DAY 1

Delhi, a Rich Melting Pot of Old and New.
Your complimentary, private transfer takes you to your local departure airport. Welcome to India! On arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be greeted with a traditional floral garland and transferred to your hotel. At 19:00, join your Travelling Concierge and fellow travellers for your Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: Trident, Gurgaon, Delhi.
Meal: Dinner with Wine

DAY 2

Delhi Sightseeing.
Enjoy a ride by rickshaw through the lanes of Chandni Chowk bazaar in Old Delhi. Visit Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Red Fort. Visit the Gandhi memorial at Raj Ghat and the Jama Masjid, India’s largest mosque. Travel along the broad Rajpath, passing the India Gate and Parliament House, to visit the Tomb of Humayun.
Hotel: Trident, Gurgaon, Delhi.
Meal: Breakfast

DAY 3

Agra and the views of the Taj Mahal.
Spend time exploring the famous market, Sadar Bazaar, as you make your way through the city to Agra Fort, a powerful fortress of red sandstone. After your tour through the palatial Royal Pavilions and gardens there is free time to relax. Walk through a village in the shadow of the Taj Mahal with one of the villagers to discover the way of life as an agriculturist next to India’s most famous monument.
Hotel: Jaypee Palace Hotel Agra.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner

DAY 4

Sunrise at the Taj and Jaipur, the Pink City.
At sunrise, visit the lustrous Taj Mahal, a monument of love and flawless architectural creation, built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen. After breakfast, travel to the historic city of Bharatpur for lunch, before continuing to the Pink City of Jaipur.
Hotel: Le Méridien Jaipur.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

DAY 5

Jaipur Sightseeing.
Ascend by jeep to the Amber Fort, with its royal halls decorated with intricate ivory, mirrors, glass and exquisite paintings. Return to Jaipur to see the Hawa Mahal, or The Palace of Winds, and visit the City Palace Museum and royal observatory. In private elegance at Sukh Niwas, Jaipur’s City Palace, enjoy a high tea fit for royalty. Renowned for its spectacular Lalique Peacock table made to order for the Royal Family of Jaipur, this VIP experience is exclusively available to Luxury Gold guests.
Hotel: Le Méridien Jaipur.
Meal: Breakfast,Afternoon Tea

DAY 6

Bikaner, Camel Country with a Royal Aura.
Journey northwest to the fort town of Mandawa for lunch. Afterwards, continue to the fortified desert city of Bikaner, known for its camel festival which is celebrated on a grand scale every January. Learn all about this indispensable part of the desert at the Camel Research Farm before reaching your hotel.
Hotel: The Laxmi Niwas Palace, Bikaner.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

DAY 7

The Sun City, Jaisalmer.
Your exploration of Bikaner includes the Junagarh Fort, an unassailable fortress comprising of various palaces, pavilions and a museum containing priceless art and antiques. This afternoon continue through the Great Thar Desert to the trade route town of Jaisalmer, crowned by its hilltop fortress.
Hotel: Suryagarh, Jaisalmer.
Meal: Breakfast

DAY 8

Jaisalmer Sightseeing.
Embark on a city exploration of Jaisalmer, visiting Gadisar Lake and the Fort, built in 1156, that is still in use today. Pass by the local market where you can witness desert life at its best. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. No visit to Jaisalmer is complete without a trip to the rippling Kanoi Sand Dunes. Savour a dinner accompanied by the gentle melodies of a local musician.
Hotel: Suryagarh, Jaisalmer.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner with Wine

DAY 9

The Blue City of Jodhpur.
Follow the ancient silk routes to the Blue City of Jodhpur and your beautiful hotel. Later, journey to Rohet and feel the very pulse of rural Rajasthan on your village jeep safari where you are welcomed into the homes of the local Bishnoi community to share a slice of their life. In the evening savour a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
Hotel: WelcomHotel Jodhpur.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner

DAY 10

Explore Mehrangarh Fort.
Visit Mehrangarh Fort set on a cliff 30 metres above the city skyline and the white marble Jaswant Thada. Experience a tuk tuk ride through the ancient winding streets before returning to your hotel, where the rest of the day is free to relax.
Hotel: WelcomHotel Jodhpur.
Meal: Breakfast

DAY 11

Udaipur, Venice of the East.
Travel to Ranakpur, the temple town of Rajasthan. Explore the elaborate carvings and classic architecture of the sprawling Jain temples, which are regarded as perhaps the best in the country. At lunch, you will learn from a local chef during your included cooking demonstration. Then, continue through the undulating countryside to Udaipur, the beautiful City of Lakes.
Hotel: The Leela Palace Udaipur.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch

DAY 12

Udaipur Sightseeing.
Explore the City Palace complex and wander through the markets and bazaars to visit the Jagdish Temple, as well as the Garden of the Maids of the Honour. Take time out to unwind and find balance at your hotel’s renowned wellness spa, which offers ancient treatments such as reflexology, Indian head massages and hot-stone massages. Cruise the serene waters of Lake Pichola, before enjoying a special Highlight Dinner at the landmark Sunset Terrace while musicians serenade you.
Hotel: The Leela Palace Udaipur.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner with Wine

