TAJ MAHAL, GANGES & PANNA NATIONAL PARK SAFARI
Discover India’s vivid colours and ancient history on magnificent palaces and rich natural landscapes. Watch the sun disappear behind the dazzling Taj Mahal at dusk, then return to see the warm glow of sunrise creep across its ivory dome. Take a private sunset cruise on tranquil Lake Pichola, cock. Search the forest for the watchful Bengal tiger and learn about the local community’s work to protect this endangered wildcat on private safaris at Panna National Park. Then, bear witness to the lighting of the lamps and rhythmic chanting of Ganga Aarti – a beautiful ceremony held on the banks of the holy Ganges River.
Between your daily excursions, relax in the opulent surroundings of your historic palace hotels and taste the life of maharajas, from the former royal residence of Udaipur – floating out on romantic Lake Pichola.
Day 1: Arrive Mumbai
Welcome to Mumbai – the Gateway of India. Your journey begins in this cosmopolitan city of towering skyscrapers, rich history and the world-famous Bollywood film industry. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and transferred to your hotel.
Spend the day at your leisure and sample some of Mumbai’s famous street food, such as local favourite vada pav (spiced potato dumpling in a bread bun), or choose to take the ferry to Elephanta Island for a glimpse at the humbling temples of the Elephanta Caves. Spend your evening relaxing at the hotel, maybe dining onsite or at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Mumbai
Start your day with a guided tour of Mumbai’s must-see sites. Stand at the foot of the Gateway of India – a grand combination of Muslim and Hindu traditional design.
Chart the story of Mumbai from prehistoric times to the present at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya – formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum – and delve into the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi at Mani Bhavan, his former residence. Visit the sprawling Dhobi Ghat, believed to be the world’s largest open-air laundry, then retire to your hotel to enjoy a delicious welcome dinner.
Day 3: Mumbai – Udaipur (By Flight)
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel, then transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Udaipur. Set sail for your jaw-dropping hotel in the middle of scenic Lake Pichola. This fantastical palace puts you at the heart of the ‘Venice of the East’, with unparalleled views of the romantic landscape. Originally constructed for Maharana Jagat Singh II, this 18th-century royal residence is as breathtaking on approach as it is inside. Take the time to recline and soak up the scenery before you embark on a private cruise, passing the 17th-century marble palace of Jag Mandir – another grand residence appearing to float on Lake Pichola. Admire the glistening sunset from your island hotel and savour a delectable dinner before retiring for the night.
Day 4: Udaipur
Prepare for the day with a refreshing breakfast, then head ashore to visit the marble complex of the City Palace. Constructed in the 16th century, this enormous fortress exhibits varied architectural styles, and houses a show stopping collection of sculpture, photography and painting from the Mewar School within its museum.
Step inside the sparkling Crystal Gallery of Fateh Prakash Palace – the largest private crystal collection in the world – then stroll through tranquil Saheliyon-ki-Bari, named the ‘Garden of the Maids of Honour. Later, return to your hotel and overnight.
Day 5: Udaipur – Jaipur (By Flight)
Drift back to shore and transfer to Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), where you’ll board your flight to Jaipur. Upon arrival, check in at your opulent Palace. Settle into your spacious accommodation and stroll the manicured lawns of the former residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur.
Later, explore the arresting sights of the City Palace, a unique complex of pavilions, gardens and temples that intricately blend Mughal and Rajput architecture. See the Mubarak Mahal or the ‘Auspicious Palace’, housing an array of royal textiles, from beautiful Kashmiri pashminas to delicate silk saris. Round out your day with a visit to the wonderfully unusual Jantar Mantar – an open-air collection of stone-built astronomical instruments dating back to the early 18th century. Head back to your Royal Residence and lounge in luxury for the evening.
Day 6: Jaipur
Your first stop for the day is Hawa Mahal, known as the ‘Palace of the Winds’. A complex construction with a dizzying design, the palace was built for the women of the royal house to observe the street life below without being seen.
Continue to the hilltop Amber Fort, strategically placed above the city. One of India’s most magnificent palaces, this grand Mughal-style complex is known for its unique fortifications that weave down the slopes in complex patterns of pale yellow and pink sandstone.
In the afternoon, enjoy a Design Your Day experience when you choose between a private yoga session and later on discovery tour of Jaipur’s many bustling bazaars and colourful stalls. Spend the evening at leisure in your historic hotel.
Day 7: Jaipur – Agra
After breakfast, your private coach and drive to Agra, taking time to appreciate the colours of rural Rajasthan as they pass by. Upon arrival, glimpse the bright white of the Taj Mahal itself from your luxurious hotel.
Later this afternoon, s et out for a closer look at one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Taj Mahal’s unmistakable ivory dome and freestanding minarets have become a globally recognized image, mirrored perfectly in the stilll waters of the famous reflecting pool. Day at leisure for shopping or at hotel to use facilities, return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 8: Agra
Return to the Taj Mahal early this morning for a view of the warm pink light of the rising sun across the marble.
Continue to Agra Fort, a castle town built of striking red sandstone that contains the many fairytale palaces of former emperors. In the evening, return to the lavish grounds of your Agra accommodation.
