Intriguing India

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Day 2: Arrive in Delhi, India
Upon arrival to Indira Gandhi International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Take time to refresh and settle into your five-star accommodations, a luxury property that sets the standard for genuine hospitality and first-class comforts.
Overnight: The Imperial

Day 3: Old Delhi | New Delhi
After breakfast and a briefing with your Orbridge Travel Director, set out for an immersive day discovering the contrasting yet harmonious blend of Old and New Delhi.

Venture into the heart of Old Delhi through its bustling streets and colorful bazaars where centuries-old traditions come alive. Pass by the Red Fort—Delhi’s most iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Massive red sandstone walls enclose a complex of palaces, gardens, and a mosque. Across the road towering over Old Delhi with its tapering minarets and marble domes, stands Jama Masjid—the biggest and perhaps most well-known mosque in India.

Next experience renowned Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi’s main thoroughfare and oldest market—a sensory delight teeming with a myriad of goods, colors, fragrances and flavors. Absorb the spirit and energy of Old Delhi during an authentic experience with a rickshaw ride weaving through the lively chaos of the city.

After lunch on your own continue to New Delhi, a grand city featuring wide boulevards, manicured formal parks, and notable landmarks including Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the president and India Gate, a 138-foot-tall arch that bears the names of thousands of Indian soldiers who perished in conflicts such as World War I and the Third Afghan War. Admire the arched façade of Humayun’s Tomb built in the mid-16th century. This regal mausoleum is considered the architectural forerunner of the Taj Mahal.

Later meet with an art historian for an enriching discussion on Delhi’s history and culture.
Overnight: The Imperial (B,D)

Day 4: Delhi | Agra
After breakfast enjoy a leisurely approximate four-hour drive to Agra beside the Yamuna River. Check into your five-star hotel with time to unwind before this evening’s activity.

As daylight begins to fade depart for the Taj Mahal to witness a breathtaking sunset. Commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was declared the winner of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

The setting sun casts a warm glow against the Taj Mahal’s iconic ivory marble, and the monument’s delicate details come alive in a dance of shadows and light. This scene of unparalleled beauty envelops you in a tranquil ambiance while enhancing a feeling of reverence for this architectural masterpiece.
Overnight: Jaypee Palace (B,L,D)

Day 5: Agra
Begin today with another enchanting experience witnessing sunrise over the Taj Mahal.

Cooler temperatures and dew-kissed gardens invite dawn to emerge and the silhouette of the Taj Mahal quietly appears through the shadows. As the sun ascends, the entire monument seems to radiate with a spectacular luminosity creating a sublime moment of profound beauty, serenity and reflection.

After concluding this celestial performance return to the hotel for breakfast and an exciting day of discovery.

Delve into Mughal history at Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This colossal red sandstone fortress houses exquisite palaces, mosques and halls. Get a glimpse into the lifestyle of royalty and learn about the Mughal emperors who once resided here.

Next visit an artisan’s workshop that showcases the continuing tradition of handcrafted marble inlay, as seen at the Taj Mahal.

Afterward meet the passionate staff at Wildlife S.O.S., an organization dedicated to protecting Indian wildlife, conserving habitat, and creating alternate livelihoods for poachers and other communities depending on wildlife for sustenance. Known for their work rescuing the exploited “dancing bears” of India, Wildlife S.O.S. also helps leopards, elephants, reptiles and other creatures. Gain a better understanding of issues facing wildlife in India and witness the heartwarming care and knowledge of those committed to the rehabilitation of these animals.
Overnight: Jaypee Palace (B,L)

Day 6: Agra | Bharatpur
Following breakfast journey approximately two hours to Bharatpur. Check into your hotel before gathering for lunch.

This afternoon engage with locals during a village stroll.

Tonight experience the dramatic performance of Raas Leela, an indigenous form of Hindu dance theatre. Watch performers bring to life the mythology of the Hindu deity, Krishna.
Overnight: The Bagh (B,L,D)

Day 7: Bharatpur | Ranthambhore
After breakfast set out to explore Keoladeo National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and its bird sanctuary.

India’s wildlife is plentiful and varied. During a panoramic rickshaw ride, experience the ecologically diverse paradise of Keoladeo National Park which protects numerous resident and migratory birds. Spot for cormorant, heron, egret, bittern, stork, ibis, goose, eagle, crane, lapwing, sandpiper, jacana, dove, owl, kingfisher, swallow, shrike and many others. The park is also home to an estimated 13 species of snakes, five species of lizards, seven species of turtles, 50 species of fish, 25 species of butterflies and a wide range of mammals including striped hyena, jackal, fishing cat, wild boar, gerbil, bat and deer.

Continue to the bungalows of Ranthambhore Kothi your serene oasis for the next two evenings.
Overnight: Ranthambhore Kothi (B,L,D)

Day 8: Ranthambhore
Today’s activities include morning and afternoon game drives deep into the jungles of Ranthambhore National Park.

