Heritage circuit, Taj Mahal and Amritsar

India, discover this 12-day trip

Ville Nature Culture Gastronomie Historique

Trip Description

A journey through the fascinating cities of Northern India promises a memorable and diverse experience. It all begins in Delhi, the capital, where one encounters the contrast between the old and the new, with historic monuments like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar, along with lively markets and delicious cuisine. Next, Mandawa unfolds with its richly decorated havelis, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan's traditional architecture. Jaipur, the "Pink City," dazzles with its palaces, forts, and picturesque bazaars, while Suroth provides an authentic immersion into Rajasthani culture. Fatehpur Sikri, an ancient imperial city, enchants with its grand Mughal architecture, followed by the majestic Agra, where the Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of art history, leaves travelers in awe. Finally, Amritsar in Punjab stands out with the Golden Temple, Harmandir Sahib, an iconic Sikh pilgrimage site. This journey takes you through a variety of landscapes, cultures, and traditions, offering a comprehensive view of Northern India, its heritage, and its diversity.

Accomodation

No accomodation information available

Stay program

day 1:
Arrival in Delhi
You will be greeted upon arrival at New Delhi International Airport, followed by a transfer to your hotel. (The day’s itinerary will be organized based on your arrival time).
day 2:
Delhi - Mandawa
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Mandawa, a region renowned for its beautiful havelis, houses adorned with exquisite wall frescoes. Upon arrival in Mandawa, check into the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
day 3:
Mandawa - Jaipur
Explore the havelis, magnificent old merchant mansions. Post-lunch continue your journey to Jaipur, known as the Pink City and the capital of Rajasthan due to the traditional pink color of its buildings. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check into the hotel. Enjoy an evening with a Bollywood cinema show. Overnight in Jaipur.
day 4:
Jaipur
Begin the day with a visit to the fort, which you can reach on foot or by jeep. Along the way, you may encounter the region’s famous painted elephants. Then, visit the palace, known for its mirror-adorned halls and former harem, a true labyrinth! Afterward, explore Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, visiting the City Palace, the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), and the Birla Temple to witness the daily Hindu prayers and religious chants. Jaipur’s craftsmanship holds many surprises, from stencil-painted textiles to precious gemstone jewelry. In the evening, take an electric rickshaw ride to discover the city. Overnight in Jaipur.
day 5:
Jaipur - Suroth
Continue your journey to Suroth, a charming fortified village off the usual tourist circuits. This typical countryside fortress, founded over 800 years ago by Raja Baldev Singh, is surrounded by red sandstone walls. The current ruling family claims descent from the royal family of Jaipur. Experience an unforgettable immersion in this typical Rajasthani village and stay in the Rajah’s palace! Upon arrival at the hotel, you will receive a traditional welcome. After lunch, enjoy a camel-cart ride and walk around this old, authentic Rajasthani village, exploring various local artisan shops. Later, return to the hotel through the local market (Haat Bazaar) and attend an Indian cooking demonstration. Overnight at the hotel.
day 6:
Suroth - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra
Head towards Agra, stopping en route to explore Fatehpur Sikri, an ancient imperial capital frozen in time. Lunch and then continue to Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Check into the hotel. Overnight in Agra.
day 7:
Agra
Visit the Taj Mahal, an iconic monument built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. This is certainly one of the jewels of Indo-Persian art and one of the wonders of the world, listed as a World Heritage Site. Post-lunch, explore the Red Fort, which served as the residence of Mughal emperors. This fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna River and is surrounded by walls 20 to 33 meters high along a circumference of 2,500 meters. Overnight in Agra.
day 8:
Agra - Delhi
Depart for Delhi after breakfast. Take a short tour of the Indian capital, passing through Old Delhi with the Red Fort, Lahore Gate, and the main shopping street, Chandni Chowk. Next, discover New Delhi, including Connaught Place, India Gate, a 42-meter-high triumphal arch, and the Parliament. Overnight at the hotel.
day 9:
Delhi - Amritsar
Transfer to the station to catch the Shatabdi Express train to Amritsar (13:35 - 21:40, timings are indicative). Transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
day 10:
Amritsar
Tour the city and visit the Darbar Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple, home to the Amrit Sarovar. Explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial dedicated to the massacre that occurred in 1919 under British colonial rule. Lunch and then enjoy some free time, then attend an evening religious ceremony at the Golden Temple, dedicated to the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book. In the late afternoon, witness the guard-changing ceremony at the Indo-Pakistani border (Wagah Border). Overnight at the hotel.
day 11:
Amritsar - Delhi
Return to Delhi early in the morning by train (5:00 - 11:15, timings are indicative). Visit the city of Delhi.
day 12:
Delhi - Departure
Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. Please not that lunches are not included in the program.