Special Tours
Best of North India with Taj Group
Tour duration: 9 Nights / 10 Days
Places Covered: Delhi / Agra / Jaipur / Udaipur / Mumbai
Tour Destination: Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10
An ideal 10 day Indian holiday, combining the historically and culturally rich metropolitan cities of Delhi and Mumbai, with Agra, the home of the Taj Mahal, the pink city of Jaipur, and the Venice of the East, Udaipur.
The hotels used in this programme are a mix of modern Deluxe / First Class and Palace Hotels run by Taj Group of Hotels, an Indian chain, which has defined quality service and luxury in India. Two of the trips highlights, would be the Palace stays in Jaipur and Udaipur. In Udaipur, the trip gives you an opportunity, to stay at the magnificent Lake Palace,perhaps the most photographed and best known hotel in India. The chain has been selected with a view of enhancing your total experience of holidaying in India. Hotels on this trip are equipped with state of the art facilities - air-conditioning, swimming pool, multi-cuisine restaurants, Ayurvedic centers and of course en suite facilities.
Day 01 – Arrive Delhi
You will be met at the airport by Trans India Holidays representative and transferred to the hotel Taj Mahal and assisted with check in formalities.Delhi is the capital of India, and its third largest city. Delhi consists of two parts – New Delhi, the city created in 1911 as the imperial capital of India by the British and the Old Delhi, the Muslim capital of India between the 17th and 19th centuries. In fact there have been at least eight cities on the site of modern Delhi – the earliest known settlement, Indraprastha, featured in the epic Mahabharata over 3000 years ago. Though not always the capital, Delhi has always been an important city of northern region of the subcontinent.
Taj Mahal- One of the most distinguished addresses in the national capital, The Taj Mahal Hotel is located in the exclusive residential area of Lutyens’ Delhi, close to the seat of government. Reflecting the heritage of Mughal Delhi, this hotel offers graceful architecture with modern facilities.The warm, pristine white lobby of The Taj includes design details reminiscent of Mughal architecture such as intricate motifs, golden inlay work, and niches from ‘Shahjahanabad’, the erstwhile mogul capital. The hotel is a veritable showcase of artifacts with the intricate design work of the lobby’s domes and panels perfectly complimenting the calm marble fountain streams.The hotel is a city landmark, centrally located, in close proximity to key areas. It is a 40-minute drive from the airport and near the bustling city center, Connaught Place, Pragati Maidan, Government offices and Diplomatic missions.Overnight in Delhi
Day 02 – In Delhi
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:
Red Fort: Derived from a Hindi word Lal, which means red and Quila which means fort. It is laid out along the river Yamuna as an irregular octagon, surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 kms in circumference and is built of red sandstone. Shah Jahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. The fort has two main entrances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate, which faces the famed Chandni Chowk market. The fort has Diwan – e – Am (hall for public audience); Diwan – e – Khas (hall for private audience); Rang Mahal (a water-cooled apartment of royal ladies); Pearl mosque, built of white marble. Jama Masjid: In Old Delhi, an architectural extravaganza of Shah Jahan, is the country’s largest mosque where thousands of Muslims offers prayers even today. It was built in 1658. The flight of stairs and its large courtyard are marvels of architecture.
Chandni Chowk (Silver Street): It is the colourful main street and shopping bazaar of Old Delhi and is today one of the country’s best known wholesale market for textiles, electronic goods and watches. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan’s favourite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families of the time. Around the area is the famed Paranthawale Gali, known for its delicious paranthas, Dariba Kalan, the gold market and well-known sweetmeats shops.
Raj Ghat : On the banks of river Yamuna, a simple square platform of black marble marks the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated following his assassination in 1948. A commemorative ceremony takes place each Friday, the day he was killed.
Birla Mandir: Close to Connaught Place, it was built by the industrialist Raja Baldev Birla in 1938. The temple is an important prayer site and contains idols of several deities.
India Gate: This 42 meter high, free standing arch was built in 1931.It was originally called All India War Memorial in the memory of the 90,000 soldiers of the Indian Army who died in World War I. The names of the soldiers are inscribed all along the walls of the arch. In 1971, the eternal flame was lit here to honour the Amar Jawan (Immortal Soldier).Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House): It is the official residence of President of the country. Designed by Lutyens, it was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India.
Humayun’s Tomb: It was built by Haji Begum (widow of Humayun) in 1565 – 66, nine years after his death.
Qutub Minar: This magnificent structure in the southern part of the capital was built by the Muslim King; Qutab – ud – din Aibak in 1199 A.D. Minar (tower) is 72.5 meters high and has as its base a mosque.
Bahai’s Temple: It is a very recent architectural marvel of the Bahai faith and is visible from several spots in South Delhi. It is a lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name.
Overnight in Delhi
Day 03 – Drive Delhi – Agra (220 kms/04 hrs)
After early breakfast, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Agra.Agra, situated on the bank of Yamuna River, is home to India’s most famous landmark, the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of Mughal Empire in the 16th & 17th centuries and its superb monuments date from this era
On arrival in Agra, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities at hotel Taj Gateway.
