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)