India Responsible Travel Packages: 12 Days the Magic of India

Highlights of the Trip

This 12-day tour of India encapsulates the essence of this regal country and explores the splendours that it has to offer. Highlights of this tour in India include the not to be missed Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Amber Fort, the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, The eye-catching ‘Blue City’, The Palace of Lake Pichola and the impressive and largest safari of Ranthambore National Park.

This India holiday will explore the cities of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Ranthambore. There is also an optional extension to add Mumbai as a destination for two extra days to see the India city of entertainment. You will also see village communities with plenty of local life, beautiful lakes and picturesque scenery and more culinary delights than you could possibly imagine.

If you’re looking for cheap flights to India, you might like to consider our 14-day flight only package below which aligns perfectly with this tour.

Delhi, India, 14-Day Flight-only Package (asiara-holidays.com)

You might also like to have a look at our other India holiday packages, featuring some of the best India tours and best travel packages in India. If you’re seeking India historical tour packages and India Temple Tour Packages, we offer plenty to choose from.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Delhi

Sightseeing Tour, including: 

• Jama Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, standing as a magnificent testament to Mughal architecture, featuring a grand courtyard, intricate carvings, and panoramic views of Old Delhi.
• Humayun’s Tomb: A splendid Mughal Garden tomb built in the 16^th century, serving as a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcasing remarkable architectural elegance.
• Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: A prominent Sikh house of worship known for its serene Sarovar (pond), Langar (community kitchen), and the gold-plated dome, offering a spiritual haven in the heart of the bustling city.
• Gandhi Smriti: A poignant memorial at the site where Mahatma Gandhi spent the last 144 days of this life, featuring exhibits, a prayer ground, and the Marty’s Column, commemorating the Father of the Nation.
• The Khan Market: A vibrant, upscale shopping destination, renowned for its diverse array of boutiques and eclectic dining options, creating a bustling atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Agra

Guided Tour, including:

• The Agra Fort: A formidable red sandstone fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history, standing near the iconic Taj Mahal.
• Sunrise at Taj Mahal: Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise at the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and an iconic symbol of true love.
• Ranthambore National Park: Enjoy safaris in Ranthambore National Park, offering a thrilling wildlife experience. Witness majestic Bengal tigers, diverse fauna, and the ancient Ranthambore Fort, all set against the scenic backdrop of Rajasthan’s rugged landscapes.

Jaipur

Guided Tour, including: 

• Amer Fort: Majestic architecture, featuring a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, intricate frescoes, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Hawa Mahal: Also known as “Palace of Winds”, this unique architectural marvel has an intricately latticed façade designed to allow royal women to observe street festivities while maintaining privacy.
• Jantar Mantar: Discover this fascinating 18^th century observatory, showcasing a collection of monumental astronomical instruments designed by Mahaja Sawai Jai Singh II.

Jodhpur

Guided Tour, including:

• Mehrangarh Fort: A colossal fortress perched on a hill, boasting intricate architecture, expansive courtyards, and a museum housing an impressive collection of artifacts, providing a captivating glimpse into the region’s royal history.
• Ghanta Ghar: This iconic clock tower in the heart of Blue City showcases intricate Rajput architecture and is a lively hub for shopping and local culture.
• Old City Bazaar: A vibrant maze of narrow lanes, where the air is filled with the aroma of spices and colourful shops offer a captivating array of textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani artifacts.
• Tour of Villages: Meet the locals and participate in handicraft traditions such as pot making.

Udaipur

• Jain Temples of Ranakpur: Nestled in the Aravalli Range, showcasing exquisite marble architecture with intricate carvings. A revered pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel in Rajasthan.
• Lake Pichola: A picturesque artificial lake surrounded by palaces, temples, and ghats, offering scenic boat rides.
• Lake Palace: A stunning white marble palace floating on Lake Pichola, known for its luxurious heritage hotel experience, intricate architecture, and captivating views of the surrounding Aravalli mountains.

