Valley Civilization artifacts, and other relics from ancient India. (Closed on Mondays and national holidays). Visit from outside, the impressive Town Hall, the most majestic structures among the other heritage buildings in the city of Mumbai. Another wonderful Gothic building is the Chhatrapati Sivaji Terminus, constructed on the site from which, in 1854, ran the first train in India. Designed by William Stevens and completed in 1887, the building looks more like a lavishly decorated palace than something as mundane as a train station.

Later this afternoon (approx at 2 pm), We embark on an unusual yet rewarding excursion to Dharavi, Mumbai’s giant slum considered a “city within a city” with approximately 800,000 inhabitants living in less than a square mile area.  Cottage industries and small businesses thrive here, accounting for Dharavi’s estimated annual economy of more than $650 million USD.  We learn about life in the slum, including the resilience and resourcefulness of the residents.

Tuesday, 23 April 2024

At leisure in Mumbai

Today is at leisure. Our guide will be able to assist with optional excursions, depending on your interests.

Wednesday, 24 April 2024

Fly to Rajkot

After breakfast, transfer to Mumbai airport and fly to Rajkot. Transfer to your hotel for a 1 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

This afternoon, visit the Watson museum of human history and culture. Its collections precious objects of colonial period of India and history of Rajkot.  the Watson museum was named in fond memory of Colonel John Watson in 1888. Colonel John Watson was political agent of Kathiawar agency form 1881 to 1889. Museum exhibits copies of artefacts from Mohenjo-Daro, natural history, 13th century carvings, temple statues, costumes and design of the houses of the local tribal people. The Watson museum also houses an excellent collection of traditional, archaeological items and coins. While the museum's archaeology gallery also boasts of artefacts of prehistoric period and the Harappan civilisation in the archaeology gallery, a treasure of sculptures belonging to erstwhile Ghumali - a capital of Jethwa - grace the sculpture gallery.

The rest of the day is free at leisure.

Thursday, 25 April 2024

Drive to Junagadh and Sasangir

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Sasangir. En-route stops to explore Gondal, Virpur and Junagadh.

In Virpur we stop briefly at the Jalaram Temple who devoted himself to the Hindu God Rama and became a revered figure for his simple and exemplary way of life.

The most attractive tourist spot in Gondal is the 17th century, Navlakha Palace complex, which is one of the oldest and most beautiful of Gondal’s monuments. The Navlakha palace complex (17th century), is situated on a river bank, on a grand masonry base, rising to the monumental scale of at least 30 m above the river bed. Navlakha Palace reputedly cost Rupees Nine Lakhs thus earning the sobriquet ‘Navlakha Palace’.

Another highlight of Gondal, famous for rich chili powder spices and we visit the market. It is also known as the "Royal Garage", for the pompous of gargantuan collection of vintage and classic cars which date back to the time of World War II. Gondal, was ruled by a family of car enthusiasts whose royal passion resulted in a fine collection of automobiles which are now part of a museum in the Orchard palace premises. Such was the royal passion that Gondal had the best planned and well-designed road system in pre-independent Gujarat.

Thereafter, continue to Junagadh. The main centre of the city, the fort known as Uparkot, was built by Chandragupta of the Mauryan Empire around 320 BC, and archaeological evidence confirms this, showing that Uparkot has been inhabited continuously since the 3rd century BC. Hence, the name Junagadh which means “ancient fort.”  Under the Mauryans, Junagadh was a regional capital, and Emperor Ashoka had stone edicts placed there, still visible today. Another highlight of Junagadh is the Mahabat Maqbara, the huge 19th-century mausoleum of a local ruler, which showcases intricate Indo-Islamic architectural details. It was built by Nawab Mahabat Khan II of Junagadh (1851–82).

We proceed to Sasangir and check-in to the hotel on arrival for a 1-night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Friday, 26 April 2024

Sasangir National Park and Bhavnagar

Early this morning, explore the Sasangir National Park by morning game drive.

Sasangir National Park holds the only surviving population of endangered Asiatic Lions. The unique ecosystem of Gir harbours about 38 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and more than 2000 species of insects. The main carnivores of Gir are the Asiatic Lion, the Leopard, the Jungle Cat, the Hyena, the Jackal, the Mongoose, the Civet, the Rusty Spotted Cat and the Ratel. The main herbivores of Gir are the Chital, the Nilgai, the Sambar, the Four-horned Antelope, the Chinkara and the Wild Boar.

