Grand Tour of the North

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.

Enjoy a private guided tour of the city in which you’ll visit the Vice Regal Lodge, which once served as the seat of power, the century old church and temple located on the Mall Road. The Scandal Point, which is located at the end of the Mall Road in Shimla, attracts large number of tourists for its scenic and picturesque view. Later explore Shimla’s famous Mall Toad. “The Mall” often described as the heart of the city is embellished with varieties of departmental stores, shops, showrooms and restaurants. It is also known as a shoppers paradise.

Started in 1903, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train is now listed as a World Heritage UNESCO site. It is known for lush green mountains with scenic, misty views. The Kalka–Shimla Railway was built to connect Shimla, the summer capital of India during the British Raj, with the rest of the Indian rail system. At the time of construction 107 tunnels and 864 bridges were built throughout the course of the track.

On this private guided tour you’ll see the Capital Complex, a group of three wonderful structures, the Secretariat, the High Court, and the Legislative Assembly. Then visit Rock Garden, a site that has converted industrial waste and throw away items as pieces of art. Later visit the beautiful Sukhna Lake (wish-fulfilled), is a venue for water sports like yachting and rowing and has the largest rowing channel in Asia. It is popular as a place to stroll or to just relax and watch the world go by.

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.

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.

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.

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).