Guided Tour, including:

• City Palace: A majestic complex of palaces overlooking Lake Pichola, showcasing a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, housing museums, courtyards, and balconies with panoramic views of the lake and city.
• Jagdish Temple: A splendid Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, offering a serene oasis in the bustling markets of the city.
• Saheliyon Ki Bari (Garden of the Maidens): A picturesque royal garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants, providing a tranquil escape with its lush greenery and intricate architectural elements.
• Vintage Car Museum: Housing a remarkable collection of classic automobiles, showcasing the grandeur of the bygone era, with beautifully preserved vintage cars once belonging to the Mewar royal family.

Mumbai (optional extension)

• Elephanta Island Caves: A unique experience, where a short ferry ride followed by a climb up the island’s scenic hills allows exploration of ancient rock-cut caves dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing impressive sculptures and historical significance.

Guided Tour, including:

• The Flower Markets: Vibrant hubs teeming with colourful blooms and bustling activity, offering a sensory delight and a glimpse into the city’s lively and fragrant cultural tapestry.
• Fort Mumbai: A historic business district, now a bustling area with colonial-era architecture, corporate offices, and vibrant street markets, blending the old and new facets of the city.

 

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Optional Culinary Walking Tour: Take part in this evening tour, explore the old and newer parts of Agra and  discovering a variety of foods to suit even the fussiest eaters.

Cooking Demonstration: Enjoy a cooking demonstration at your hotel in Jaipur, learning more about traditional cuisine and perhaps even partaking in cooking too.

Tour of Villages: Visit local villages to connect with the locals and discover first-hand the many handicraft traditions still used in daily life, such as pottery, handwoven textiles, leather goods and intricate metalwork.

Immerse in the life of local artisans: In Udaipur, you will have the opportunity to engage with skilled craftsmen and participate in artisan workshops and hands-on experiences, providing a deep and authentic understanding of Udaipur’s vibrant artistic traditions.

 

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in India

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region. In Delhi try Butter Chicken, a rich and creamy chicken curry; Chaat, a delightful mix of tangy and spicy street snacks; and Paranthas, stuffed flatbreads, best enjoyed in Chandi Chowk’s famous eateries. Jaipur tempts with Dal Baati Churma, a flavourful lentil dish with baked wheat balls; Laal Maas, a fiery red mutton curry, and Ghewar, a sweet festive treat. Agra offers Bedai with Aloo Sabzi, a spicy breakfast dish; and Mughlai cuisine, showcasing rich, aromatic flavours. In Jodhpur, try Mirchi Bada, a spicy chilli fritter; Makhaniya Lassi, a creamy yogurt drink; and Pyaaz Kachori, a flavourful pastry filled with spiced onions. In Udaipur, savour Daal Panchmel, a five-lentil curry; Ker Sangri, a traditional Rajasthani preparation with wild beans and berries; and Gatte Ki Sabzi, gram flour dumplings in a spicy yogurt-based curry. In Mumbai, try Pav Bhaji, a spiced mashed vegetable curry with buttered beans; Bhel Puri, a street snack made with puffed rice and chutneys; and Vada Pav, a street food of spiced potato fritter sandwiched in a bun.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola, with breathtaking views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Aravalli Hills.

Jal Mahal Boat Rides: Jaipur offers boat rides at Jal Mahal, a palace partially submerged in Man Sagar Lake.

Yamuna River boat ride: Agra provides the option of a boat ride of Yamuna River with views of the Taj Mahal.

Boating near India Gate: In Delhi, you can enjoy boating in the serene waters of India Gate’s nearby lakes.

Short Cruises in Mumbai: Explore the Arabian Sea with a boat ride from the Gateway of India or indulge in a short cruise along the city’s coastline for breathtaking views of the skyline.

Accommodation of this Tour

Delhi: Choose from:

The Rockland (Ideally situated for sightseeing, spacious with excellent amenities – Superior Room)

The Suryaa 5* Hotel (Sophisticated, comfortable, and a convenient 8km from the city centre, within walking distance of lots of local attractions. Excellent amenities – Deluxe Room)

The Connaught 4* Hotel (Located just 3km from the city centre, ideally placed to explore Jantar Mantar, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, and the Parliament of India. Superb amenities, fitness centre, and pool – Superior Room)

Agra: Choose from:

Taj Villa 3* Hotel: (Located 4km from the city centre, plenty of amenities including sauna, spa, and indoor and outdoor pools – Standard Room)

