13-Nights Mysteries of India - Explorations – Small Group from $3,499

Itinerary Details

Day 1 Overnight Flight
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
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. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Day 3 Delhi
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.(B, D)

Day 4 Delhi
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.(B, L)

Day 5 Delhi - Jaipur
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.(B, L)

Day 6 Jaipur
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.(B, D)

Day 7 Jaipur
Experience an Impact Moment as you explore the secrets hidden in the walled city of Jaipur on an eco-friendly e-rickshaw. With Pink City Rickshaw Company, which employs women from low-income households, you’ll get a peek into the soul of the old city as your driver steers the way. Continue your exploration of the beautiful city, 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.(B)

Day 8 Jaipur - Ranthambore National Park
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. This afternoon, you may also choose to join an optional hike up to the historic Ranthambore Fort for sweeping views of the park.(B, L, D)

Day 9 Ranthambore
Begin your day early and board a canter (open-air truck) to embark on your initial 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! Enjoy some leisure time to relax at the hotel and explore your surroundings at your own pace -OR- take a short trip for an Impact Moment at Dastkar Ranthambore, a social enterprise renowned for empowering 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.(B, L, D)

Day 10 Ranthambore - Agra
Today, we set out at the break of day 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.This evening you may choose to join an optional excursion by tuk-tuk to explore Itmad ud Daula and Mahtab Bagh, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the Taj Mahal.(B, L)

Day 11 Agra
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 an 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.(B, L)

Day 12 Agra - Khajuraho
Another adventure awaits! Start your morning with a train ride on the Vande Bharat Express from Agra 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.(B, L, D)

Day 13 Khajuraho - Varanasi
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 Ganges River 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.(B)

Day 14 Varanasi
Take advantage of a morning boat ride for an opportunity to see the sunrise on the Ganges River. 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.(B, D)

Day 15 Varanasi - Delhi - Tour Ends
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.(B)