India Holidays
Explore Delhi, the Taj Mahal, Rajasthan and Varanasi in an inspiring journey.
12 Night Itinerary from £3,111
Varanasi Tour
A wonderful combination of iconic sites, rural Rajasthan, tigers at Ranthambore and the sacred Ganges at the town of Varanasi.
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Tour Route
- Delhi - 2 Nights
- Agra & the Taj Mahal - 2 Nights
- Fatehpur Sikri – Gadoli Village - 1 Night
- Ranthambore National Park - 2 Nights
- Jaipur - 2 Nights
- Varanasi - 3 Nights
- Return to Delhi - 0 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Explore the Golden Triangle from Delhi to Jaipur and experience the holy city of Varanasi.
- Explore Delhi including the Red Fort, colourful bazaars and India gate.
- Visit Agra Fort and the mesmerising Taj Mahal.
- Admire Fathepur Sikri, another incredible world heritage site.
- Experience rural Rajasthan including a camel ride and meeting local villagers.
- Enjoy three 4 x 4 vehicle safaris in Ranthambore National Park in search of the Bengal Tiger and other wildlife.
- Visit the 'Pink City' of Jaipur including the imposing Amber Fort.
- Choose to upgrade to luxury, heritage hotels including amazing converted forts and palaces.
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Delhi - 2 Nights
Day 1 - Depart the UK on overnight flight to Delhi
Day 2 - Arrive in Delhi
Day 3 - Guided tour of Old and New Delhi
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 26 April 2024
Depart the UK on overnight flight to Delhi
Depart the UK on an overnight flight to Delhi.
Saturday, 27 April 2024
Arrive in Delhi
After clearing Customs and Immigration, step into the receiving area, where your Veloso Tours guide will meet you and escort you to your chosen hotel. Your guide will also give you a short orientation tour of your local area. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Sunday, 28 April 2024
Guided tour of Old and New 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 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 colourful 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.
Our tour continues as we 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.
We conclude the day by visiting the Delhi's most striking monument, The Qutub Minar, which looms majestically across the wide plains of Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sheraton New Delhi
Delhi - First Hotel
Located in the centre of New Delhi, the Sheraton offers spacious rooms and an excellent choice of restaurants.
There are 220 air-conditioned rooms and suites, each with private bathroom, hair dyer, minibar, bottled water, coffee and tea maker, safe and sitting area. Rooms have panoramic views of the city.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, spa, gym and an Indian and Chinese restaurant. There is also a wide choice of Indian and International restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. as well as a major shopping mall.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Maidens Hotel, New Delhi
Delhi - Luxury Hotel
The Maidens Hotel was established in 1903 and remains a stately survivor of the golden age - the sweeping driveway and the grand façade give an inkling of its star-studded past. Its architecture is the most glorious illustration of old-world European charm with its colonial impressions. A stay at Maidens Hotel is a historically and culturally enriching experience! Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell, whether it's unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, the Delhi Durbar with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of The British Raj.
The hotel is located in North Delhi within close proximity to the major attractions and has 54 rooms and suites all with high ceilings, air-conditioning, mini bar, tea-coffee maker, LCD TV, satellite channels, safe, hair dryer, FREE Wi-Fi and telephone.
Public areas include lush gardens, a gym and classic wining and dining in the Cavalry Bar, the elegant Curzon Room restaurant serving Indian dishes and the Garden Terrace restaurant.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Oberoi, New Delhi
Delhi - Deluxe Hotel
The Oberoi, New Delhi is located in the centre of New Delhi, close to the major attractions including India Gate.
The hotel has 220 air-conditioned and spacious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, teak floors and oak desks. Each room has a safe, FREE Wi-Fi, TV, telephone, 24 hour butler service, goose pillows (with choice), Nespresso coffee machine, tea making facilities and hair dryer.