Grand Imperial 4* Hotel: ( Located in the city centre, perfect for walking around the city with ease and returning for rest. Excellent amenities, including spa, gym, pools, playrooms for children, and even a doctor – Superior Room)

Trident 5* Hotel: (Located 5km from the city centre for easy access. Superb amenities, including spa and massage, fitness centre, swimming pools, playrooms for children, and a doctor –  Deluxe Room)

Ranthambore: Choose from:

Tiger Den 3* Resort: (Located 7km from the city centre, comfortable with many amenities including swimming pools, massage room, and doctor – Standard Room)

Jungle Vilas 4* Resort: (Located 6km from the city centre, an excellent place to relax with amenities including sauna, steam bath, spa, fitness centre and gym, library, swimming pools, playrooms for children and picnic areas – Deluxe Room)

Nahargarh 4* Hotel: (Located 6km from the city centre, excellent amenities including sauna, spa, gym, pools, table tennis, and playrooms for children – Deluxe Room)

Jaipur: Choose from:

Peppermint 3* Hotel: (Located 3km from the city centre, ideal for sightseeing. Restaurant, café, barbeque area, and various other amenities – Deluxe Room)

Alsisar Haveli 4* Hotel: (Located just minutes away from the city centre, perfect for resting after sightseeing. Excellent amenities, including spa, steam bath, barbeque area, swimming pools – Standard Room)

Trident 5* Hotel: (Located 5km from the city centre. Luxury amenities including massage, spa, gym, table tennis, pools, playrooms for children, etc. – Deluxe Room)

Jodhpur: Choose from:

Parkk Boutique 3* Hotel: (Located 1km from the city centre within walking distance of local attractions. Amenities including a spa centre, and playrooms for children. – Standard Room)

Pal Haveli Inn 3* Hotel: (Located 1km from the city centre. Great amenities including massage room, library, and barbeque area – Heritage Room)

The Ajit Bhawan 5* Hotel: (Located within walking distance from the city centre. Luxury amenities including sauna, spa centre, fitness centre, library, barbeque area and pool, playrooms for children, etc. – Deluxe Room)

Udaipur: Choose from:

Ram Pratap Palace 3* Hotel: (Located within walking distance from the city centre. Amenities include spa centre, massage room, playroom for children, and doctor – Standard Room)

Fateh Niwas 3* Hotel: (Located 3km from the city centre for easy access to landmarks. Amenities include a restaurant with local cuisine, spa and sauna, table tennis, pools, and playroom for children – Deluxe Room)

Fateh Garh 4* Hotel: (Located 5km from the city centre. Amenities include sauna, spa centre, doctor, gym, table tennis, library, barbeque area, children’s playroom, and swimming pools – Renaissance Room)

(Optional extension) Mumbai: Choose from:

Abode Bombay Mumbai Hotel: (Located 15km rom the city centre, within easy walking distance of the National Gallery of Modern Art, Gateway of India, and Price of Wales Museum. Amenities include a spa centre and library – Simple Room)

Gordon House 4* Hotel: (Located 15km from city centre, within walking distance of Gateway of India, National Gallery of Modern Art, and Price of Wales Museum. Amenities include massage and sauna, spa, doctor, gym, and table tennis – Country Room)

Trident Nariman Point 5* Hotel: (Located minutes from National Centre for Performing Arts and India Building, also close to Gateway of India and Marine Drive. Superb amenities, including pool, fitness centre, massage, and treatments – Premier Room)

Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi Arrival

Delhi arrival and transfer to hotel to enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

Day 2: Delhi City Tour

Today your exploration of the capital city of India starts with it’s grandest mosque Jama Masjid and a visit to the 16^th century Hamuyun’s Tomb. After this the Sikh temple of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, where spiritual followers gather in abundance barefoot on the white marble floors. A visit to the community kitchen is where 10000 people are served every day. Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, Gandhi Smriti is a great part of history, whereas the Khan market shows the hustle and bustle of life in the grand city.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner.

