India: City Sights, Temples & Tigers

India: City Sights, Temples & Tigers

This fascinating, eclectic look into Indian life begins in the capital, Delhi, before moving on to the essential site of Agra to see the Taj Mahal. From there, the standard circuit deviates to Ranthambhore for a worthwhile tiger safari. Lastly, travel to Rishikesh for a once in a lifetime glance at Yoga culture in the spiritual North.

Traveling through India is about the sights and sounds. It is about taking in the smells and experiencing the emotions. India is about the people, the warmth of Indian hospitality and the genuine friendliness to guests. A journey is about completely immersing your senses in the surroundings and letting the uniqueness of the country take over.

This fascinating, eclectic look into Indian life begins in the capital, Delhi, before moving on to the essential site of Agra to see the Taj Mahal. From there, the standard circuit deviates to Ranthambhore for a worthwhile tiger safari. Lastly, travel to Rishikesh for a once in a lifetime glance at Yoga culture in the spiritual North.

Traveling through India is about the sights and sounds. It is about taking in the smells and experiencing the emotions. India is about the people, the warmth of Indian hospitality and the genuine friendliness to guests. A journey is about completely immersing your senses in the surroundings and letting the uniqueness of the country take over.

Quick Summary

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Delhi Arrival
Daily Summary

Welcome to India! Upon arrival at Delhi’s International Airport, you are met by our representative in the arrival area, after you clear all immigration and customs formalities. You will be greeted with a special welcome of nice garlands of marigold flowers. Your driver will then transfer you to your Hotel for check in. (This service is on a private basis.)

Delhi

Everything about Delhi is enticing. Named India’s historical capital, Delhi is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Since ancient times, the city's character and culture has been shaped by waves of various influences. In recent years, New Delhi has expanded to encompass residential and commercial developments to the west and south, including the satellite towns off Noida, Gurgaon and Faridabad. Delhi has also outgrown Mumbai and Kolkata in becoming the most vibrant creative art and culture center in India. Even a simple stroll through the streets offers an epic adventure for the senses.

Day 2: Delhi

Delhi
Daily Summary

Heritage Walk

Today you are invited to know the daily lives of these street children of Delhi, some of who live in the New Delhi railway station area and one of these children is your guide today to take you through their shelters and run you through their life-stories. The walk has been specially designed for you to give you the insight of these street children and their success stories and achievements in life as you learn about their lives on the railway track, platform (where these children spend their day), small school, shelter and Salaam Baalak Trust Contact Center and Office and get to interact with their coordinator, who is also a volunteer in the program. (This service is on a private basis.)

Old & New City Tour

Today, you will be fully introduced to India's capital, beginning with Old Delhi in the morning, and New Delhi in the afternoon. Old Delhi was an ancient walled city. In 1650, Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan switched the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Your tour begins with a cycle rickshaw ride through this very area. You will drive past the famous Red Fort, which is the most opulent Fort and Palace of the Mughal Empire. From there, continue onto the Jama Masjid, to see the largest mosque in India, followed by the Chandni Chowk, the bustling and colorful market of the old city. You will be captivated by the vibrant energy and the magnificent sites of the area.

After visiting the Raj Ghat, which is the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, your exploration proceeds with a visit to two monuments from Delhi's past. The first is the Qutub Minar, a historic construction of a landmark from 1199 and the second is Humayun's Tomb, which was built by emperor Humayun's wife. This tomb took eight years to complete and is regarded as an ideal example of the early Mughal architecture.

Later this afternoon, you will be taken on a drive along the ceremonial avenue, Rajpath, past the imposing India Gate. This 42 meter high gate, stands tall in the center of New Delhi in the middle of a crossroad. From there, you will continue to the President House, which was built on an area of 330 acres and features an exquisite private garden. It was designed as the official residence of the Viceroy of India during the British reign, though today it is now the official residence of the First Citizen. Your final stop of the tour will be a visit to the Parliament House, which is a true symbol of Indian democracy. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 3: Delhi - Agra

Delhi - Agra
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Internal Transfer
  • Tour: Taj Mahal & Agra Fort
  • Accommodation: ITC Mughal
  • Meals: B

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to your accommodations in 4:00PM. (Duration: 4 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)

Taj Mahal & Agra Fort

Today's unforgettable experience includes a city tour of Agra with visits to the breathtaking Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. That magnificent monument of love – The Taj Mahal, was built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1631, and is believed to have taken 22 years to complete, with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. The design and construction is said to be that of the legendary architect, Ustad Ahamad Lahori. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, and dazzling white during the day.