Public facilities include all day dining at 360 degrees signature restaurant serving international dishes, Omya serving contemporary Indian cuisine, Baoshuan serving chinese fayre and the magical Cirrus 9, a famous rooftop bar with panoramic views of Delhi. There is also a club bar and cigar lounge, patisserie and delicatessen. The hotel also has a luxury spa, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Agra & the Taj Mahal - 2 Nights
Day 4 - Drive to Agra
Day 5 - Red Fort and the Taj Mahal
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 29 April 2024
Drive to Agra
After breakfast, depart for Agra. Though Agra's history is largely recognised with Mughal Empire, the place was established much before it and has linkages since Mahabharata, the Mythological history. The golden age of the city began with the Mughals. Akbar made it the centre of art, culture, commerce and learning. During the peaceful reign of Shah Jahan, his passion for architecture came to the fore and the world-famous architectural masterpieces were constructed including the Taj Mahal.
On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel. We then visit the Itmad Ud Daulah tomb, popularly known as Baby Taj. From here we 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.
Tuesday, 30 April 2024
Red Fort and the Taj Mahal
This morning is one of the main highlights of this trip as you embark on a tour of the Taj Mahal, 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.
We also 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.
Evening is free to explore the local markets.
Tajview Hotel
Agra & the Taj Mahal - Tourist Hotel
Spread over six acres of manicured gardens, the Tajview, Agra is a relaxing base to explore and sightsee. For those who want the best vantage point, some with direct views of the Taj Mahal.
The rooms are a combination of superior, deluxe, Premium and suites. All are air-conditioned with private bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities, safe, hair dryer, tv, telephone and sitting area.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, shopping arcade and spa. There are 2 restaurants serving Indian, Chinese and International cuisine.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Grand Imperial
Agra & the Taj Mahal - First Hotel
The Grand Imperial Hotel was built in the early 1900s by the British. It remains the only grand heritage boutique Hotel in Agra and as such will add a sense of occasion to your stay here. The hotel is central Agra with views, from the rooftop bar and cafe, of the Taj Mahal, Red Fort and other Agra landmarks. Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell , whether it’s unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of the British Raj.
The hotel has 15 spacious deluxe rooms and 30 suites, each elegantly furnished with private bathroom, safe, minibar, hairdryer and sitting area.
Public areas include a swimming pool, spa, lounge, bar and evening entertainment. The hotel has an elegant restaurant, plus you can enjoy drinks and snacks on the rooftop terrace.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
ITC Mughal
Agra & the Taj Mahal - Luxury Hotel
The ITC Mughal, Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. With 23 acres of luxurious gardens and located close to the Taj Mahal, it is the only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture. You will feel this as soon as you step into the grand lobby, dedicated to the great King Akbar.
The hotel has 233 opulent rooms and suites, each designed in the style of the great Mughal architecture of the past. All room are air-conditioned, very spacious and include a private bathroom, tv, safe, hair dryer, sitting area, minibar and luxury amenities.
The public areas including beautifully maintained gardens, a stunning swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and a salon. The excellent 3 restaurants serve Indian and international cuisine and there are lounges and 2 bars in which to relax.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Fatehpur Sikri – Gadoli Village - 1 Night
Day 6 - Drive to Gadoli Village
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
Fatehpur Sikri and Gadoli Village
After breakfast, we drive to Gadoli. En-route visit 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!
From here we proceed to our next destination Gadoli which 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.
Dera Village Retreat
Rajasthan - First Lodge
The Dera Village Retreat was established in 2002 as a place for travellers to experience the authentic, rural Rajasthan. Located 2 hours drive from Jaipur, the retreat offers a welcome break from the busy tourist attractions in the major cities of Rajasthan.
The retreat has 18 cottages complete with air-conditioning, heating, fully equipped bathrooms, study table, wardrobe and a dressing area.
Public areas include a large and peaceful garden, where you can relax in the sunshine, try yoga or enjoy the regular evening entertainment of local dancers. The cosy dining room offer contemporary Indian cuisine or you can eat al fresco.
There is much to do in the area, including camel rides, trekking and visiting local villages that have not changes for years.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis, but other packages including excursions are also available.
Ranthambore National Park - 2 Nights
Day 7 - Drive to Ranthambore National Park
Day 8 - Games drives by 4 x 4 vehicle
- Full Description
Thursday, 02 May 2024
Drive to Ranthambore National Park.
After breakfast, we drive to Ranthambore National Park, bordering the outer fringes of the Thar Desert and the former hunting grounds of the Maharajah of Jaipur, Ranthambore is now a 512-square-mile nature preserve (one of India’s largest) that is home to diverse plant life; historic ruins; and hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, mammals, and of course, Bengal tigers.
