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Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of India, where ancient wonders and vibrant cultures intertwine. Immerse yourself in the spiritual energy of Varanasi, witnessing life unfold along the sacred Ganges. Prepare to be awestruck by the Taj Mahal in Agra, a timeless symbol of love. Next, venture into the untamed wilderness of Ranthambore National Park, where the elusive tiger awaits your encounter. Discover the architectural marvel of Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted city whispering tales of forgotten grandeur. Witness the vibrant tapestry of Jaipur, the Pink City, where history comes alive in its bustling bazaars and majestic palaces. Immerse yourself in the majestic Mehrangarh Fort overlooking Jodhpur, the “Blue City.” Find serenity amidst the picturesque landscapes of Narlai and be captivated by the romantic charm of Udaipur, the “City of Lakes.” Conclude your journey in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, a vibrant city pulsating with energy and the perfect finale to this unforgettable odyssey.
What's Included
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International & domestic flights
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First class train tickets
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Expert guides and private drivers
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Luxury & characterful accommodation
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Dedicated Yonder support 24/7
Sample itinerary in full
Remember: Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
DAYS 1-3 | Delhi
When you arrive in Delhi you’ll be met by your private Yonder driver who will accommodate your every whim. Check in at The Imperial, Delhi’s great colonial era hotel, and relax after your long haul flight. Once you’ve recuperated, you’ll venture forth with your guide into Old Delhi by rickshaw to discover the sights, sounds and smells of the mesmerising maze of alleyways. You’ll then swap from peddle power to your air conditioned car to experience Delhi’s other major attractions including Humayun’s tomb, Raj Ghat (or Gandhi’s eternal flame) and India Gate along with the presidential and secretariat buildings.
Highlights
Delhi full day city tour
(Included full-day tour)
While Old Delhi unravels the old charm and speaks volumes about India’s history, culture, and tradition, enchanting New Delhi exhibits the picture of modern India. The tour will begin with a visit to the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques. It was built in red sandstone and marble by more than 5000 artisans. Later, visit Chandni Chowk, Asia’s largest wholesale market, a massive area packed with shops, bazaars, and people (most of the shops remain closed on Sundays). Drive past the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Also, visit the Raj Ghat, a simple memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Proceed towards New Delhi, which reflects the legacy the British left behind. The first stop will be a UNESCO World Heritage site – Qutub Minar, the second tallest minar in India. It is made of red stone and marble, covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Qur’an. Later, visit the 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb, the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, an outstanding monument in the Indo-Persian style and a precursor to the Taj Mahal. The tour of Imperial Delhi will also include a drive past India Gate, the 42m high War Memorial Arch, the Parliament House, the Secretariat buildings, and the Vice Regal Palace, now the official residence of the President of India.
Your included hotel
The Imperial
Your alternative hotel choices
The Lodhi
The Claridges
DAYS 3-5 | Varanasi
We continue our journey with a short flight from Delhi to Varanasi. Beginning at the cosmic centre of the city, Kashi, the city of light, get familiar with rite and ritual by exploring ancient pathways to the temples and mosques of Hindus & Muslims as well as observe the age old cremation rituals of Manikarnika, the burning ghat. The highlight is Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath Mandir which is said to hold the first of the jyotirlingas, the sacred shafts of light, which self-emanated from the earth, but how many know that this temple has been rebuilt not just once but four times in three different locations, two of which have mosques perched on top! Every evening, an illuminated aarti is performed at Dasahwamedh Ghat. The boat will be halted right at the steps for the best view. The presiding priests stand on a wooden Chauki in the water. To the chant of Sanskrit mantras and the clash of cymbals and drums, the river is worshipped with flowers, incense, sandalwood, milk and vermilion. First the blazing camphor lamp and then the many flamed aarti lamps are raised high and then arched back to the water, the dark river reflecting the golden flames as Ganges accepts the worship. It is the Ganges that gives Varanasi its spiritual resonance.
