See more ideas for: India
Enjoy this India multi centre holiday exploring from high up in the Himalayas to the peaceful coast of Kerala. Start in Delhi, where you’ll taste delicious street food and admire the many monuments before soaking up the views in the hill stations of Shimla and Dharamshala. Gaze upon the Golden Temple in Amritsar and find peace in the holy city of Varanasi before watching the sun rise over the Taj Mahal. Look for tigers and rhinos in Ranthambhore National Park before explore the palaces of Jaipur and Udaipur. Fly to Kerala to dine on fresh seafood and spot birds in the tranquil backwaters before ending your trip in the iconic city of Mumbai, where rooftop bars and spectacular architecture awaits. If you’re looking for the ultimate India multi centre holiday – this is the perfect itinerary for you.
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your requirements; please contact one of our consultants to start planning your dream trip.
Depart the UK from your chosen airport.
On arrival you’ll be met at the airport and driven to your hotel, checking in for two nights.
Start the day with a rickshaw ride through the walled city of Old Delhi, past glimpses of the splendour and romance of Delhi’s erstwhile royalty. Explore the large spice market, Khari Baoli, where you can taste a variety of spices, nuts, and herbs, catching a glimpse of the famed Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to New Delhi – designed and built by the British in the 1920s, it is a city of wide boulevards and impressive Government buildings. After King George V transferred the capital from Calcutta to Delhi, the royal architects designed palatial buildings and tree-lined avenues with fountains and pools. Your guide will show you the incredible buildings of Humayun’s Tomb and the Qutub Minar.
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Delhi train station, ready to catch the train to Kalka. On arrival there, you’ll be met and shown where to board the Toy Train, arriving in Shimla at around 2.30pm. Check into your hotel for two nights and enjoy an afternoon soaking up the views.
Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, discovered by the British in 1819 when it was part of the Nepalese Kingdom. The cool hills, snow-capped peaks and green pastures lead to it being declared the summer capital of India, with natural beauty and colonial heritage aplenty.
This morning you’ll head out on a morning tour of Shimla to explore the town. Start on Mall Road, the heart of Shimla, where the streets are lined with shops, and you’ll find the Christ Church, one of the oldest in northern India. You’ll also visit Tara Devi Temple, where the goddess Tara is known as a prominent deity of Tibetan Buddhism. The history of this temple dates to more than 250 years. It is believed that Goddess Tara was brought here from eastern state of Bengal by a king from the Sen Dynasty and to honour this in later years Raja Bhupendra Sen established this temple with a wooden idol of Tara Devi in Vaishnav style and traditions.
A pleasant walk further west will lead you to the most imposing edifice of Shimla – the Vice Regal Lodge. Located on the Observatory Hill, it is a majestic, sprawling, grey-tinted structure surrounded by tall pines. Now called Rashtrapati Niwas, the Lodge houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and is the only building in Shimla that occupies a hill by itself.
Today you’ll be drive to Pragpur in the Kangra Valley, around a 6 hours drive. This picturesque village offers a unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty. Nestled in the valley at an altitude of around 2,000ft, it is completely surrounded by the Dhauladhar mountain range. Famous for it’s weaving, pottery and metalwork, it’s a fascinating place to meet the locals and learn about traditional life in the Kangra Valley.
After breakfast, you’ll enjoy the winding two hour drive to Dharamshala, watchg as the terrain changes from the fertile riverbeds of Punjab to the rocky terrain of the Himalayan foothills. Dharamshala is a hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range, surrounded by oak and conifer trees with snow-capped mountains enclosing three sides of the town and the Kangra valley stretching in front. The town is divided into two distinct areas – Lower Dharamshala and Upper Dharamshala is famous as the ‘Little Lhasa in India’ after Mcleodganj became the temporary headquarter of the Dalai Lama.
Today you’ll head off to explore Dharamshala. You’ll start at McLeod Ganj – the home of the Dalai Lama since 1959 when he fled Tibet with thousands of other refugees. As Dharamshala became the headquarter of the Tibetan Government in exile, headed by Dalai Lama, it gained prominence all over the world & prominent personalities started arriving here. Mcleodganj emerged as a major Buddhist centre.
Afterwards you’ll visit the War Memorial, situated in Dharamshala town. The memorial is situated near the entry point to Dharamshala and commemorates the memory of those who fought valiantly in the war. The place is in a peaceful location in the pine forest and offers a very enjoyable walk-through the trees to get there. The rest of your day is yours to explore the town and enjoy the spectacular views of the Himalayas.
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Amritsar, around 6 hours away. Amritsar has long been famous as a centre for the Sikh religion – according to legend, when the fourth Guru of the Sikhs Guru Ram Das heard about the healing powers of the pool, he ordered his son Guru Arjan Dev to erect a temple at the site. In 1588, the foundations of a city were laid which later became an emblem of Sikh culture and history.
