A Taste of India Winter Special

Overview

Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Depart USA
• 2 Arrive Delhi
• 3 Delhi
• 4 Delhi & Agra
• 5 Agra
• Optional Excursion: Agra Fort, $25
• Optional Excursion: Mehtab Bagh, $20
• 6 Agra, Abhaneri Village & Jaipur
• 7 Jaipur
• 7 Holi Departure: Jaipur & Holi Festival
• Optional Excursion: Jaipur City Tour including City Palace & Jantar Mantar Observatory, $30
• 8 Jaipur/Delhi/USA

Nepal Post-Tour Extension

• 8 Jaipur & Delhi
• 9 Delhi & Kathmandu, Nepal
• 10 Kathmandu, Patan City & Swayambunath
• Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250
• 11 Kathmandu & Bhaktapur
• 12 Kathmandu/Delhi

Dates & Prices

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

• Your exotic journey to India begins today as you depart the USA

Day 2 Arrive Delhi

• Arrive in Delhi, India's capital
• Following customs and immigration formalities, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel

Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi or similar

Day 3 Delhi

• Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi
• Ride by bicycle rickshaw to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque
• Visit Gandhi Smriti, the Mahatma Gandhi Museum

Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast at the hotel, board your coach to explore Old and New Delhi. Sprawling on the banks of the river Yamuna, bustling Delhi typifies the soul of India, where many layers of civilizations have flourished for more than 3,000 years. Begin at the modern Laxmi Narayan Temple, built in honor of the Hindu goddess of wealth, Laxmi, and her consort, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu Trinity. Popularly known as the Birla Temple for the noted industrialist family who built it, Laxmi Narayan Temple was one of the first prominent Hindu places of worship open to the lower caste Harijans (untouchables).

Continue to Gandhi Smriti, a museum and memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Drive past the magnificent Red Fort, built in 1648 to symbolize Mughal's power. Later, ride by bicycle rickshaw to Jama Masjid, India's largest mosque. Completed in 1656 after six years of work by 5,000 laborers, the red sandstone and marble mosque is considered one of the loveliest houses of worship in the world.

Next, you'll marvel at the Qutub Minar, the world's tallest free-standing minaret at 72.5 m (238 ft) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll also find the Iron Pillar, a novelty dating back to the 5th century A.D., which has never rusted.

Sightseeing continues in New Delhi, reflecting the legacy the British left behind. Drive past the India Gate, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The 42-meter-high structure is a war memorial for the Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan Wars. Burning in a shrine under the arch is the Amar Jawan Jyoti (the flame of the immortal warrior), which marks the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Proceed to the Parliament building and the Rastrapathi Bhawan, the President's residence.

Day 4 Delhi & Agra

• Visit a Sikh temple in Delhi
• Travel to the city of Agra
• Enjoy an evening visit to Sheroe's Hangout

Grand Mercure Agra or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Sikh heritage with a visit to a vibrant Sikh temple in Delhi. Delve into the heart of Sikhism as knowledgeable guides lead you through its sacred halls, adorned with intricate artwork and echoing with hymns of devotion. The temple serves as a place of prayer, meditation, and community. Experience Sikh hospitality, participate in various religious rituals, and volunteer in the community kitchen service, also known as langar seva.

Later this morning, drive to Agra. This ancient city became prominent in Medieval times under the Mughal rulers and was once the capital of a sprawling Mughal kingdom covering much of southeast Asia. Arrive at your hotel and proceed to check in with your fellow travelers.

This evening, visit Sheroes Hangout, a café that employs women who have suffered from debilitating acid attacks. The survivors solely run this café to regain their self-esteem and livelihoods.

Day 5 Agra

• Rise for an early-morning tour of the Taj Mahal
• Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, or take part in optional excursions
• Enjoy an evening High Tea with a local family

Grand Mercure Agra or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Rise early to enjoy a breathtaking morning tour of the Taj Mahal, one of the world's wonders. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to express his love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took 22 years and 20,000 men to build; its white marble was quarried 200 miles away and transported to the site by a fleet of 1000 elephants. Though the Taj is known for its stunning symmetry and balance, the close-up marble inlay work stands out the most. You'll have ample time to explore this outstanding piece of architecture and wander the pristine surrounding gardens. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast.

In the evening, join an Indian family for High Tea at their residence. Interact with them and learn more about their daily lives, eating habits, costumes, and culture.

Note: Your departure from the hotel for your visit to the Taj Mahal may be as early as 5:30 am and the time may change depending on weather conditions.

Optional Excursion: Agra Fort, $25

Visit the splendid Agra Fort, built by and inhabited by six successive generations of Mughal emperors—Babur, Humayun, Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. Though often eclipsed by the Taj Mahal, this sprawling fortress, more accurately described as a massive walled palatial city, is magnificent in its own right and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was here that Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son, Aurangzeb. From the Musamman Burj, a tower with a marble balcony, Jahan watched the continuing construction of his Taj Mahal until his death.