Your included hotel
The Brijrama Palace
DAYS 6 | Agra via Delhi
Today you will fly from Varanasi to Delhi before making the transfer to Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station to board train Vande Bharat Express to Agra. On arrival in Agra, you’ll be met by your private driver and whisked to the Oberoi Amarvilas with its direct view towards the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal, the world-famous ivory-white mausoleum, a sublime symbol of love, is even more ethereal in the twilight. The warm rays of the setting sun cast an almost mystical glow on the marble structure, its reflection shimmering in the tranquil waters of the Yamuna river. Walk through the beautiful gardens, adorned with neatly trimmed trees and flowerbeds, and feel the soothing coolness of the marble under your feet as you approach the monument. The intricate carvings, the delicate filigree work, the glittering inlay stones – each detail telling a story of passion and craftsmanship. As the sun sinks further, the sky turns into a canvas of pastel shades, a fitting backdrop to this incredible spectacle. The tranquillity of the moment, coupled with the monument’s architectural brilliance, is a profoundly moving experience.
Highlights
Taj Mahal sunrise walk
(Included half-day tour)
It is fitting to witness the extraordinary monument, the Taj Mahal (closed on Friday), during the first light of day, as its exemplary beauty is truly awe-inspiring and will leave an indelible memory. This early time of day is when the site is least crowded, providing a peaceful and serene experience of the world’s most romantic landmark.
Tour of Agra Fort
(Included half-day tour)
Known as the Red Fort of Agra, this walled imperial city was founded in 1565 by the Emperor Akbar (1556-1605). It’s a well-deserving UNESCO World Heritage site located just 2.5 kilometres from the famous Taj Mahal. The palaces, grand mosques, and elaborate public halls within the fort are crafted from pink-red sandstone, bearing testament to an era when Indo-Muslim art, strongly influenced by Persia, flourished. Emperor Shah Jahan, known for constructing the Taj Mahal in memory of his deceased wife, was later imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb within the Agra Fort. Shah Jahan is said to have passed away in the Musamman Burj, a marble tower he himself had built, providing one of the most captivating views of the Taj Mahal.
Your included hotel
Oberoi Amarvilas
Your alternative hotel choices
Trident Agra
DAYS 6-7 | Ranthambore National Park
We bid adieu to Agra and board our train to Ranthambore. The urban landscape transforms into pastoral scenes, dotted with villages, where life moves at a different pace. As the journey unfolds, the anticipation of entering the land of the majestic Bengal tiger builds. Upon arrival you’ll be met by your private driver and whisked to the comfort of Sher Bagh, a spellbinding tented camp on the edge of the national park. Over the next couple of days, you’ll venture out into the beautiful national park on four game drives. Hearts will be racing at the prospect of an encounter with ferocious felines as well as many other majestic creatures that call Ranthambore home.
Highlights
Private tiger safari
(Included full-day tour)
Whilst in Ranthambore you will enjoy two private tiger safaris. For the first, it’s an early start to be in the national park for sunrise. Your Sher Bagh driver and naturalist guide will know the areas most likely to result in a tiger sighting. While you’re out on safari, you’ll almost certainly see a monkey troop or two, while deer and crocs are ubiquitous. Bird life, from owls to eagles and from kingfishers to hoopoes, is in plentiful supply and if you are lucky enough to come across a tiger or leopard kill, you might find hyenas or jackals scavenging. Sloth bears also call this magical place home. You’ll get back to the hotel to enjoy an early lunch before setting off into the park again for your second safari.
Your included hotel
Sher Bagh
Your alternative hotel choices
Khem Villas
Aman-i-Khas
DAYS 8-9 | Jaipur
The next stop on your Rajasthan holiday is the fabled pink city of Jaipur. The capital of Rajasthan is famed for sites such as the City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. You’ll pull up at the Rajmahal Palace, the new uber cool boutique hotel in the heart of the city. The spectacular Amber Fort, a short drive outside Jaipur, will be one of the first things you visit as your guide and driver make themselves at your disposal. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the streets and shops which hum with traditional artisans crafting products from metal, wood and textiles
Highlights
Jaipur City Palace tour
(Included half-day tour)
The City Palace is a captivating architectural marvel that seamlessly blends elements from various styles, such as Mughal, European, Rajput, and the Indian Shilpa Shastra. This exquisite design is evident in its array of palaces, pavilions, gardens, and temples. The palace complex now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, a significant cultural repository. Among the many striking structures within the complex, the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, and Shri Govind Dev Temple stand out as prominent and frequently visited highlights.
