LUXURY NORTH INDIA TOUR

Tour Duration: 10 Nights / 11 Days

A luxury holiday, that takes you to some of the best known sights of North India.   Your journey starts in India's capital - Delhi, a bustling metropolis that blends ancient and modern. The trip also takes you to Udaipur, the city of lakes, also called the "Venice of the East".  You then visit Jaipur, the Pink city, Rajasthan’s capital, famous for it’s Forts and Palaces.  After, the Fort and Palace of Jaipur, the trip takes you to the  Ranthambore National Park,  North India’s best known Tiger Reserve, followed by Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal,  On this journey you will experience five of the world’s most magnificent hotels – the Imperial in Delhi, the Oberoi Udai Vilas in Udaipur, the Oberoi Raj Vilas in Jaipur, the Oberoi Vanya Vilas in Ranthambore and the Oberoi Amar Vilas in Agra,  all of which offer exceptional service, luxurious accommodation and superb facilities. 
Day 01 – Arrive Delhi
You will be met at the airport by Pan India Tourism representative and transferred to the hotel The Imperial and assisted with check in formalities. 

Delhi, Luxury North India ToursDelhi is the capital of India, and its third largest city.  Delhi consists of two parts – New Delhi, the city created in 1911 as the imperial capital of India by the British and the Old Delhi, the Muslim capital of India between the 17th and 19th centuries. In fact there have been at least eight cities on the site of modern Delhi – the earliest known settlement, Indraprastha, featured in the epic Mahabharata over 3000 years ago. Though not always the capital, Delhi has always been an important city of northern region of the subcontinent. 

The Imperial Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Delhi. Built in 1933, it combines Victorian style with colonial architecture and is trimmed with a playful dosage of art deco. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the hotel is centrally located on Janpath and offers its guests an outdoor swimming pool, a shopping arcade, permanent in-house art galleries and a variety of restaurants. 

Overnight in Delhi
Day 02 – In Delhi
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi.  Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

Red Fort: Derived from a Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort. It is laid out along the river Yamuna as an irregular octagon, surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 kms in circumference and is built of red sandstone. Shah Jahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. The fort has two main entrances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate, which faces the famed Chandni Chowk market. The fort has Diwan – e – Am (hall for public audience); Diwan – e – Khas (hall for private audience); Rang Mahal (a water-cooled apartment of royal ladies); Pearl mosque, built of white marble.

Jama MasjidJama Masjid: In Old Delhi, an architectural extravaganza of Shah Jahan, is the country’s largest mosque where thousands of Muslims offers prayers even today. It was built in 1658. The flight of stairs and its large courtyard are marvels of architecture. 

Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): It is the colourful main street and shopping bazaar of Old Delhi and is today one of the country’s best known wholesale market for textiles, electronic goods and watches.  The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s favourite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of the time. Around the area is the famed Paranthawale Gali, known for its delicious paranthas, Dariba Kalan, the gold market and well-known sweetmeats shops. 

Raj Ghat : On the banks of river Yamuna, a simple square  platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. A commemorative ceremony takes place each Friday, the day he was killed.

Birla Mandir: Close to Connaught Place, it was built by the industrialist Raja Baldev Birla in 1938.  The temple is an important prayer site and contains idols of several deities.

India Gate, Luxury North India ToursIndia Gate:  This 42 meter high, free standing arch was built in 1931.It was originally called All India War Memorial in the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The names of the soldiers are inscribed all along the walls of the arch.  In 1971, the eternal flame was lit here to honour the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier).

Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): It is the official residence of President of the country. Designed by Lutyens, it was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. 

Humayun’s Tomb: It was built by Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) in 1565 – 66, nine years after his death. 

Qutub Minar: This magnificent structure in the southern part of the capital was built by the Muslim King; Qutab – ud – din Aibak in 1199 A.D. Minar (tower) is 72.5 meters high and has as its base a mosque.

Bahai’s Temple: It is a very recent architectural marvel of the Bahai faith and is visible from several spots in South Delhi. It is a lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name.

Overnight in Delhi
Day 03 –  Fly Delhi – Udaipur
Udaipur, Luxury North India Tours After leisurely breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. Then you will be transferred to airport in time to board flight for Udaipur.

Udaipur - Udaipur, the famed 'city of sunrise', was founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, a fearless Rajput king. This languid lake city with its fantasies in marble, picturesque hibiscus-covered gardens and elaborate fountain pavilions, embodies the glory of the Rajput era. Like many other cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is the legacy of an honour-bound race that loved the good things in life - and often gave up their lives defending them.

You will be met at the Udaipur airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Oberoi Udaivilas and assisted with check in formalities.