Taj Gateway - Part of the Taj Group of Hotels, the Taj Gateway is a modern Hotel less than 2 kms from the Taj Mahal . Some of its rooms have excellent views of the Taj Mahal. Leisure facilities at the Taj Gateway include a swimming pool, fitness center as well as two restaurants and bars. Later in the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Taj Mahal and Agra Fort :
Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal was constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaj Mahal who died during the birth of her child in 1631. The construction is said to have taken 22 years to complete, starting from 1631, with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. Artisans and experts were brought from France and Italy and the main architect was from Iran. Agra Fort: Construction of the massive red sandstone Agra Fort on the bank of Yamuna River was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and it was to be predominantly a military structure until his grandson, Shah Jahan, added more palatial accommodations. There are a number of exquisite buildings within its portals such as Samman Burj, where Shah Jahan was held captive by his son, Moti Masjid, a white marble mosque, Diwan – e – Am, Diwan – e – Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.
Overnight in Agra
Day 04 – Drive Agra – Jaipur (250 kms/05 hrs)
After leisurely breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then start your drive to Jaipur. Stop enroute at Fatehpur Sikri for guided tour of this ancient capital.Fatehpur Sikri: the deserted capital of Emperor Akbar approximately 35 kms outside Agra. Built in the 16th century, this city was abandoned 12 years later due to a scarcity of water. The entire city of Red sand stone (sand stone palaces and temples) is virtually intact and a site worth seeing is the 54 m high main entrance - The Buland Darwaza, The gate of victory constructed to commemorate Akbar’s victory in Gujarat.
After the visit, continue your drive to Jaipur.
Jaipur - is the capital of Rajasthan, and known as the “Pink City” because of the pink colored buildings in its old city. It is situated on a dry lakebed in a somewhat arid landscape, surrounded by barren hills surmounted by forts and crenellated walls. Founded in 1727 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was careful to cultivate good favour with the ruling Mughals, he laid out the city with rectangular blocks according to ancient Hindu architecture. It is a wonderful city for shopping.
On arrival at Jaipur, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check in formalities at hotel Jai Mahal Palace.
Jai Mahal Palace - Set in several acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the Jai Mahal Palace was the residence of the former Prime Minister of the state of Jaipur. Now a Deluxe hotel, managed by the Taj Group, the hotel has recently been refurbished and upgraded. Almost all rooms offer breathtaking views of the Moghul gardens or the swimming pool. Excellent service and modern amenities make Jai Mahal Palace one of the finest hotels in Jaipur. Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 05 – In Jaipur
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur and Amber. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:Amber Fort: The Amber Fort is situated 11 kms away from Jaipur. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur state. The Fort is a superb example of Rajput architecture, stunningly situated on a hillside and overlooking a lake, which reflects its terraces and ramparts. The climb to the fort is on gaily-bedecked elephants.
Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds): Built by Maharaja Sawaj Pratap Singh in 1799, the Hawa Mahal is one of Jaipur’s major landmarks, the facade of which is all pink windows and filigree screens. It was originally built to enable ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and processions of the city. City Palace: It is still the home of the former royalty H.H Bhawani Singh Ji of Jaipur housing an extensive collection of art, carpets and old weapons.
Jantar Mantar (Observatory): It was built by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728. At first glance, Jantar Mantar appears to be a curious collection of sculptures but in fact each construction has a specific purpose such as measuring the positions of stars, altitudes and azimuths, and calculating eclipses. The most striking instrument is the sundial with its 27 meter high gnomon. The shadow this casts moves up to 4 meter an hour.
Overnight in Jaipur.
Day 06 – Fly Jaipur - Udaipur
After an early breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. Then you will be transferred to the airport in time to board flight for Udaipur.Udaipur - Udaipur, the famed 'city of sunrise', was founded in 1567 by Maharana Udai Singh, a fearless Rajput king. This languid lake city with its fantasies in marble, picturesque hibiscus-covered gardens and elaborate fountain pavilions, embodies the glory of the Rajput era. Like many other cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is the legacy of an honour-bound race that loved the good things in life - and often gave up their lives defending them.
You will be met at the Udaipur airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Taj Lake Palace and assisted with check in formalities.
Taj Lake Palace - located in the middle of Lake Pichola is a dream of white marble and mosaic glistening in the moonlight, very reminiscent of the most beautiful tourist cliché in the world; the Taj Mahal. Conceived in romance, the palace was built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, 62nd successor to the royal dynasty of Mewar – believed to be descendants of the Sun God. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Aravalli Mountains on one side of the lake, and lofty palaces on the other, the Taj Lake Palace spreads across a four-acre island – an almost surreal vision in marble. The Royal Butlers descendents of the original palace retainers look after all contemporary comforts and ensure that all guests are treated like Royalty.Spend rest of the day enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring the city on your own.
Overnight in Udaipur.
Day 07 – In Udaipur
After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:City Palace: The imposing City Palace, towering over the lake, is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum with a large and varied collection of glass, porcelain figures and miniature paintings.
