18 Day Idyllic India
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Good quality properties chosen for their modern facilities and amenities, typically ideally located, offering easy access to the city centre.
Hotel stars are based on local ratings provided and the expected standard may differ depending on the destination. Hotels listed within the itinerary are indicative of the typical hotel we intend to use for that package but is subject to change.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All internal airfares
✓ All airport transfers
✓ 16 nights in charming and comfortable 4-star accommodation, with one night in a heritage hotel
✓ Daily breakfast
✓ Fully escorted English speaking tour guide (Local guides if the group size is under 10 people)
✓ Incredible sightseeing with entry fees included – see the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal at sunrise, majestic palaces and impressive forts like the UNESCO World Heritage site Jaisalmer Fort, and witness an Aarti ceremony
✓ Comfortable, dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to India! Today begins your tour through this incredible country. Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport you will be warmly greeted by one of our representatives who will then assist by transferring you to your hotel. Get a good night’s sleep to start your tour tomorrow well rested.
PLEASE NOTE: Some flights may depart the day before.
Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotels discretion.
After breakfast we’ll have a group briefing from our tour guide, who will outline the incredible itinerary that awaits over the coming days. Following the briefing we will depart Delhi and begin our drive to the town of Mandawa. Here, we'll be staying at the stunning Desert Resort – a colourful oasis set amid the stark desert landscape. The architecture is typical of a Rajasthani village and captures the mystery and romance of the surrounding desert. After checking in take the rest of the evening to relax and enjoy the charm and luxury of this boutique resort.
This morning, spend some time exploring this amazing town, which is often referred to as an outdoor museum. Mandawa is famous for its ornate havelis (townhouses, or mansions). You’ll notice that some are faithfully restored, and others are crumbling. The havelis of this particular part of India are recognised around the country for their lavishly painted walls and artwork.
This afternoon we depart Mandawa and head to the town of Gajner, where we will stay at the sparkling red jewel that is the Gaj Kesri Hotel. This small but elegant hotel houses a beautiful collection of art and handicrafts and does an incredible job of fusing the modern with the traditional. After check-in, spend the rest of the day at leisure.
This morning, after breakfast, we will visit one of the most impressive fort complexes in India: Junagarh. Junagarh Fort was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1588 CE. Junagarh is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan that is not built on a hilltop. One of the most impressive structures in the fort complex is the Anup Mahal, or Privy Council Room – this elaborately decorated space features walls covered in brilliant red and gold with coloured glass inlay.
In the afternoon we will depart Gajner and transfer to Jaisalmer, where we will check in to the luxurious Gorbandh Palace. The city of Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading center that lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the 'Golden City', Jaisalmer is famous for its yellow sandstone architecture.
Experience the romance and mystery of the desert as the sun sets over the golden sand, enchanted by the melodies of the desert musicians. Traditional folk artists like the langaas and kalbeliyas will mesmerise you to a melody of music and dance. Relax on commodious Indian style beds named “charpais” (jute beds). Enjoy a delectable array of barbecued items as you dine under the stars.
Starts: approx: Between 4:30pm-5:00pm
Duration: approx: 4 hours
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
This morning we will explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort. The fort's towering honey-coloured sandstone walls are the perfect camouflage, allowing it to blend in perfectly with the golden hues of the desert and thus avoid attack. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jaisalmer Fort was built in the 12th century, and is believed to be the very last 'living fort' in the country – nearly one fourth of the old city's population still resides within the fort's walls. The rest of the day is yours to use as you please: explore the city on your own or participate in an optional tour to enhance your experience.
This morning we will depart Jaisalmer and drive to Jodhpur, otherwise known as the 'Blue City', or the Gateway to Thar, due to its position right on the edge of the eponymous desert. Here, we will be staying at the gorgeous Indana Palace Hotel, whose brilliant architecture echoes the royal Marwar heritage, with exquisite columns; intricate latticed screen work, known as jaali; arches and domes and wide-open courtyards. You’ll feel as though you are staying in your own private palace. Once we reach Jodhpur, the second largest city in the state of Rajasthan, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure.
Before departing Jodhpur we'll take a guided tour of the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, built in the 15th century. Situated on a high rocky outcrop that overlooks the walled city, from here you can see the iconic azure shade that the city's buildings have been painted. Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India and is still run by the Jodhpur royal family. Within its thick, sturdy walls lie numerous palaces and courtyards, as well as an 18th-century Rajput garden.
In the afternoon we will begin our drive to the beautiful city of Udaipur. Set around a series of stunning artificial lakes, Udaipur is known as the 'City of Lakes' and is also recognised for its lavish royal residences.
Enjoy a cooling boat ride on Lake Pichola to get an uninterrupted view of Udaipur’s lakeside splendour.