Later, proceed to Agra Fort. Agra Fort is also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge and Red Fort of Agra. It is about 2.5 kilometers northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The Fort can be accurately described as a walled palatial city. During a time when the country was governed from this royal residence, the great Mughals Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb once lived here. It used to contain the largest state treasury, visited by foreign ambassadors, travelers and the highest dignitaries from all over the world, who participated in building India's history. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 4: Agra - Ranthambhore

Agra - Ranthambhore
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Fatehpur Sikri En Route to Ranthambhore
  • Transportation (Train): Jan Shatabdi Express Train
  • Accommodation: Sher Bagh
  • Meals: B, D
Jan Shatabdi Express Train
Bharatpur - Ranthambhore
Departs: 3:40pm
Arrives: 6:05pm

Fatehpur Sikri En Route to Ranthambhore

Drive to Bharatpurrailway station. En route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, site of another of the four Mughal capitals. An elegant red sandstone edifice of monumental proportions, Fatehpur Sikri was a complete city built mid-16th century by the great emperor Akbar to celebrate the birth of a son, and deserted barely two decades later due to apparent water shortages. Now in a near perfect state of preservation, it harmonizes Hindu, Mughal and Persian architectural styles, and is redolent of the majesty and romance of a bygone era.

After your visit to Fatehpur Sikri, transfer to Bharatpur railway station for your train to Sawai Madhupor. You will be met on arrival at the station and transferred to your hotel in Ranthambhore. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 5: Ranthambhore

Ranthambhore
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Tiger Tracking
  • Accommodation: Sher Bagh
  • Meals: B, L, D

Tiger Tracking

From your lodge in Ranthambhore, enjoy both morning and afternoon group jungle safaris to track local tigers with your naturalist guide. Even during the day, tigers can be seen at their normal pursuits: hunting and taking care of their young ones. Ranthambhore is one of the best places to see these majestic predators. Ranthambore is a heritage site because of the picturesque ruins that dot the wildlife park. There are lake palaces, 'chhatris', old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort, overlooking the park. (This service is on a group basis.)

Ranthambhore National Park

Ranthambhore is the best place for a tiger safari in India. Over 1,000 square kilometers of wild landscape make up this spectacular tiger sanctuary, whose goal is the preservation of these impressive creatures. Actually spotting a tiger is a difficult task, and may happen only once or twice during your safari. The good news is that Ranthambhore also features plenty of other wildlife to spot. Overall, this park serves as a great break from the hustle and bustle of greater India, and gives travelers a chance to relax, and enjoy a couple of days of uninterrupted calm.

Day 6: Ranthambhore - Jaipur

Ranthambhore - Jaipur
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Internal Transfer
  • Accommodation: Samode Haveli
  • Meals: B

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to your accommodations in 4:00PM. (Duration: 4 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)

Jaipur

Jaipur is where the enduring charisma of the past blends with the throbbing vitality of today. Where a colorful cast of characters - from painters and potters to artists and antique dealers - present a fascinating picture of a city that is alive to both tradition and change. Today, Jaipur has spread far beyond the pink crenellated walls that once defined its boundaries. It presents a fascinating picture of a city where growth, evolution and change are sustained by tradition.

Day 7: Jaipur

Amber Fort & City Tour
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Amber Fort & City Tour
  • Accommodation: Samode Haveli
  • Meals: B

Amber Fort & City Tour

After breakfast this morning, proceed on an excursion to the inspiring Amber Fort. Amber Fort is a marvelous example of Rajput architecture, with its terraces and ramparts reflected in the Maota Lake below. The interior of the fort has various royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirror and glass work complemented by exquisite wall paintings.

Following your exploration of Amber Fort, continue on a comprehensive city tour of Jaipur. You will first visit the fascinating City Palace Museum, where you can see an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal art. The museum is truly impressive, with its collection of royal artifacts, carpets, an armory of old weapons and paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes and processions. Afterwards, you will continue to the famous Jantar Mantar, one of the five observatories in India. Specifically, it is one of the largest and best preserved. A visit to the Hawa Mahal, also called the Palace of Winds, will be your final stop of the tour. Built back in 1799, this major landmark of Jaipur is a five storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade that features arched rooftops, overhanging windows with latticed screens, detailed domes and incredible spires. After plenty of time to admire this site, you will be returned to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 8: Jaipur - Delhi

Jaipur - Delhi
Daily Summary

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to your accommodations in 4:00PM. (Duration: 5 hours.) (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 9: Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh

Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Train Station Transfers
  • Transportation (Train): Shatabdi Express Train
  • Accommodation: Aloha on the Ganges
  • Meals: B
Shatabdi Express Train
Delhi - Haridwar
Departs: 6:45am
Arrives: 11:25am

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred to the train station for your train to Haridwar. Upon arrival at the train station in Haridwar, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel in Rishikesh. The drive journey time is roughly 1.5 hours.

Rishikesh

Welcome to, as Rishikesh calls itself, the "Yoga Capital of the World." From across the world, yogis yearn to make the pilgrimage to one of Rishikesh's hundreds of ashrams. Meditation and yoga classes abound. The Ganges flows through the city, and green forest frames it. For backpackers and aspiring spiritualists, Rishikesh has become one of the more popular destinations in India, so prepare yourself for late night parties and new international friends.

Day 10: Rishikesh

Rishikesh
Daily Summary

Enjoy this free time at your leisure.