Optional Excursion: Mehtab Bagh, $20

Visit Mehtab Bagh at sunset to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Taj Mahal. Emperor Shah Jahan, who had the Taj Mahal built, felt that the best view of this mausoleum was from the Mehtab Bagh. The 25 acres of crescent-shaped land laid in the 17th century sits along the Bank of the River Yamuna.

Day 6 Agra, Abhaneri Village & Jaipur

• Visit Abhaneri Village and see the Chand Baori stepwell
• Experience traditional bread making (chapati or naan)
• Learn the art of tying colorful turbans and sarees
• Visit a local Bazaar in Jaipur
• Continue to Jaipur and check into your hotel

Radisson Jaipur City Center or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart for Abhaneri Village, a popular stop along the Agra-Jaipur road for the impressive Chand Baori stepwell and the Harshat Mata Temple. The Chand Baori is perhaps the region's most visited stepwell and one of the largest and deepest in India. The stepwell's harvested rainwater provides locals a place to cool off during the hottest summer months, as the temperature is a few degrees cooler at the bottom of the well than at its surface. 

After some exploration, depart for Jaipur, stopping en route at the Umaid Lake Resort for an included lunch. At the resort, participate in a cooking demonstration and make your own chapati or naan bread. Afterward, learn the art of tying colorful turbans and sarees and gain insight into their importance. 

Later, enjoy a walking tour of an organic farm in Kalakho, Rajasthan. Meet the farmers and witness how they prioritize crop diversity to maintain soil health and ecosystem balance. Time permitting, visit Bapu Bazaar, a vibrant market in Jaipur famous for Rajasthani crafts. Continue to the hotel for check in.

Note: The visit to the organic farm is subject to weather conditions.

Day 7 Jaipur

• Take a morning tour of Jaipur, including a brief stop at the Hawa Mahal and a visit to the Amber Fort
• Spend the afternoon at leisure, or take part in an optional excursion
• Enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers

Radisson Jaipur City Center or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning's tour starts with a brief photo stop at the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Its beehive-like structure is an interplay of red and pink sandstone, painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. Behind this elaborate latticed facade, the cloistered ladies of the court could watch the daily goings-on in the street below.

Then, continue to the imposing Amber Fort, the ancient capital of Rajasthan. The fort was begun in the 17th century by Maharaja Mansingh, Emperor Akbar's most successful general. Perched atop the Aravalli hills overlooking the Maota Lake, the fort's fortified battlements and crenelated walls spread over many acres. Ascend to the fortress by jeep to view the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls, many hung with magnificent paintings and inlaid with precious stones.

This afternoon, explore the markets and lanes of Jaipur on your own. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is India's first and perhaps best-planned city, full of beauty and color. Discover the magnificent palaces, gardens, serene lakes, and wide, tree-lined streets. Except for the heavy traffic of bicycles, cars, and buses, little has changed since 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II designed and built the city.

Later this evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with fellow travelers.

Kindly note: You will see elephant rides offered around the Amber Fort. However, Friendly Planet Travel has made the compassionate decision not to include elephant rides in our itineraries, as the process of training these brilliant animals is not up to our ethical standards. In addition, elephant backbones are delicate and not meant to carry the weight of saddles and people. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Day 7 Holi Departure: Jaipur & Holi Festival

• This morning, experience the color festival of Holi
• Enjoy typical foods and music while you throw herbal colors and water balloons
• Afternoon at leisure or take part in an optional excursion
• Enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow travelers

Radisson Jaipur City Center or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, experience the color festival of Holi, the most vibrant celebration of all. Join a fun-filled party at Narain Niwas Hotel, where you will receive your own Kurta Pajama. Enjoy typical snacks and foods and live traditional music while you throw herbal colors and water balloons at each other! After lunch, change back into your regular clothing and spend the afternoon at leisure.  

Later this evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant with fellow travelers.

Optional Excursion: Jaipur City Tour including City Palace & Jantar Mantar Observatory, $30

Take an optional excursion to some of the city's famous pink sandstone buildings, including the City Palace Museum, housing the magnificent art collections of the Maharajas of Jaipur. At the entrance to the City Palace is Jantar Mantar, the largest of five observatories founded by classical astronomer Sawai Jai Singh II nearly three centuries ago. Its 14 massive masonry instruments are exact and used to measure time, predict eclipses, track stars' location as the earth orbits around the sun, ascertain the planets' declinations, and more.

