Spirit of North & South India
Tour Type: Luxury Gold
Brochure Type: Luxury Gold 2024 v1
Admire the Red Fort of the Mughal dynasty in Delhi, cruise the tropical waters of Kumarakom and uncover the desert forts of Rajasthan on this all-immersive tour. In Mumbai, meet the army of Dabbawalla delivery men who have provided meals to the masses for over 130 years using the tiffin service. Explore India's capital your way with the choice to tour the UNESCO world Heritage Site at Qutub Minar or treat your taste buds to the Delhi Street Food Tour, joining a well-known local chef for a sojourn through the famous street snacks of the old city. After seeking out the wild tigers of Ranthambore, ascend by Jeep to the royal halls of Amber Fort-decked out with intricate ivory designs of times gone by and exquisite paintings. In Kochi, learn the art of home cooking with lessons from a local instructor-showcasing how to prepare the region's traditional recipes. Continue the culinary delights in Jaipur where a VIP afternoon tea unlocks the private living room of the Maharaja, with a menu of traditional Indian sweets.
Choice Highlights
Brochure Type: Luxury Gold 2024 v1
Admire the Red Fort of the Mughal dynasty in Delhi, cruise the tropical waters of Kumarakom and uncover the desert forts of Rajasthan on this all-immersive tour. In Mumbai, meet the army of Dabbawalla delivery men who have provided meals to the masses for over 130 years using the tiffin service. Explore India's capital your way with the choice to tour the UNESCO world Heritage Site at Qutub Minar or treat your taste buds to the Delhi Street Food Tour, joining a well-known local chef for a sojourn through the famous street snacks of the old city. After seeking out the wild tigers of Ranthambore, ascend by Jeep to the royal halls of Amber Fort-decked out with intricate ivory designs of times gone by and exquisite paintings. In Kochi, learn the art of home cooking with lessons from a local instructor-showcasing how to prepare the region's traditional recipes. Continue the culinary delights in Jaipur where a VIP afternoon tea unlocks the private living room of the Maharaja, with a menu of traditional Indian sweets.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Delhi: Visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, and see the tallest brick minaret in the world before enjoying lunch.
- Delhi: Join a well-known chef for a culinary exploration of Delhi streets where you will tantalise your taste buds. Experience a wide variety of foods and learn the effect that mixing different flavours has on the palate as you sample Indian delicacies from local stallholders.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Agra: Meet the community living in the shadow of the Taj Mahal when you take a Mughal Heritage Walk. Discover hidden gems of the area and learn about daily life in the ancient village with impressive vistas of India's most famous monument. Through this initiative the community is supported from tourism to improve their living conditions.
- Agra: Visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea, meet the host family and listen to their stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Jaipur: Step in the side lanes of old Jaipur and see the highly skilled local artisans who are passionate about passing their crafts on to preserve this slice of the cultural heritage.
- Jaipur: Focus on the art of block printing and blue pottery as you visit a workshop.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Kumarakom: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage.
- Kumarakom: Harmonise your mind and body by taking part in a yoga class.
- : Truly experience India by travelling during one of its famed festivals. On select departures, in the fall you can experience Diwali, which means 'row of lights' and is honored by all Indians, regardless of faith.
- : Truly experience India by travelling during one of its famed festivals. On select departures in spring, experience the ancient Hindu celebration of Holi, known for its colorful parades.
- Delhi: View the monuments of Old and New Delhi when you drive out to Red Fort, the former home of the Mughal emperors. Cruise down the Rajpath to see India Gate and Parliament House.
- Delhi: Take a tour of Jama Masjid with your Traveling Concierge. Feel the majesty of the largest mosque in India with its three great gates, 40-metre-high minarets, and a courtyard large enough for 25,000 devotees.
- Delhi: Visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, and see the tallest brick minaret in the world before enjoying lunch.
- Delhi: Jump into the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi by taking an exhilarating rickshaw ride through the busy streets of Chandni Chowk. Let the city's sights and sounds swirl around you as you're transported in traditional style.
