Mysteries of India
15 Days Starting and ending in Delhi, India
Visiting: Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore National Park, Ranthambore, Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
15511
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Mysteries of India," where you'll experience the country's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Begin your adventure in the bustling streets of Delhi, exploring its historic monuments and vibrant markets. Discover the architectural wonders of Jaipur, the "Pink City," and marvel at the majestic Amber Fort. Venture into the wilds of Ranthambore National Park for thrilling game drives in search of elusive tigers. Witness the ethereal beauty of the Taj Mahal at sunrise in Agra, and explore the intricate stone carvings of Khajuraho's temples. Cruise along the sacred River Ganges in Varanasi, experiencing the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony. Throughout your journey, enjoy unique experiences like a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi, a home-hosted dinner, and an exciting train journey to Khajuraho. This tour offers a captivating blend of India's natural wonders, spiritual heritage, and regal legacy.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: The Suryaa Hotel
Discover India’s perfect synthesis of nature, spirituality, and regal legacy. From the fabled Taj Mahal to the iconic tigers of Ranthambore, step into a world of captivating mysteries and vibrant color.
Day 2 : Delhi, India - Tour Begins
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Hotel
A paradise of contradiction, Delhi features a bustling energy, age-old monuments, and an all-encompassing vitality that courses its way through the busy streets. Experience everything this dynamic metropolis has to offer, from modern New Delhi to historic Old Delhi.
Day 3 : Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Start your morning at the expansive Humayun’s Tomb, one of the best-preserved Mughal monuments dating back to the 1500s. This sprawling complex inspired countless mausoleums, including the legendary Taj Mahal. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. Gather with your group in the evening for a welcome dinner featuring Indian specialties.
Day 4 : Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation Name: Radisson Jaipur City Center
Cut through Old Delhi’s buzzing streets on a rickshaw – your mode of transportation for an exhilarating tour of old Delhi. See the city’s friendly vendors as you travel down narrow streets and busy corridors. Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, and stand in awe before its iconic red sandstone towers. Your exploration of New Delhi continues on a journey by the city’s famous monuments, including the India Gate and Parliament building.
Day 5 : Delhi - Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Wish the city goodbye and embark on a scenic drive through the countryside. Stop for lunch in a local restaurant before arriving in Jaipur, the “Pink City.” See Hawa Mahal, the former home of a maharaja (Indian prince). Marvel at the city’s architectural brilliance as you stroll through the heart of the Old City during your free time.
Day 6 : Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Take in the extensive palace complex of Amber Fort, India’s former seat of power. Head to the palace by means of a vintage jeep, scaling the hills overlooking Jaipur. In the evening, get to know a local family as you join them for a hosted dinner in their home.
Day 7 : Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation Name: Juna Mahal
Set out to explore the beautiful city of Jaipur, starting with the City Palace. Nearby, take in the impeccable masonry of the Jantar Mantar – the world’s oldest stone sundial. The afternoon is yours to discover Jaipur however you please.
Day 8 : Jaipur - Ranthambore National Park
Location: Ranthambore National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Travel to Ranthambore National Park where we will seek out tigers in their natural habitat. Learn about Project Tiger’s conservation efforts and the impact the organization has had on the Ranthambore sanctuary. Connect with a naturalist, introducing you to India’s extensive wildlife.
Day 9 : Ranthambore
Location: Ranthambore
Accommodation Name: Grand Mercure
Board a canter (open-air truck) for your first game drive. Seek out barking deer, Indian gazelles, and exotic birdlife. Follow the tigers’ paths in search of the sanctuary’s renowned wildlife. Then, it’s your choice! Return to your hotel to relax -OR- experience an Impact Moment with a visit to Dastkar Ranthambore, a social enterprise dedicated to providing employment and training for local women artisans. No matter what you choose, return to the wild for another chance to seek out marsh crocodiles, sloth bears, and the park’s famous Bengal tigers.
Day 10 : Ranthambore - Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Today we depart early as we make our way to Agra, a city rich with the splendors of the past. Along the way, visit the impressive Abhaneri step well. Built over 1,000 years ago it is an architectural marvel hidden from visitors until recently. Then stop for lunch and get another taste of local flavors. Home to stone forts and marble mausoleums, Agra features a lively culture and picture-perfect architecture.
Day 11 : Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation Name: Radisson Jass Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
The Taj Mahal, a stunning vision in white marble and sandstone, was built as an expression of love by Emperor Shah Jahan. Experience the romantic spirit of the Taj Mahal in the early morning, when the colors of the sky dance on the bright façade and shimmer in its reflective pool. Visit Agra Fort, the seat of the Mughal Empire. During a second Impact Moment, enjoy lunch at Sheroes' Hangout – a café that empowers female survivors of violence, allowing them to reclaim their lives through employment and sisterhood.
Day 12 : Agra - Khajuraho
Location: Khajuraho
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel
Start your morning with a train ride to Jhansi where you will connect with your coach and make your way to Khajuraho. In the shadow of the Vindhya mountain range, find a city of stone temples and mystifying sculptures. Make the most of time at leisure this afternoon to explore the area on your own.