Once the royal Maharaja’s hunting grounds, the park is India’s premier tiger safari destination and home to abundant wildlife. Travel through this sanctuary of dry tropical forests, lakes, streams, rocky terrain, and grassy meadows for chances to spot animals such as sloth bear, caracal, deer, jackal, striped hyena, crocodile, desert fox, wild boar, hundreds of bird species, mongoose  and—fingers crossed—the elusive tiger. Relics of old temples and forts enhance this uniquely Indian environment.

Later this afternoon,visit Dastkar, a non-profit NGO established in 1981 that works to support traditional Indian craftspeople, many of them women, by promoting local art. Browse the works of these genuine artisans from nearby villages.
Overnight: Ranthambhore Kothi (B,L,D)

Day 9: Ranthambhore | Jaipur
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast and one final game drive through Ranthambhore.

After lunch journey approximately four hours to Jaipur. Known as the Pink City, Jaipur was carefully planned and arranged in a grid pattern of eight units around a central square. Its historic buildings were painted terra-cotta pink—a symbolic color of hospitality in honor of a visit by Prince Albert in 1876. A law passed in 1877 declared that any new buildings constructed must also bear this particular color.

Check into your five-star property and embrace leisure time before dinner to explore the stunning property. Wander through the meticulously landscaped gardens, take up a game of giant chess in the courtyard or take a dip in the pool.
Overnight: Jai Mahal Palace (B,L,D)

Day 10: Jaipur
Visit Jaipur’s most famous building, Hawa Mahal (the Palace of the Winds), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exhibiting a unique combination of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, this five-story pink sandstone palace sits amidst a busy street and market. The structure’s 900 windows resemble a giant honeycomb.

Next explore the majestic and massive Amer (or Amber) Fort, a fortress of sandstone and marble that boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was once the capital of the state of Jaipur. Behold the well-preserved monument’s intricate carvings and paintings, expansive courtyards, decorated temples and ornate halls. The Sheesh Mahal or Mirror Palace, is one of the fort’s most exciting attractions. Adorned with thousands of mirrored tiles and colored glasses on the walls and ceiling, the hall comes to life with reflections.
Overnight: Jai Mahal Palace (B)

Day 11: Jaipur
Today, visit the City Palace, a sprawling complex that combines Rajput, Mughal and European architectural influences. Its museum showcases a rich collection of royal artifacts, costumes and art. Near the inner courtyard is Pitam Niwas Chowk where four glorious gates represent the seasons—the Peacock Gate illustrates autumn, the Lotus Gate celebrates summer, the Green Gate depicts spring, and the Rose Gate portrays winter.

Adjacent to City Palace’s entrance is Jantar Mantar Observatory, begun by Jai Singh in 1728, Jai Singh’s passion for astronomy was even more notable than his warrior prowess. Before construction commenced Singh sent scholars abroad to study foreign examples of such structures. The Jaipur observatory is the largest and the best-preserved of the five Singh built. See what has captivated the attention of architects and art historians worldwide at this site packed full of interesting instruments.

Hundreds of years ago when Jaipur was founded its prince incentivized jewelers to move to the city. Today Jaipur is known as the “gem capital of the world” and employs a large number of designers and manufacturers. Visit an artisan’s workshop to learn how gems from all over the world are crafted into jewelry.

Later walk through the bazaar to explore vendor booths featuring jewelry, textiles and crafts, foods and spices.

Conclude this fulfilling day with a traditional puppet show in the gardens of the Jai Mahal Palace.
Overnight Jai Mahal Palace (B,L)

Day 12: Jaipur | Flight to Udaipur
This morning, take a short flight to Udaipur, a beautiful city set amidst the Aravalli Range of Rajasthan. Known as the “City of Lakes” and often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Udaipur offers a distinctive romantic and serene character (by India standards). Ancient narrow streets lined with kaleidoscopic shops, fanciful palaces, temples, and ornately decorated residences add to the city’s beauty and reflect a remarkable past.

This afternoon embark on a boat ride to cruise Lake Pichola, one of the oldest and largest lakes in Udaipur.
Overnight: Taj Lake Palace (B,L)

Day 13: Udaipur
Following breakfast discover the majestic City Palace, located in the heart of Udaipur overlooking Lake Pichola. Constructed of granite and marble, and surrounded by crenelated fort walls, it’s the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Almost all the palace rooms are adorned with beautiful paintings, inlay glass work, antique furniture and colorful enamel. The Krishna Vilas has a remarkable collection of miniature paintings depicting the royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. Mor Chowk has unique glass mosaics of peacocks set in the walls.

In the evening gather with fellow travel companions for a lovely farewell dinner to celebrate your time exploring India.
Overnight: Taj Lake Palace (B,L,D)

Day 14: Udaipur | Flight to Delhi | Depart for U.S.
After a leisurely breakfast take advantage of the property’s amenities, perhaps join an optional yoga session or venture into Udaipur for last-minute shopping.

Later, transfer to the airport for the connecting flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, head to the hotel and unwind in the available day room before the flight home. Alternatively, you may extend your stay through this evening and depart tomorrow morning.
Day Room: Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Airport (B,D)

Day 15: En Route to U.S. | Depart for U.S.
For guests who stayed overnight, enjoy breakfast before transfering to the airport for flights home. (B)