- Delhi: Visit a Sikh temple and community kitchen, where meals are given out to locals and travelers. Those of the Sikh faith regularly open their place of worship to those in greater need.
- Agra: Visit the impressive fortress in Agra and delve into the history of the Mughal Dynasty, who ruled their empire for over 300 years. See the glorious mosques and fairytale palaces such as the Sheesh Mahal within its protected walls.
- Agra: Meet the community living in the shadow of the Taj Mahal when you take a Mughal Heritage Walk. Discover hidden gems of the area and learn about daily life in the ancient village with impressive vistas of India's most famous monument. Through this initiative the community is supported from tourism to improve their living conditions.
- Agra: Rise in the morning light to view one of the greatest monuments in the world, the grand Taj Mahal. With the light of dawn and fewer visitors, you can fully appreciate its grandeur in peace, accompanied by only the birds and monkeys.
- Ranthambore: Sit back and relax on the express train from Bharatpur to Ranthambore. Enjoy the scenic vistas of northern India as you are transported door-to-door in just a few hours. Experience the quickest way to travel in India, as small villages and plantations whizz by.
- Ranthambore: With an expert naturalist, seek out a rare sighting of tigers in their natural habitat on your dawn and dusk safaris in the maharajahs' former hunting grounds. Witness a wealth of local animals as you search for those elusive stripes.
- Jaipur: Ascend by jeep to stroll through the intricately designed complex of courtyards and halls of Amber Fort. Enjoy the shimmering walls and ceilings and wonderful views of the surrounding countryside and receive a special blessing at this 16th century residence.
- Jaipur: Meet the ladies of Pink City Rickshaw who will take you on a tour of Jaipur. Hear their stories from growing up in the slum to becoming part of this unique initiative where they have become shareholders in their own company. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience advances SDG 5: Gender Equality. The ladies of Pink City Rickshaw got the chance to rise from the slums and turn their lives around ultimately becoming shareholders in their own company.
- Jaipur: Enter the towering gates to the City Palace Museum for a look back through time at chandeliers, cannons, chariots and incredible murals. Built between 1729 -1732, this glorious complex is still home to the Jaipur royal family and young king.
- Jaipur: Step in the side lanes of old Jaipur and see the highly skilled local artisans who are passionate about passing their crafts on to preserve this slice of the cultural heritage.
- Jaipur: Focus on the art of block printing and blue pottery as you visit a workshop.
- Jaipur: Visit the colourful cavalcade of the fresh flower and spice market. Alternatively, visit the white marble Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple and witness aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony.
- Jaipur: Explore Hawa Mahal alongside your Traveling Concierge and marvel at its incredible 953 windows. The unusual facade of this Palace of the Winds was designed to allow ladies of the court to look out on the street below while hidden from view.
- Kochi: Discover the city of Kochi with an orientation tour which takes in Paradesi Synagogue, the largest in the Commonwealth, before visiting the 16th century Portuguese Mattancherry Palace, renowned for its beautiful murals of Hindu mythology and legends.
- Kochi: Delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Kochi by attending a Kathakali performance. This colorful show is one of the world's oldest forms of theater and the vibrant costumes, transformative make up, amazing dancing and vocal acrobatics make it unmissable.
- Alappuzha: Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey on a waterwheel houseboat to get an inside view of life on its shores. Journey past lush rice paddies and coconut plantations where people work daily, and enjoy a wonderful lunch onboard as you make your way to your luxury resort.
- Backwater Ripples: Start the day early with a bird-watching tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary where you will be given the chance to view some of the fantastic migratory birds which flock to the Himalayas and find home in the acres of woodland.
- Vaikom Village: Guided by boat, explore the narrow canals of one of the oldest townships in Kerala and with many spots untouched by modernity.
- Kumarakom: Indulge in a rejuvenating massage.
- Kumarakom: Harmonise your mind and body by taking part in a yoga class.
- Mumbai: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage protected ancient cave temples with depictions of Lord Shiva hewn from basalt rock. These extraordinary carvings date back as far as the 5th century and were recently restored. Human settlements from 2 BC have been recovered here.
