Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Goa

Our Tour features the following locations

DELHI: The largest mosque, the biggest temple, honky auto-rickshaws; it’s easy to distinguish Delhi. The city has been at the centre of the Indian civilisation for centuries and a major seat of power ever since the Mughals built their capital here. Modern Delhi presents a mix of colonial-era architecture, Mughal forts, and mausoleums, ancient bazaars, glitzy malls and world class restaurants. It often feels overwhelming, but given a chance, it always grows onto you. Be sure to visit Humayun’s Tomb, a 16th-century Mughal wonder inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal and Lodi Gardens, the best spot for sunsets in Delhi. There’s also the Hauz Khas Village, a throbbing hub that gained popularity with its Open Nights when those narrow alleys are transformed into cultural wonders, adorned with lights and decorated with streamers. There really is no better place to discover Delhi’s rich culture and mingle with its locals.

AGRA: Known for its stunning architecture, exotic history and magical views, the Taj Mahal attracts as many as 7 million visitors each year, and for a good reason. It is, after all, the monument of love! This iconic landmark is why people from all over the world visit Agra, but the city is also brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mughal mausoleums, tombs, a beautiful fort and ancient bazaars. You’d expect to feel underwhelmed due to all that hype, but this magical city is everything you expect it to be. 

FATEHPUR SIKRI: Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire for just 10 years, but it still presents a massive complex of temples, monuments, and mosques, which make it a historical delight, one of the greatest feats of Indian architecture. Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is located at a distance of just 40 kms. from Agra. Popular attractions include the Diwan-I-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-Khana-I-Khaas (Hall of Private Audience), Turkish Sultana’s House and the Treasury. Fatehpur also hosts Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India.

ABANERI: Abaneri, a small ancient village in Rajasthan, is mostly known for a stunning step well, a novel 10th-century idea that transformed this village into an incredibly popular tourist landmark in the modern day. Popularly called Chand Baori, this huge step well has been fortified on all sides and was designed to act as a water reservoir for rainwater harvesting, used for ritual cleansing before visiting the adjoining temple and also for leisure purposes. With depths of 20 meters, 13 different levels and 3500 steps arranged in perfect symmetry, this is a fascinating work of art, the deepest and largest step well of India. The presence intricate and beautiful carvings all over the step well add to its stunning beauty, offering great insights into an ancient culture and their traditions. You’re probably wondering where you’ve seen that iconic image, so all you need to do is take a second look at scenes from the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

JAIPUR: The Pink City, the largest city of Rajasthan, is an epitome of magnificence and vibrancy. This city was established in 1727 by Jai Singh II and is India’s first planned city. It is known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city.
The Pink City stands out as one of the most spectacular and vibrant destinations on the planet, its rich lineage, striking culture and beautiful architecture painting a vivid picture of Indian society. Missing out on The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Jaigarh or the Amber Fort is a big no-no, but make sure you reserve time for those chaotic bazaars and delicious cuisines. Jaipur is also known for its traditional handicrafts and unique souvenirs such as camel-leather slippers. The John Madden 2012 hit The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (You can link this to your Best Marigold tour) stole our heart presenting India in an entirely new light, one that suddenly catapulted some of its more exotic destinations like Udaipur and Jaipur to instant stardom.

GOA: Ever wondered how it would feel if you brought in western excess, threw it into a culturally rich Indian town and introduced tons of natural beauty and a laid-back, relaxed vibe for added effect? Goa looks like a far cry from the isolated white sand beach hideaway shown in Bourne Supremacy, but it’s still one of the most beautiful yet one of the most happening destinations you’ll ever visit. North Goa is where all the action takes place. It hosts most of those world-famous parties, and there’s always a Vegas-like adventure to become a part of. As you move down south, you’re slowly introduced to vast expanses of unspoilt beaches and exquisite resorts. Downing a drink in one of these beaches under the setting sun is perhaps the best thing to do here, but the smattering of spectacular Renaissance cathedrals, beautiful Hindu temples, and authentic Portuguese architecture offers a pleasant diversion to keep you occupied.

MUMBAI: Mumbai the city of dreams. One of the best and most cosmopolitan cities of Asia. The commercial lifeline of India. Home to Bollywood, the second largest film industry in the world. A place where some of the biggest slums share the area with sprawling metropolises. The epicentre for fashion and Indian wine. A trip to Mumbai is everything you’d expect from a major metropolis, yet so much more. It’s a humbling experience, to say the least. But it’s also fascinating, edgy and exciting. Those colonial-era relics, incredible bazaars, hidden wine cafes and enclaves of peace and serenity really do have a way of putting you at ease.