Welcome to Delhi! Rising and falling like the phoenix bird, this ancient walled city and sparkling jewel of the British Empire, Delhi now stands as the proud beacon of independent India. Countless monuments reflect the grandeur of ancient times, where the legacy of the Mughal emperors is layered among the colonial vision of Sir Edward Lutyens.

Meet up with fellow travelers and the Trip Leader at a Welcome Reception. Share light refreshments and connect with companions. This gathering provides a warm introduction to the many cultural experiences ahead. Depart for dinner at one of New Delhi’s most appreciated restaurants offering you the first taste of North Indian delicacies and a handcrafted menu.

Included Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: The Imperial New Delhi

What to Expect: 

Arrival day offers a relaxed pace with minimal walking.  

Today is a home-run for history buffs. Begin with a full immersion into Old Delhi and the former Mughal capital under Emperor Shah Jahan. Marvel at the Jama Masjid, one of Asia’s largest mosques built to hold 25,000 worshippers. Pass the majestic Red Fort, seat of the Mughal emperors for more than two centuries. Ride a cycle rickshaw through the bustling lanes of Moonlit Square, Dehli’s oldest and busiest market with vocal merchants selling silks, silver jewelry, spices, sweets, brassware, and perfumes.

Continue along ceremonial avenues designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in the 1920s. Admire the stately Raj Path, the India Gate war memorial and Parliament House, each one a testament to the importance of the British Empire.

Gain deeper perspective with a visit to the Bangla Sahib Temple, Delhi’s most prominent Sikh shrine. Join other volunteers in the community kitchen where 10,000 meals are served daily, experiencing the spirit of service and equality that defines Sikh tradition.

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant before exploring Emperor Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1569, this unforgettable garden mausoleum—precursor to the Taj Mahal—showcases Persian artistry blended with Mughal elegance.

Unwind back at the hotel and with your Trip Leader’s recommendation for tonight’s independent dining.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: The Imperial New Delhi

What to Expect:  

Expect a full day of sightseeing with moderate walking, steps, and uneven surfaces at historic sites. Tourist areas may be busy and crowded. Restrooms and shaded seating are available at major stops. Bike-rickshaw rides involve brief climbs in and out of seats and can be bumpy due to uneven roads and traffic. Neck or back support is limited, so travelers with mobility or balance concerns may wish to skip this portion or request extra assistance. Air-conditioned transport is provided between major sites, with rest breaks throughout the day. 

Leave behind Delhi’s vibrant streets and prepare to arrive in Udaipur where palaces glitter along the water’s edge. After breakfast, check-out and transfer directly to Delhi Airport to board a 90-minute flight to Udaipur.

The historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar, Udaipur is nestled between the Aravalli Hills and Lake Pichola famed for shimmering waters, royal palaces, and romantic old-world atmosphere that has enchanted centuries of travelers.

Set within the historic City Palace complex, tonight’s lodging is extraordinary, offering privileges and amenities designed for royalty. Settle in, savor the panoramic lake views, and soak up the splendor within these palatial walls.

As the sun sets, embark on a private cruise across Lake Pichola. Glide over calm waters and admire the massive City Palace as the illuminated façade casts a golden reflection across the lake. There is no better way to soak up Udaipur’s regal splendor than by boat.

Enjoy a refined dining experience at the hotel where traditional Rajasthani flavors blend with classic Indian specialties and international cuisine. Conclude the evening surrounded by the tranquil beauty of a city where history and elegance unite in a luminous tapestry

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Taj Fteh Prakash Palace

What to Expect:  

A relaxed travel day with airport assistance and a 90-minute flight. Moderate walking through terminals and brief stair use when boarding or disembarking. Warm, sunny conditions in Udaipur; evening lake cruise includes gentle boarding steps and stable seating. 

At dawn, watch Lake Pichola awaken. After breakfast, travel to Dhar Village for an immersive cultural experience. Follow a gentle trekking path toward Ubeshwar Ji, crossing a small river and farmland tended by Bhil tribes and the descendants of Rajput warrior clans. Take time to meet villagers, enter their homes, and observe their daily life that revolves around cattle grazing and farm chores.

Pause at a village school, where children welcome visitors with warmth and curiosity. Enjoy playful interaction, learn about the rural education system, and share school supplies, a gesture that is both meaningful and memorable.

