Inspiration Itinerary - The Icons of India

The Taj Mahal

Udaipur, Jaipur & The Golden Temple

Icons of India

India is blessed with some of the most stunning architecture on the planet. This intriguing twelve day itinerary visits two of it’s jewels; the iconic Taj Mahal; the ivory-white mausoleum which sits on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra – the tomb of Shah Jahan’s favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Then, at the other end of this extraordinary adventure, you will visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar in the Punjab. The preeminent spiritual site of Sikhism, this temple is literally covered in gold and welcomes everyone of any faith. Sikhism is an interesting faith, that is all about giving back. Here, they feed anyone who needs a meal, and serve in excess of 50,000 people every single day. You can enjoy a ‘free’ meal here too, or join in the kitchens (must be pre-arranged) to help the multitude of volunteers who assist in food preparations daily. A truly unique and spiritual experience.

In addition, you will also visit Udaipur in the lakes district, the ‘pink-city’ of Jaipur, the UNESCO world Heritage Fatepur Sikri, experience the back streets and alley-ways of Old Delhi and enjoy the very unique Wagah border closing ceremony on the Indo-Pakistan border.

You will love

  • Visit two of India’s incredible landmarks
  • Explore 4 of India’s iconic cities
  • See ‘bucket-list’ places
  • Stay in Palaces, Havelis and Luxury Hotels
  • Spirituality and cultural focus

12 DAYS OF ICONIC INDIAN SITES

DAY 1 | UDAIPUR | 3 NIGHTS

On arrival in Udaipur you will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Later this afternoon enjoy a relaxing walk through the local village.

DAY 2 | UDAIPUR

Head out on a half day sightseeing tour of Udaipur which includes a visit to the City Palace. Also visit the Jagdish Temple and the Saheliyon Ki Bari or Maids of Honour. To finish the day, take a late afternoon boat ride on Lake Pichola, ringed by stunning palaces, havelis and temples.

DAY 3 | UDAIPUR

A full day at leisure today, however, with a vehicle and driver at your disposal should you wish to head out. Otherwise relax enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the palace and gardens.

DAY 4 | JAIPUR | 3 NIGHTS

Transfer by road from Udaipur to Jaipur and check into the your haveli. The remainder of the afternoon/evening is at leisure.

DAY 5 | JAIPUR

Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur including a visit to the Amber Fort, passing by the Hawa Mahal, then explore the City Palace and Museum. End the day with a walk around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar.

DAY 6 | JAIPUR

Full day at leisure today. Relax at your hotel or perhaps head out for some shopping and explore the local markets. Your driver and vehicle are at your disposal today.

DAY 7 | AGRA | 1 NIGHT

Drive to Agra, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage city of Fatehpur Sikri en-route. On arrival in Agra, check into your hotel, freshen up then head out to explore the Agra Fort & catch your first glimpse of the Taj Mahal. At dusk drive to Mehtab Bagh Gardens to watch the sun set over the Taj Mahal before retreating to your hotel.

DAY 8 | DELHI | 2 NIGHTS

Rise early this morning to watch sunrise over the Taj Mahal. Later drive to Delhi and check into your hotel with the afternoon at leisure to shop in the myriad of local markets or boutique stores.

DAY 9 | DELHI

This morning discover the sights and sounds of India’s most vibrant capital city with a half day tour exploring the highlights of the city’s magnificent Mughal architecture as well as the exotic and bustling bazaars of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Delhi’s largest Sikh Temple, enjoy a rickshaw ride and in the evening enjoy a street food walking tour among the backstreets of Old Delhi.

DAY 10 | AMRITSAR | 2 NIGHTS

This morning take the train from Delhi to Amritsar, arriving early afternoon. Check into your hotel and in the evening visit the Golden Temple to see the Temple and surrounding buildings stunningly lit at night.

DAY 11 | AMRITSAR

Head out on a half day sightseeing tour of Amritsar visiting the Golden Temple again, by day, includes the kitchens and eating halls, which feed in excess of 50,000 people a day. Also visit Jalianwala Bagh, the site of the infamous Amritsar massacre of 1919, then later in the afternoon witness the extraordinary Wagah border closing ceremony at the Indo-Pakistan border, an hour’s drive from Amritsar.

DAY 12 | END OF ITINERARY

Your Icons of India tour ends after breakfast this morning with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight and your next adventure.

PLEASE NOTE:

This itinerary provides the perfect framework for a spectacular opportunity to see some of India’s most iconic sites, however it can be designed to suit your preferred pace, price and pursuits. Contact us for a tailormade journey.

ACCOMMODATION

Our handpicked selection of suggested accommodation

RAAS Devigarh – Udaipur, Rajasthan

RAAS Devigarh is nestled in the Aravalli Hills of the Udaipur area. The palace was completed in the year 1760 A.D and offers a quiet oasis away from India’s infectious energy. RAAS Devigarh gives you time to sit, relax and unhurriedly soak up the tranquil landscape of Rajasthan, away from the bustle of everyday life. Read More

Samode Haveli – Jaipur, India

Unexpected and charming, Samode haveli is a 200-year old intimate townhouse, belonging to the royal family of Samode, hidden deep in the folds of the busy streets of old Jaipur. With its mix of history, simple style, and interesting features, Samode Haveli is the reigning hip heritage hotel in Jaipur and a popular first choice for anyone on bespoke luxury India tours. Read More

ITC Mughal – Agra, Northern India

ITC Mughal, a luxury 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 comprises of 233 opulent rooms and suites, recreating a paradise for the contemporary Mogul. Read More

The Imperial Hotel – New Delhi

Arriving at The Imperial Hotel with its 24 towering signature palms and turbaned sentries at the door will immediately transport you back to the glamour of India’s Raj. The restored 1930's Victorian style building is a perfect meeting of old and new. Grand and luxurious, the hotel makes the perfect start or end to your stay in India. Read More

Taj Swarna – Amritsar, Northern India

Taj Swarna fuses modern design with traditional elegance in the heart of Amritsar. With an enviable location next to Sikhism's most sacred shrine, the famed Golden Temple, it provides a fabulous base for discovering Amritsar as well as the nearby cities of Jalandhar and Ludhiana. Read More

NEED TO KNOW

12 inspiring nights that can be shortened or extended to suit

12 inspiring nights that can be shortened or extended to suit

Please enquire for pricing based on your preferences

Please enquire for pricing based on your preferences

START: Udaipur, India     |     Finish: Delhi

This itinerary provides the perfect inspiration for a spectacular journey and can be tailored to suit your style, pace, preferences and budget.  Elements of this trip may vary based on your chosen season and dates of travel and, once the timing of internal flights is known, this may also present the opportunity to see and do even more!

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