Day 11: Rishikesh - Haridwar - Delhi

Rishikesh - Haridwar - Delhi
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Train Station Transfers
  • Transportation (Train): Shatabdi Express Train
  • Accommodation: The Leela Palace Delhi
  • Meals: B
Shatabdi Express Train
Haridwar - Delhi
Departs: 6:10pm
Arrives: 10:45pm

In the afternoon, you will be picked up at your hotel in 4:00PM and transferred back to the train station in Haridwar. In Haridwar you will board your onward train to Delhi. Upon arrival there, you will be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel.

Day 12: Delhi Departure

Delhi Departure
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Meals: B

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport for your flight. (This service is on a private basis.)

Accommodation

The Leela Palace Delhi

The Leela Palace Delhi

Imposing, inspiring and right at home among the grand landmarks of the New Delhi’s Diplomatic Enclave, this iconic palace style hotel makes a significant statement in terms of architecture and intent. The Leela Palace New Delhi is destined to become one of the great hotels of the world. Its architecture is inspired by Lutyens, art and embellishment by Mrs. Madhu Nair and its levels of refinement and generosity of space mirror the great palaces of the world. Breathtaking vision superbly realized.

ITC Mughal

ITC Mughal

Sprawled over 35 acres of luxurious gardens, and in close proximity to the Taj Mahal, ITC Mughal, a 5 star hotel in Agra is a fitting tribute to the great Mughal builders of the past. The only Indian hotel to have won the prestigious Aga Khan Award for its excellent representation of Mughal architecture, it now boasts of a brand new accommodation wing - the 'Khwab Mahal' - Palace of Dreams. This luxury hotel in Agra comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul- full of splendor and perfection which was the hallmark of the Mughal Dynasty.

Sher Bagh

Sher Bagh

Situated a short drive from the main gates of Ranthambore National Park, Sher Bagh’s 12 luxurious tents are set amid the verdant grounds of a private estate. The camp has a strong eco-friendly ethos and a laid back, welcoming atmosphere. The camp is also a member of the prestigious Relais and Chateaux group of hotels. Originally designed for the Maharaja of Jodhpur’s hunting expeditions, the tents consist of a bedroom with attached veranda and bathroom and have 24 hr hot water and electricity. All tents have fans and state-of-the-art air-conditioning units to keep them cool during the warm months. Sher Bagh has a dining tent serving continental and Indian cuisine, a bar and you can also enjoy an alfresco Thaali dinner around the campfire were guests gather together in the evenings to chat with each other and compare notes on animal sightings.

Samode Haveli

Samode Haveli

The Samode Haveli is a small, intimate hotel property that offers a charming accommodation experience. Built over 150 years ago as the Samode Royal family's suburban manor house, the building was later converted into a heritage hotel in 1988. Today, it stands as a reminder of the rich historic past, creating moments of subtle luxury. The property was constructed facing North, away from the burning Rajasthan sun and features a spectacular painted dining room, an airy veranda and an elephant ramp at the entrance, which was specially constructed in the 1940’s for the marriage ceremony of the late Rawal Sahib’s aunt. It has been meticulously restored and integrated into a unique property.

Aloha on the Ganges

Aloha on the Ganges

Just 225 kilometers north of India's capital, New Delhi, and easily accessible by rail, road and air, this exquisite resort in Rishikesh 'Aloha on the Ganges' is located right on the banks of the Ganges River close to the Laxman Jhulla, in a very serene and peaceful environment. The setting of the resort on the fast-flowing Ganges, surrounded by forested hills, is conducive to meditation and mind expansion. In the evening, the breeze blows down the valley, setting temple bells ringing as sadhus (spiritual men), pilgrims and tourists prepare for the nightly Ganga Aarti.

Details

Details

Price Includes

-All accommodation as mentioned with daily breakfast
-All other meals as mentioned
-Tours/activities as mentioned, with one time entrance fee at the monuments
-2 games drive at Ranthambore National Park.
-Services of English-speaking local guides in each city
-A bottle of mineral water per person / per day
-All private transport as mentioned via air -conditioned Toyota Innova vehicle or similar
-Train fare in air conditioned chair car class for Bharatpur – Ranthambhore sectors
-Full support before, during & after your trip

Price Excludes

-International flights
-Airport taxes and fees
-Optional Day Trips (available)
-Travel insurance (recommended)
-Tourist visas when applicable
-Other services not mentioned, including beverages at meals
-Tips and gratuities to guides, drivers
-Expenses of a purely personal nature

Why Global Basecamps

Why Global Basecamps

Authentic travel experiences

Authentic Experiences

The perfect trip exists. The perfect lodge, the perfect tour guide, the perfect sunrise hike and the perfect cultural experience are all out there, and we would like to help you find them.

only positive impacts on the destination

UNPRECEDENTED PLANNING

We love logistics and our planning process is second to none. Based on firsthand experience, our travel specialists will design you a customized itinerary ensuring your trip will be memorable and authentic.

extraordinary travel service

Extraordinary Service

Global Basecamps offers the best customer service the specialty tourism industry has to offer. We’re by your side from beginning to end, making sure everything goes perfectly.

only positive impacts on the destination

Positive Impacts

Our trips directly benefit the local communities you visit. We work exclusively with like-minded partners who help ensure tourism has no negative impacts on the environment, culture and economy of your destination.