Day 3: Agra Transfer & Tour

Drive to Agra to experience the beauty and grace of the wonder that is the Taj Mahal. If that isn’t enough there’s the 16^th century Agra Fort, an imposing citadel on the banks of the Yamuna River.

Optional tour: shop at Sheroes café run by woman who embody the spiritual side of India with love in every cup.

Optional tour (paid): Culinary Walking Tour – This evening tour explores the older parts of Agra and some newer parts with a wide variety of foods to suit even the fussiest of eaters.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch.

Day 4: Sunrise Taj & Ranthambore National Park

Rise early to experience the majestic view of the Taj at sunrise. Stop at Fatehpur Sikri, a deserted Mughal city and nearby Abhaneri, a spectacular step-well. Next is safari time and a trip to Ranthambore National Park and a search for the rare Bengal Tiger, but there are plenty of other big cats and many other species to appreciate in case you don’t catch a glimpse of the star attraction.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner.

Day 5: Ranthambore National Park Safari

Yesterday’s safari was just a small introduction today you’ll have a morning and evening one to enjoy that explores the habitats of the local wild boars, deer, antelope, and sloth bears, along with those jungle cats.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner.

Day 6: Jaipur Transfer

Today you’ll be driven to Jaipur, the heart of Rajasthan state and all its architectural marvels.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast  ✓ Dinner, with cooking demonstration.

Day 7: Jaipur Tour

Rise early to experience the habits of the local Jaipur and pay homage in respect of their traditions. The Amber Fort is the first stop, followed by Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), The City Palace that is still home to royalty. This is all topped nicely with an evening in stargazing observatory of Jantar Mantar.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Dinner.

Day 8: Jodhpur Transfer

Mystical Jodhpur is your next city destination, with the impressive backdrop of the Thar desert. Your time will be free to explore the city upon arrival at your leisure.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast.

Day 9: Jodhpur Tour

Today the imposing Mehrangarh Fort is the main spectacle, alongside the clock tower and old city bazaar and its 7000 micro sized shops. Next is a treat of meeting the locals in a tour of villages and the handicraft traditions of local life, including pot making.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch.

Day 10: Udaipur Transfer, Jain Temples & Lake Pichola

Drive to Udaipur and its numerous lakes and Palaces of this celebrated city. The Jain temples of Ranakpur are in store for you from the 15^th century. After immersing in the architectural delights, you’ll be taken on a boat trip on Lake Pichola, along with more tranquil temples and the spectacular Lake Palace.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch.

Day 11: Udaipur City Tour

Explore the City Palace, Jadish temple, fine examples of the Mewar dynasty. A walking tour of the city will take you to the Garden of the Maidens (Saheliyon Ki Bari), followed by a vintage classic car museum. There is also an opportunity to immerse in the life of local artisans and their art form.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Dinner.

Day 12: Free Time in Udaipur & Departure Flight

Some last moments to explore Udaipur before being transferred to Delhi or Mumbai for your departure flight home.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast.

Optional Mumbai Extension:

Day 12: Mumbai Transfer & Elephanta Island Tour

Driven to Mumbai and transferred to your hotel accommodation. This city of entertainment is where lots of people feel they can find fame and fortune. The day starts with a boat trip to the cave temples on Elephanta Island. The caves feature lots of ancient carvings of devotion to the lord Shiva.

Accommodation at a 4 star hotel.

✓ Breakfast.

Day 13: Mumbai Tour

Rise early to catch a glimpse of the habits of local life in the big city, formerly known as Bombay. Fisherman will be bringing in their early morning catches ready for market trade on the food markets. Don’t miss checking out the flower markets before embarking on your adventure to Fort Mumbai, full of colonial architecture, with a strong focus on the Victorian Gothic architecture of the Kala Ghoda area built in 1878.

Accommodation at a 4 star deluxe hotel.

✓ Breakfast.

Day 14: Mumbai Free Time & Departure Flight

A free morning for some last minute exploration before your departure flight home.

✓ Breakfast.