Starts: approx: Between 4:00pm-5:00pm
Duration: approx: 1 hour
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
Today, we will visit the awe-inspiring City Palace. Well known as one of the biggest palaces in Rajasthan, the palace is a grand building set on the banks of Pichola Lake. Though construction began in the late 1500s, under the orders of Maharana Udai Singh II, the palace was added to and tinkered with for a further 400 years, as his successors came and went. Today this monumental complex consists of 11 palaces surrounded by courtyards, balconies, towers and gardens, and is famed for its intricate peacock mosaics. After our tour here, you may spend the rest of the day at leisure, or participate in an optional tour to enhance your experience.
Explore the ‘City of lakes’ on a short countryside loop on a bike, swerving to untreaded nooks and corners through the beautiful rural countryside and absorbing this historic capital of Mewar at your own pace. A colourful landscape unfolds here with brightly clothed village women. Here you can see a typical hamlet of Rajasthan with people busy with farming. We get to discover kingfisher, langoors, cows, goats, peacocks along the way and a chance to take a refreshing ride around Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar and Badi Lake.
Enjoy a free morning relaxing or exploring on your own as you please, or participate in an optional tour to enhance your experience. In the afternoon we will be transfer by bus to the city of Jaipur, the capital of the state of Rajasthan.
This morning, after breakfast, we will visit the ancient capital of Amber (sometimes called Amer) to see the fabulous Amber Fort. We’ll transfer from the hotel to the parking area at the foot of the Amber Fort, where we'll board Jeeps that will take us up the hill to the entrance gate. The fort’s majestic appearance and its advantageous location, looking out over the surrounding area, make it a very special place to visit. Made from red sandstone and white marble, this beautiful hill fort has its foundations in the 17th century. Following our guided tour, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure: wander the city on your own, exploring its colourful bazaars, or participate in an optional tour to enhance your experience.
Our city tour will begin at the magnificent City Palace, now converted into a museum, except for a small portion that is still used by the royal family of Jaipur. Built in the fortified campus style, the palace covers an area equal to almost one-seventh of the city. Here we will tour the beautiful Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal Palaces within, as well as the intricately decorated Peacock Gate. Following this we will visit the Jantar Mantar monument and observatory, constructed between 1727 and 1734 by Maharajah Jai Singh II of Jaipur and one of the five observatories in India. Jantar Mantar is home to a ancient collection of nineteen architectural astronomical instruments and features the world’s largest stone sundial. It has also been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Starts: approx: Between 2:30pm-3:00pm
Duration: approx: 2 ½ hours
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
Upon arrival in Varanasi you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your hotel. After checking in enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
This evening we will make a very special visit to the local ghats – steps that lead down to the River Ganges – to witness an Aarti ceremony. Taking its name from the Sanskrit word for homage and devotion, this religious ritual takes place every evening on the banks of the river. During the ceremony, small candle-lit lamps decorated with flowers are floated down the river as an offering to the Goddess Ganga, accompanied by a chorus of chanting hymns, drums and temple bells.
We’ll start early today with an invigorating sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where you can watch the light gradually illuminate the many ghats and temples along the river as you pass.
Later this morning we’ll take a trip to nearby Sarnath, one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and it features a number of intriguing stupas and museums to explore. Alternatively, the day can be spent exploring the laneways and alleys behind the ghats, or picking up some examples of the excellent local silk industry.
In the afternoon we’ll enjoy a lovely walking tour of the old city, through narrow laneways packed with stalls and shops, past dhobi-wallahs (open-air laundry washermen), burning ghats, and the endless temples that echo with bells and the pungent aroma of incense. And as your first day in this sacred city comes to an end, we’ll witness pilgrims performing ancient bathing rituals and ceremonies.
Today we depart Varanasi by private vehicle to Lucknow, a large city in northern India, and the capital of the state of Uttar Pradesh. Upon arrival in Lucknow we will check in at the hotel and then spend the rest of the day at leisure. Alternatively, you may choose to participate in an optional tour to enhance your experience.
This fantastic food tour allows you to hop in and out of traditional roadside eateries giving you an opportunity to try a variety of different kinds of delicious local foods. Experience the best of the best in traditional restaurants, where the recipes were not only invented but actually perfected, without having to worry about how to eat without a fork or to wipe your hands clean after you are done.
This morning we will be visiting the mosque complex of Bara Imambara. The Bara Imambara was built in 1784 by Asaf-ud-Daula, the fourth Nawab (or 'ruler') of the state of Awadh. Created as part of a famine relief program, the complex marks one of the earlier attempts in Lucknow to imitate the architecture and design style of the Mughals; it is one of the few buildings in Lucknow completely devoid of European elements.