DAY 13

Fly to Kochi via Mumbai.
In the morning, board your flight to Mumbai and onto Kochi. On arrival, transfer to your sophisticated hotel which offers panoramic views of the backwaters and the city.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza Kochi.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner

DAY 14

Kochi sightseeing, cooking school and Kathakali.
Sightseeing of Kochi shows you the oldest Jewish synagogue in the commonwealth. Next, witness the renowned mythological murals of Mattancherry Palace, built in 1557 by the Portuguese. Stop by India’s oldest European-built Church of St. Francis to see the tombstone of Vasco de Gama, interred here before his remains were returned back to Lisbon. Meet Nimmy, a local cookery instructor as she demonstrates traditional Kerala home recipes. Then feast on some of the delicious treats during our included lunch. In the evening, you will attend a performance of traditional Kathakali dance.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza Kochi.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch

DAY 15

Kumarakom.
Witness glorious scenery en route to Kumarakom. On arrival, the rest of the day is free to explore at your leisure.
Hotel: Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Meal: Breakfast

DAY 16

Kumarakom and Vaikom Village.
For those who want to rise early in the morning, there is an included bird watching tour at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Set within lush acres of woodland, become acquainted with the vast variety of migratory birds that flock to the Himalayas. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Guided by boat, explore the narrow canals of Vaikom village, one of the oldest townships in Kerala and with many spots untouched by modernity. Gain insight into the life at the village and try your skills at weaving from wild pineapple leaves or coconut husks, before sharing lunch at a local’s home.
Hotel: Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch

DAY 17

Kumarakom and the Alleppey Backwaters.
Transfer to the local jetty and prepare for a full day of cruising along the the tranquil backwaters of the Alleppey. Journey through waterways that drift past picturesque villages, fields, rice paddies and rows of swaying coconut palms. Relax and take in the tranquil setting as you enjoy lunch onboard, before returning to your hotel.
Hotel: Kumarakom Lake Resort.
Meal: Breakfast,Lunch

DAY 18

Magical Mumbai.
Journey to Kochi for your flight to the vibrant city of Mumbai. Transfer to your hotel for time at leisure. Perhaps relax and enjoy the comforts of your deluxe hotel.
Hotel: Trident, Nariman Point (Ocean View Room), Mumbai.
Meal: Breakfast

DAY 19

Mumbai Sightseeing.
Enjoy the view of the city skyline on your cruise to Elephanta Island, the glorious abode of Lord Shiva. Visit the complex of ancient cave temples listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The massive entrance hall, supported by large pillars, houses the Mahesamurti, an enormous three-faced statue of Shiva. In the afternoon, your exploration of the city includes visiting the Gateway of India, commemorating the arrival of King George V and Queen Mary in 1911. Admire the collection of Indian paintings and sculptures at the Prince of Wales Museum, visit Jehangir Art Gallery, Crawford Market and see the meticulous Hanging Gardens on top of Malabar Hill. In the evening, raise a glass to your adventures, with your newfound friends during a delightful Celebration Dinner.
Hotel: Trident, Nariman Point (Ocean View Room), Mumbai.
Meal: Breakfast,Dinner with Wine

DAY 20

Depart Mumbai.
Your magical journey comes to an end with transfers to Mumbai airport for your onward flights. On arrival at your home airport, your driver will greet and escort you to your waiting car for your private transfer home.
Meal: Breakfast

Exceptional Dining

• Delhi: Get to know your travelling companions during your delightful Welcome Dinner.
• Jaisalmer: As the sun sets over the Kanoi Sand Dunes, be entranced by the traditional musicians welcoming you to this magical evening. Under the stars, a traditional feast is prepared for you in a truly unique environment.
• Ranakpur: Learn the kitchen secrets of the chef of one of Ranakpur’s finest hotels in our cooking demonstration of local specialities and lunch.
• Udaipur: Showcasing the best of Indian cuisine, your delicious Celebration Dinner is set in the perfect environment to toast your time in India.
• Kochi: Meet Nimmy, a local cooking instructor, who will demonstrate traditional Kerala home recipes. Then feast on some of the delicious treats you’ve seen being made during your Highlight Lunch.
• Vaikom Village: Gain insight into life at the village and try your hand at weaving with wild pineapple leaves or coconut husks, before sharing lunch at a local’s home.
• Mumbai: Showcasing the best of Indian cuisine, enjoy your mouth-watering Celebration Dinner in the nation’s largest city, the perfect environment to celebrate your time in India.
• Dining Summary: 19 Breakfasts (B), 6 Lunches (L), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT), 5 Dinners (D) and 4 Dinners with Wine (DW). Festive Highlight Dinner: 16 Dec departure includes a Christmas Eve Highlight Dinner in Jodhpur.