Day 8 Jaipur/Delhi/USA

• In the morning, depart for Delhi via motor-coach and transfer to the airport
• Your memorable journey ends tomorrow when you arrive in the USA

Breakfast

Nepal Post-Tour Extension

Day 8 Jaipur & Delhi

• In the morning, depart for Delhi via motor-coach
• Upon arrival, check in to your airport hotel

Lemon Tree Premier or similar Breakfast

Day 9 Delhi & Kathmandu, Nepal

• Transfer to the airport to take a short flight to Kathmandu, Nepal
• You will be met upon arrival and transferred to your hotel
• Enjoy a welcome drink upon arrival at your hotel
• Later, visit Boudhanah, one of the world's largest stupas

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu. Having cleared immigration, collect your luggage and pass through customs. Upon exiting the terminal, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, enjoying a welcome drink upon arrival. After check-in, take a walk with your guide to Boudhanath, possibly the world's largest Buddhist stupa. Around the stupa, several monasteries have sprung up, including one that houses an enormous seated statue of Maitreya Buddha splendidly adorned.

Day 10 Kathmandu, Patan City & Swayambunath

• Join an optional morning flight over Mt. Everest
• After breakfast, travel to Patan City south of Kathmandu
• In the afternoon, visit the National Museum and Swayambhunath, the 'monkey temple'

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Early this morning, have an opportunity to experience an optional scenic flight over Mt. Everest and the breathtaking Himalayas. After breakfast, visit Patan, located just south of Kathmandu in the Kathmandu Valley. The city's official name is Lalitpur, meaning the city of fine art. Walk from Kumaripati through the narrow streets, curios shops, and bazaars. On the way, visit the Golden Temple and then go to Patan Durbar Square, where you will see the sky-piercing temple of Taleju.

In the afternoon, travel to the National Museum to see a splendid collection of weapons and artifacts from ancient, medieval, and modern Nepal. Continue to one of the world's most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Swayambhunath or 'Monkey Temple'. Situated on top of a high hill, this 2,000 year-old temple complex commands a superb view of the valley below. 

Optional Excursion: Mt. Everest Flyover (purchased locally), $250

Early this morning, have an opportunity to experience an optional Mt. Everest scenic flight over the breathtaking Himalayas, weather permitting. This optional excursion must be purchased locally.

 

Day 11 Kathmandu & Bhaktapur

• Enjoy a morning visit to Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• This afternoon, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square at the heart of the old city
• In the evening, enjoy a Nepalese farewell dinner and performance

Dusit Princess or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, drive to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, located in the center of Bhaktapur. The square is one of the most charming architectural showpieces of the valley and is home to some of the finest medieval arts of Nepal. Here you’ll see the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate, Nyatapola Temple, and statues of the kings of Nepal.

In the afternoon, drive back to Kathmandu and visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, located in the heart of the old city. Visit Kumari Ghar, Taleju Temple, Shiva Parvati Temple, and Kaal Bhairav. On a walk through a local bazaar, discover the true spirit of Kathmandu in the sights, sounds, and smells. Join your fellow travelers for a Nepalese farewell dinner and dance performance this evening.

Day 12 Kathmandu/Delhi

• Enjoy the morning at leisure in Kathmandu to shop and explore independently
• Transfer to the airport for your return flight
• Bid farewell to India & Nepal as you board your overnight return flight to the USA
• Your memorable journey ends tomorrow when you arrive in USA

Breakfast

Hotels

Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi

Deluxe

The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Delhi is ideally located in the heart of India's capital, Delhi. The luxurious hotel will charm you with its wonderful amenities, including its award-winning spa, fitness center, sauna, and pool.

More information

Grand Mercure Agra

Deluxe

The Grande Mercure Agra is conveniently located next to the Metro station, near many famous attractions and nature walks. The hotel displays the city's rich history, with views of iconic monuments, the Taj Mahal, and the magnificent architecture of Agra.

More information

Radisson Jaipur City Center

Deluxe

Radisson Jaipur City Center is located in the Golden Triangle, within walking distance of public transportation, top tourist attractions, and many fabulous restaurants and cafes. Enjoy close views of the city's ports, magical palaces, and marketplaces. 

More information

Lemon Tree Premier

Deluxe

The Lemon Tree Premier is located in the vibrant heart of Delhi's Aerocity, close to Delhi's primary airport, local entertainment, and shopping districts. Surrounded by the bustling capital city, the hotel is conveniently accessible to the city's top attractions. 

More information

Dusit Princess

Deluxe

The Dusit Princess Hotel is nestled in the heart of Kathmandu, offering a tranquil escape with its traditional Nepalese architecture and lush garden surroundings. Guests can enjoy luxurious amenities, including a spa, outdoor swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. 

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

Reviews & Photos

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Travel visas are required for this package. Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about India? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Nepal? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.

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