Oberoi Udaivilas - the latest in the line of luxury hotels from the Oberoi Group. Udaivilas is a truly outstanding hotel overlooking the picturesque Lake Pichola and the City Palace. Conceived as a splendid palace, wonderfully recreating the romance of the past and representing the continuity of the grand traditions of Mewar, the hotel is completely in keeping with the 21st century.  Spread over an expanse of 30 acres, its carefully planned and executed design has evolved as a seamless assimilation of spaces - courtyards and walkways, gently rippling water bodies fountains and reflecting pools all surrounded by exquisitely landscaped gardens and dotted with sculptures and frescoes, arches and domes, niches and alcoves. The building lends itself to discovery and continual surprise. Embellished by beautiful works of art and craft from in and around the region, Udaivilas is a vast canvas that changes with the light and seasons. The resort has specialty restaurants serving fine Indian and international cuisine. One of its special features is a world-class spa and wellness centre offering a wide range of rejuvenating and relaxing treatments. Drag yourself away from this exquisite playground to enjoy an evening boat cruise on Lake Pichola - the shimmering waters of the Lake combined with the City Palace in the background, serve as a magical way to end your day in Udaipur.

Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 04 – In Udaipur
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

City Palace:  The imposing City Palace, towering over the lake, is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum with a large and varied collection of glass, porcelain figures and miniature paintings.

Jagdish Temple: It is located only 150 mts from the city palace is the famous Jagdish Temple. This fine Indo-Aryan Temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 and enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the universe. A brass image of the Garuda is in a shrine in front of the temple.

Saheliyon Ki Bari: The Saheliyon ki bari or the garden of the Maids of Honour, is in the north of the city. It is a small ornamental garden with fountains, stone elephants and a delightful lotus pool.

Lake Pichola: Deriving its name from Pichali village, it is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and embankments. There are two island palaces, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. The former was the summer residence of princes of Mewar and has now been converted into a hotel. Jag Mandir is built of red sandstone with a marble dome. Enjoy anevening boat cruise on Lake Pichola - the shimmering waters of the Lake combined with the City Palace in the background, serve as a magical way to end your day in Udaipur.

Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 05 – Drive Udaipur – Jaipur (400 kms/6 ½ hrs)
After leisurely breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jaipur.

Jaipur - It is the capital of Rajasthan, and known as the “Pink City” because of the pink colored buildings in its old city.  It is situated on a dry lakebed in a somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by forts and crenellated walls. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was careful to cultivate good favour with the ruling Mughals, he laid out the city with rectangular blocks according to ancient Hindu architecture. It is a wonderful city for shopping.
You will be met at the Jaipur airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Oberoi Rajvilas and assisted with check in formalities.

Oberoi Rajvilas, Luxury North India ToursOberoi Rajvilas. Set amidst 32 acres of lush gardens, orchards, decorative pools and fountains, Rajvilas provides a heaven for the senses. Exemplary service comes together with harmoniously appointed interiors to give you a taste of the gracious lifestyle of legendary Rajput princes. In the elegant guest rooms discover exquisite furnishings, four-poster beds and sunken marble baths. The central courtyard houses a world class spa with steam rooms, saunas, Jacuzzis, plunge pools and a gymnasium. Indian and international cuisine can be enjoyed in the al fresco dining areas. 

Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 06 – In Jaipur
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur and Amber.  Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:

Hawa Mahal, Luxury North India Tour PackagesHawa Mahal (Palace Of Winds): Built by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of Jaipur’s major landmarks, the facade of which is all pink windows and filigree screens. It was originally built to enable ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city.

City Palace: It is still the home of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur housing an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons.

Jantar Mantar (Observatory): It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. At first glance, Jantar Mantar appears to be a curious collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a specific purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial with its 27 meter high gnomon.  The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meter an hour. 

Amber Fort:  The Amber Fort is situated 11 kms away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur state. The Fort is a superb example of Rajput architecture, stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake, which reflects its terraces and ramparts. The climb to the fort is on gaily-bedecked elephants.

Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 07  - Drive Jaipur – Ranthambore (180 kms/03 hrs)
After leisurely breakfast, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Ranthambore

Ranthambhore - The Ranthambore National Park is one of the prime examples of Project Tiger's conservation efforts in Rajasthan. It covers an area of over 400 sq km with many steep crags embracing a network of lakes and rivers. Atop one of these hills, the 10th century Ranthambore Fort stands like a silent sentinel. The terrain is a blend of impregnable forests and open bush land. The forest is the typically dry deciduous type with dhok being the most prominent tree. Ranthambore is best known for its tiger population, and tiger sightings are common here. Apart from tigers, the park has its share of panthers, too. Kachida Valley is believed to be the place to sight these rather elusive cats. One can also find marsh crocodiles, hyenas, jungle cats and sloth bears apart from Chital, Nilgai, and Chinkara. The avian population comprises of black storks, quails, Bonelli's eagles, spur fowls, crested serpent eagles and painted storks. During the winter months, the park attracts a lot of migratory birds, including a variety of ducks. It is the ideal park for wildlife photography.
On arrival at Ranthambore, you will be met by our representative, and assisted with check in formalities to the hotel Oberoi Vanyavilas.