Journey Highlights

• Indian Festivals: Truly experience India by travelling during one of its famed festivals. Holi is the festival of colour, symbolising the end of winter and encourages the people to play, laugh, forgive and forget. Diwali is the festival of light celebrated by lighting oil lamps and fireworks to welcome in the Hindu New Year. Refer to dates and date chart notes to find out which departures travel during these wonderful, cultural experiences.
• Delhi: Enjoy a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Old Delhi.
• Delhi: See the Red Fort and visit Qutub Minar. Drive along the Rajpath to view the India Gate and Parliament House.
• Delhi: Visit Raj Ghat and the Tomb of the Emperor Humayun.
• Agra: Take a walk through the local markets and enjoy the colours and craftsmanship of the local sellers.
• Agra: Visit the majestic Taj Mahal, bathed in the first rays of dawn, and learn about this romantic national icon.
• Jaipur: Ascend by jeep to stroll through the sprawling complex of courtyards and halls of Amber Fort. Enjoy the shimmering mirrored walls and ceilings, the airy rooms that housed queens and concubines, and the wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Jaipur: Join your Travelling Concierge who will show you the marvel of Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds.
• Jaipur: Visit the City Palace Museum that houses traditional Rajasthani and Mughal Art as well as the royal observatory, built in 1726.
• Bikaner: Learn about all things dromedary at the Camel Research and Breeding Farm.
• Bikaner: Enjoy a visit to the Junagarh Fort.
• Jaisalmer: Visit Garhi Sagar Lake and Fort.
• Jaisalmer: Visit the local markets and experience desert life.
• Bishnoi: Take a jeep safari and experience rural village life as you are welcomed by the local community.
• Jodhpur: Visit Mehrangarh Fort.
• Jodhpur: Take a tuk tuk ride through the ancient streets and take in the sights and sounds of Sadar Market.
• Ranakpur: Visit the fortified Jain temple complex.
• Udaipur: Visit the City Palace complex, a testimony to the Rajput passion for art and architecture.
• Udaipur: Visit the Jagdish Temple and Garden of the Maids of Honour.
• Fly to Kochi: See the countryside as you fly south via Mumbai to reach Kochi.
• Kochi: Attend a performance of traditional Kathakali dance.
• Kochi: During your city orientation see the oldest Jewish Synagogue in the Commonwealth and the murals of Mattancherry Palace.
• Kumarakom: Rise early for a fascinating bird watching experience at the Bird Sanctuary.
• Vaikom Village: Guided by boat, explore the narrow canals of one of the oldest townships in Kerala and with many spots untouched by modernity.
• Alleppey: Cruise the backwaters of Alleppey, journeying through waterways and past traditional villages.
• Fly to Mumbai: Relax and enjoy your flight to Mumbai.
• Mumbai: Take a cruise to Elephanta Island and enjoy the scenery.
• Mumbai: Explore the glorious abode of Lord Shiva and visit the complex of ancient cave temples.

Luxury Hotels

• Delhi: Set in the heart of bustling Gurgaon, the beautiful gardens, courtyards and reflection pools of the Trident fill you with a sense of calm, before retreating to your luxurious and stylish room.
• Jaisalmer: Situated close to the Thar Desert, the magnificent Suryagarh is testimony to the pomp and panoply of Rajputana, juxtaposed with every modern convenience.
• Udaipur: Offering stunning views of Lake Pichola and a luxury wellness spa, the five-star Leela Palace Udaipur was rated the #1 hotel on TripAdvisor in 2018.
• Kumarakom: Winner of the World Travel Award as India’s Leading Resort for four years, the Kumarakom Lake Resort exudes the charm of Kerala’s true heritage while offering a complete range of New Age amenities for a luxuriously comfortable stay.

VIP Experiences

• Agra: Walk through a village in the shadow of the Taj Mahal with one of the villagers to discover the way of life as agriculturists next to India’s most famous monument. Enjoy tea and pakoras on a rooftop with exceptional views. Money generated from the tour is used for sanitation in the village and education for women.
• Jaipur: In private elegance at Sukh Niwas, Jaipur’s City Palace, enjoy a High Tea fit for royalty. Renowned for its spectacular Lalique Peacock table made to order for the Royal Family of Jaipur, this VIP experience is only available to Luxury Gold guests.

Inclusive Luxury Gold Services

• You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas. See booking conditions for exemptions.
• Luxury Gold is proud to offer various modes of transportation, from luxury coach to included flight to safari jeep and more, so that you always travel in comfort and experience your journey and destination in the best possible and most appropriate way.
• Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert’s fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
• At every hotel, you’ll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
• Hotel and restaurant tips are included – you’ll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
• Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
• From time to time, your Travelling Concierge will enchant you with a Luxury Gold Flourish, which is a local speciality representing the destination.
• Complimentary, private airport transfers are included on start and end dates, when flights are included within the itinerary and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.