This morning you’ll start the day with a visit to the Golden Temple. You’ll walk through the old city and the bazaars, visiting the Jallianwala Bagh and the site of the 1919 civilian massacre, before arriving at Sri Harminder Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. With gold leaf covering the entire structure, this is the Mecca of the Sikh religion. Unlike any religious structures, it is open from all sides and all religions are welcome to enter, meditate or just listen to the scriptures. Soaking up the atmosphere of such a special place is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Wagah Border, the only crossing between India and Pakistan. The army outpost is around 30km from Amritsar and is a complex of buildings, roads and barriers separating the two countries. Here you’ll witness the ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony performed by the soldiers each evening. Soldiers from both India and Pakistan perform a flag march – the flags from both countries are brought down before the gates are opened and drills are performed.
Today you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the airport for your flight to Varanasi. On arrival, you’ll be met and taken to your hotel, checking in for two nights. Varanasi is the holy city of India, known for its fine quality silks and being a pilgrimage point for Hindus. In Hinduism it is believed that those who die and are cremated here get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births.
Start your day with a sunrise boat ride along the River Ganges. Varanasi is situated on the west bank of the river, extending back from the riverbank Ghats to a winding maze of picturesque alleys and tall houses, dotted with temples and shops. The city is a centre of education and art, as well being a religious centre. After your cruise along the river, you’ll head to the magnificent Krishna Balarama Temple, where Hare Krishna devotees come from all around the world to worship.
After breakfast back at your hotel, you’ll head off to explore Sarnath, around 10km from the centre of the city. Sarnath symbolised the birth of Buddhism – it was here that Buddha revealed his doctrine and founded his monastic community. The museum in Sarnath is one of the most important in India and contains carvings representing a whole range of styles, covering work of sculptors as far back as the 3rd Century BC.
In the evening you’ll visit the Ghats to witness the even Aarti. Aarti is a Sanskrit word which stands for homage or devotion. The aarti or offering of the lamps is observed at prescribed hours of the day and night to invoke the gods. It is believed that the gods physically present themselves before devotees at this ceremony. The lamps are revolved before the idols in a clockwise manner along with the chanting of hymns. This recitation is accompanied by drums, blowing of the conch-shell and tolling of the temple bells. At the end of the `aarti’, the priest takes a handful of water which he revolves around the god's idol.
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airport for the short flight to Agra. On arrival you’ll be met and driven to your hotel, checking in for one night.
Later today, you’ll take a tour of Agra Fort, where you’ll wander through the chambers of this ancient royal residence. The country was once governed from here, as well as containing the largest treasury and mint. Dignitaries and ambassadors from far off lands would be brought here, each one participating in the history of India.
Day 14: Agra to Ranthambhore National Park
This morning you’ll head out to the Taj for sunrise, spending the morning exploring this mighty building. Learn about the history of the mausoleum before wandering through the complex alone and really soaking up this awe-inspiring wonder of the world. Built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen, it took 18 years to complete, with craftsmen working around the clock on the intricate and romantic design. With perfect proportions and distinct femininity, legend says that once the construction was completed, Shan Jehan ordered the architect’s hands cut off, and blinded, so he would never be able to duplicate the structure.
After your visit, you’ll be driven to Ranthambhore National Parkm checking in your lodge for two nights.
Waking up in Ranthambore is a wonderful experience; before breakfast you’ll be off on your first game drive, eyes peeled for wildlife in the early morning mist.
Ranthambore National Park is famous for tigers and conservation efforts mean that the population here is stable if not increasing. If you’re lucky you’ll spot one of these magnificent creatures as well as the more common residents of the park like sambar deer, monkeys and peacocks. Returning for breakfast you’ll spend the day at leisure at the hotel before taking another game drive through the park, hopefully seeing some of the animals you might have missed this morning!
After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Jaipur, stopping to visit Abhaneri on your way. Abhaneri is a large village, made famous for the amazing 'Baoris' (step wells) and Harshat Mata Temple. ‘Baoris’ are the unique invention of the locals for harvesting rainwater. Amongst the other step wells, Chand Baori is the most popular one. This colossal step well is in front of the Harshat Mata Temple. Chand Baori is one of India's deepest and largest step wells. The huge tank with delicate carvings is certainly delightful to the eyes. After exploring, you’ll arrive in the Pink City of Jaipur, checking in for three nights.
You’ll have two days to explore Jaipur, starting with a morning visit to the Amber Fort. This marvellous example of Rajput architecture is made up of terraces and ramparts, all a rich terracotta colour that is reflected beautifully in the lake below. Each room within the royal halls is decorated with intricate ivory artwork and exquisite murals, really showing off the pomp and grandeur of a kingdom that was never conquered.
In the afternoon you’ll take a tour of the city – starting at the City Palace Complex, you’ll learn about the local styles of paintings as well as the royal family that still lives in parts of the palace. In the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, you’ll find the Mubarak Mahal. Built in the nineteenth century, you’ll be able to view a huge range of textiles and costumes, including rare pashmina shawls, Benaras silk saris and folk embroidery. Across the road, you’ll look around the famous Jantar Mantar, one of the five observatories in India. Built to indulge the passionate hobby of astronomy by the king, they created complex astronomical instruments made of stone, which still provide accurate information on the heavens above, to this day. It’s a fascinating place to explore and learn about the twinkling skies above.