We return to your hotel and later drive to Bhavnagar where we stay for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.

Saturday, 27 April 2024

Palitana

Early morning with packed breakfast, drive to Palitana to visit the Palitana temples of Jainism is located on Shatrunjaya hill by the city of Palitana in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat. The city of the same name, known previously as Padliptapur, has been dubbed "City of Temples". Shatrunjaya means a "place of victory against inner enemies" or "which conquers inner enemies".

Lunch is included at the local restaurant today, after which we return to your hotel in Bhavnagar.

Sunday, 28 April 2024

Lothal and Ahmedabad

This morning after breakfast we drive to Ahmedabad. We stop en-route at Lothal to visit the excavation site of Indus valley settlement. The main purpose of undertaking excavation at Lothal was to decide whether it could be considered as a true Harappan settlement where the people observed the same urban discipline and enjoyed the same material prosperity as in the metropolitan centres of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro. This object was achieved as soon as typical Indus weights, seals and painted pottery were found in the first season of the excavation. The careful planning of the town and the excellent sanitary system existing at Lothal proved beyond doubt that it was a true Harappan town.

Thereafter, continue drive to Ahmedabad and check-in to the hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Ahmedabad is a hub of colours and aristocracy. The markets here are a mixture of culture and modernity. This evening we will explore one of the most famous gardens of Ahmedabad the Law Garden becomes a favourite place for shopaholics with vendors and shopkeepers bustling on the scene. You can buy exclusive wall hangings, bandhej sarees, chaniyas (long colourful skirts), antique jewellery and more.

Monday, 29 April 2024

Guided tour of Ahmedabad

After breakfast this morning, visit the Calico museum of textile, the premier textile museum of the country. Its outstanding collection of Indian fabrics exemplifies handicraft textiles spanning five centuries and attracts large numbers of visitors from the general public, as well as increasing numbers of Indian and international research scholars. The museum is housed in two buildings, one displaying textiles of religious significance and the other traditional court fabrics, tents, carpets and costumes.

Only 20 visitors are allowed per day with prior permission making this a special experience. 

Later in the afternoon, visit Sabarmati Ashram – This ashram was Gandhi’s headquarters during the long struggle for Indian Independence. His ashram was founded in 1915 and still makes handicrafts, handmade paper and spinning wheel. Gandhi’s Spartan living quarters are preserved as a small museum and there is a pictorial record of the major events in his life.

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Poshina

After early breakfast, we proceed for a Heritage Walk of Ahmedabad city. On the ancient site of Ashaval and Karnavati, Ahmedabad was found on 1411. The City of Ahmedabad has some of the finest India, Islamic monuments and exquisite Hindu and Jain temples. Its carved wooden houses are another unique architectural tradition.

We then drive to Poshina, a small village at the North of Gujarat sharing the border with Rajasthan, well known for its settlements of Tribal and Shepherd hamlets. Poshina has long been a hub of the convergence of people from various tribes, who come here for their buying and selling requirements.

This afternoon, visit the local villages in and around Poshina. Poshina has also been renowned in the world for the tribal tradition of Terracota horse offerings to mountain Gods. Tens and thousands of Terracota Horses are seen lined up at sacred shrines as offerings for wishes fulfilled, from people coming from various parts of the world. Dinner is included at your hotel tonight.

Wednesday, 01 May 2024

Ambaji to Udaipur

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Udaipur via Ambaji. Ambaji is an important temple which has thousands of devotees flocking towards it every week. Here you can also see the Garasia tribal women selling fruits and vegetables. The colourful local market and tribal people makes this place very interesting.

Continue drive to Udaipur, described as the “City of Sunrise,” standing in a valley amid green hills on the banks of the Lake Pichola.

On arrival, check-in to the hotel where we stay for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is free at leisure.

Thursday, 02 May 2024

Guided tour and boat ride on Lake Pichola

Today after breakfast, visit the Jadish Temple, the largest and most venerated temple in Udaipur. Built in 1651 A.D. by Maharaja Jagat Singh, the temple is decorated with friezes and enshrines a black stone image of Vishnu. Walk about the Garden of Maidens (Sahelion Ki Bari), which consists of an ornamental lotus pool with delicately carved cenotaphs of black and white marble and soapstone. You can explore the rest of the Maharajah’s City Palace, an imposing edifice of granite and marble, standing atop a ridge overlooking the blue waters of Lake Pichola and the exquisite Lake Palace.