Return to the hotel and refresh before an afternoon of exploring Udaipur’s most celebrated landmarks. Begin at the City Palace, a vast riverside complex of palaces with courtyards, balconies, and domes that recall Mewar grandeur. Continue to the Garden of the Maidens featuring lotus pools, carved fountains, and marble pavilions where royal court ladies once gathered in shaded company.Visit Jagdish Temple, a towering Indo-Aryan masterpiece dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The day winds down with a stroll through Udaipur’s lively bazaars, ablaze with color, folk art, and handcrafts. This evening’s independent dinner allows for personal leisure time, perhaps with a traditional herbal facial or massage from the hotel spa.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Taj Fteh Prakash Palace

What to Expect: 

The village visit involves a two-hour light hike on uneven terrain with limited shade. Expect warm conditions and possible crowds at major landmarks. Restrooms and shaded seating are available at major sites. Marble floors may be slippery; rest stops  available. 

Today’s journey moves deeper into Rajasthan—The Land of Kings—where desert landscapes, vibrant textiles, and grand monuments embody the romance of old India. Travel three hours by private coach to Rawla Narlai for one night, pausing en route at the celebrated Jain temples of Ranakpur. Set in the quiet Aravalli Hills, these 15th-century temples are renowned for their breathtaking detail. Step inside to witness intricately designed halls supported by 1,444 carved pillars. Each surface comes to life with delicate filigree, marble domes, and motifs of gods, goddesses and celestial beings, earning it worldwide acclaim as one of the world’s finest examples of Jain architecture.

On arrival in Narlai village, select an afternoon activity that resonates: a guided walk to meet villagers and observe daily traditions; visit an ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva; or, enjoy a short hike to Elephant Hill, the legendary granite monolith that overlooks the hotel with sweeping countryside vistas. Alternatively, explore the hotel amenities in the 17th-century manor house resting under the shadow of Elephant Hill where frangipani-scented courtyards and lush foliage surround lovely relaxation areas. Enjoy high tea in the desert.

At sunset, enjoy a special dinner at an ancient baori—an elaborate well built with descending stone steps that once provided important access to water. Lantern-lit pathways lead to an illuminated scene with hundreds of flickering oil lamps and candles. Dine under a canopy of stars as a folk singer serenades through each course. Anticipate a Rajasthani feast with local specialties from savory breads and kebabs to traditional sweets.

Included Meals: Breakfast,  Dinner

Accommodation: Rawlai Narlai

What to Expect: 

Bags are packed for a three-hour coach journey with rest stops and sightseeing at Ranakpur’s temple complex, which involves steps and uneven marble floors. Village walks and evening outing includes more steps and easy walking and uneven, sometimes bumpy terrain. 

The countryside awakens and courtyards fill with cooing birdsong. After breakfast, choose to relax by the pool or select from cultural experiences offered by the hotel.

The first is a leopard safari with naturalists to look for majestic cats in their natural habitat, observe migratory birds, and encounter the region’s flora and fauna. Alternatively, a guided horseback ride moves across the rural terrain. A jeep safari explores local villages and country trails. The final highlight to choose from is a wildlife breakfast, where a dawn safari concludes with a sunrise meal—champagne included (at your own expense).

In the afternoon, transfer depending on the month of travel, to the desert camp or desert resort, set among sand dunes and wilderness where safari-style tents (in all months except April and September) radiate from a central Durbar Hall—a grand audience space inspired by royal palaces, used by kings to receive guests.

Relax into this far-flung oasis while sipping high tea at sunset, followed by a lecture on desert history, tribal traditions, and the ever-shifting sand dunes. As evening falls, gather under a canopy of stars for a traditional Rajasthani dinner. Expect a spread of local specialties such as slow-cooked meats, richly-spiced lentils, seasonal vegetables and bread baked over an open fire.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: MANVAR Sevan The Desert Camp OR MANVAR Shergarh The Desert Resort

The early bird catches the worm! Rise at first light for a 90-minute jeep safari that criss-crosses rolling dunes and dirt trails while early the sunlight washes over the landscape in hues of rose and amber. Look for native animals including gazelles, desert foxes, and elusive cats. As the arid beauty of this terrain unfolds, the adventure is guaranteed to inspire many photographic moments.

Spend the afternoon at leisure within the camp boundary. Lounge in shaded sit-outs; fall asleep to whistling desert winds; read under a tented veranda; or, take a short guided nature walk around the camp to explore medicinal plants and identify native bird calls.