Magical India

Itinerary – 11 nights/12 days – 2023-2024

Accommodation: Double / Twin Room

Days	City	Hotel (Standard)	Hotel (Deluxe)	Hotel (Charming)	Nights
Day 1 – 3	Delhi	Rockland (Superior room)	The Suryaa (Deluxe room)	The Connaught (Superior room)	2
Day 3 – 4	Agra	Taj Villa (Standard room)	Grand Imperial (Superior room)	Trident (Deluxe room)	1
Day 4 – 6	Ranthambore	Tiger Den (Standard room)	Jungle Vilas (Deluxe room)	Nahargarh (Deluxe room)	2
Day 6 – 8	Jaipur	Peppermint (Deluxe room)	Alsisar Haveli (Standardroom)	Trident (Deluxe room)	2
Day 8 – 10	Jodhpur	Parkk Boutique (Standard room)	Pal Haveli (Heritage room)	Ajit Bhawan (Deluxe room)	2
Day 10 – 12	Udaipur	Rampratap Palace (Standard room)	Fateh Niwas (Deluxe room)	Fatehgarh (Renaissanceroom)	2

Cost includes:

• Accommodation for 11 nights
• 11 Breakfast, 6 lunches and 6 dinners per person
• All transfers and tours in Air Condition vehicle – Innova Crysta for 2 pax, Tempo Traveller from 3 to 7 pax, Mini Coach from 8 to 15 pax and Large coach from 16 to 25 pax
• Local experienced English-speaking guide from 2 pax to 7 pax and accompanying guide from 8 pax to 25 pax
• Monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Shared morning and afternoon jeep safari in Ranthambore
• Shared jeep safari in Bishnoi village
• Shared boat ride in Lake Pichola, Udaipur
• Bottled water during sightseeing and excursions

Cost does not include:

• Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
• Tips to porters and hotel staff
• Meals not mentioned in “Cost Includes”
• Camera/video permits where required
• Personal expenses, including alcohol
• Any International or Domestic airfare and taxes
• Indian Visa
• Travel Insurance

Extension Tour

Days	City	Standard	Deluxe	Charming	Nights
Day 12 – 14	Mumbai	Abode (Simple room)	Gordon House (Country room)	Trident Nariman Point (Premier room)

 

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £2,177.50
**Optional Mumbai extension is £383.50
– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing
– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Delhi, transfer to hotel for leisure.

Day 2: Explore Delhi’s landmarks including Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

Day 3: Journey to Agra, visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, optional tours available.

Day 4: Witness sunrise at the Taj Mahal, explore Fatehpur Sikri, then travel to Ranthambore National Park.

Day 5: Enjoy morning and evening safaris at Ranthambore National Park.

Day 6: Transfer to Jaipur with a cooking demonstration in the evening.

Day 7: Tour Jaipur’s highlights, including Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.

Day 8: Transfer to Jodhpur, free time to explore the city.

Day 9: Visit Mehrangarh Fort, explore local markets and villages in Jodhpur.

Day 10: Journey to Udaipur, visit Ranakpur Jain temples and take a boat trip on Lake Pichola.

Day 11: Explore Udaipur’s City Palace, Jagdish Temple, and local artisan workshops.

Day12: Free time in Udaipur before departure flight or opt for Mumbai Extension.

Optional Mumbai Extension:

Day 12: Transfer to Mumbai, visit Elephanta Island’s cave temples.

Day 13: Explore Mumbai’s markets, Fort area, and colonial architecture.

Day 14: Free time in Mumbai before departure flight.

FAQs

1. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided as specified in the itinerary during the main tour.
2. Are entrance fees to attractions included?
   • Entrance fees to specified attractions like the Taj Mahal and Amber Fort are included in the tour package.
3. Is transportation between cities included?
   • Yes, transportation between cities is included in the tour package.
4. Are there optional activities available during free time?
   • Yes, optional tours such as culinary walking tours and visits to local cafes are available during free time at certain locations.
5. What is the standard of accommodation provided?
   • Accommodation throughout the tour is at 4-star hotels, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
6. Is the tour suitable for wildlife enthusiasts?
   • Absolutely! The tour includes safaris in Ranthambore National Park, offering opportunities to spot Bengal tigers and other wildlife species.
7. Can I extend my tour to explore Mumbai?
   • Yes, there’s an optional Mumbai Extension available, offering additional sightseeing opportunities in India’s bustling entertainment capital.