- Mumbai: Take a cruise from Mumbai to Elephanta Island to see the six metre statue of Sadhashiva and the warren of carved cave temples which date back to AD 450, earning the island UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Mumbai: Meet the Dabbawalla in Mumbai to learn more about the intricate details of the magnificent tiffin service that keeps the city going! Without any technology, these delivery men have been providing home cooked food to the masses for over 130 years.
- : Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travelling Concierge's, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
- : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
- : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Delhi: Join a well-known chef for a culinary exploration of Delhi streets where you will tantalise your taste buds. Experience a wide variety of foods and learn the effect that mixing different flavours has on the palate as you sample Indian delicacies from local stallholders.
- Agra: Visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea, meet the host family and listen to their stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society.
- Jaipur: Dine in the elegant surroundings of 1135 AD, one of Jaipur's most revered local restaurants, offering fine Indian dining served amid opulent royal interiors with stunning sunset views. Hear traditional music playing as you indulge your palate.
- Jaipur: Savour an exquisite Highlight Dinner created by head chef Kuldeep Rajvanshi using expertise developed over 30 years of dedicated service at Jai Mahal Palace hotel at its pan-Indian restaurant, Cinnamon.
- Kochi: Learn the art of home cooking, Kerala style, as you meet a local cooking instructor who will demonstrate the techniques of preparing traditional recipes of the region.
- Vaikom Village: Have lunch with a local in Viakom Village. You will be introduced to village life and given the opportunity to try your hand at weaving with pineapple leaves or coconut husks before you are invited to share lunch in their home.
- Mumbai: Say goodbye to Mumbai in style with a showcase of Indian cuisine at your Celebration Dinner. Enjoy your final feast as you share tales and make toasts to the experiences you've had and memories you've made along your amazing journey.
- Dining Summary: 9 Dinner (D), 14 Breakfast (B), and 7 Lunch (L)
- Jaipur: Enjoy a private access tour around Jaipur City Palace including the maharajah's personal living room, normally off limits to visitors. Savour an Indian inspired high tea on the regal terrace after viewing the spectacular handcrafted crystal table by Rene Lalique.
- You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas. See booking conditions for exemptions.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
- At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- Stay connected with friends and family with hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- Complimentary, private airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.
Call 1 8003707400 e x t 32 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17096389
- Tour Operator
- Luxury Gold by Insight
- Offer
- Offer valid through 3/31/2023
- Duration
- 15 Days
- Escorted
- Escorted - Yes
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | Delhi | Delhi, a Rich Melting Pot: Welcome to vibrant India! A delightful melting pot of old and new, you’ll start in dynamic Delhi, with its bustling backstreets, rich history and wealth of colours. On arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be greeted with a traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel, the elegant Taj Mahal Hotel, situated in the heart of the leafy boulevards of Lutyens. At 19:00, join your Travelling Concierge and fellow travellers for your Welcome Dinner. Taj Mahal, New Delhi. |
| Day 2 | Delhi | Delhi Sightseeing.: In the morning you'll be taken to Old Delhi, driving past the Red Fort, the main residence of the Mughal dynasty until 1856. View this magnificent building from outside, before heading on a guided tour of Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Your Journey, Your Way.Choose to join a well-known chef for a foodie walk in Old Delhi and witness the creation of the famous local street food snacks. Alternatively, visit the 12th century Qutub Minar, and see the tallest brick minaret in the world before enjoying lunch. Later, explore the winding streets of lively Chandni Chowk in local fashion via an exhilarating rickshaw ride. Visit a Sikh temple and its community kitchen, where they prepare and serve free vegetarian meals to locals, travellers, and those in need. In New Delhi see the impressive President Palace, the monumental India gate and the circular and colonnaded Parliament House. Taj Mahal, New Delhi. |