Enjoy the pleasant boat ride on the Lake Pichola in the evening.

Friday, 03 May 2024

Ranakpur to Jodhpur

Today, we drive to Jodhpur, stopping along the way at Ranakpur, home to some of India’s most exquisite Jain temple architecture. Situated in the lovely valley of Aravalli Hills, are the ornately carved temples of Ranakpur which are the holiest places for Jain pilgrims, the Chamukha temple is three-storied, with 80 domes supported by 1444 carved pillars, each different from one another.

Continue drive to Jodhpur and check-in to the hotel on arrival for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City”. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a Rajput chief belonging to the Rathore clan. The city was located on the strategic road linking Delhi to Gujarat. This enabled it to profit from a flourishing trade in opium, copper, silk, sandals, date palms and coffee. The old city is enclosed by a six-mile wall that separates it from the desert sands that stretch for miles on every side; Jodhpur was the ancient capital city of Marwar Kingdom.

Saturday, 04 May 2024

Guided tour of Jodpur

Today we will explore the city’s beautiful palace Mehrangarh Fort has been in existence since 1459 and is one of the most astounding constructions and architectural marvels. The towering building has extremely high walls and gates, and the closer it is explored, the smaller you begin to feel!  Inside the fort is a network of courtyards and palaces, (including a museum that houses a splendid collection of items from the Maharajas), salvaged to display their long history of warding off attackers.

The Jaswant Thada is an absolutely calming and soothing building to lay your eyes upon. Constructed entirely of a milky-white marble, the whimsical essence of this memorial can be felt by all. The sheets of marble used to create this astounding marvel were all hand carved into fabulous walls and domes. A warm glow surrounds the polished rock, emitting a sunny and pleasant atmosphere.

You can visit the bustling Clock Tower bazaar to get a flavour of this historic city.

Sunday, 05 May 2024

Drive to Jaipur

Today we proceed to Jaipur, the largest city of Rajasthan which is an epitome of magnificence and vibrancy. This royal place is rich in heritage, culture and architecture with splendid fortresses, majestic palaces, tranquil temples and beautiful havelis. Other than these captivating attractions, Jaipur displays exquisite handicrafts and spectacular jewelry. On arrival, check-in to the hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Evening is free to explore the colourful markets of the pink city.

Monday, 06 May 2024

Guided tour of Jaipur

This was the home of India’s legendary Hindu warriors, whose historic forts, palaces, and gardens lend a timeless quality to this storied region.  Called the “pink city” for its buildings of rose-hued sandstone, Jaipur today retains the exquisite symmetry of its original construction, as well as the eight historic gates that protected the city centuries ago. 

Full day sightseeing of Jaipur including a visit to the Amber Fort and a photo stop at the Palace of the Winds, the Hawa Mahal in the morning. Visit Amber Fort a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Kachhawah Rajputs as their capital from 1037 to 1728 and considered the pinnacle of Rajput architecture.  We tour the unoccupied citadel this morning, to admire the fresco-covered portal, the impressive room of mirrors, walls of jewel-encrusted marble, and the royal apartments offering beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

We continue on to Jantar Mantar, the incredible open-air Royal Observatory (ca. 1728) housing oversized astronomical instruments and a UNESCO World Heritage site; and City Palace, former residence of the Maharajas of Jaipur, built in the shape of the city itself and now converted to a museum that houses the rulers’ magnificent art collections.

Tuesday, 07 May 2024

Gadoli village experience 

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Gadoli, this will offer you an unforgettable village experience and a welcome break from the regular tourist visits to monuments, museums and market places and the hustle and bustle of the crowded cities and move towards the pristine and untouched lives of the real people of the land. The villages visited are tucked away within a valley inside the Aravalli Hills, where a community of the Meena Tribals are living. The joy and spirit of rustic life is palpable in the lively faces of the village folks. Here, in many ways, time has stood still and globalisation has had little impact.

Enjoy the camel cart safari to visit a charming village and meet its friendly people who are eager to share their life with you.

Dinner and breakfast is included in your overnight stay.