Later, embark on a sunset camel ride over the dunes. Ride atop a gentle Bactrian or dromedary camel led by experienced local handlers. Expect a slow, rhythmic sway with excellent views of shifting sands. And as for birdlife? There’s a lot of activity here. Spot the vivid blue wings of the Indian roller; the graceful flight of the green bee-eater and the soft coos of laughing doves at dusk.

As twilight deepens, gather under starlit skies for a cultural camp dinner. Torches and lanterns illuminate the scene and the evening comes to life with traditional folk music and dance. Savor a multi-course Rajasthani meal in the company of people who speak from the heart.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: MANVAR Sevan The Desert Camp OR MANVAR Shergarh The Desert Resort

It’s All Aboard once again for a two-and-a-half-hour coach ride to Jodhpur, the desert metropolis famed for year-round sunshine earning it the title of Sun City. Once the princely seat of the Marwar kingdom, Jodhpur blends regal heritage with desert life. Your introduction to Jodhpur starts with arriving at Jaswant thada, the white-marble tomb surrounded by tiered gardens and a small lake that serves as the royal cremation site and tranquil memorial for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Visit the mighty Mehrangarh Fort, an architectural masterpiece looming above the city. Wander into the Brahmpuri quarter, where rows of indigo-colored houses cascade beneath the fort. Traditionally home to Brahmin families, the blue paint signifies higher caste and keeps interiors cooler.

Ride a tuk-tuk into the old city toward the Clock Tower Market and peruse the colorful stalls of textiles, jewelry, and spices. It’s impossible not to notice the mansions built by affluent merchants with their carved facades and latticed balconies.

Everyone is invited to a yoga class in the private garden of Guru Karan Singh, a respected local teacher who shares traditional practices of Surya Namaskar, Pranayama, and meditation — offering an authentic glimpse into India’s wellness heritage.

Dinner tonight is independent with a choice of three excellent hotel restaurants or poolside dining with prior notice.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: The Ajit Bhawan

Prepare to settle-in comfortably on a seven-hour coach ride to Jaipur, the Pink Jewel of Rajasthan, radiating art and romance. Founded in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, the city’s grand avenues, palaces, gardens, and pavilions take up nearly a quarter of its footprint. Everything is on a grand scale, giving the city a sense of mighty opulence.

Painted pink in 1876 to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) during his tour of India, Jaipur has continued its royal legacy through later visits by Queen Elizabeth II and Diana, Princess of Wales. Beyond its ceremonial avenues, side streets bustle with artisans, traders, and shopkeepers who turn the old city into a vibrant bazaar of scents and sounds.

Visit the Govind Dev Ji Temple, one of the most important Krishna temples in Jaipur. Witness the daily Aarti ceremony, a devotional ritual where oil lamps are waved before the deity as hymns and chants fill the courtyard. This experience, shared with hundreds of worshippers, offers a glimpse into local faith and community life.

Celebrate this evening with a traditional home-style dinner hosted by an aristocratic Rajasthani family. Savor aromatic dals, spiced curries, and handmade breads following family recipes. Their stories and insights bring local hospitality to life.

Included Meals: Breakfast,  Dinner

Accommodation: Narain Niwas Palace

Travel by jeep this morning to the hilltop stronghold that served as the first capital of Rajasthan and royal residence of the Kachwaha rulers. One of India’s most enchanting, Amber Fort is a giant complex of palaces, temples, mirrored halls, and manicured gardens—an exquisite example of high Indian architecture. Return by jeep to continue sightseeing, passing the Palace of Winds, an ornate 18th-century façade with 953 windows. Designed with latticed screens so dignified ladies could discreetly watch street processions while enjoying a cool breeze.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to Jaipur City Palace, a sprawling complex where royal descendants still reside, remaining active in historic preservation, polo, philanthropy, and tourism promotion. They honor their family’s centuries-old legacy by welcoming visitors into select palace wings.

Continue to Jantar Mantar, the remarkable observatory built in the 1700s. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains 19 astronomical instruments, including the world’s largest stone sundial, and reflects Jaipur’s historical role as a center of science and innovation.

It will certainly feel good to give the legs a rest and experience the city from a unique perspective on e-rickshaws. They are operated by a cooperative providing dignified employment to 200 women from low-income households.