| Day 3 | An Agra Adventure | An Agra Adventure.: In the morning, you'll begin your journey to Agra. The main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty, this historical fort is made up of a number of impressive buildings, including the Sheesh Mahal, or 'glass palace,' and The Muthamman Burj.Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to go on the eye opening Mughal heritage walk, where you'll meet the locals to learn about their lives in the shadow of the Taj Mahal. Through this initiative the community is supported from tourism to improve their living conditions. Alternatively, visit a private colonial bungalow for high tea, meet the host family and listen to their stories about the British Raj and today's Indian culture and society. Taj Hotel and Convention Centre, Agra. |
| Day 4 | The Taj Mahal and Ranthambore. Train | The Taj Mahal and Ranthambore. Train: At sunrise, visit the illustrious phenomenon that is the Taj Mahal, a monument of love and flawless architectural creation, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. After breakfast at your hotel, you'll begin your journey to Bharatpur, where you will be served lunch at the lavish Laxmi Niwas Palace. Later, transfer to Bharatpur Junction train station, where you'll board an Express Train to Sawai Madhopur, and you'll relax in air-conditioned business class seats. On arrival you'll be transferred to your hotel, Nahargarh Ranthambhore. Built in the style of a traditional Rajput hunting palace, this dreamy venue is nestled in the foothills of the Aravalli Range, near the Ranthambore National Park. Head to your deluxe room before joining your fellow travellers for dinner with wine. Nahargarh Ranthambhore. |
| Day 5 | Ranthambore | In Search of Tigers in Ranthambore.: Start with an early morning journey into the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs of Jaipur, in search of the elusive tiger. More commonly seen in the dry, deciduous forest are the wild boars, monkeys, spotted deer and antelopes, but if you are ever going to witness tigers in their natural habitat, this is the place. Return to your resort for breakfast and a day at leisure. At dusk, enjoy another foray into the national park with an expert naturalist. Besides the wildlife, there are also lakes, ruins of palaces, traditional Chhatri, old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort within the park. Nahargarh Ranthambhore. |
| Day 6 | Jaipur | Jaipur, the Pink City.: Travel through the rural countryside where flat, green fields are abundant with brightly coloured flowers. Your destination is the stunning Rajasthan capital of Jaipur. More affectionately known as the Pink City, this pretty destination owes its name to a visit from Queen Victoria in 1876, when all its buildings were painted pink as a sign of hospitality. Later, ascend by jeep to Amber Fort, with its royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirrors, glass and exquisite paintings. Today you'll experience India's spiritual majesty, with a special blessing ceremony at Amber Fort. Your Highlight Dinner will be served at the opulent 1135 AD, with its royal interior, traditional music and breathtaking sunset views. Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur. |
| Day 7 | Jaipur | Jaipur Sightseeing. Relaxed Start: Your Journey, Your Way.Choose to step in the side lanes of old Jaipur and see the highly skilled local artisans who are passionately passing their crafts on to preserve this slice of the cultural heritage. Alternatively, focus on the art of block printing and blue pottery as you visit a workshop. After lunch see the Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of the Winds, boasting a lace-like facade with its 953 windows, followed by a visit Jantar Mantar, the royal observatory. Continue to the City Palace, where you're in for a treat with a VIP experience of Indian inspired high tea, exclusive to Luxury Gold guests. Go behind the scenes and walk in the private rooms of the Maharajas of Jaipur before sitting down and indulging in some warm tea and traditional Indian snacks and sweets.Tonight, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience and meet the ladies of Pink City Rickshaw, a company dedicated to supporting the employment of women from low income households. Hear their stories first hand and how proud they are to have developed their skills by joining this inspiring organization.. Delight in their enthusiasm and knowledge as they take you on around Jaipur.Your Journey, Your Way.Choose to visit the colourful cavalcade of the fresh flower and spice market. Alternatively, visit the white marble Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple and witness aarti, a traditional prayer ceremony.Toast to your travels at your Celebration Dinner at the Cinnamon Restaurant in Jai Mahal Palace, blending traditional and contemporary cuisine from the four princely states of India. Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur. |