Jeep ride at Amber Fort
(Included half-day tour)
The journey to the fort through Amber village is truly picturesque and offers a glimpse into the vibrant Rajasthani culture. Upon reaching the summit of Amer Fort, take a leisurely stroll through the expansive complex of courtyards and halls. The Amer Fort, constructed by Raja Man Singh I in the 16th century and later completed by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century, boasts grand architecture. Its expansive ramparts, sequence of gates, and cobblestone pathways provide a commanding view over Maota Lake. Prominent structures within the fort include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure).
Your included hotel
Rajmahal Palace
Your alternative hotel choices
Rambagh Palace
47 Jobner Bagh
DAYS 10-11 | Jodhpur
A short hop and you’ll arrive into the sanctity of Jodhpur, for us, the cleanest and most orderly city in Rajasthan. The Maharaja has exacting standards which have helped ensure this small (by Indian metrics!) city is perfectly maintained. Our favourite place to stay is RAAS Jodhpur, a super elegant boutique pad, tucked away down a narrow street in the centre of the old town. With exceptional uninterrupted views up towards Mehrangarh Fort, it is perfectly located to allow guests to go out and explore on foot. On the doorstep you’ll find an ancient stepwell, deeper than you could imagine with its cascading staircases, a compact set of streets each with sections dedicated to specific crafts, and the sprawling market around the clock tower.
Highlights
Jodhpur private city tour
(Included half-day tour)
You’ll go out with your private guide to explore the city. Your first stop is Mehrangarh Fort and the several palaces within its thick walls. Aside from the wonderful history and interesting anecdotes, the museum is fantastically curated where you can be kept enthralled for hours. Once you’ve had your fill, you’ll make a short drive to the hillside opposite to see Jaswant Thada and the beautiful view from its windows. When you descend back into the Blue City, you’ll go out on foot with your guide for a gentle stroll around the old town seeing the clock tower and Sadar bazaar.
Your included hotel
RAAS Jodhpur
Your alternative hotel choices
Umaid Bhawan
DAYS 12-15 | Narlai
Only a few know about Rawla Narlai; a small hotel deep in rural India on the route from Jodhpur to Udaipur. It’s one of those Yonder hidden gems. Built into and around a former stronghold in the village of Narlai, the hotel is simple in its outlook but top-notch on experience. You’ll encounter charming staff drawn from the village, exceptional landscapes with lakes and hillocks perfect for afternoon tea and birdwatching, if you’re lucky a wild leopard might cross your path, and in the evening you’ll be taken by ox cart to the ancient step well for a magnificent lantern-lit feast.
Highlights
Ranakpur & Kumbhalgarh tour
(Included half-day tour)
In the morning, your driver and guide will be waiting to take you to Ranakpur, arguably the most spectacular of India’s Jain temples, and to the impenetrable Kumbhalgarh Fort which stood guard at the mouth of the Aravali mountain range.
Dinner by candlelight
(Optional experience)
Travel to an ancient stepwell by bullock cart on the edge of a rural Rajasthani village. The stepwell is illuminated by thousands of candles. A traditional feast is served with the soundtrack provided by local musicians
Your included hotel
Rawla Narlai
DAYS 16-18 | Udaipur
We recently came across a phrase daubed on the side of a restaurant describing Udaipur as ‘God’s love nest’; it’s more often called the City of Love but you get the gist. The delightful water gardens, fabulous stained glass and mirror rooms in the City Palace and the stunning sunset Lake Pichola outings put romance in the air. Even the spectacular Jagdish temple, just a few steps down the hill from the city palace, sports a series of romantic (well, ok, really rather erotic!) carvings. Udaipur is a work of art, thanks in large part to the Maharanas who have thoughtfully built it over many centuries. And thanks in particular to Maharana Jagat Singh II who built the Lake Palace which is where you’ll settle in for a couple of nights.