Day 13 : Khajuraho - Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Take in the Chandela Temple complex, home to unparalleled temple architecture and intricate stone carvings. Fly to Varanasi – India’s holiest city – where spiritual energy radiates from the ground up. Sail along the River Ganges and pass by the ghats (banks) where locals wade into the river. From the Dasaswamedh Ghat, enjoy a reserved seat to experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony as it illuminates the night sky.
Day 14 : Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Lemon Tree Premier
Meals Included: Dinner
Take advantage of a morning boat ride for an opportunity to see the sunrise on the River Ganges. Travel to Sarnath, where Siddhartha Gautama – later known as Buddha – gave his first sermon in the 6th century B.C. Discover this holy site and gain insight into the country’s divine past. Celebrate your adventure through India alongside new friends at a farewell dinner.
Day 15 : Varanasi - Delhi - Tour Ends
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Enjoy a morning at leisure before flying back to Delhi, where a room has been reserved for you to freshen up before your return flight home.
What's Included
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Game Drives in Ranthambore National Park
Watch for tigers in the wild during game drives in Ranthambore National Park.
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Cruise on the River Ganges
Cruise the waters of the famous River Ganges.
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Amber Fort and Jaipur Exploration
Explore the majestic Amber Fort and vibrant Jaipur, the 'Pink City.'
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Taj Mahal Visit
Behold the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
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Train Journey to Khajuraho
Travel to Khajuraho on an exciting train journey.
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Rickshaw Tour in Old Delhi
Venture through the main streets and back roads of Old Delhi via rickshaw.
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Ganga Aarti Ceremony
Marvel at the illuminated Ganga Aarti ceremony.
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Home-Hosted Dinner
Learn the secrets to preparing incredible Indian food at a home-hosted dinner.
What's Not Included
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Optional Balloon Safari in Jaipur
A balloon safari in Jaipur is available for an additional cost and is not included in the main tour package.
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Optional Taj Mahal Riverside Tour
The Taj Mahal from Riverside tour at sunset with dinner is an optional activity not included in the main tour package.
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Optional Hike to Ranthambore Fort
The hike to Ranthambore Fort is an optional activity and is not included in the main tour package.
Experiences
Travel to Khajuraho on an exciting train journey.Venture through the main streets and back roads of Old Delhi via rickshaw.Marvel at the illuminated Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Options
Jaipur: Balloon Safari A balloon safari offers you the opportunity to see India and its spectacular forts, hidden palaces, breathtaking terrain and traditional local villages from a very unique perspective. In Jaipur, the “Pink City” is a step back in time. Be mesmerized as you drift slowly over the area surrounding the spectacular Amber Fort. Capture a privileged view of traditional Rajasthani villages and of this historic city, home to many forts and palaces that may have faded with time, but who do not cease to amaze with their marvellous architecture and splendor. Duration approximately 2 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Please note, this option is available for sale on tour only.
Note: duration is approximately 2 hours with 1 hour flight time +/- 15 minutes.
Agra: Taj Mahal From Riverside – Sunset and Dinner Climb aboard your tuk tuk and travel to impressive Itmad-ud-Daula, a Mughal mausoleum. This is the first mausoleum made completely of marble, the same kind that was used for the Taj Mahal. This monument may be smaller than the Taj Mahal, but it is just as remarkable. The tomb is often described as a “draft” of the world-famous Taj Mahal and has been nicknamed "Baby Taj." Continue on to behold the mysteriously beautiful Taj Mahal at sunset. Stop at Mahtab Bagh – the “Moonlight Garden” on the banks of the Yamuna River opposite the Taj Mahal – for a picture perfect view of the ornate white structure surrounded by the vibrant colors of the setting sun and see for yourself why it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Conclude your evening with dinner at a nearby local restaurant. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Ranthambore: Hike Ranthambore Fort Venture to the amazing vantage point of Ranthambore Fort, a fortress atop a hill within a prominent tiger reserve. Hike up the steps of the 10th-century fort enclosed by a magnificent stone wall. Explore its elaborate ruins, including palaces, monuments, and temples. See the daily rituals that take place today at the famous Trinetra Ganesha Temple, dedicated to the beloved elephant god. Enjoy a traditional tea or coffee with cookies during your exploration. And don’t forget a good pair of binoculars – the view of Ranthambore National Park from atop the fort practically puts you eye-to-eye with soaring eagles. Duration approximately 2.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Please note that this option is only available for sale on tour.
Guests must be in good physical condition to partake in this optional tour and have proper footwear to hike on uneven terrain, rocky or loose surfaces and be able to climb 250 steps.
Culinaries
Learn the secrets to preparing incredible Indian food at a home-hosted dinner.
Must See
Watch for tigers in the wild during game drives in Ranthambore National Park.Cruise the waters of the famous River Ganges.Explore the majestic Amber Fort and vibrant Jaipur, the “Pink City.”Behold the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
Choice Highlights
Old Delhi Founded in 1639 and considered to be one of the poshest areas of its time, Old Delhi is full of grand buildings and mansions. A walled city, once called Shahjahanabad after the emperor, it is a living testimony to the rich Mughal heritage and culture of Delhi. Today the congested and hectic area remains true to its origins with the culture of joint families between neighbors in the narrow alleyways.