The Complex contains a mosque, several courtyards and gateways, and a grand bawali or 'stepwell' that was once used as a summer palace. In the afternoon we will be departing Lucknow for the city of Agra via the expressway. Upon arrival in Agra in the evening we will jump on a 'Chaat Crawl' through the city. Chaat are savoury snacks (like fried potatoes or samosa broken into pieces and served with chutney) typically served roadside from stalls or carts – the Indian equivalent to fast food. Chaat have become immensely popular throughout India and the Indian subcontinent, though Uttar Pradesh, where the tradition originated, is still be believed to serve up the country's best.
Very early this morning we will enjoy a special treat – a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. This monument to love is a spectacle to behold at any time of day, but it takes on a whole new life when bathed in the early morning light. Taking 22 years and 20,000 men to build, the white marble was quarried in from a site more than 300 kilometres away and transported by a fleet of 1,000 elephants.
Following our visit to this landmark enjoy some leisure time until the afternoon, when we depart Agra for Delhi. Once we check into our hotel in Delhi the rest of the day is yours to spend as you like.
The highlight for today is a magnificent city sightseeing tour of Old Delhi, an area that dates back to the 1600s. Our tour begins at the Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques, which stands across the road from the historic Red Fort. This glorious mosque was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who also commissioned the Taj Mahal. Built with red sandstone and white marble, Jama Masjid can accomodate up to 25,000 worshippers.
Next, we will experience an exhilarating cycle rickshaw ride in the busy market area of Chandni Chowk. Within the market's narrow lanes the traditional workmanship for which Delhi is famous is still very much alive. Originating from the times of the Mughal Empire, it is said that the the descendants of royal chefs still work in the market.
Later, we will visit the Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, a magnificent place of worship where we will learn about the history of the Sikh religion. Enroute back to our hotel we will stop at the India Gate, a war memorial dedicated to the Indian soldiers who died during WWI, as well as Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official home of the country's president. You may spend this evening seeking out some of the city’s fantastic local cuisine or participate in an optional tour.
Skip the celebrity chefs and head straight to the source of authentic Indian cooking secrets on this Delhi tour that delves into the heartland of Indian cuisine - a local’s home! It’s not just a meal, but a dining experience in a family home, where you’ll learn about local culture, taste, incredible food, and make new friends. The food you’ll dine on a traditional Indian home-cooked meal, which will be predominantly vegetarian and sure to tantalise our taste buds like no other.
Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through India. Enjoy free time at the hotel before your transfer to Delhi International Airport where you will board your flight home or towards your onward destination. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring experience.
Arrive home today.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Full-service airline used will be Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Sri Lankan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Air India, Emirates Airlines or similar.
Flights are not direct and include a maximum of two connections
If you would like to travel with a preferred airline, please ensure you mention this in the special request field. Please note that appropriate fare and tax difference will be applicable in order to confirm your request.
Adelaide customers will likely require two stops in either direction
All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees
Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required
Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $700 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers are also no longer included. If you would like us to arrange this service for you, please refer to the ‘Extra services’ section for pricing.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on-tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “4”:
4 – Active Tour: A very good level of fitness and mobility is required for you to enjoy all aspects of the itinerary, as this is considered a fast-paced tour. While there is some free time scheduled either in the morning or afternoon, there are many full days of sightseeing with minimal rest and some early starts. You will be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. We recommend AUD$3 per person, per day, to be paid in local currency. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend AUD$6-10 per person per day for your guide and AUD$3-5 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Any other tipping, such as tips for camera and video fees, bathroom attendants or hotel porters that are taking luggage to your room, is at your discretion as are gratuities for additional requested special services. We encourage passengers to have a supply of small denominations of local currency to distribute for personal tipping.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
A single supplement of $1,199 a person is payable in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple-Share
Available. If you wish to purchase triple-share please phone 1300 886 688. The third person will also be charged the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa and Passport Information
It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from your intended date of return.
An e-visa is required for entry into India. You will be able to obtain your E-visa when you have your tour documents indicating your date of entry into India, approximately 30 days prior to departure.
Please note, the ETA is limited to 60 days validity from the date of arrival.
You can visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration to purchase your visa online. The cost is US$80 per person. We can assist you over the phone as best as possible, however cannot submit the application on your behalf.
Please note that the information provided is subject to change at any time. For the most up-to-date information, we recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
4 - 10 pax - Local guides only
11 - 30 pax - Fully Escorted
Trip Style - Group Tour
Our Group Tours offer unparalleled value for money and are the perfect style of travel for those on a budget, though still eager to pack as much in to their itinerary as possible. These tours tick all the boxes with an abundance of inclusions such as sightseeing highlights, expert tour guides, quality accommodation, transfers, coach transportation, some meals and more. Please note that the maximum group size will vary between deals and will be mentioned within the Fine Print of each deal page.
Children
Children must be five years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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