On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in the Ranthambore National Park.
Friday, 03 May 2024
Game drives by 4 x 4 vehicle
On today’s morning and afternoon game drives, we’re sure to see more game (though tiger and leopard sightings are not guaranteed). One of India’s best known national parks, Ranthambore belongs to India’s groundbreaking Project Tiger, dedicated to preserving and protecting the once plentiful Royal Bengal tigers that roamed the land here. Now threatened by poachers, illegal logging, and encroaching civilisation, India’s tiger population has decreased precipitously; it is believed that just 58 tigers currently live in Ranthambore (which actually represents a net gain in the past decade or so). Nationally, Project Tiger has seen the Bengal population rise to about 2,500 at latest count in 2016 from the 1,800 counted when the project launched in 1973.
The park’s varied landscape of beautiful lakes, lush grasslands, deep ravines, wooded valleys, and open scrub also features picturesque ruins of old fortifications and the thousand-year-old Ranthambore Fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jaipur - 2 Nights
Day 9 - Travel to Jaipur
Day 10 - Guided tour of Jaipur
- Full Description
Saturday, 04 May 2024
Travel to Jaipur
Today we drive 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 jewelery. On arrival, check-in to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
The evening is free to explore the colourful markets of the pink city.
Sunday, 05 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.
Varanasi - 3 Nights
Day 11 - Fly to Varanasi
Day 12 - Guided tour of Varanasi
Day 13 - At leisure in Varanasi
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 06 May 2024
Fly to Varanasi
After breakfast, transfer to Jaipur airport to connect with flight to Varanasi. On arrival, your Veloso Tours guide will meet you and transfer you to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
Varanasi is a holy city. Its life is dedicated to Siva. Like Jerusalem, Rome, and Athens, Varanasi is one of the world's ancient living cities. It is the centre of Hindu culture; like Jerusalem it is seen as a holy land and has survived the centuries because of its sanctified place in Indian religious life.
Late afternoon, take a boat ride in the holy River Ganges where you will witness the beautiful and captivating 'Aarti' ceremony’ at twilight. ‘Aarti’ is a Hindu religious ritual of worship, in which wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor are offered to one or more deities. An absolute must see in Varanasi, the evening aarti is conducted every day at sunset by priests, worshiping the river goddess with incense, camphor, flowers and earthen lamps.
Tuesday, 07 May 2024
Guided tour of Varanasi
Rise early this morning and take a boat ride on the Ganga past the ghats. Here, pilgrims gather on the steps that lead down to the river to bathe in the waters of the sacred river, as the city begins to come alive, in the magical misty light of dawn. Return to the hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon visit Sarnath, this is one of four holy Buddhist sites and an exceedingly tranquil place. It is the place where the enlightened Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa- built in 500 CE to commemorate the Buddha's activities in this location.
Wednesday, 08 May 2024
At leisure in Varanasi
A further day to experience one of India's most remarkable cities.
Taj Ganges
Varanasi - Tourist Hotel
The Taj Ganges is located in the centre of Varanasi within walking distance to the famous Ghats. The hotel is set in 12 acres of landscaped gardens providing a place of peace from the business of the city and riverlife.
There are 130 contemporary rooms and suites, each air-conditioned with private bathroom, FREE wi-Fi, tv, safe, mini bar, tea/coffee maker and other amenities.
Public areas include a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, Princep bar, lounge and gift shop. Dining is well regarded with international dishes served in the Chowk restaurant.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Return to Delhi - 0 Nights
Day 14 - Fly to Delhi and back to the UK
- Full Description
Thursday, 09 May 2024
Fly to Delhi and back to the UK
Transfer to Varanasi airport to connect with flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to International Departure Terminal to connect with flight back to the UK.
Price Guidelines
| Season | High Season | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | October - March | |
| Room Arrangement | Tourist | First |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £3,111 | £4,297 |
| Single Traveller - Own Room | £3,214 | £5,381 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- Guidelines prices are per person based on 2 people sharing a twin room
- 14 Days / 12 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Domestic flights to/from Delhi to Varanasi
- 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Entrance fees
- National Park entrance fees and three 4 x 4 game drives
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