Day 9: Agra – Jhansi (By Train) – Panna National Park
Cast one last look at the Taj Mahal, then board a train for Jhansi and gather your energy over a filling lunch. Continue to remote Panna National Park and check into your wilderness lodge in this haven for Indian wildlife.
Day 10: Panna National Park
Your day begins with adventure. Hop into your 4X4 transport for a game drive through Panna National Park, searching the scenery for the patient crocodile and watchful tiger. Thanks to the conservation work of the local community, the Bengal tiger population is once again growing, making sightings all the more likely. Return to your lodge for a flavourful Chef’s Table experience of aromatic Indian cuisine. Watch a mouthwatering cooking demonstration, then savour the sumptuous local dishes.
Return to the park for another game drive and the chance to encounter more animal activity, then circle back for a hearty dinner and a well-earned sleep.
Day 11: Panna National Park – Khajuraho – Varanasi (By Flight)
Depart in your private coach for the ancient city of Khajuraho, named for the date palms said to have once surrounded the city. Dozens of Hindu and Jain temples scattered across Khajuraho tell dramatic stories across their walls, sculpted into each carefully carved tableau.
Transfer to Khajuraho Airport and fly on to Varanasi, where over a thousand temples dot the busy streets. One of the most sacred cities for Hindus and Buddhists alike, Varanasi also plays host to the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Each evening on the banks of the Ganges River, as dusk settles over the skyline, Hindu priests chant rhythmic mantras and light innumerable diyas (oil lamps) in honour of the holy river. Later, return to your hotel renewed for a restorative evening.
Day 12: Varanasi – Delhi (By Flight)
Rise early for a private sunrise cruise along the sacred Ganges River and watch the humming life along the ghats (stone steps on the banks of the river). Observe locals and pilgrims alike as they cleanse themselves and their spirits.
Later, fly on to Delhi and check into your luxurious New Delhi hotel for a resplendent Indian feast.
Day 13: Delhi
Spend your day exploring the multitudinous delights of Delhi. Start at the regal Jama Masjid, completed in 1656 and regarded as India’s most important mosque. Ride by rickshaw through the narrow alleys and endless stalls of the Chandni Chowk markets and get a taste of local life.
After a well-deserved lunch, turn your eye to New Delhi and uncover Humayun’s Tomb. Learn how the final resting place of this 16th-century Mughal emperor incorporates innovative architectural elements that would go on to inspire the de sign of the Taj Mahal.
Spend your final evening as you desire, dipping into the spices and sounds of Delhi Street life or enjoying the elegant peace of your hotel.
Day 14: Depart Delhi
The time has come to bid farewell to your memorable Indian journey, as you take your private transfer to Indira Gandhi International Airport, where your tour concludes.
ACCOMMODATION CHART
Cost:
DISCOUNTED AIRFARE – SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT THE TIME OF ISSUANCE
COST INCLUDES:
- Welcome with Garlands on arrival.
- Meeting and assistance on arrival and departure by office representative.
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle as per program with experienced English-Speaking Chauffer.
2 Pax (Toyota Crysta)
4 Pax (Toyota Crysta)
8 Pax (Force Urbania)
12 Pax (15 Seater Mini Coach)
15 Pax (18 Seater Mini Coach)
-
- Accommodation on Double sharing on Full Board Basis as per program.
- Services of English-speaking local guides during the sightseeing tours as per program.
- Entrances as per program.
- Elephanta Caves – Mumbai.
- Boat Ride at Lake Pichola – Udaipur.
- Rickshaw Ride in Jaipur.
- Elephant Ride or Jeep for Amber Fort (to & fro).
- Jeep Safari in Panna (2 Safaris).
- Boat Cruise in Varanasi.
- 1 Mineral Water Bottle Per Day.
- All Government Taxes are included.
COST DOES NOT INCLUDES:
- Air-fare & Train fare (Quoted Separately).
- Expenses of personal nature viz. telephone calls, table drinks, laundry, tip etc.
- Any other services/expenses not mentioned above.
OPERATIONAL RESTRICTIONS:
- AGRA – TAJ MAHAL CLOSED ON FRIDAYS.
- ELEPHANT RIDE IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABITY.
PAYMENT TERMS:
- A deposit of 50% of the total price of the trip is to be paid by bank transfer at the time of booking.
- The balance payment 50% must be paid at least 45 days before arrival of the group.
- Bank charges related to the payment are the responsibility of the customers.
TERMS OF CANCELLATION:
- US$ 100 per person for cancellation made at least 60 days before departure.
- 25% of the total price for cancellations made between 35-60 days before departure.
- 50% of the total price for cancellations made between 25-34 days before departure.
- 75% of the total price for cancellations made between 16-24 days before departure.
- 100% of the total price for cancellations made less than 15 days before departure.
TIPS:
- Tips are not mandatory; this is depending on your own appreciation.
IMPORTANT:
- Check-in / check-out time at all hotels: 14h00/12h00.
- Rates are based on the hotels mentioned in this proposal, subject to availability upon booking.
- Rates are communicated subject to the rates known to date (subject to increase in government taxes and entry to monuments without notice).
- We are not responsible of any delay, change or other in the itinerary due to weather conditions, political or local strikes, and flight cancellation of unforeseen circumstances. Additional expenses will be levied.