On your second day, you’ll be taken to visit Nahar Garh and Jai Garh Fort. This incredible structure is connected to the Amber Fort by subterranean passages whereas the Nahar Garh is set on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the pink buildings that make up Jaipur. After spending the morning exploring, you’ll have the afternoon free to relax at your hotel or explore the city further.
It’s a driving day today - after breakfast you’ll be leaving Jaipur and heading towards the glittering jewel in Rajasthan’s crown, Udaipur. Known as the most romantic city in the state, Udaipur is a city of lakes, temples and havelis. There are some beautifully manicured gardens too, but the real gem is the Lake Palace. Head out for a delicious dinner in the city, ready to explore with your guide tomorrow.
You’ll start today with a visit to the City Palace, which houses the private residence of the Maharana of Mewar, who belongs to the oldest royal lineage in India. This palace complex is made up of several different palaces, all forming a single breath-taking façade almost a kilometre long overlooking Pichola Lake. Although built over many different eras, every additional section has been added so seamlessly that it seems all to fit together perfectly.
In the evening you’ll head out to enjoy a boat cruise on the calm waters of Pichola Lake, gazing up at the palace in the soft dusk light and enjoying views of the gardens along the waters edge.
After breakfast today, you’ll be driven to the airport in time for your flight to Kochi in Kerala. Welcome to Southern India – you’ll be met on arrival and driven to your hotel in the city. Kochi is known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, with one of the best natural harbours int eh region. The city itself is made up of different islands and the mishmash of different cultures and history perfectly reflects the diversity of Kerala. Visited by sea traders for many hundreds of years, from as far away as China and Portugal, this city is an incredible place to explore.
Today you’ll head off on a tour of the city, before enjoying a cooking demo and lunch with a local family. Start by exploring the ancient Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese during their time here. The building has some beautiful murals in the palace rooms, showing scenes from the Ramayana, Magabharata and Puranic legends connected with Shiva, Vishnu and Krishna.
You’ll also visit the Jewish Synagogue and St Francis Church, some of the oldest buildings from Judaism and Christianity in India before visiting the Chinese fishing nets, were you can see the iconic silhouette of the nets along the coastline.
Next, you’ll head to experience a local meal with a friendly Keralan family – learning about age-old recipes passed down for generations. You’ll be welcomed into their home to watch lunch being prepared before enjoying a delicious meal together of local Keralan delicacies.
In the evening, you’ll be picked up for a theatre performance of local Keralan dance, Kathakali.
This morning you’ll be driven to Kumarakom and check into your hotel, Coconut Lagoon, for a two night stay. You’ll arrive by boat at the lodge, located on Vembanad Lake, one of India’s largest inland lakes. Set on the waters edge amongst swaying coconut palms and peaceful brush, you’ll find your private cottage, each built from remnants of old mansions that have been brough here and painstakingly reassembled.
Spend your time here relaxing and learning about life on the backwaters. Look for birds in the marshes, enjoy a relaxing treatment in the Ayurveda Centre, join a canoe ride through the canals and watch the sky change from pink to red on a sunset cruise on the lake. You can even explore on electric bikes and kayaks if you want to be a little more adventurous. You’ll enjoy sensational food here – rich fish curries, fresh rock lobster, jumbo prawns and tapioca with crushed bird’s eye chillies.
After breakfast, you’ll wave goodbye to the Keralan backwaters and be driven to Kochi Airport in time for your flight to Mumbai. On arrival in the city, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel, checking in for two nights.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out to explore the exciting city of Mumbai. You’ll visit the Gateway of India, learning about this enormous structure made of yellow basalt, before taking a little cruise through the natural harbour. Next, you’ll head to Crawford Market, a beautiful building with a large clocktower that dominates the skyline, with endless stalls selling fruits, vegetables and other delicious products. You’ll also have time to explore the Prince of Wales Museum, full of priceless art and Tibetan bronzes, before enjoying your afternoon at leisure. Why not head out to try some of Mumbai’s famous street food - a classic example is the “Pav Bhaji” – made initially by enterprising restauranteurs looking to use leftover vegetable from the previous night. These were mashed into a “bhaji” and sold to hungry mill workers at night.
Your glorious month in India has come to an end. After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the airport in time for your flight home.
The best time to visit India is generally between November and April, when the cooler season takes hold and the monsoon rains have ended. However, in such a large country, there are different microclimates within the other regions and each one can be vastly different. Read our blog, ‘When is the best time to visit India?’ to find out more.
This itinerary is purely a suggestion and can be tailor-made to your requirements, so please contact us with your dates and requests, and we’ll put together a bespoke quotation for you.
International flights
Return airport transfers
Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Excursions as mentioned in the itinerary
Any meals not mentioned
Personal expenses
Tips & gratuities