Wednesday, 08 May 2024

Fatehpur Sikri to Agra

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Agra with en-route stop at Fatehpur Sikri, the Capital of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fortress is a UNESCO world heritage site and is built entirely of red sandstone.  The tomb of the revered saint Salim Chisti is built in pristine white marble and stands in stunning contrast to the red sandstone. This deserted sandstone city was the glorious but ephemeral capital during Akbar’s reign. Lying on a rocky ridge, this fortress is today a haunting complex with empty palaces, forts and mosques representing a variety of architectural styles.  You often wonder how these ancient fortresses must have come alive with music, laughter, beautiful courtesans and the colour and pomp of royalty!

On arrival at Agra, check-in to the hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Later this afternoon, visit the Itmad Ud Daulah tomb, popularly known as Baby Taj. From there proceed to visit the “Mehtab Bagh” situated north of the Taj Mahal complex on the opposite side of the Yamuna River, in the flood plains. The garden complex, square in shape, is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal on the opposite bank. The most important attraction of Mehtab Bagh is the Taj Mahal itself. This is a unique spot as you can get a picturesque view of The Taj from here.

Thursday, 09 May 2024

Taj Mahal and Agra Fort

Early this morning, savour a travel highlight as you embark on a tour of the Taj Mahal (Closed on Friday), the magnificent tomb of white marble built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, who had implored her husband to build a monument symbolising their undying love for each other.  Some 20,000 labourers and artisans from around the world spent 22 years constructing what became Mumtaz’s mausoleum, which was begun in 1632.  Along with its exquisite symmetry, the Taj features striking examples of pietra dura, a decorative art in which craftsmen embed precisely cut semi-precious stones in marble to form dazzling patterns. 

Return to the hotel for the breakfast and relax.

Later in the afternoon, visit the imposing Red Fort of Agra (also known as Agra Fort). A creative, architectural, and strategic masterpiece, the Fort is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.  In a cruel twist, Emperor Shah Jahan, builder of the Taj Mahal and whose grandfather built the original Fort and who also assumed the throne himself, was imprisoned here at the end of his life by his own son – in a room looking out on the Taj Mahal across the river.

Friday, 10 May 2024

Drive to Delhi

After breakfast, check-out and drive to Delhi. Delhi is a dynamic city where the past coexists with the present. While historic evidence shows that the area around Delhi was first occupied around 2,500 years ago, Hindu mythology predates that by another 500 years. The British captured the city in 1803 and when they decided to make it the capital of India in 1911, they commissioned Sir Edwin Lutyens to draw up the plans. The result is slightly surprising with spacious tree-lined avenues punctuated with architecture which is among the most striking in the world.

On arrival, check-in to the hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.

Later this afternoon, visit the Delhi's most striking monument, The Qutub Minar, which looms majestically across the wide plains of Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed in 1192 by Qutub-Ud-Din Aibak. Built in red sandstone and marble, it has a height of 72.5 meters (237.8 ft) and contains 379 stairs. A Soaring conical tower, it is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture and is the tallest minaret in India.

Saturday, 11 May 2024

Guided tour of Delhi

Today, on the tour of “Old Delhi,” you will head out to explore this exotic locale with its narrow dirt roads, myriads of people and inexpensive and colorful bazaars that keep alive the traditional workmanship for which Delhi has always been famous. Drive past Red Fort and visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest Muslim mosques in India. A bicycle rickshaw will take you into the heart of Chandni Chowk (the silver square - so named because of the silver merchants).

Drive past India Gate, a 42-metre archway built in memory of Indian soldiers killed during the First World War and Rashtrapati Bhawan, built in the early 20th century as the Imperial residence of the Viceroy.  Today, it is the official residence of the President of India.

Thereafter, visit the most prominent Sikh Gurdwara, or Sikh house of worship, in Delhi. It was originally a bungalow belonging to Raja Jai Singh, a 17th century Indian ruler. It is open to people of all faiths, castes or creeds. The premises house a sacred pond in which devotees bathe. They believe that this would wash off their misdeeds and thus allow them to attain peace of mind. The 'Langars' or the community kitchen proves to be the ideal example of prodigious hospitality of the Sikhs. Anyone and everyone can have scrumptious meal irrespective of caste, colour or class.

Sunday, 12 May 2024

Fly back to the UK

Transfer to the airport for your daytime flight back to the UK.