Vanya Vilas, Luxury North India Tour PackagesOberoi Vanyavilas - India’s leading luxury lodge, Vanyavilas is located on the edge of Ranthambore National Park. This is truly a regal base from which explore this wild corner of India and to ‘hunt’ for the Royal Bengal Tiger. Vibrant frescoes and richly detailed interiors create the ambience of an old world, royal, hunting palace and your accommodation is in luxury tents surrounded by beautiful gardens and waterways. Each tented suite features finely embroidered canopies, luxurious bathrooms and a private walled garden - the perfect contrast to the ruggedness of the jungle. 

Afternoon game ride into the Ranthambore National Park.  Safaris in Ranthambore are conducted using Jeeps.  Resident Naturalists are also at hand, to enhance your safari experience.

Overnight at the Vanyavilas.
Day 08 – In Ranthambore
Ranthambore, Luxury North India Tour Packages The day starts early with a morning game safari into the Ranthambore National Park. Safaris in Ranthambore are conducted using Jeeps.  Resident Naturalists are also at hand, to enhance your safari experience.

Return to resort for breakfast. Spend rest of the morning relaxing at the hotel. Later in the afternoon, you will be picked up again from your resort for an afternoon game safari into the Ranthambore National Park.

Overnight  at the Vanyavilas.
Day 09 - Drive Ranthambore – Agra (280 kms /6 hrs)
After leisurely breakfast, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Agra. Stop enroute at Fatehpur Sikri for guided tour of this ancient capital.

Fatehpur Sikri: the deserted capital of Emperor Akbar approximately 35 kms outside Agra. Built in the 16th century, this city was abandoned 12 years later due to a scarcity of water. The entire city of Red sand stone (sand stone palaces and temples) is virtually intact and a site worth seeing is the 54 m high main entrance -- The Buland Darwaza, The gate of victory constructed to commemorate Akbar’s victory in Gujarat. 
After the visit, continue your drive to Agra. 

Amar Vilas, Luxury North India Tour PackagesAgra, situated on the bank of Yamuna River, is home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries and its superb monuments date from this era

On arrival at Agra hotel Oberoi Amarvilas, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities.

Oberoi Amarvilas. Located only 600 metres from the Taj Mahal this luxury resort has been designed to give guests uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal from all rooms and suites. The classical architecture of the hotel is enhanced by the elaborate gardens, terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. The lobby, restaurants, bars and tea lounge also offer spectacular views of Agra’s world famous monument. The décor and service spell the ultimate in comfort and the luxurious spa offers non-clinical therapies.

Overnight in Agra
Day 10 – Drive Agra – Delhi (220 kms/04 hrs)
The day starts early with a sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Taj Mahal.

Taj Mahal, Luxury North India Tour PackagesTaj Mahal: The Taj Mahal was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal who died during the birth of her child in 1631. The construction is said to have taken 22 years to complete, starting from 1631, with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. Artisans and experts were brought from France and Italy and the main architect was from Iran. 

Return to hotel for breakfast. Later, you will be picked up again for the guided tour of Agra Fort.

Agra Fort: Construction of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and it was to be predominantly a military structure until his grandson, Shah Jahan, added more palatial accommodations. There are a number of exquisite buildings within its portals such as Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was held captive by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan – e – Am,  Diwan – e – Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal. 

Later you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Delhi.

On arrival at Delhi hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities.
No activities are scheduled for this day. Spend rest of the day enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring the city on your own. 
Overnight at the Imperial.
Day 11 - Depart Delhi
Morning at leisure. Later in the day, you will be met by our representative at your hotel and assisted with checkout formalities, followed by transfer to Delhi International airport in time for your flight home.


Period

Luxury

01st Oct to 15th April

US$ 3832 Per Pax

16th Apr to 30th Sept

US$ 2534 Per Pax

Domestic airfare

US$ 140 Per Pax

Cities

Luxury

Delhi

The Imperial

Udaipur

The Oberoi Udaivilas

Jaipur

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Ranthambore

The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Agra

The Oberoi Amarvilas

Small supplements may apply for travel between 23rd October and 30th October, 05th November and 20th November, 20th December and 05th January and during the month of February. 
Note: All the figures quoted above are nett Per Pax in US Dollars.

Inclusions:

    • Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis, at the luxury hotels mentioned above.
    • Land transportation exactly as per itinerary using an air-conditioned car.
    • Sight-seeing tours/Game rides exactly as per itinerary including entrance fee to monuments/parks
      along with an English Speaking Guide/Naturalist.