| Day 8 | Kochi via Mumbai | Fly to Kochi via Mumbai.: In the morning, board your flight to Mumbai and onto Kochi. On arrival, transfer to your sophisticated hotel which offers panoramic backwater views or city views. This port city is a collection of tiny islands and peninsulas along the Arabian Sea. Kochi's culture and architecture has been shaped and nurtured for centuries by foreign powers such as the Dutch, British, Chinese and Portuguese. Grand Hyatt Kochi, Bolgatty. |
| Day 9 | Kochi sightseeing, cooking school and Kathakali | Kochi sightseeing, cooking school and Kathakali.: Sightseeing of Kochi shows you the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth. Next, witness the renowned mythological murals of Mattancherry Palace, built in 1557 by the Portuguese. Stop by India’s oldest European-built Church of St. Francis to see the tombstone of Vasco de Gama, interred here before his remains were returned back to Lisbon. Meet a local cookery instructor as she demonstrates traditional Kerala home recipes. Then feast on some of the delicious treats during our included lunch. In the evening, you will attend a performance of traditional Kathakali dance. Grand Hyatt Kochi, Bolgatty. |
| Day 10 | Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters | Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters. Relaxed Start: Journey to Alleppey jetty for a full day cruising the tranquil backwaters. Enjoy lunch on-board as you drift past picturesque villages, lush green paddy fields and a coconut plantation. Enjoy enchanting Kumarakom and its tropical paradise of beautiful little islands on the Vembanad Lake. Disembark at Kumarakom Lake Resort and check in to your luxury hotel for an evening at leisure. |
| Day 11 | Kumarakom and Vaikom Village | Kumarakom and Vaikom Village. Relaxed Start: For those who want to rise early in the morning, there is an included bird-watching tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Set within lush acres of woodland, become acquainted with the vast variety of migratory birds that flock to the Himalayas. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Guided by boat, explore the narrow canals of Vaikom village, one of the oldest townships in Kerala and with many spots untouched by modernity. Gain insight into the life at the village as you try your skills at weaving from wild pineapple leaves or coconut husks, before sharing lunch at a local's home. This afternoon, why not treat yourself to an Ayurveda treatment at the hotel? |
| Day 12 | Relaxing Kumarakom | Relaxing Kumarakom. Relaxed Start: Your Journey, Your Way. Choose to harmonise your mind and body by taking part in a yoga class. Alternatively, indulge in a rejuvenating massage. In the evening, savour a delicious seafood dinner. |
| Day 13 | Magical Mumbai | Magical Mumbai.: Journey to Kochi for your flight to the vibrant city of Mumbai. Transfer to your hotel for time at leisure. Perhaps relax and enjoy the comforts of your deluxe hotel. Originally a collection of seven islands, the modern city of Mumbai came into being during the mid-eighteenth century by reclaiming land from the sea. As well as being the financial capital of India, Mumbai is also home to Bollywood, one of the largest centres of film production in the world. The Oberoi, Mumbai. |
| Day 14 | Mumbai | Mumbai Sightseeing.: A day spent with the cool superheroes of the city; you get to live the life of a 'Dabbawalla' in Mumbai. Kick-starting the morning with an immersive talk, you get to know the intricate details of the magnificent tiffin service which has been in existence for nearly 130 years! After the talk, we head straight to the Headquarters of the association, located in Dadar, where you get an opportunity to sort each 'Dabba' or 'Tiffin' yourself. Once the sorting process is over, you'll also brave the local trains, and not just that, you also get to interact with the tiffin men en route! In the afternoon, enjoy the view of the city skyline on your cruise to Elephanta Island, the glorious abode of Lord Shiva. Visit the complex of ancient cave temples listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The massive entrance hall, supported by large pillars, houses the Mahesamurti, an enormous three-faced statue of Shiva. In the evening, raise a glass to your adventures, with your newfound friends during a delightful Celebration Dinner. The Oberoi, Mumbai. |
| Day 15 | Mumbai | Depart Mumbai.: Your luxurious journey comes to an end with transfers to Mumbai Airport for your onward flights. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Disclaimer
- Twin prices are per person.
- These prices are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
- All tour information is correct at time of tours going live, however is subject to change, please confirm all details at time of booking.
- For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Conditions page.
- Hotel Class Key: D: Deluxe SF: Superior First Class F: First Class