Highlights
Lake Pichola & City Palace tour
(Included half-day tour)
After breakfast you’ll cross Lake Pichola by boat and go on foot to explore the City Palace and museum. You’ll have a private guided tour of the palace before moving on down the hill to the 17th century Jagdish temple. You’ll catch up with your driver who will take you around Fatehsagar Lake and then on to the Kahelion ki Bari (or the Garden for the Maids of Honour) which is a beautiful garden replete with fountains and marble kiosks.
Your included hotel
Taj Lake Palace
Your alternative hotel choices
Oberoi Udaivilas
Trident Udaipur
Amet Haveli
DAYS 18-20 | Mumbai & departure
We just love Mumbai. It is the wheelhouse of India’s economy, home of Bollywood and the spiritual homeland of cricket. Your last nights in India will be spent at the iconic Taj Mahal (no, not the same as the one in Agra!) where just being a guest is an experience in itself. You’ll go out into the city with your private guide to discover hidden corners, whole districts dedicated to a single industry and fascinating history and architecture.
Highlights
Private Mumbai city tour
(Included half-day tour)
Your guide will be on hand to take you out into this thriving city. You’ll visit the Prince of Wales Museum built in grand Indo Saracenic style, drive down Marine Drive, Mumbai’s most popular seaside promenade, and see the Kamla Nehru Park along with the Hanging Gardens on the slopes of the Malabar Hills, offering spectacular views of the marine lines and the Chowpatty Beach. You’ll also swing past the Jain temple, Mani Bhawan where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay and the Dhobi Ghat. And of course no visit is complete without seeing the Flora Fountain, the colourful Crawford Market and Victoria Terminus Train Station.
Your included hotel
Taj Mahal Palace
Your alternative hotel choices
Trident Nariman Point
The Lodhi
Tailor-Made Itineraries
THE YONDER DIFFERENCE
Off-the-shelf is off the menu at Yonder: from the moment you first get in touch you'll be in the hands of a senior executive who has spent years getting to know your destination first-hand. Other travel companies might talk a big game about expertise and customisation but, to blow our own trumpet for a minute, we're in a league of our own.
Hotels featured in this itinerary
The Imperial
A unique blend of Victorian, Old Colonial and Art Deco style, the iconic and historic Imperial is seriously good. Beyond the turbaned, mustachioed doormen, elegant interiors are adorned with fine art. Great rooms compiled with ... View this hotel
The Lodhi
Super hip, refined, elegant and contemporary, The Lodhi oozes luxury. There’s an art gallery, a library and cigar room, a spectacular sunken pool, a vast gym and health club. The restaurants are truly superb and the rooms sim... View this hotel
How to go Yonder
What you get for your money
This itinerary would typically cost from £4,985 inclusive of international flights staying in the specified hotels and having the services of a private chauffeur and guide.
The costs vary based on season, flights, room type and board basis. All our holidays are tailor-made and can be created around your budget.
Every Yonder itinerary is uniquely created to suit our individual clients. Destinations, hotels, lengths of stay and even modes of transport are all decided by you, with the help of our local knowledge and expert guidance.
All Yonder holidays include flights, carefully curated hotels. private drivers, expert guides and local concierges alongside 24/7 support from Yonder should it ever be needed so you know you are in safe hands.We are immensely proud of our unique and in-depth expertise of the destinations we offer. Unlike some travel companies, each hotel we feature is handpicked and personally experienced by us so we can give you the inside story. We also carefully choose our guides based on their their exhaustive knowledge and professionalism to ensure you have a perfect holiday.
What’s the process?
We love to chat. Tell us about your Yonderlust, your travel tastes, your wishes and desires. The more we know the better and we will make a few suggestions based on extensive our first-hand experience.
Once we‘ve glimpsed your travel soul we will start crafting your unique itinerary. And then we will refine it until you’re as excited as we are.
When you are ready to go Yonder you can make your reservation. We usually take a 30% deposit (but this can vary depending on your holiday). The balance payable 90 days prior to departure. Best of all, booking with Yonder really is headache free. You have complete financial protection for all holidays which include flights through our ATOL licence (11237).
And once you’ve booked, you can be absolutely sure that you’ll have someone to turn to whenever you need to. We will be there for you 24/7.
Every great journey starts with one small step
Please get in touch by phone, by email or by filling in our simple enquiry form so that our travel experts can get in touch to discuss your perfect tailor-made holiday.
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