Jagdish Temple: It is located only 150 mts from the city palace is the famous Jagdish Temple. This fine Indo-Aryan Temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 and enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu as Jagannath, Lord of the universe. A brass image of the Garuda is in a shrine in front of the temple.
Saheliyon ki bari: The Saheliyon ki bari or the garden of the Maids of Honour, is in the north of the city. It is a small ornamental garden with fountains, stone elephants and a delightful lotus pool.
Lake Pichola: Deriving its name from Pichali village, it is surrounded by hills, palaces, temples, bathing ghats and embankments. There are two island palaces, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. The former was the summer residence of princes of Mewar and has now been converted into a hotel. Jag Mandir is built of red sandstone with a marble dome. Enjoy an evening boat cruise on Lake Pichola - the shimmering waters of the Lake combined with the City Palace in the background, serve as a magical way to end your day in UdaipurOvernight in Udaipur.
Day 08- Fly Udaipur – Mumbai
After early breakfast at hotel, you will be met by our representative and assisted with check-out formalities. You will then be transferred to airport in time to board flight for Mumbai.Mumbai - Formerly known as Bombay, is the commercial capital of India. Known as the "city that never sleeps", Mumbai is a potpourri of cultures, customs and lifestyles. This is a city that thrives on commerce at every level during the day and lets its hair down unabashedly at night. Mumbai is also home to the largest film industry in the country. The city is dotted with a multitude of Victorian and Indian architectural landmarks that add to its charm.
You will be met at the Mumbai airport by our representative and transferred to the hotel Taj Mahal and assisted with check in formalities.
Taj Mahal - Built over a 100 years ago, the Taj Mahal hotel, is not only Mumbai's second most photographed building (the most photographed being the Gateway of India), but is also, Mumbai's finest hotel. The hotel today, consists of two wings, the low rise, old colonial part, being called the Palace Wing (currently closed for refurbishment), and the modern high rise building next to it, that is called the Tower Wing. Both wings offer panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, and have elegantly furnished rooms, with all amenities, that one would expect from a 5 star deluxe hotel. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool and spa and the Taj Mahal hotel is also home to 9 restaurants and bars.
Later in the afternoon, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken for a guided sightseeing tour of Mumbai. Tour includes visits to the following places of interest:
The Prince of Wales Museum: With its art, archeology & natural history sections, it is one of the best museums in the country
Victoria Terminus: One of the city's largest buildings with an elaborate Italian Gothic design, this terminus station of the Central Railway seldom slips out of travellers' eyes. The first train to steam out of this station, abbreviated as VT, to Thane was in 1853.
Gateway of India: A ceremonial arch built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary is located in this southernmost peninsula of the city. Constructed in honey-colored basalt, the design of the gateway was inspired by 16th century Gujarati Architecture. The changing light of the rising and setting sun gives varied hues of gold, russet and pink to the imposing arch. The Gateway holds historical significance as the last of the British troops leaving Independent India by sea, marched through its portals.Marine Drive: This sweeping Queen's Necklace, flickering with a thousand lights at night turns into the main thoroughfare linking Malabar Hill and the northern parts of the island to the southernmost points of Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Nariman Point and Fort.
Flora Fountain: It stands at a busy five-point intersection in the heart of the commercial Fort area. The beautifully sculptured fountain was erected in the memory of the Governor, Sir Henry Bartle Edward Frere, as a tribute for his contribution towards the building of Mumbai.
Malabar Hill: On the northern promontory of Back Bay is the expensive residential area of Malabar Hill, favoured for its cool breezes and fine views over Back Bay. The formal Hanging Gardens, known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, on top of the hill, Kamala Nehru Park, Parsi Towers of Silence and the temple of Walkeshwar, the Sand Lord, invite tourist attention here.
Overnight in Mumbai.
Day 09- in Mumbai
No activities are scheduled for this day. Spend rest of the day enjoying the hotel facilities or exploring the city on your own.Overnight in Mumbai.
Day 10: Depart Mumbai
Morning at leisure. Later in the day you are met by our representative at your hotel and assisted with checkout formalities, followed by transfer to airport in time for your flight home.| Category of Hotels | Deluxe |
| Valid from 01st June’11 to 30th Sept’11 | US$ 2052 per person |
| Valid from 01st Oct'11 to 15th April’12 | US$ 2834 per person |
| Domestic airfare | US$ 255 per person |
| Cities | Deluxe |
| Delhi | Taj Mahal |
| Agra | Taj Gateway |
| Jaipur | Jai Mahal Palace |
| Udaipur | Lake Palace |
| Mumbai | Taj Mahal Palace |
Small supplements may apply for travel between 27th October’2011 and 04th November’2011, 20th December’2011 and 05th January’2012 and during the month of February 2012.
Note: All the figures quoted above are net per person in US Dollars.
Our tour price includes:-
- Accommodation on twin sharing bed and breakfast basis, at the Deluxe hotels mentioned above.
- Land transportation exactly as per itinerary using an air-conditioned car.
- Sight-seeing tours exactly as per itinerary including entrance fee to monuments along with an English Speaking Guide.