Dine independently tonight with excellent culinary venues within the palace ranging from stately indoor rooms to alfresco courtyards. Look forward to best-in-class Indian and continental cuisines

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Narain Niwas Palace

After an early breakfast, prepare for a four-hour coach ride to Ranthambore, a striking landscape of deciduous jungle, grasslands, and rocky hills between the Aravalli and Vindhya mountain ranges. Once the royal hunting grounds of Jaipur’s maharajas, it is now a National Park and Tiger Reserve teeming with Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species, making it one of India’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries.

Continue to the hotel for a nourishing lunch and after a brief respite to refresh, set out on a guided walk to Ganesh Temple at Ranthambore Fort. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it is one of Rajasthan’s oldest and most revered shrines, drawing thousands of pilgrims annually. The path to the temple is a photographer’s dream with panoramic views.

In the afternoon, visit Dhonk, a social organization working with the Mogya tribe. These former tiger poachers and their families are now trained in sustainable livelihoods producing handcrafts like embroidery, weaving, and hand-block printed textiles. Talk with a conservation expert and learn about the community’s positive transformation.

The ancient art of hand-block printing is a worthwhile experience as it represents a timeless craft that produces India’s world-famous patterned textiles. Watch as wooden blocks carved with floral and geometric motifs are dipped in natural plant dyes and stamped onto cotton fabric. Then try it yourself to make a personal keepsake to take home.

Relax at the retreat where jungle cries and human comforts go hand-in-hand. Guests enjoy swimming beneath open skies. Evenings glow with folk music and whimsical lanterns.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Amalgatti Resort

Begin the day with an early morning safari in Ranthambore National Park, accompanied by a naturalist. Board a (shared) open canter and journey through different terrains of dry forests, lakes, and rocky cliffs that offer a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing. As dawn light filters through the jungle, listen closely as your naturalist interprets the delicate balance of this protected ecosystem.

The park is among India’s premier habitats for the royal Bengal tiger, with sightings considered as unforgettable. Alongside tigers, look for leopards moving stealthily in the undergrowth, sloth bears foraging near waterholes, or sambar deer and wild boars grazing in meadows. Bird enthusiasts could see crested serpent eagles, painted storks, or bright kingfishers flashing over water. Your guide shares insights into animal behavior, tracking techniques, and the history of Ranthambore, once the private hunting ground of Jaipur’s maharajas.

Return to the resort for a hearty breakfast. Curated nature trails weave around the resort for light exercise. After lunch at the hotel, spend the afternoon relaxing—or if inspired—join the second safari covering the same habitats, providing another opportunity to see animals in the wild.

Both safaris offer the thrill of discovery and immersion into one of Rajasthan’s most beautiful landscapes. After riding through the bush, a dip in the pool does wonders to refresh the body.

 Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Amalgatti Resort

A trip to India must include an iconic train ride and this is the morning for it. Wake early and get to the train station, carrying a packed breakfast to enjoy en route during the four-hour journey to Agra, the first half by rail and then by coach.

Pause at Fatehpur Sikri, the beautiful ghost city and UNESCO World Heritage Site built in honor of a Sufi saint. Here, Persian elegance meets Hindu artistry in graceful courtyards and delicate arches still whispering of love in this vanished empire. After this touching visit, it’s not long before checking into the exquisite comfort of a five-star hotel to enjoy lunch, followed by time to refresh.

Later, walk through chronological steps of history and visit the red sandstone walls of Agra Fort built by the great 16th-century Mughal emperor Akbar, where elegant courtyards and marble pavilions whisper the secrets of emperors and queens. From its balconies, gaze across the Yamuna River to the Taj Mahal in the distance.

This royal and romantic journey concludes with a farewell dinner with grand Taj Mahal views. Raise a toast with a signature Discovery cocktail, savor a curated menu of sweet and savory delights, and share stories and unforgettable moments with new friends.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Grand Mercure

This morning you conclude your tour with a visit to the Taj Mahal. Fulfill your life-long dream of seeing the Taj Mahal in person with its soaring white dome and minarets. Stroll the formal Mughal gardens where reflecting pools capture shimmering marble images. Step inside the mausoleum, where the cool marble interior houses intricately carved cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, illuminated by delicate inlay work and lattice screens.

Following the Taj Mahal visit, travel by coach to the Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport.

As this journey draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable memories gathered along the way. Each stop revealed a different facet of this extraordinary country. May India’s many shades of color and hospitality and friendships formed along the way continue to inspire.

Included Meals: Breakfast