Jaipur Delve into Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” due to the ruddy hue of its stone architecture. This city is the capital of Northern India, and home to architectural icons like the Amer Fort and the Jantar Mantar monument.
Hawa Mahal Built in 1799, Hawa Mahal is a monument to the Maharaja of the time. Known as the Palace of Winds, the structure is known for the 953 pink sandstone windows known as "Jharokhas" which create a honeycomb type of architecture to the building and allow ventilation. Behind each window is a small sitting area as they were designed to provide the royal ladies of Rajasthan with a glimpse of city life through a veil.
Amber Fort Amber Fort, or "pink city," is located near Jaipur and was built in 1952. The former seat of power for the ruling Kachhawa of Amber clan, it is built of red sandstone and white marble and laid out symmetrically in four levels. Visitors today typically travel by elephant or jeep to reach the structure.
Home-Hosted Dinner While most people are familiar with Indian cuisine and think of mainly curries and naan bread, the country is known for regional cuisines as well. In Jaipur, the food is influenced by the lifestyle of the Maharajas and Maharani of Jaipur. The lifestyle of the rich people of Jaipur was nowhere less than the lifestyle of prince Charles, the only difference maintained by the definition of royalty in their senses. Cuisines of Jaipur includes all the Rajasthani food which is cooked only under Desi (Indian or S. Asian cuisine) and pure ghee, a type of clarified butter.
Ranthambore National Park
Hotel Time at Leisure or Visit to Dastkar Ranthambore While in Ranthambore, you have the choice between two activities. First, after your morning game drive, you can choose to enjoy time at leisure to relax and take advantage of your hotels amenities. Or, you can choose to visit the Dasktar Organization which provides women from neighboring villages with training to help them be successful artists.
Hotel Time at Leisure
Activity Level: 1
Visit to Dastkar Ranthambore
Activity Level: 1
Abhaneri Stepwell
Taj Mahal Located in Agra is the white marble mauseleum and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century, the structure took 22 years to build and was built as homage to the Shah Jahan's wife. Representing the palace of the Queen in Paradise, the Taj Mahal translates into Place of the Crown.
Chandela Temple Complex Located in Kharjuraho, the Land of the Moon God, are the temples of the Chandela Dynasty. Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, the temples are unique in that they do not focus on religion or the worshipping of deities, but are unique in their carvings of eroticism. Legend says that the founder of the Chandela dynasty had a dream where his mother requested he display all aspects of the treasure of passion to the world.
Varanasi Explore India’s holiest city, one that radiates a powerful mystique. Varanasi, a city that sits on the banks of the Ganges river, is an important central hub for both Buddhism and Hinduism.
Ganga Aarti Ceremony Every night at sunset in Varanasi, a ganga aarti ceremony is performed along the Ganges River. The aarti, or dedication ceremony to a deity—in this case the River Ganges—is performed on a stage by a group of young pandits, all draped in saffron colored robes with their offering plates spread out before them. The ceremony begins with the blowing of a conch shell, and continues with the waving of incense sticks in elaborate patterns and circling of large flaming lamps fueled by ghee that create a bright hue against the darkened sky.
Mode of Transport
Travel through India using a mix of transportation modes, including scenic drives, exhilarating rickshaw rides, vintage jeep rides to Amber Fort, open-air truck game drives in Ranthambore, and a train journey to Khajuraho.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including stays at The Suryaa Hotel in Delhi, Radisson Jaipur City Center, Juna Mahal in Jaipur, Grand Mercure in Ranthambore, Radisson Jass Hotel in Agra, and Lemon Tree Premier in Varanasi.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences can I expect during the tour in Jaipur?
In Jaipur, you will explore the extensive palace complex of Amber Fort by vintage jeep and have the opportunity to join a local family for a hosted dinner in their home, where you can learn about Indian culinary traditions.
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What wildlife can I expect to see in Ranthambore National Park?
In Ranthambore National Park, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including barking deer, Indian gazelles, exotic birdlife, marsh crocodiles, sloth bears, and the park's famous Bengal tigers.
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What is the significance of the Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi?
The Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi is a nightly dedication ceremony to the River Ganges, performed by young pandits in saffron robes. It involves the blowing of a conch shell, waving of incense sticks, and circling of large flaming lamps, creating a bright hue against the night sky.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Taj Mahal?
During the visit to the Taj Mahal, you will experience the romantic spirit of this stunning white marble mausoleum in the early morning, when the colors of the sky reflect on its façade and shimmer in its pool. You will also visit Agra Fort, the seat of the Mughal Empire.
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What is the purpose of the visit to Dastkar Ranthambore?
The visit to Dastkar Ranthambore is an Impact Moment where you can learn about a social enterprise dedicated to providing employment and training for local women artisans, helping them become successful artists.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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